A complete guide to the Harry Potter Shop Butterbeer Experience in NYC

The Butterbeer Experience at the flagship Harry Potter New York is more than a quick drink – it’s a fully immersive, magical stop in Manhattan offering iconic Butterbeer, themed shopping, and fun extras that make it a must-visit even for casual muggles.

By <a href="#author-bio">Alice Padfield</a>
By Alice Padfield
Published: December 10, 2025
Harry Potter Store NYC

Why should you do the Butterbeer Experience? 

If you love the idea of wandering into a slice of Wizarding World while in New York – complete with Butterbeer, wands, magical creatures and all the cozy chaos of a fantastical marketplace – this place is a gem. The store doesn’t feel like your usual retail stop; it feels like a mini-experience tucked into the Flatiron district, perfect for a fun break from sightseeing or a rainy-day rescue. 

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Harry Potter or Fantastic Beasts, or just curious about the hype, the combination of immersive theming, exclusive merchandise and that famous frothy Butterbeer makes this more than just a shop. It’s a quick, magical detour that delivers the feels without needing a full-day commitment. 

How to find the Harry Potter Store Butterbeer Experience? 

You’ll find the store at 935 Broadway, New York, NY 10010, in the Flatiron/NoMad area. It’s on the street running along the ‘back’ edge of the Flatiron Building.  

It basically runs along the whole street, so you can enter at either end – handy! 

What do I get with a New York Pass? 

Entry to the store itself is free, but with your pass, a classic Butterbeer in the café is on us! 

Show your pass at the bar to claim one classic Butterbeer, served in a souvenir cup. They even have a little washing station, so don’t worry, you don’t need to put a sticky tankard in your bag. 

Holding a Butterbeer in Harry Potter NY store

Cheers!

What is there to do/see? 

Walking in, you realize this isn’t just floor-to-ceiling merchandise: the store is carved into themed zones that feel like you’re stepping straight into the Wizarding World.  

Honeydukes Sweet Shop 

In the section modeled after the colorful Hogsmeade sweet shop, you’ll find classic magical indulgences: chocolate frogs, Bertie Bott’s Every Flavour Beans, and more. Perfect if your inner kid, or your sweet tooth, insists on a souvenir. 

Olivanders 

This area is styled like the classic Diagon Alley wand shop, from the books/films. It features walls of ‘dusty’ wand boxes and even an interactive display so you can see which wand belongs to which wizard. Ready to find out which wand is choosing you?

honeydukes sweetshop in harry potter new york store

Sighs in sugary contentment

Fantastic Beasts 

Creatures from the wizarding world, of course, make an appearance: think owls, nifflers, and other lovable (or sometimes scary) companions, plush toys, figurines and fun décor. Make sure you check out the exclusive NYC items that you can’t get anywhere else! 

Downstairs treasure trove  

If you head downstairs (yes, via a giant phoenix staircase like the one into Dumbledore’s office), even more magic awaits. A stationery store (I may have squealed), a bookshop (including special/collector editions of the novels), Hogwarts house-themed apparel (scarves, ties, jumpers), themed jewellery, keepsakes, and more.

book arch in the Harry Potter New York Store

A book-lovers paradise

The Butterbeer Bar (aka the main event) 

At one end of the store lies the atmospheric Butterbeer Bar – imagine barrels, soft glowing lights, copper-piped ceilings and a cascade of hundreds (almost 1,000!) “floating” Butterbeer bottles tumbling above you. It really sets the mood – you’ve stepped straight into a cosy café in Hogsmeade. 

What you’ll find: 

  • Classic draft Butterbeer – the one included with the New York Pass. Frothy, sweet, it kind of tastes like a fizzy butterscotch, or vanilla-cream soda vibe. 

  • Other treats (pay-as-you-go): 

  • Frozen Butterbeer (slushie-style).   

  • Butterbeer ice-cream – yes, really. Cold and creamy, perfect for a warmer day! 

  • Regular snacks and themed desserts – cookies, cupcakes shaped like owls or wands, other wizarding-world-style goodies. 

