Universal Destinations & Experiences Plans Second Universal Horror Unleashed in Chicago
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CHICAGO ~ Universal Destinations & Experiences, the themed entertainment division of Comcast NBCUniversal, has announced that Chicago will be the second location for its year-round immersive horror experience, Universal Horror Unleashed. This permanent entertainment venue will be Universal's first branded experience in the Midwest and is part of their plans to expand the brand and introduce it to new audiences in new markets with original concepts.

The new Universal Horror Unleashed: Chicago will be located at 700 W. Chicago Avenue, directly across from the new Bally's Casino. The 114,000-square-foot commercial building will be transformed into a world-class horror attraction and entertainment destination. According to World Business Chicago, this project is expected to have a significant economic impact on the city, generating over $1 billion.

Set to open in 2027, Universal Horror Unleashed: Chicago will feature terrifying mazes, unforgettable scares, themed bars, unique food and beverage offerings, and a retail space with exclusive merchandise. The venue will operate year-round and is expected to create more than 400 permanent jobs ranging from operations leaders to merchandise hosts, entertainers known as scareactors, and make-up and prosthetics artists.

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Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed excitement about welcoming Universal Horror Unleashed to the city. He stated that this investment aligns with their goal of attracting creative and high-impact projects that bring life to vacant sites and create jobs while solidifying Chicago as a top destination for entertainment tourism.

Governor JB Pritzker also praised Universal's decision to invest in Illinois. He highlighted the state's strong infrastructure, renowned workforce, and unmatched entertainment sector as factors that led to this decision. The company will receive state incentives through the Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) program.

This announcement follows a series of other investments by Universal aimed at expanding their footprint and brand. These include the recent opening of Universal Epic Universe at Universal Orlando Resort - their most ambitious theme park yet, the first Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas set to open in 2025, and Universal Kids Resort, a new regional theme park for families with young children in Frisco, Texas. Additionally, the company has plans to build and operate a new theme park and resort development in the United Kingdom - their first in Europe.

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Page Thompson, President of New Ventures at Universal Destinations & Experiences, stated that Universal Horror Unleashed delivers on their promise to provide highly immersive and terrifying experiences for fans year-round. He expressed excitement about bringing this concept to life in Chicago - a city known for its vibrant culture. Thompson also expressed gratitude for the support of the city and state as they transform this dormant site into a unique attraction that showcases their storytelling expertise.

Phil Clement, President & CEO of World Business Chicago, also praised Universal's decision to build in Chicago. He stated that more and more companies are recognizing the city as the best big city in the U.S. for access to customers, talent, and opportunity. Clement expressed pride in working closely with the Universal team to bring this project to life and showcasing why Chicago is a destination for bold and imaginative investments.

Construction is expected to begin in early 2026 after finalizing designs and obtaining permits. An attached image courtesy of Universal Destinations & Experiences gives a glimpse of what can be expected from this new horror experience.

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