Chicago is getting a Harry Potter shop in April

Chicago is known for many things, from the Cloud Gate to the Joffrey Ballet to the Chicago Cubs. As of April, it is also going to be home to a shop for Harry Potter fans.

What do we know about the new store?

According to PopInsider, "the Magnificent Mile is getting a magical makeover. This famous district of Chicago has restaurants and hotels, but its shops bear high-end names like Balenciaga, Dior, and Cartier. Of course it needs a Madam Malkin's or Twillfit and Tattings.

What it's getting is the Harry Potter Shop Chicago. PopInsider hails it as a highly-themed retail adventure into the Wizarding World...this new iteration is Warner Bros. Discovery's most ambitious retail experience yet." It boasts "the largest Butterbeer Bar in the U.S. and plenty of new merch to snag." The Butterbeer Bar is reported to be "inspired by Chicago speakeasies" and proveide a place where "fans can toast to their favorite series (pour one out for Dobby) while they munch on Harry Potter treats like Chocolate Frogs, Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans, and Butterscotch popcorn."

The appeal isn't just about getting a sugar high or engaging in retail therapy. The Shop is immersive and "as they enter, fans are greeted with the waving stained-glass mermaid from the prefects' bathroom, and can catch a glimpse of the glimmering Golden Egg from the Triwizard Tournament." As these features suggest, the Harry Potter Shop Chicago is themed after the fourth booa nd movie, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. "Other nods to the magical competition tasks litter the store, from broomsticks burning with dragon flames to maze-inspired tiling that winds through the shop."

I would wish for a selection of dress robes, personally, if we're going to focus on the Triwizard Tournament, but as those aren't mentioned in te descriptions, it's good to hear that they have other merchandise on offer. "Throughout the shop, fans can accio wands, robes, jewelry, stationery, and other witchy wares customized to their Hogwarts House, as well as exclusive Chicago merch. Says the article, "The store is the Room of Requirement fans have been dreaming of!" It's fun to imagine what else can be found, though photos feature spirit jerseys and totes with "Harry Potter Chicago" proudly emblazoned on them.

We'll have to wait until April 10 to visit the store at 676 N. Michigan Avenue, but you can browse the official website and get excited until then.