Depending on when you visit, I recommend checking the line sporadically during your time in the shop. When I first arrived it was quite long, but when I checked again later there was no line at all! 

Butterbeer Bar in New York Harry Potter Store

The sugar hit is coming when you see this...

Optional extras (at additional cost)  

Green-screen “Broomstick” Video/Photo Experience – downstairs, you can pay to “ride a broomstick” over New York (or somewhere suitably magical) and get a keepsake video or photo. It’s not included with the pass, but it’s a fun extra for fans wanting something more interactive and memorable. 

Exclusive New York / MACUSA-label merch – the store is known for items you won’t easily find elsewhere, like exclusive labels on bottled Butterbeer, and other items tied to the US-based magical world (hello, MACUSA).   

Best photo spots 

Because I’m a committed researcher (okay fine, a big HP nerd) – I scoped out some of the most Instagram-worthy corners: 

  • Under the cascade of glowing Butterbeer bottles at the bar: perfect to capture that ‘floating’ bottle magic vibe. 

  • The wand-shop display: wand in hand, dramatic lighting, vintage-style shelving: very Ollivanders-esque. 

  • The Hagrid-height wall: great for sheer silliness, test how tall you are compared to a giant… not very it turns out. 

  • Honeydukes: if you’re a sucker for cute bright colors and a sweet treat, then this is the spot for you. 

hagrid height wall

To be completely transparent, the boots add on an extra inch or two...

Facilities & practicalities 

  • There’s no time limit once you’re inside – so you can browse, sip, shop and explore at your own pace. (I lazed around with my Butterbeer, browsing the magical perfection!) 

  • It’s nice and roomy (for NYC!) and air-conditioned – a lovely little escape if you’re sightseeing on a hot (or rainy) day. 

  • As with all popular NYC spots, it can get busy, especially near the bar or at peak hours. If you care about comfort or good photos, consider visiting earlier or later in the day. 

  • There are restrooms available, located downstairs. 

Where to go next 

  • If you’re already nearby, check out the surrounding Flatiron / NoMad area for lunch or coffee – a good chance to compare the muggle world and the wizarding one. 

  • The Flatiron is on the Big Bus route, so it’s a great spot to hop off and back on during your sightseeing. 

fantastic beasts character picket

This magical creature may or may not have come home with me...

Final thoughts 

The Harry Potter New York Butterbeer Experience is a little piece of wizarding magic dropped into the middle of Manhattan – and as a fan (or casual tourist) it really delivers. Well worth a visit, you could easily spend an hour or more here soaking up the magic, longer if you’re deciding whether you’d prefer to take home a niffler or a hippogriff... Sadly neither would fit in my suitcase. 

So grab your pass, raise your tankard and enjoy a little bit of Hogwarts in busy, magical New York. 

Enjoyed this little slice of New York?   

Take your trip to the next level with our complete guide to the Museum of Broadway or our complete guide to the Empire State Building, all filled with visitor hacks and money-saving tips.   

With The New York Pass®, you can skip the stress and save big on Empire State Building tickets plus dozens of other must-see attractions, all with one easy-to-use pass.   

🗽 Don't explore the Big Apple without this   
💰 How much can you really save in NYC?   

Alice Padfield
Alice Padfield
Content Manager

Alice is a copywriter in the Content team at Go City®, where she combines her love for travel, literature, food and theatre to craft inspiring content for cultural explorers. From blog articles to TikToks, she creates engaging stories that help travellers uncover hidden gems and must-see spots in every city. Passionate about exploring new destinations, Alice shares her discoveries to help others curate unforgettable itineraries.

Build your unique New York itinerary with our trip planner

Who's going?
Adult
1
Child (3-12)
0
How many days?
What do you want to see?

