The magical wizarding world of 1926 New York City as seen in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them has never been so within reach, and it’s all thanks to Google’s new team-up with the minds behind the upcoming movie.
Now, you can explore the depths of the Magical Congress of the United States of America — a “Lumos” spell will certainly make things a bit brighter. After that, you take a load off at the hidden speakeasy, the Blind Pig, all of which you can now find on Google Maps.
Google turned out to be trickier than Peeves the poltergeist on November 1, announcing that you can cast spells with their app. Pull up your Google app (on your Android device only), say “Okay, Google,” and say then “Lumos.” Click: Your flashlight will turn on like magic. Turn it off with the appropriate spell: “Nox.” Meanwhile, “Silencio” will turn off the ringer and notifications.
And again, this is only for Android phones. Those of us with iPhones just weren’t gifted with liquid luck for Halloween, it seems.
But, fear not, the temporary stall on your wizarding abilities won’t stop you from experiencing the wizarding world of 1920s New York City. Anyone with access to Google Maps can use the new Fantastic Beasts features.
Type “Fantastic Beasts” into your little search bar in Google Maps, and it’ll shoot you straight to the island of Manhattan in 1926.
From there, you can explore key locations in the Fantastic Beasts film as you make your way from Midtown to the Financial District of Lower Manhattan. The Goldstein residence is decked out in bright shades of pink, and the Steen National Bank is just as staunch and official-looking as you would imagine. The Blind Pig, just south of Washington Square Park, is the musty speakeasy where magic users spend their time away from the No-Maj crowds.
And, finally, the Magical Congress of the United States of America is based in the Astor House, the first luxury hotel built in NYC. The inside is grand and wreathed in gold. A noble painting of President Seraphina Picquery graces one wall as she looks over her charges.
Google Maps view of 'Fantastic Beasts'
So if you can explore some of these magical locations while casting a “Lumos” spell, then more power to you. For now, though, try not to get spotted by any No-Maj people when you Apparate from place to place.
And keep an eye out for Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, in theaters November 18.
