We went inside the new Minecraft experience near Chicago—here’s what we thought

Grab your Orb and get ready to save the villagers

We began our adventure in a waiting area, where we were introduced to the mission and given a glowing interactive Orb that connected us to the Minecraft world. Groups move through the experience in waves, giving players time to jump, stomp, and interact with the environment to gather resources before the challenges begin. Using motion-based interactions with our Orb, we mined for materials, chopped wood, collected supplies, and prepared for upcoming battles by tapping floors, walls, and digital surfaces that respond in real time.

Throughout the experience, live guides helped us and other players navigate the action while on-screen characters lead crafting challenges and interactive missions. As visitors move through immersive environments inspired by Minecraft biomes, we gathered resources, completed team challenges, and faced off in action-packed combat sequences. 

With projection mapping transforming every room into a living Minecraft world, the experience becomes surprisingly active, so expect plenty of movement, excitement, and maybe even a little post-game sweat by the end. I went with a group that included both experienced Minecraft players and complete newcomers, and everyone had a great time.

After battling mobs, gathering resources, and racing through the challenges, we winded down by checking out the exclusive merch at the end of the experience. It was the perfect spot to recharge after all the action, especially once the excitement of the Overworld finally caught up with us.

Getting there & What to do near the Minecraft experience

The new experience is just a quick drive from Chicago at the EXP in the Pearl District in Rosemont, and can take anywhere from 25–40 minutes depending on traffic from downtown Chicago.

Even if you don’t have a car, getting there is easy via the Blue Line. Just get off at Rosemont CTA Station and take a quick Uber or Lyft from there. We were pleasantly surprised at how many entertainment venues and restaurants were close to the experience, and with being so close to O’Hare airport, if you’re traveling to Chicago for this, you’ll have plenty to do. The Rose Hotel Chicago O’Hare is a boutique hotel just minutes from the experience, and there’s lots of restaurants to choose from including Thorn, Carmine’s, Truluck’s and Dave & Busters.

Final thoughts

After exploring the experience for ourselves, the Secret Chicago team walked away seriously impressed. With hands-on challenges, unique environments and nonstop interaction, Minecraft fans of all ages will have plenty to enjoy. Families will love stepping into the world together, while longtime players can fully embrace the nostalgia and adventure of the Overworld in real life.

Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue Rosemont Reviews

But don’t just take our word for it, the experience has already received 5-star reviews. Here’s what other people are saying about the new Minecraft adventure.

Jerry P. “So cool and interactive, I saw people of all ages joining together and having tons of fun! And it’s Minecraft, so even better!” 

Nancy E. “Best experience ever!! Now I know why my children love Minecraft!! We all had fun!! Thank you for this wonderful experience!!” 

Maggie F. “Great experience constantly from start to finish. Loved that we were in our own group and the visuals were amazing!”