Continue reading

statue of liberty ferry
Blog

Taking the Statue of Liberty Ferry

Exploring one of the most iconic landmarks in the world doesn't have to mean a long trip to Liberty Island. Whether you're looking for an up-close view of the Statue of Liberty or wish to explore Ellis Island, taking a ferry from either Manhattan, NY, or Liberty State Park in Jersey City is both easy and affordable. The cost of taking these ferries can vary depending on which route you choose; fares for adults range from $18-$27 with tickets inclusive of both stops at both islands. If visitors wish to access the Statue, additional tickets will need to be purchased - it’s recommended that these are bought in advance due to high demand during peak times. On-board visitors can expect friendly staff who are more than willing to answer any questions, restrooms, snacks/drinks kiosks and spectacular views. The ride itself typically takes between 20-30 minutes each way depending on which route you take, so if time is limited it’s important to plan ahead. Once at Liberty Island visitors can explore all that this historic landmark has to offer; various guided tours, food choices such as hot dogs or sandwiches at concession stands available onboard the ferry and even special events held seasonally such as live music performances which are free with ticket purchase! After exploring Ellis Island visitors will have more than enough time for iconic photos before heading back. Visiting New York City? Taking the ferry to the Statue of Liberty is an absolute must! Not only does it offer unparalleled views and incredible experiences - it's also a great opportunity for some iconic pictures with Lady Liberty herself! Don't forget your camera – this is an experience not soon forgotten! Don't worry; if you don't know what that is or where to get it from, we're going to tell you right now. Prepare yourself for the ultimate guide to taking the Statue of Liberty ferry, and what you'll find when you reach its historic shores! What is the Statue of Liberty Ferry? As you may have gathered, it's a ferry that takes people between New York's mainland and Liberty Island, where the Statue of Liberty stands tall. From where does the Statue of Liberty Ferry depart? If you're traveling from New York, the departure point is in Battery Park: Statue Cruises Kiosk, Battery Park New York, NY 10004 The closest bus stop is Stop 12, 13, or 14 on the Downtown route. The closest subway stop is Whitehall Street/South Ferry/Bowling Green. If you are traveling from New Jersey, the departure point is Liberty State Park: 1 Audrey Zapp Dr, Jersey City NJ 07305 The closest stop is Liberty State Park Station on the HBLR. How often does the ferry leave? It's worth checking the official timetable to ensure your timings are up to date, but on average, the ferry departs from either port every 25 minutes. How do I get a ticket? We've got you covered – Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Ferry tickets are available with the below money-saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that's right for you: 1. All-Inclusive Pass – All you can do. Your Attraction Pass includes admission to dozens of attractions. 2. Explorer Pass – Choose as you go. Your Explorer Pass includes admission to up to 10 attractions. It's worth noting that, whichever way you decide to go, booking is required to get the ferry, and early booking is highly recommended because, as you may have guessed, it is an incredibly popular tourist destination! The History of Ellis Island Standing tall as a symbol of liberty and justice, the Statue of Liberty is an important part of America's history. The island itself is named after Samual Ellis, who owned the landmass before it was opened to the public. Ellis Island served as the primary entry point for immigration into the United States, so much so that a third of all Americans can trace their family tree to someone who landed on the island! But its job as an immigration entry point ended nearly 100 years ago, and it wasn't actually opened to the public until 1976. Nowadays, it hosts countless tourists every year, who flock there from all over the world to explore one of the most iconic landmarks on the planet. What to expect on Ellis Island The Statue of Liberty This one's a no-brainer. You wouldn't even be reading this if not for Lady Liberty herself! Yes, the Statue of Liberty now stands tall on Ellis Island. Visitors can walk around the National Monument and see the big girl up close - at least if they look up! Then, when you've enjoyed the view, so to speak, you can enter the Statue of Liberty Museum, which contains tons of amazing artifacts that detail the statue, and the island's, history in much greater detail than we ever could. See the original torch up close, touch a copper rendition of Lady Liberty's face, and explore interactive exhibits like a reimagining of the studio where the statue was first conceived. Then, head across to the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, where you can learn more about the island's importance in populating America. Through first-hand accounts, artifacts, and other exhibits, you'll piece together the island's rich history. Then, try tracing your family tree back to the island in one of the many databases you'll find. Then, when you've had your fill, simply hop back on the ferry and cross over to the mainland! From the views of the harbor and cityscape, to learning more about its history and standing in awe of this magnificent monument, a ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty provides an unbeatable experience full of wonder and amazement. With the accessibility for all, the convenience of booking your tickets ahead of time, and spectacular views from the crown of Lady Liberty that you won't find anywhere else, taking a ferry ride to this iconic landmark is an adventure like no other. And that's our guide to taking the statue of liberty ferry, and what you'll find on Ellis Island! Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience - book your ferry ticket today! Looking for more fun-filled adventures in the Big Apple? Check out our guide to The RIDE, your one-stop shop for every other New York landmark on your bucket list! Want to know what other attractions are covered with your pass? Check out all of them here!
Dom Bewley
Blog

