Harry Potter-themed Airbnb in Arkansas a favorite among witches & wizards

BENTON, Ark. – Fans of Harry Potter have a unique spot to visit in central Arkansas that replicates the home of a beloved character.

When you walk into this version of Hagrid’s hut in Benton you’re met with the atmosphere of the wizarding world of Harry Potter.

Shawn Hipskind is the owner of the Airbnb. He said the place took him about a year to build and the work has paid off thanks to the Harry Potter fans who come here.

“We’ve been full like almost every weekend since we’ve opened up,” Hipskind said.

Aszureigh Brandt calls herself a Harry Potter fanatic and notes that all the details of the hut are especially immersive.

“It’s also all the little details,” Brandt said. “They really do make you feel like you walked in and you’re like ‘Holy cow. Am I in the Hobbit or something?’”

The recent passing of Dame Maggie Smith, known for her longtime role as Professor McGonagall in the franchise, leaves Brandt finding the reality in that fantasy world.

“Because you don’t realize they’re people, that’s my biggest thing,” Brandt said.

But in a hut like this one, Brandt said the reality is what makes it particularly fun.

“It brings you closer. You’re like, ‘Okay. Maybe it’s not so fictional.’ It makes life more fun,” Brandt said.

That reaction is exactly what the owner said he intended and looks forward to.

“Well I just want people to have fun,” Hipskind said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation.