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An immersive Harry Potter exhibition is coming to Sydney this May

Taylah Darnell Taylah Darnell
From authentic props to interactive lessons, this hands-on experience invites fans into the wizarding world of Harry Potter.

Still waiting for your Hogwarts acceptance letter? The next best thing is coming to Australia this May. Delivered by Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences in partnership with Imagine and Eventim Live, Harry Potter: The Exhibition is bringing your favourite childhood series to life.

The experience

Opening in Sydney, Harry Potter: The Exhibition invites fans to experience the wizarding world up close. It follows the success of Melbourne’s Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience last year, but on a far larger scale.

Spanning the full film series, plus Fantastic Beasts™ and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, it’s the most extensive touring exhibition of its kind that Australia has ever seen. The interactive installation unfolds across a collection of themed rooms, each inspired by an iconic moment from the films.

Harry Potter: The Exhibition in Sydney, NSW
Step inside the wizarding world of Harry Potter this May.

A first edition of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone greets guests upon entry, followed by a multimedia presentation in the Page to Screen Theatre. Here, an inspirational video featuring movie scenes and literary quotes fills the room, punctuated by projections of the Marauder’s Map, Whomping Willow and Dementors.

Guests then journey through five immersive spaces, bought to life by music, soundscapes, atmospheric lighting, props, costumes and set pieces. It begins in the Great Hall, an architectural icon of the series that celebrates its most magical moments.

Harry Potter: The Exhibition in Sydney, NSW
Each space is filled with authentic props, original costumes and other iconic memorabilia.

Then there’s the Hogwarts™ Houses gallery, where guests can view the Sorting Hat and learn more about the four houses: Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw and Slytherin. Next is the Hogwarts Classrooms, which spotlights some of the films’ most recognisable props, creatures and costumes.

Digital touchscreens and interactive games allow guests to take part in lessons like Potions, Divination and Defence Against the Dark Arts. You can even pot a mandrake in the Herbology Greenhouse – just don’t forget to don your earmuffs first!

Harry Potter: The Exhibition in Sydney, NSW
Stop by Hagrid’s Hut to see where the friendly giant made his home.

To round out the experience, you’ll explore Hagrid’s Hut and the Forbidden Forest, home to a hands-on Patronus charm challenge. Wander through the forest to spot magical creatures such as centaurs and Acromantula, before stepping inside a life-sized replica of Hagrid’s cosy hut.

Upon your return to the Muggle world, be sure to check out the official merch store. Here, fans can purchase everything from house-themed jumpers and jewellery to plush toys and pocket-sized trinkets, as well as treats like Chocolate Frogs and Butterbeer.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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The details

Harry Potter: The Exhibition in Sydney, NSW
Harry Potter: The Exhibition will open to the public on 14 May.

Harry Potter: The Exhibition is a self-guided experience, running for 60–90 minutes per session. It will open on 14 May at Sydney Olympic Park’s Paddington Pavilion, previously home to similar events such as Bubble Planet.

The popular venue is wheelchair accessible and fitted with closed-caption screens for guests with hearing impairments. Visitors with sensory needs should note that loud sounds and bright lights are featured throughout the exhibition.

Tickets go on sale 26 March, with early access available if you sign up to the wait list. Fans of all ages are welcome, but those aged 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Harry Potter: The Exhibition in Sydney, NSW
Paddington Pavilion is accessible for guests with limited mobility.

 Sydney Olympic Park is roughly a 20-minute drive from Sydney’s CBD via the M4. There are a number of multi-level car parks onsite, with rates from $7 an hour or a maximum of $35 per day. Street parking is also available for the same price.

Public transport is another convenient option, with regular buses and ferries servicing the precinct. Trains also run frequently to Sydney Olympic Park station, about a 10-minute walk from Paddington Pavilion. Further details on session times will be released alongside ticket sales.

Taylah Darnell
Taylah Darnell is Australian Traveller's Writer & Producer. She has been passionate about writing since she learnt to read, spending many hours either lost in the pages of books or attempting to write her own. This life-long love of words inspired her to study a Bachelor of Communication majoring in Creative Writing at the University of Technology Sydney, where she completed two editorial internships. She began her full-time career in publishing at Ocean Media before scoring her dream job with Australian Traveller. Now as Writer & Producer, Taylah passionately works across both digital platforms and print titles. When she's not wielding a red pen over magazine proofs, you can find Taylah among the aisles of a second-hand bookshop, following a good nature trail or cheering on her EPL team at 3am. While she's keen to visit places like Norway and New Zealand, her favourite place to explore will forever be her homeland.
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Where to eat, sleep and visit on Grand Pacific Drive, and beyond

    Kassia Byrnes Kassia Byrnes
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    The ultimate road trip begins and ends on NSW’s stunning Grand Pacific Drive.

    Whales, charming villages, fine wine and stunning natural vistas: there’s a lot to love about a road trip along the Grand Pacific Drive in New South Wales. Winding from the Royal National Park through Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama and Shoalhaven before heading inland to the Southern Highlands, this scenic drive makes for an unforgettable road trip.

    But like all great road trips, it’s not just about the drive but the stops made along the way. From incredible farm-to-plate (and grape-to-glass) dining options to unbeatable natural vistas and quaint towns with beautiful accommodation, there’s plenty to explore en route.

    Shellharbour Marina
    Spend time in Shellharbour Marina.