Things to do in Flushing New York

We can’t quite explain it, but there’s just something about Flushing. Located just across the East River, the neighborhood is home to some of the most exciting activities and attractions in the city. Whether you’re looking to check out the interesting historical landmarks, taste some incredible Chinese food, or have your mind blown by an entirely unique museum exhibit, you’ll find countless reasons to love the area. Boredom is something you won’t experience here for sure. So, if you’re planning to make the visit, have a read through our list of the best things to do in the area and then see how The New York Pass® can make your experience even better! Whatever you choose to do, we promise you won’t leave disappointed! Explore the Area Recognized for its vibrancy and diversity in culture, New York is home to the biggest Chinese population outside of Asia. Though many tourists flock to Manhattan Chinatown, the city has nine whole iterations within its state boundaries! We love Flushing’s version of this high-energy ethnic enclave for its lower price points and an endless array of enticing restaurants. Seriously, as the largest Chinatown in New York, this place is the prime dining destination in the area. You’ll find everything from Peking duck puns, lychee bubble tea, and mooncakes in every flavor right here. Don’t mind if we do! Originally created as part of the 1939 New York World’s Fair, the garden continues to inspire and delight visitors with its colorful dazzling displays. Open all year round, this stunning urban oasis offers 39 acres of greenery to be discovered – we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a sunny New York afternoon! Whether you’re a nature lover, or just simply a lover of pretty things, this is the place to be. Before planning your visit, we recommend checking the website for any traditional festivities, special events, or interesting programs being held. If you’re looking for artistry and culture in Flushing, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! Adapted from the New York State Pavilion, Queens Theatre has been quenching the community’s thirst for the performed arts for quite some time. These days, you can catch everything from classic plays and side-splitting comedians to musical and dance performances, all under the same roof. With so much choice, you could go every night if you wanted to! Learn Something New Those looking to learn more about the background of the area should appreciate the next item on our list. Situated at 137th Street, the Lewis Latimer House Museum once served as a home to the African-American inventor until the very time of his passing. Today, the site is open to all visitors, presenting exhibitions about his greatest achievements and fascinating life and ancestry. A total delight for history buffs and science geeks alike, this place presents a great educational experience for those of all ages. Don’t miss out! Looking for a great day out that’s both fun and educational? Well, look no further. Located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, the New York Hall of Science seeks to cultivate curiosity and wonder in the world around us. Breaking away from the typical museum experience, the institute presents more than 450 immersive displays which work to bring visitors into the learning process. Fan favorites include Rocket Park mini golf, the Design Lab, and the award-winning 60, 000 square-foot Science playground. Perfect for those traveling with family, this place makes for the ultimate day trip. Another one of our favorite things to do in Flushing is visiting the Queens Museum of Art. Founded in 1972, the gallery offers an interesting cultural experience to remember. Though it isn’t quite a household name, this place is well worth the visit for its iconic Panorama of the City - a scale model of New York that was built for the 1964 World’s Fair, and is continuously updated since then. Other Highlights include its huge map of the city's water supply system and a collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany stained glass. Hey, whilst you’re there, why not try to place yourself on the Panorama? Visit Some Interesting Landmarks You don’t have to travel to India to be captivated by beautiful Hindu temples. In fact, the Hindu Temple Society of North America is recognized as one of the very formations of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. Thankfully for us, this unique historical gem welcomes visitors to view its intricately carved stone columns and religious shrines. Whilst you’re there, we also suggest checking out its canteen basement, which is known for serving delicious South Indian cuisine. This place feeds a whopping 4, 000 people a week – and who are we to question that many people? Flushing is dotted with historic structures dating way back to the 17th and 18th centuries – you just need to know where to look. One of our favorite hidden gems in the area is the Flushing Quaker Meeting House for its long, storied history. Built in 1694, the building is recognized as the oldest house of worship in NYC, and a rare remaining example of ecclesiastical architecture. Visitors can take tours to view its timeworn floorboards, wooden benches and handcrafted ceiling beams. Since the Meeting House still serves as a house of worship, we recommend modest dress. We love this place because it’s impossible to leave without having learned something new! Ready to explore? Enjoy the best of NYC with the The New York Pass®. You’ll also be able to visit attractions all over New York for one low price.
Sarah Harris
christmas lights in nyc
Blog

