Updated on December 15, 2024 by Julie McCool
Enter the magical Harry Potter Forbidden Forest Experience in Leesburg Virginia and immerse yourself in a world of fantastical creatures and dazzling lights. Here you'll follow a walk-through trail through the forest where you encounter beasts both charming and spooky.
The 2024 Harry Potter Forbidden Forest is even more immersive, interactive, and fun than the previous event. As fans of the 2022 show, we're happy to see all of the improvements this year. There are many more scenes to walk through, bringing more of the movies and books to life.
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Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience opens at Northern Virginia's Morven Park the weekend before Halloween for most dates on an extended run from October 26 to January 26, 2024.
What to Expect at the Harry Potter Forbidden Forest Experience
The woodlands at Morven Park in Leesburg Virginia are transformed. For a limited time, fans of all ages can enter a Hogwarts Forbidden Forest alive with the sounds and sights of the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts movies.
The Forbidden Forest is filled with fantastical creatures and shrouded in fog. Visitors walk on a 1-mile gravel path surrounded by dense woods where the mood changes with the creatures who live there. The mood shifts between spooky and comical scenes, just as the books and movies do.
For example, the lights and the vibe are bright as you walk through an area of Niffler burrows. But other parts of the forest, where werewolves and Death Eaters lurk, are dark and eerie.
Tension builds as you pass Aragog's Lair, floating Dementors, a crated dragon, and other beasts.
Elaborate special effects and creations (from the experts at Warner Brothers Themed Entertainment) bring you close to the magical creatures and scenes. Headlights in the forest mean you're nearing Mr. Weasley's Flying Ford Anglia.
We love all of the new scenes in the 2024 Forbidden Forest that bring in elements from the full series. For example, walk through the Triwizard Tournament but watch out for the fire-breathing dragon!
In addition, several immersive experiences make you part of the action. Meet the Hippogriff Buckbeak (be sure to maintain respectful eye contact), cast a Patronus spell, and take on an opponent in a wand battle.
Wizards of all ages can cast spells to illuminate lanterns, change colorful mushrooms, and more.
The magical beasts in the Harry Potter Forbidden Forest are created with a mix of stationary, animatronic, and projected effects. Some creatures, like a Hippogriff and Hagrid's giant brother, are close enough for great photos and selfies. Others, including a beautiful white unicorn, are more elusive.
If your young wizard has a wand, bring it along, but it's not a necessity. A lovely selection of wands is offered at some of the interactive stops and your arm will work at others.
You can also purchase a new wand at the on-site shop, one of the few places to get an authentic Ollivander's wand outside of the Wizarding World at Universal Studios.
The Village in the Harry Potter Forbidden Forest
The walk-through trail is not the only fun in the Forbidden Forest. Before you enter the forest, you'll be in “the village” where you can stop for something to eat and drink. There is Butterbeer, of course, Hogwarts Hot Chocolate, lemonade, and more. Adults can add a variety of liquors to their chocolate or enjoy a cocktail, beer, or cider.
The Forbidden Forest Experience food menu is heavy on sweets but there are fish and chips, fries, and chicken tenders too. Desserts include adorable Golden Snitch cake pops, Chocolate Frog brownies, traybakes, and cookies and they're all delicious. Or get the $10 Toast You Own Marshmallows kit and head to the fire pit.
The forest walk begins and ends at the Village where there are picnic tables and restrooms where you can relax and refresh or visit the gift shop.
There is a second small drink stand and portable restrooms about half way through the walk. This area was larger in 2022, but we prefer having the larger village at the start/end of the walk.
FAQ: Visiting the Harry Potter Forbidden Forest in Leesburg VA
Here is essential information and answers to frequently asked questions about the Forbidden Forest Experience in Leesburg Virginia.
When is the Forbidden Forest open?
Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience in Leesburg VA is open most days from October 26, 2024 to January 26, 2025. 15-minute sessions admit visitors from 5:00 to 9:45 pm.
How much are tickets to Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience?
Ticket prices start at $40 for children 3-12, $58 for adults 13 and up. Group, military, and senior discounts are available.
Is parking available at the Forbidden Forest Experience?
Yes, parking at the Forbidden Forest is $10 per spot reserved in advance, $12 at the door. There is a drop-off spot for visitors who don't plan to park.
Where is the Leesburg Harry Potter Forbidden Forest located?
The Forbidden Forest is located in Morven Park, 41580 Sunday Morning Lane, Leesburg Virginia. You must enter the park via Tutt Lane from Route 15. When you leave, you'll exit onto Old Waterford Road, closer to downtown Leesburg.
Is the Harry Potter Forbidden Forest Experience close to Washington DC?
Yes, Morven Park is about 45 miles northwest of Washington DC. The drive should take about an hour but can be much longer during rush hours. Consider heading out early and spending a day or overnight visit in Leesburg.
Is the Harry Potter Forest Experience good for kids? For adults?
Yes! The Forbidden Forest Experience is open to Harry Potter fans of all ages. Young children may find some areas spooky but there is nothing too scary.
How long is the walk-through Harry Potter Forbidden Forest trail?
The Forbidden Forest trail is approximately 1 mile long on an uneven gravel path with some small hills. Strollers are allowed but should be able to handle rough terrain. You are walking outdoors through a real forest so dress warmly.
How long does the HP Forest Experience take?
Allow 60 to 90 minutes for both the forest trail and time at the village. One of the real advantages of this experience is that you can move at your own pace. Take your time to enjoy the effects and relax in the village.
Where can I find more information about the Forbidden Forest Experience in Virginia?
Visit the event website for more information and to purchase tickets. Visit the Morven Park website to learn more about the park.
Is the Forbidden Forest in Leesburg wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Forbidden Forest in Leesburg is wheelchair accessible, but the trail is covered in dirt or mulch and there are several slopes. Some motorized scooters are available ($15) that guests can request ahead of time, or bring your own.
Can I shop at the Harry Potter Forbidden Forest store if I do not have tickets to enter the trail?
Yes, visitors can shop at the store without trail tickets, but you will have to pay $12 to park ($10 online). The store is one of the only places to buy authentic Ollivander wands and gear (unique holiday gifts!) outside of Universal Studios.
The Harry Potter Forbidden Forest Experience is a welcome addition to Northern Virginia holiday fun. DC area locals and visitors are lucky to have easy access to one of only a few locations for this experience in the world.
Harry Potter fans will find a lot to love in the Forbidden Forest, but even non-fans should enjoy the quality special effects. Admission prices are high, so it makes sense to take your time when you visit. New characters and interactive elements make the 2024 Harry Potter Forbidden Forest even more fun.
We attended a media preview of the Harry Potter Forbidden Forest Experience in Leesburg VA. All photos, text, and opinions are our own.
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