    Where to eat

    What is a road trip without incredible food? Whether you’re after fresh seafood, slow-cooked paddock-to-plate feasts or delicious wines, you’ll find something around every bend along Grand Pacific Drive.

    Restaurant Santino is a local Wollongong secret we can’t keep quiet any longer. With a fresh take on Italian cuisine, servings are hearty and flavours are comforting. The chitarra with blue swimmer crab, garlic, chilli, parsley and crustacean oil is a crowd favourite.

    Keep it local in Shellharbour with a menu all about fresh local produce at Relish on Addison . From South Coast oysters and blue swimmer crab linguine to crispy pork belly, surf and turf takes on an elevated meaning here.

    Kiama’s neighbourhood wine and cocktail bar, Little Betty’s , is just as good for a tasty share plate as it is for creative cocktails. The signature Grilled Octopus with burnt honey, garlic confit and sautéed Asian greens is worth a trip on its own.

    Only the best will do in Shoalhaven, where multi-award-winning Bangalay Dining uses native Australian ingredients to bring its dishes to life. Start with the Smoked trout croquette before moving on to the sautéed potato gnocchi. Don’t forget the white chocolate mousse for dessert.

    Meanwhile, the Southern Highlands are full of culinary highlights. From dining on incredibly fresh, local fare (we’re talking ingredients plucked from the team’s on-site kitchen garden or sourced through local producers) at Eschalot Restaurant in Berrima to creating gin blends at Millsheds Distillery .

    bangalay dining shoalhaven
    Taste native flavours at Bangalay Dining.

    Exploring nature

    Scenery is everything when hitting the road, and Grand Pacific Drive serves it up in spades. Drivers don’t even have to leave the car to enjoy the iconic ocean views from Seacliff Bridge (but several lookouts make it easy to stop).

    Seaside Kiama boasts stunning beaches and famous blowholes. But travellers can also swap ocean for rainforest when taking the Minnamurra Rainforest walk, culminating in a picturesque waterfall. Or soar overhead at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures .

    The scenic coastal drive along Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton.
    Cruise along the stunning Grand Pacific Drive.

    Between May and November, 30,000 whales make their way passed the South Coast between May and November. Spot them from the coastal shores or join a whale-watching cruise from Shellharbour Marina or Jervis Bay. Dive in with Woebegone Freedive .

    Shellharbour’s Killalea Regional Park is home to a traditional bush tucker and medicine walk with Aboriginal tour group, Gumaraa . Learn Indigenous healing practices and gain a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage and wisdom of the land’s Traditional Owners.

    Wollongong is the perfect place for hikers, with the 6.5-kilometre Wodi Wodi track serving up views, settler history and a variety of landscapes in one loop. If you prefer, skip the walk and pull up at Bald Hill Lookout for expansive views south towards Wollongong (and a hang-glider or two).

    For something truly unique, join the Highland Cow experience at The Swallow’s Nest in the Southern Highlands. In a brand-new offering, get a taste of farm life and help groom and feed these gorgeous creatures.

    kiama coast walk people with dog
    Wander the Kiama Coast Walk.

    Unique experiences

    No need to choose between an adrenaline rush or a culture fix, Grand Pacific Drive serves up both.

    Soar into aviation history at Shellharbour’s HARS Aviation Museum .  Tour the museum, then join a guided walk onto the wing of the record-breaking Qantas Boeing 747 and see the significant historic aircraft up close.

    If ever there was a place to skydive, it’s in Wollongong. Dive from 15,000 feet (tandem, of course) with Sky Dive Wollongong and see the coastal beauty of this region from above.

    Shoalhaven’s Bundanon Art Museum has to be one of the most unique offerings in the country. The legacy of artist Arthur Boyd and more than just a gallery, find eco-accommodation, fine dining, award-winning architecture and community here.

    Kiama’s Crooked River Estate is about more than just delicious wine.  Grab a picnic blanket and enjoy casual food and drinks with live music at Kick Back Fridays , every week.

    Between June and August, the Southern Highlands’ Robertson attracts novice truffle hunters. Join the hunt at family-owned and operated Robertson Truffles (alternatively, you can order truffle treats online, if your sense of adventure isn’t up for it).

    Freshly dug truffles at Terra Preta Truffles, Braidwood.
    Discover hidden gems beneath the soil in the Southern Highlands. (Image: Destination NSW)

    Where to stay

    Road trips are the ultimate promotion for slow travel, encouraging visitors to take their time, enjoy the journey and stop along the way to really immerse themselves in local towns.

    Find history and elegance at Berida Hotel in the Southern Highlands. Intimately set amongst gardens, but still close to the main street of Bowral, this 1920s private residence turned boutique hotel is the perfect stay.

    Stay in one of Barranca’s private villas with views of rolling farmland overlooking the dramatic escarpment at Kangaroo Valley or be surrounded by native bushland (a short walk from the beach) in Jervis Bay.

    Speaking of beachside escapes, Headlands Hotel Austinmer Beach delivers unrivalled access to Wollongong’s beaches. These serviced apartments enjoy coastal views from spacious balconies.

    For something completely different again, check in at Cicada Luxury Camping . Stay in safari-style or large bell tents, each with a private fire pit and top-notch kitchen facilities. Outside, enjoy spectacular countryside views.

    Cicada Luxury Camping
    Unwind at Cicada Luxury Camping. (Image: DNSW)

    Discover more and plan your ultimate road trip along the Grand Pacific Drive and beyond at grandpacificdrive.com.au/grand.