Christmas in NYC: 10 Festive Things You’ll Love This Year

New York City sparkles brighter at Christmas than just about anywhere else. If you’re visiting during the holiday season, you’re in for a feast of everything festive—twinkling lights, window displays that turn shopping into an adventure, frosty walks in snow-dusted parks, and plenty of sweet treats along the way. We’ve rounded up our favorite ways to fill your NYC days (and nights) with wintery fun, dazzling views, and plenty of merry moments—no matter if you’re a wide-eyed first-timer or a holiday-season pro.  Our favorite ways to celebrate Christmas in NYC include:  Empire State Building  Central Park  Radio City Music Hall Tour Experience  Holiday window displays on Fifth Avenue  Rockefeller Center  Dyker Heights Christmas Lights  Bryant Park Winter Village  The Museum of Broadway  The Statue of Liberty  Rooftop hot chocolate at Bar 54  Empire State Building: See the Skyline Sparkle  For a true “I’m in New York for the holidays!” feeling, nothing beats a trip to the Empire State Building. The real festive magic begins the moment you step inside: the Art Deco lobby rivals the glitz of any Christmas party, decked out with holiday garlands and glowing lights. Head up to the 86th floor, and suddenly, the entire Manhattan skyline—complete with the skating rinks, tree-toppers, and city lights—becomes your backdrop. Even the Empire State itself joins the seasonal festivities, glowing with a candy-cane red and green light display each night in December.  It’s the ultimate spot for a selfie, and the chilly winter air somehow adds to the whole “movie moment” vibe. If you want to feel at the center of all things Christmassy, this is your place. Plus, you’re just steps away from holiday window displays, ice-skating, and enough festive treats to keep you warm all day.  Central Park: Winter Wonderland Strolls & Skating  If you’re hunting for that classic, snow-globe New York experience, Central Park delivers every time. Think horse-drawn carriages clip-clopping through freshly fallen snow, street musicians playing carols, and children excitedly bundled up in hats and scarves. Glide across the Wollman Rink, where the city’s skyscrapers frame your every spin, or simply wander through the tree-lined paths, hot cocoa in hand.  Central Park in December feels like a cheerful portal to simpler times—one where you can watch locals and visitors build snowmen, skate hand-in-hand, or just lose yourself in the serene, frosty beauty. Don’t forget to snap a family photo by Bow Bridge or pop over to the nearby American Museum of Natural History, where festive dioramas and decorated trees await inside.  Radio City Music Hall Tour Experience: Backstage Holiday Magic  The Radio City Christmas Spectacular is a New York holiday tradition, but if you want something just a bit different (and get away from the crowds), take the backstage tour of Radio City Music Hall. The sparkling stage, grand art deco interiors, and snippets of history will make you feel like a Rockette for the morning. Glimpse the legendary costumes, peek inside the plush Roxy Suite, and explore the hallways where holiday legends have wowed audiences for generations.  Even if you miss the Rockette’s high-kicks, the venue itself oozes golden-age glamour. Guides sprinkle their stories with fun anecdotes, offering just the right blend of festive nostalgia and insider details. The best part? You’re only steps away from the tree at Rockefeller Center—so you can double up on Christmas magic in one afternoon.  Fifth Avenue Holiday Window Displays: A Walk on the Glitzy Side  If you ever wanted to step into a live-action snow-globe, strolling down Fifth Avenue in December is about as close as it gets. Department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman go all out, transforming their windows into fantastical winter scenes, miniature cities, and glittering, animated displays that wow kids and adults alike. Some windows even come to life with music or light shows after dark—just stand outside Saks for proof.  