Universal Destinations & Experiences is taking its chilling brand of immersive entertainment to new heights—this time in the heart of the Midwest. The entertainment powerhouse behind Halloween Horror Nights has officially announced that Chicago will be the second location for Universal Horror Unleashed, the company’s cutting-edge, year-round horror experience.
This bold expansion is part of Universal’s broader strategy to bring original, genre-defining entertainment to new markets. Following the Las Vegas launch in August 2025, the Chicago venue will deliver a steady pulse of fear to the city’s thriving tourism and nightlife scene.
Why Chicago?
Known for its rich cultural tapestry, world-class attractions, and an appetite for bold entertainment, Chicago is the ideal setting for Universal’s next horror playground. The new venue will rise on Chicago Avenue at the former Tribune Distribution Center, strategically located between River North and West Town—two of the city’s most energetic and artistic neighborhoods.
This will mark Universal’s first branded experience in the Midwest, signaling a new era of regionally accessible entertainment for fans of the dark and twisted.
“Universal Horror Unleashed delivers on our promise to create highly immersive and terrifying horror experiences that connect with fans year-round,” said Page Thompson, President, New Ventures, Universal Destinations & Experiences. “We’re excited to bring this bold concept to life in Chicago, a city known for its vibrant culture.”
A Year-Round Nightmare Awaits
Unlike seasonal haunted attractions, Universal Horror Unleashed is a permanent destination, offering fans year-round thrills rooted in Universal’s legendary horror legacy. Expect detailed sets, ever-evolving storylines, and cutting-edge effects that drop guests into living nightmares. The venue will feature:
- Terrifying haunted experiences inspired by original concepts and iconic horror franchises
- Sinister themed dining with craft cocktails and horror-inspired bites
- Exclusive retail spaces with collectible merchandise, art, and apparel
The Chicago location will extend Universal’s signature blend of cinematic horror and immersive entertainment into a city that already thrives on creativity and performance.
Expanding the Horror Universe
This announcement follows a wave of ambitious projects from Universal Destinations & Experiences, including:
- Universal Horror Unleashed Las Vegas opening August 14, 2025
- Universal Epic Universe opening in Orlando
- Universal Kids Resort launching in Frisco, Texas, in 2026
- A new theme park and resort in the U.K., Universal’s first European destination, scheduled to debut in 2031
With each project, Universal continues to evolve its global footprint, delivering bold, story-driven experiences far beyond the traditional theme park model.
As the anticipation builds, one thing is certain: Universal Horror Unleashed Chicago is set to become a must-visit destination for horror lovers across the Midwest and beyond. Whether you’re in it for the scares, the lore, or just the screams, this new venue promises to drag you deeper into the dark than ever before.
Stay tuned for more details, opening dates, and ticket information as Universal begins its transformation of the Chicago Avenue site. Horror is coming—and it’s here to stay.
