Harry Potter flagship store to open in NYC to ‘set a new standard for themed retail’

Harry Potter fans will be able to visit the official Harry Potter flagship store in the heart of New York City next to the iconic Flatiron building on Broadway from June 3 - and first-look images show what a treat they're in for.

Harry Potter New York will 'set a new standard for themed retail, combining breath-taking design, exquisite craftsmanship, hand-crafted props, exciting interactive elements and exclusive products - inviting fans to experience the Wizarding World in a brand-new way'.

Spanning three floors and over 21,000 sq ft, the store will house the largest collection of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts products under one roof, reports the Daily Mail.

Harry Potter New York features 15 different themed areas, each one 'carefully and uniquely presented to bring the magic of the Wizarding World to life".

A statement for the launch of the store says: “Entering the store, customers will pass under a huge model of Fawkes the Phoenix gazing down from the ceiling.

“Fawkes was created especially for Harry Potter New York by a team of specialist propmakers over a number of months. The impressive model weighs over 220lbs and is just one of many painstakingly detailed, handmade props, each one created to surprise and delight customers as they explore.

“Stepping inside Harry Potter New York, witches, wizards and Muggles will encounter a number of exciting experiences. Fans are invited to strike their best pose at one of many photo opportunities, including posing inside a London phone box for a photo as if transporting themselves into the Ministry of Magic, or even seeing themselves as if they were inside Hagrid’s boots!

“For those who have always dreamed of bringing their favourite Harry Potter character to life, the interactive wand table lets them pick up a wand and put it to the test.

“Harry Potter New York will incorporate digital technologies throughout the store including integration with the Harry Potter Fan Club app.

“Users will find a number of Enchanted Keys throughout the store that unlock exclusive behind-the-scenes facts, figures, and videos that bring the store to life.:

Also available in the store will be “two exciting and immersive multiplayer virtual reality experiences”.

The full sensory VR adventures are location-based, allowing “real-time interactive exploration of the Wizarding World as never before”.