Universal Destinations & Experiences has announced a massive new expansion project coming in 2027 to Chicago, Illinois.
Universal Destinations and Experiences Announces Massive New Project Set for 2027
A dormant part of downtown Chicago is about to come alive—but not with life. With eerie shadows and spine-tingling sounds soon to echo through its halls, one of the most iconic names in entertainment is preparing to flip the switch on a permanent horror destination that’s as immersive as it is terrifying.
So, what is Universal really building in the heart of the Windy City? And why is this more than just another haunted house?
An Abandoned Building, Reborn in Fear
Universal Destinations & Experiences has officially revealed plans to open Universal Horror Unleashed: Chicago, a first-of-its-kind year-round horror attraction in the Midwest. Slated to open in 2027, the new location will occupy the former Tribune Distribution Center at 700 W. Chicago Avenue, right across from the Bally’s Casino development.
JUST ANNOUNCED: We’re expanding our universe to the Midwest with a brand-new location of Universal Horror Unleashed in Chicago, Illinois — our first destination in the region. Get ready, Chicago! More details coming soon. – @UniStudios on X
JUST ANNOUNCED: We’re expanding our universe to the Midwest with a brand-new location of Universal Horror Unleashed in Chicago, Illinois — our first destination in the region. Get ready, Chicago! More details coming soon. pic.twitter.com/ovJK1FG7Hl
— Universal Studios Hollywood (@UniStudios) June 26, 2025
The company plans to transform the site into a full-scale horror experience, complete with walk-through haunted attractions, immersive mazes, themed bars, sinister food options, and exclusive horror-themed merchandise. The goal? To bring fans out of the theater—and into the nightmares themselves.
Horror Expands Into the Midwest
This will be Universal’s second Horror Unleashed venue, following the Las Vegas location opening in 2025. It’s also the company’s first-ever branded experience in the Midwest, signaling a shift toward city-based, year-round attractions that move beyond the borders of traditional theme parks.
Universal says it chose Chicago for its enormous population, strong tourism industry, and cultural influence. The city has long been a hub for entertainment and innovation—qualities that align with Universal’s evolving vision.
Chicago will be the next location for Universal Horror Unleashed, a year-round haunt attraction from the team behind Halloween Horror Nights. The first Horror Unleashed location opens Aug. 14 in Las Vegas.
Chicago will be the next location for Universal Horror Unleashed, a year-round haunt attraction from the team behind Halloween Horror Nights.
The first Horror Unleashed location opens Aug. 14 in Las Vegas.
Details: https://t.co/X0hXHx6sWd pic.twitter.com/SWlhSEztTu
— Attractions Magazine (@Attractions) June 26, 2025
Page Thompson, President of New Ventures for Universal, said the Chicago project will “convert a dormant site into a destination that showcases our storytelling expertise and shatters guest expectations.”
Not Just Scares—Strategy
This isn’t just a place to get spooked—it’s a bold part of Universal’s expansion strategy. Rather than rely solely on massive parks, the studio is betting on compact, immersive spaces that can bring high-impact experiences directly to major metro areas.
Themed dining, live entertainment, rotating attractions, and potential seasonal overlays will keep visitors coming back—making the venue more like a horror lifestyle destination than a simple walkthrough experience. This approach allows Universal to tap into local markets without the logistical weight of building a full park.
Part of a Bigger Picture
Universal Horror Unleashed: Chicago is just one of several massive projects currently underway. Among them:
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Universal Horror Unleashed Las Vegas (opens August 2025)
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Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas (2026)
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Universal Epic Universe in Orlando (recently opened)
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A new full-scale resort in the United Kingdom, planned for 2031
These projects reflect Universal’s aggressive move into location-based, immersive experiences tailored to specific audiences—whether families, horror fans, or thrill-seekers.
What Awaits in 2027 for Universal Destinations and Experiences?
While official designs haven’t been revealed yet, expectations are sky-high. If the Las Vegas version is any indication, Chicago can expect shifting storylines, movie-quality set design, and a blend of original horror concepts and classic Universal Monsters. Throw in horror-themed cocktails and collectibles, and this may become Chicago’s newest must-see attraction.
For a city known for its grit, soul, and bold identity, this chilling new chapter feels oddly fitting. Come 2027, one thing’s certain: horror has found a new home in Chicago.
