Universal Horror Unleashed Expands to Chicago in 2027

Universal Studios will open its first Midwest location of the immersive, year-round horror attraction 'Universal Horror Unleashed' in Chicago in 2027, converting a 114,000-square-foot vacant building across from the new Bally’s casino into a major entertainment destination. The venue, inspired by the popular Halloween Horror Nights, will include terrifying mazes, live horror experiences, themed bars, exclusive merchandise, and immersive food and beverage options, and will operate throughout the year. City and state officials, including Mayor Brandon Johnson and Governor JB Pritzker, expect the project to create over 400 permanent jobs and generate more than $1 billion in economic impact for Illinois. The initiative is supported by state tax incentives designed to encourage job creation and neighborhood revitalization. Chicago’s announcement comes after the August opening of Universal Horror Unleashed’s first location in Las Vegas, reflecting Universal’s strategy to expand its themed entertainment venues into new markets. This investment underscores Chicago's emergence as a leading entertainment tourism destination in the U.S.