Universal Destinations & Experiences today announced the name of the company’s first permanent horror experience: Universal Horror Unleashed.
The new concept – located at Area15 in Las Vegas – combines the company’s expertise in the horror genre with immersive experiences in an entirely new format. The horror experiences will revolve around spooky restaurants and spooky bar areas. It will deliver what Universal promises: “a new level of experiential entertainment.” Additionally, guests can expect “a constantly updated experience with must-see seasonal events and unique merchandise.”
“Universal Horror Unleashed is another way we are leveraging our unique style of horror storytelling to appeal to fans of the genre,” said Page Thompson, president of New Ventures, Universal Destinations & Experiences, in a statement. “We look forward to bringing spooky fun to Las Vegas all year long.”
Universal Horror Unleashed, first announced without a name earlier this year, is part of the company’s ambition to bring new products to new audiences in new markets. It is the anchor tenant of the 20-acre expansion of Area15, a captivating entertainment district in Las Vegas.
Area15 has been described by Fast Company as “a next-generation experiential mall.” It’s a few blocks from the Strip on Rancho Drive. The attraction will cover an area of 110,000 square meters.
Artist’s impression of Universal Parks’ planned horror entertainment experience at Las Vegas Universal Parks & Resorts
In January, Universal Parks & Resorts Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Mark Woodbury said one of the Vegas project’s goals was “expanding our reach to deliver unique concepts to new audiences in new markets.”
Also earlier this year, Universal Parks & Resorts announced a property in Texas specifically designed to provide fun for families with young children. The company promised “lush green landscapes and immersive themed environments” that “celebrate Universal’s iconic brand… bringing its beloved characters and stories to life in a way that will delight even the theme park’s youngest visitors.”
The company has even bigger plans for its Epic Universe theme park in Orlando, which is scheduled to open in 2025. Epic will be the company’s third park in Orlando. There will be four themed areas around a central hub that features the most advanced technology of any Universal park, including next-generation robotics, drone technology and a facial recognition system to ensure a “frictionless” experience for guests.
Universal has long defined the horror genre with its classic films featuring iconic characters such as Frankenstein’s Monster, the Mummy and the Wolf Man. Working with filmmakers like Jason Blum, James Wan and Jordan Peele, it redefined modern horror and suspense.
Currently in its 32nd year, Halloween Horror Nights features select attractions including The Exorcist: Believer, Five Nights at Freddy’s, Chucky, The Purge, Universal Monsters and more.