Universal Confirms Move Out of Orlando for 2027, Sets Eyes on Midwest for Next Expansion Project

Universal Destinations & Experiences has just announced it is moving its popular and most sought-after event outside of Orlando to the heart of downtown Chicago, Illinois.

The five portal towers at Universal Epic Universe, as a Universal expansion is coming Chicago ILL in 2027. — Credit: Universal

Universal Brings New Expansion to Chicago: Prepare for Horror Like Never Before

In a city known for deep-dish pizza, legendary sports teams, and icy winters that chill you to the bone… the chills are about to get a lot more deliberate.

A long-abandoned distribution center sitting quietly in the shadows of downtown Chicago is now the epicenter of a bold, terrifying transformation. Just across from the newly-developed Bally’s Casino, something is brewing—something monstrous, immersive, and unlike anything the Windy City has ever seen. But what exactly is coming to 700 W. Chicago Avenue, and why are horror fans already calling this a dream come true?

Is Chicago ready for the next generation of year-round, adrenaline-pumping fear?

Credit: Universal Destinations & Experiences

A New Breed of Terror Emerges

Universal Destinations & Experiences officially announced on Thursday the launch of Universal Horror Unleashed: Chicago, a permanent, year-round horror entertainment venue. This marks Universal’s first foray into the Midwest, expanding the company’s already wildly ambitious push to bring themed experiences beyond the gates of its traditional theme parks.

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

This is only the second location for Universal Horror Unleashed—the first opening in Las Vegas in August 2025. Now, Chicagoans and visitors alike will be able to plunge into the brand’s signature blend of fear, fun, and cinematic horror… 365 days a year.

More than just a haunted house, this 2027 opening will feature:

Terrifying walk-through mazes
Immersive horror environments
Themed bars serving sinister cocktails
Unique food and beverage offerings
A horror-themed retail store filled with collectibles and merchandise

A man and a woman stand before a large, ornate, glowing blue door in a dark, mystical room. The setting is illuminated by ornate wall sconces, casting a magical atmosphere. Another person is seated in the background, partially visible. — Credit: Universal Horror Unleashed

From Dead Space to Destination

The future home of Horror Unleashed—previously the Tribune Distribution Center—will be completely reimagined. Sitting between River North and West Town, the location is strategically placed in one of Chicago’s most dynamic cultural corridors, maximizing foot traffic and tourism draw.

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.

– @Attractions on X

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

According to Page Thompson, President of New Ventures for Universal Destinations & Experiences, this new concept “delivers on our promise to create highly immersive and terrifying horror experiences that connect with fans year-round.”

Universal says it chose Chicago for its massive population, deep cultural roots, and status as a top U.S. destination for travel and entertainment. But there’s also something deeper at play…

People gather around the iconic Universal Studios globe fountain — Credit: Inside the Magic

Why It Matters: A Bigger Vision for the Future of Theme Park Entertainment

This move isn’t just about horror—it’s about redefining the way people interact with Universal experiences. With theme park real estate limited in certain urban areas, this model provides a fresh blueprint: small-scale, high-impact attractions in major metro hubs.

And it’s not a one-off experiment. The Chicago announcement is part of Universal’s rapidly expanding portfolio that includes:

Universal Horror Unleashed Las Vegas (August 2025)
Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, TX (2026)
Universal Epic Universe in Orlando (now open)
A full theme park in the UK (planned for 2031)

For fans of horror, themed entertainment, and Universal’s legacy of storytelling, this signals an exciting new chapter.

Close-up of the entrance sign for Universal Epic Universe — Credit: Andrew Boardwine, Inside the Magic

What Guests Can Expect

Universal Horror Unleashed: Chicago promises unforgettable scares and a theatrical atmosphere that keeps guests coming back. If its Las Vegas counterpart is any indication, this won’t be a seasonal attraction—it’s a living, breathing world of horror, curated by some of the industry’s top minds.

It’s also a sign that Universal intends to dominate more than just the Florida and California markets. With Chicago on board, the horror brand is planting roots across the country—and this could just be the beginning.

The next few years will be crucial for Universal’s evolving brand identity. While the traditional parks will always have their place, immersive, city-based attractions are a clear focus moving forward. For Chicago, this means a chilling new icon is on the rise—and horror fans across the Midwest are ready to scream.