The stretch between Bryant Park and Central Park is prime window-shopping and people-watching territory, filled with carolers, street performers, and plenty of festive cheer. Plus, you can duck inside MoMA or the Museum of Modern Art nearby if you need to warm up—a cultural bonus between window ogling and cocoa sipping.  Dyker Heights Christmas Lights: Brooklyn’s Brightest Block Party  For a true local holiday tradition, make your way out to Dyker Heights in Brooklyn. Every December, homeowners transform their houses into a twinkling showcase of festivity—think life-sized Santas, neon snowmen, and enough lights to be seen from space (maybe). Residents here take competition seriously, and the block party feel turns every walk into a celebration.  The crowds are merry and the vibes are 100 percent joyous. While Dyker Heights is off the Manhattan tourist trail, it’s easily reached by subway or bus, with plenty of cafes and pizzerias en route for a warm-up bite. Local tip: Go just after dusk for maximum glow, and don’t forget your camera—this is Christmas in NYC at its quirkiest and most communal.  Bryant Park Winter Village: Shop, Skate, and Sip  Bryant Park’s Winter Village is your one-stop holiday playground—right in the heart of Midtown. The park transforms into a buzzing open-air market, piled high with vendor stalls selling gifts, treats, and quirky crafts. After shopping, glide onto the free-admission skating rink (just bring or rent your skates), then reward yourself with steaming mulled wine or hot chocolate from the pop-up eateries.  The ambiance is playful and festive, with fairy lights in the trees and a huge Christmas tree at the park’s edge. Stay late and the fountain glows under sparkling lights—perfect for an evening stroll or a cozy bench break. Bryant Park is also within walking distance of Madame Tussauds if you’re itching for a little celeb spotting between skates.  The Museum of Broadway: Theater Magic With Festive Flair  NYC and Broadway go together like hot chocolate and marshmallows, so what better time than Christmas to dive into the city’s stage history? The Museum of Broadway brings the magic of New York theater to life, with interactive exhibits, dazzling costumes, and insider backstage stories that’ll have you humming “Jingle Bells” down the hallway. The holiday season means even more twinkle: think limited-edition displays and themed workshops tied to classic shows and seasonal hits.  Even if you’re not a Broadway superfan, this spot charms with its playful attitude, friendly staff, and perfect gift shop for finding quirky, theater-themed stocking stuffers. Plus, the museum is steps from Times Square, where holiday neon mixes with city lights for that only-in-NYC feeling.  The Statue of Liberty: Classic New York—Holiday Edition  Everyone should see Lady Liberty at least once—and visiting in December offers a new perspective. The ferry ride gives you crisp, chilly views of the skyline decked in holiday decor, with far fewer summer crowds. Once you’re on Liberty Island, stroll the grounds for postcard-perfect photos—especially if you catch a dusting of snow. The nearby Ellis Island museum tells moving stories of new beginnings, which feels especially poignant during the holidays.  Bundle up and make it a half-day adventure before heading back for cocoa or festive treats in Battery Park, where pop-up food stalls often serve up winter favorites. If you love mixing culture with river views, this experience delivers both—plus, you’ll have a unique NYC holiday memory that most travelers miss.    Ready to fill your days and nights with NYC winter wonder? From sparkling classics to uniquely local adventures, these experiences bring the holiday spirit to life—one merry moment at a time. Happy holidays!  Enjoyed this? Explore NYC's hidden gems, and check out our complete guide to Brooklyn.  Step up your sightseeing with The New York Pass®    We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.   See more, do more, and experience more with The New York Pass® – just choose a pass to get started! 
Empire State Building Observatory
Edge

Have a 5% discount, on us!

More savings? You're welcome. Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, vacation inspiration and much more.

One World Observatory
Top of the Rock Observation Deck