Universal Studios has announced plans to open a new horror-themed entertainment venue in Chicago. The attraction, named Universal Horror Unleashed, will occupy a vacant building located at 700 W. Chicago Ave., directly across from the future Bally’s casino.
The immersive entertainment experience is expected to feature a variety of elements designed to thrill visitors. According to city officials, attendees will be treated to terrifying mazes, unforgettable scares, themed bars, and unique food and beverage offerings. In addition, there will be a retail space that will offer exclusive merchandise related to the horror genre.
This new Chicago location will mark the second Universal Horror Unleashed venue, making it the first Universal attraction in the Midwest. The initial location is set to open in August 2024 in Las Vegas, where it will include film-quality haunted houses inspired by iconic Universal monsters and popular horror films such as The Exorcist and The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. Classic characters like Frankenstein’s monster, the Mummy, the Creature from the Black Lagoon, Count Dracula, and the Phantom of the Opera will also be featured in the Las Vegas experience.
Page Thompson, the president of new ventures at Universal Destinations & Experiences, expressed that Chicago is a perfect location for this genre, emphasizing the company’s commitment to delivering “fear all year.” The planning for this project has been ongoing since October 2023 and is anticipated to generate over $1 billion in economic impact while creating approximately 400 permanent jobs.
Mayor Brandon Johnson shared his excitement about the upcoming attraction, stating that it has the potential to uplift and revitalize the dynamic neighborhood once completed. He expressed confidence that horror fans from across the region would flock to Chicago to experience the unique offerings.
Construction for Universal Horror Unleashed is expected to commence in early 2026, pending the finalization of design plans and the acquisition of necessary permits. The attraction is tentatively slated to open its doors in 2027.
The project will receive support from the Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) program, although the specific amount of funding has yet to be disclosed. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker commended Universal’s investment in Chicago, describing it as a testament to the state’s robust entertainment sector, skilled workforce, and strong infrastructure.
Recent developments in Chicago’s entertainment landscape further illustrate the city’s growth, which includes significant projects like the Chicago Fire Stadium at The 78, an upgrade to the 360 Chicago observation deck, and the recent launch of the Harry Potter Experience on Michigan Avenue.
The site at 700 W. Chicago Ave. was initially intended for a temporary Bally’s casino; however, the plans were adjusted, leading to the casino’s temporary location inside River North’s Medinah Temple. Bally’s is currently advancing plans for a $1.7 billion permanent casino across the street from the Universal site, which will encompass 3,300 slot machines, 173 table games, 500 hotel rooms, a 3,000-seat entertainment venue, a 2-acre public park, six restaurants, a food hall, and three bars.
In addition to the horror attraction, the area will see the development of Halsted Landing. This multi-phase project aims to include up to 2,451 mixed-income residences, 280 hotel rooms, and nearly two acres of public open space. However, the development led by Onni is currently stalled due to disputes in the City Council’s zoning committee involving organized labor.
If approved, Halsted Landing will be constructed in three phases, featuring an expansive riverwalk that will connect to Onni’s Halsted Pointe project across the river.
image source from：blockclubchicago
