No, there is no Hogwarts in Minnesota. But, if you ever find yourself driving along Park Avenue, just south of downtown Minneapolis, you may do a double take as you pass a building that looks just like the School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
You wouldn’t normally expect to see Hogwarts in Minnesota.
To find Hogwarts - or at least the castles that stood in for it in the film versions of the books - you’d have to travel to the United Kingdom. Universal Studios in Orlando and Hollywood also boast versions of the wizardry school.
But the Turnblad Mansion, which houses the American Swedish Institute in Minneapolis, could fool you.
The châteauesque building’s turrets, gargoyles, and decorative lions definitely give off a Harry Potter vibe. If you subtract the bustling city streets and the neighboring buildings from the scene, there's definitely something Hogwarts-y about the turreted structure.
Like Hogwarts, the American Swedish Institute has a deep connection to its past and its storied heritage.
In addition to its permanent collection, the Institute hosts a regular rotation of exhibits and seasonal displays that touch on Minnesota’s strong Scandinavian roots. Frankly, Hagrid could just have well been descended from Viking stock, sturdy fellow that he is.
The historic home is full of massive fireplaces, just like Hogwarts.
Each of the mansion's 33 rooms has its own style and decor. And like the wizarding school, the Swedish Institute goes all out around the holidays, decorating each of the rooms for the season.
You may even find a fantastic beast or two lurking on the grounds of the American Swedish Institute.
For example, a giant Dala horse that stands watch over ASI during warm weather. Inside, you'll find plenty of smaller specimens of these Scandinavian equines.
The Turnblad Mansion’s Grand Hall rivals the Great Hall at Hogwarts.
You may not be able to hoist a flagon of butterbeer at ASI, but visit its FIKA Cafe for a cup of kaffe and a Swedish-inspired snack.Explore more of the institute with this YouTube video from iNewZ TV:
Whether you're a Harry Potter fan or not, the American Swedish Institute is worth a visit in its own right. Learn more about the institute on its website or visit ASI on Facebook. You can even book a hotel package that includes a tour of the institute. Have you been to the American Swedish Institute? Do you think it looks like Hogwarts in Minnesota, or would you have chosen a different building? Let us know in the comments.
If you love castles, consider booking one of these Minnesota castles where you can stay overnight and feel like royalty.
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