A new immersive indoor horror experience from Universal is coming to Chicago, bringing spooky-centric entertainment, dining, and retail to the Windy City.
“Universal Horror Unleashed” will take over the former Chicago Tribune distribution center at 700 W. Chicago Ave.
Horror entertainment all year round
The immersive experiences promises horror-focused entertainment all year round, in a setting that transcends the outdoor theme park model.
Guests will enjoy terror-inducing environments and bone-chilling scares, all rooted in interactive storytelling.
In addition to entertainment, the sprawling venue will feature curated retail with collectible merchandise, as well as themed cocktail and food options.
Project promises new jobs, billions in economic impact
The Chicago edition of Universal Horror Unleashed is the second of its kind, with the first experience set to debut in Las Vegas later this year, according to Universal.
The Chicago venue is expected to open by 2027, according to a release. Projections estimate the project will generate 400 new jobs and $1 billion in economic impact for the city.
Mayor Brandon Johnson commended the development in statement Thursday. “We’re thrilled to welcome Universal Horror Unleashed to the City of Chicago,” said Johnson.
“This is exactly the kind of creative, high-impact investment we’re working to attract—one that brings new life to a vacant site, creates hundreds of jobs, and cements Chicago as a must-visit destination for entertainment tourism.”
Get a sneak peek at what’s in store here.