Universal Horror Unleashed to Haunt Chicago Year-Round

Ghosts and ghouls are set to take over the Chicago River as Universal Studios unveils its latest venture.

On Thursday, the entertainment giant revealed plans for "Universal Horror Unleashed," an immersive horror experience located in a vacant building across from the Bally's casino currently under construction in River West.

Mayor Brandon Johnson, alongside Universal officials and city leaders, gathered to announce this thrilling addition to the city’s entertainment landscape.

"Horror Unleashed is a 114,000-square-foot year-round venue where guests will face bone-chilling scares as they navigate through themed immersive areas. It's all fear all year, because horror isn't just for Halloween," stated Page Thompson, President of Universal Destinations & Experiences.

Set to open its doors in 2027, the facility promises "terrifying mazes, unforgettable scares, themed bars, unique food and beverage offerings, and a retail space featuring exclusive merchandise," according to a release from the mayor's office.

The project is expected to create over 400 permanent jobs, including roles for operations leaders, merchandise hosts, entertainers, and makeup and prosthetics artists.

"This project and redevelopment will also help uplift and revitalize a dynamic neighborhood," Johnson remarked. "I'm very excited about this announcement, and I have no doubt that fans of this genre will flock to our city for these memorable experiences."

City and state officials project that the initiative will generate more than $1 billion in economic impact for Illinois.

Additionally, the project will benefit from tax credits through the state's Economic Development for a Growing Economy program, designed to incentivize job creation and retention within Illinois.