Universal Studios is branching out to Chicago, bringing along its nightmares and scream-inducing scenarios with a new, year-round Universal Horror Unleashed experience anticipated to open in 2027. Chicago's Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker have both expressed enthusiasm for the forthcoming horror attraction, which will be housed in a presently vacant building at 700 West Chicago Avenue.
According to NBC Chicago, the project is expected to begin construction early in 2026 after the necessary designs and permits are finalized. The Universal Horror Unleashed: Chicago is set to deliver terrifying mazes, themed bars, unique eats and drinks, and, a retail space across 114,000 square feet of what can only be described as a horror lover’s paradise.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Universal Horror Unleashed to the City of Chicago," Mayor Johnson told WGN. "This is exactly the kind of creative, high-impact investment we’re working to attract—one that brings new life to a vacant site, creates hundreds of jobs, and cements Chicago as a must-visit destination for entertainment tourism.” The experience is not only expected to be a substantial draw for tourism but also a significant economic boon for the city, generating more than $1 billion in economic impact.
Universal's choice of Illinois for its next horrific venture should come as no surprise, according to Governor Pritzker, who said, “Universal’s decision to make such a significant investment in Illinois is a testament to the state’s unmatched entertainment sector, renowned workforce and strong infrastructure.” He mentioned the contribution by the state's EDGE incentive program, which is aimed at creating a positive business environment for companies like Universal. The governor looks forward to seeing the iconic brand come to life along the Chicago River as it creates hundreds of jobs and, generates more than $1 billion in economic impact.
Chicago's new locale marks the second Universal Horror Unleashed site, following the first one in Las Vegas. The attraction is expected to create over 400 permanent jobs while promising to cement Chicago's position as a top-tier entertainment tourism destination.
