Nestled on a historic estate and equestrian center known as Morven Park in Loudoun County awaits a magical moment for Harry Potter fans. And quite frankly, even for those that aren’t fans of the series of books or aren’t familiar with them. Warner Brothers Entertainment and Fever have created “Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience,” an illuminated walking trail that you experience after dark. It is truly like a miniature Hogwarts-themed amusement park.
The Leesburg, VA location is one of only two in the United States. During your experience, you will wander the forest just like Harry and Draco, stumble into Acromantula Hollow, and come upon the Romanian Dragon Sanctuary You’ll see so many familiar characters and magical creatures featured in the various books, such as Hagrid, Nifflers, The Flying Ford Anglia, and
perhaps a Hippogriff.
You may even feel like you are attending Hogwarts or competing in their famous Triwizard Tournament. So be sure to bring your magic wand, as you can partake in a number of interactive activities including casting a Patronus Charm. There are so many ways to be a part of the story and engage throughout the trail that will delight the kids and even the kids at heart. For us muggles, you can even say this is a spellbinding experience.
Through the use of narration, music, lighting, and other special effects, you will truly feel like you are immersed in one of the books. Plan for at least an hour to fully take it all in, but you can easily spend double that amount of time if you get into it.
Even those that are not Harry Potter fans will delight in the theatrical-like design and enjoy walking along the lighted trail and being out in nature. Because you are outside, dress appropriately for the weather and know the trail can be uneven at times.
Either before you start the trail or after you complete the experience, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy. Numerous tasty food options are available at the Dragon Fire Roast or the The Fat Fryer, including pasties of the savory variety. Their house hot chocolates include names like Hogwarts, Slytherin, Gryffindor, Huffelpuff, and Ravenclaw. Depending on your school of choice, or your flavor profile, one might come with hints of caramel, mint, orange, or vanilla hot chocolates with green or gold glitter dusting. But you won’t be disappointed if you get some butter beer, which is a crème soda with butterscotch. Of course, there is a gift shop for the true Harry Potter fans and there are also fire pits where you can actually make s’mores.
The forest usually comes alive at night with various sounds and creatures, but it definitely doesn’t come to life like this. It is theatrical, magical, and experiential wrapped all in one visit. Get your tickets today, as the experience is planning to close on December 8th. To learn more, visit www.hpforbiddenforestexperience.com/leesburg.
Article by: Shuan Butcher
November 2024