Jace Lamonica
We all know that feeling when you’re deep into a fantasy movie and wish you could jump straight into the television screen. Well, guess what? It’s not just a dream anymore. We’ve put together 20 spots around the world where you can experience dragons, wands, mythical creatures—inspired by your favorite shows— and everything you need to live out those fantasies.
Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Florida & California
No one ever binged on Harry Potter and didn’t wish they could teleport into the Hogwarts. Well, these iconic theme parks let you. These are your personal 9¾ to Hogwarts. The attention to detail is so on point; even Muggles can feel like full-fledged wizards.
Neuschwanstein Castle: Bavaria, Germany
If Disney’s Cinderella Castle had a real-life twin, this is it. Perched high in the Bavarian Alps, this dreamy 19th-century castle looks like it’s straight out of a storybook. Take a guided tour to soak in its grandeur and imagine living your own royal fairytale.
Meow Wolf: Santa Fe, Las Vegas, Denver
Part art exhibit, part alternate dimension, Meow Wolf creates immersive wonderlands you can walk through. From secret doors to mind-bending spaces, it’s like stepping into a dream—or maybe someone’s wild imagination. Each location is completely unique, and the surprises never stop.
Hobbiton: Matamata, New Zealand
Calling all Tolkien fans! This meticulously preserved movie set from The Lord of the Rings will convey you to the Shire. Stroll among the hobbit holes, sip ale at the Green Dragon Inn and pretend you’re about to join Frodo on an epic adventure.
Château de Chambord: Loire Valley, France
This stunning French castle brings the Renaissance charm to life. With its towering spires and intricate staircases, it feels like you’ve wandered into a Disney movie. Don’t miss the surrounding forests—they’ll make you think Beauty and the Beast might pop out at any moment.
Tokyo DisneySea: Tokyo, Japan
More than just another Disney park, this is where imagination goes to the next level. Themed after oceans and adventures, it offers jaw-dropping rides and settings you won’t find anywhere else. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to live out their favorite seafaring tales.
The Enchanted Forest: Oregon, USA
This quirky theme park brings nursery rhymes and folklore to life in the most whimsical way. Wander through Snow White’s cottage or sit in a giant shoe. It’s retro, a little kitschy, and absolutely magical for families with kids—or kids at heart.
Gardens by the Bay: Singapore
With its towering Supertree Grove lit up in neon and a Cloud Forest that feels like another planet, this garden is a pure treat to experience once in your life. It’s a perfect blend of nature and tech, offering a futuristic fairytale vibe that’ll leave you in awe.
Puy du Fou: Les Epesses, France
Forget roller coasters—this historical theme park immerses you in time-traveling stories. Watch knights battle, Vikings invade, or falcons soar over medieval villages. It’s like walking into a time machine where history isn’t just learned; it’s lived.
Evermore Park: Utah, USA
This immersive fantasy park is like a Renaissance fair on steroids. With live actors, stunning sets, and seasonal themes like “Aurora,” Evermore feels like you’ve entered a live-action role-playing game. Whether you’re solving quests or just exploring, it’s pure escapism.
Mont Saint-Michel: Normandy, France
France’s most-visited tidal island feels like it’s pulled from a fantasy novel. At high tide, the castle stands in the middle of the water, which adds to its one-of-a-kind mystique. Every year, over 3 million tourists wander through its narrow streets and climb to the abbey for jaw-dropping views straight out of a fairytale.
The Fairy Pools: Isle of Skye, Scotland
Crystal-clear pools and cascading waterfalls located in the Scottish Highlands—need we say more? The Fairy Pools live up to their name, offering a mystical place where you half-expect to spot a sprite or two. Bring your hiking boots and a sense of wonder.
Wizard Quest: Wisconsin Dells, USA
This interactive spot is part escape room, part fantasy adventure. You’ll crawl through hidden tunnels, solve puzzles, and explore themed rooms that feel like they were dreamed up by your favorite D&D nerd. Family fun with just the right amount of geekiness.
Alnwick Castle: Northumberland, England
Harry Potter fans will recognize this castle as Hogwarts, but it has its own rich history, too. Tour the grounds, join a broomstick-flying lesson, or simply soak in its medieval charm. It’s an enchanting blend of movie magic and real-world splendor.
Ice Castles: Various Locations, USA & Canada
Every winter, these hand-sculpted ice castles pop up in select cities, and they’re nothing short of magical. With tunnels, frozen slides, and glowing ice formations, it’s like walking through Elsa’s palace. It’s a short-lived experience but unforgettable while it lasts.
Ashikaga Flower Park: Tochigi, Japan
The wisteria tunnels at this flower park look like something out of a fairytale. When the flowers are in full bloom, the cascading purple, pink, and white blossoms create a magical canopy. It’s the perfect spot for dreamlike photos and peaceful walks.
Parc Astérix: Plailly, France
Step into the world of the beloved French comic book series. This park is packed with quirky rides and attractions inspired by ancient Rome and Gaul. It’s playful and immersive and offers a magical spin on history with a healthy dose of humor.
Mystic Seaport Museum: Connecticut, USA
This living history museum recreates a 19th-century coastal village where you can step onto historic ships and watch blacksmiths at work. The attention to detail makes it feel like you’ve traveled back in time, with plenty of maritime magic to soak in.
Black Forest: Germany
The birthplace of countless Grimm Brothers’ fairytales, this dense forest feels alive with magic. From charming villages to mysterious trails, it’s easy to imagine Little Red Riding Hood or Hansel and Gretel wandering here. It’s the kind of place that sparks your imagination.
Super Nintendo World: Osaka, Japan
It’s-a-me, Mario! This park lets you live inside your favorite childhood game. Race through a real-life Mario Kart course, punch question blocks, and explore colorful lands that feel like they’ve jumped straight off your old-school Nintendo screen. Pure, nostalgic joy.
