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Universal Reveals New Details For Horror Unleashed; The First-Ever Year-Round Horror Experience In Las Vegas

Universal Destinations & Experiences is turning up the terror with its most ambitious horror project yet. Universal Horror Unleashed, a permanent, year-round horror attraction, officially opening to the public on August 14, 2025, at AREA15 in Las Vegas.

Located at the AREA15 District, Universal Horror Unleashed is Universal Destinations & Experiences’ first-ever, year-round horror experience. The nightmarish spectacle unfolds inside what appears to be an abandoned production warehouse—home to four themed immersive areas and four terrifying haunted houses: Universal Monsters, Blumhouse’s The Exorcist: Believer, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and Scarecrow: The Reaping.

This marks the first time Universal has offered its signature brand of horror entertainment outside of its theme parks on a full-time basis. Blending cutting-edge haunted house design, interactive storytelling, themed bars, and live entertainment, Universal Horror Unleashed will bring to life the studio’s legacy of monsters and horror cinema like never before.

With four genre‑spanning haunts, multiple interactive bars, and a guest‑driven storyline, it promises to redefine the haunted attraction industry.

A Massive New Home for Horror

Set within a sprawling 110,000-square-foot space, the attraction immerses guests in a chilling and cinematic world. As visitors step inside, they’ll first pass through Dead Exposure: Dead Storage, an opening scare zone-like experience featuring forgotten props, special effects, and iconic creatures from Universal’s horror vault. This unsettling environment serves as a prelude to what awaits beyond.

From there, guests can choose their own terrifying path—no two visits need to be the same. Whether you’re in the mood for a slasher showdown, supernatural hauntings, or twisted original stories, there’s something lurking for everyone.

Four Haunted Houses — One Horrifying Universe

Universal Horror Unleashed launches with four uniquely themed haunted houses, each drawing inspiration from some of the most iconic horror properties:

  • Universal Monsters: The Curse of the Ancients
    Featuring Dracula, The Mummy, Frankenstein’s Monster, and more, this house brings together timeless icons in a new shared horror universe. From Van Helsing’s crypt to ancient tombs and shadowy laboratories, guests are thrust into a battle between monsters and mankind.
  • The Exorcist: Believer
    Step into a chilling recreation of the recent Blumhouse reboot. Dark rituals, demonic possession, and psychological terror await as guests confront the unknown in a house designed to feel deeply personal—and profoundly disturbing.
  • The Texas Chainsaw Massacre
    Inspired by the legendary 1974 horror classic, this house drops guests directly into Leatherface’s domain. The roaring chainsaw, eerie farmhouse, and relentless dread will make you think twice about taking the shortcut.
  • Scarecrow: The Reaping
    A brand-new original concept created exclusively for Las Vegas. Set in the Depression-era Midwest, this house unveils a cursed harvest where nature strikes back and the line between man and monster is blurred.

Step Into the Darkness—And Stay Awhile

Jack’s Bar Concept Rendering courtesy NBC Universal

Beyond the haunted houses, Universal Horror Unleashed offers a range of themed spaces that serve up both chills and thrills.

  • The Boiler
    This fire-infused cocktail bar gives guests a chance to cool down—ironically—amid blazing visuals and molten ambiance. Expect mechanical theatrics and themed drinks designed to spark the senses.
  • Carnival of Chaos
    A twisted midway-style space where scareactors roam and guests can experience carnival-inspired horror elements between haunted houses.
  • Jack’s Bar
    Horror fans will recognize Universal Orlando’s fan-favorite icon Jack the Clown, who takes center stage here with fellow maniac Chance. This bar offers more than drinks—it’s an ever-changing stage for live interactions, chaotic antics, and bloody good fun.
  • Food, Drinks & Merch
    The horror even extends to the food and beverage offerings, with themed bars and locations serving craft cocktails and specialty bites across the experience. Guests can also take home the fear with exclusive collectible merchandise from the on-site retail location.

Choose Your Fate

Carnival of Chaos Concept Rendering courtesy NBC Universal

Unlike traditional haunted houses with linear paths, Universal Horror Unleashed is designed to be a choose-your-own-nightmare experience. Guests can spend hours exploring at their own pace, revisit their favorite haunts, grab a drink with monsters, or interact with scareactors who stay in character all night long.

This immersive format has drawn comparisons to high-end themed experiences like Disney’s now-retired Galactic Starcruiser, though Universal’s take is less structured, more chaotic—and definitely more terrifying.

A New Era of Horror Begins

The concept was first announced in January 2023 as part of AREA15’s 20-acre expansion. Construction began later that year, with teaser walls and structural work becoming visible by late 2023 and early 2024. Now nearing completion, Universal Horror Unleashed promises to permanently change the landscape of immersive entertainment in Las Vegas.

This destination is designed for horror fans, thrill seekers, and anyone looking for something new and unforgettable in the world of themed entertainment. With year-round operations, frequent updates, and an ever-evolving storyline, repeat visits are not only encouraged—they’re essential.

Check out this podcast overview, which explores the creative vision, production process, and immersive elements that make Universal Horror Unleashed a first-of-its-kind experience. Hear from the designers, creative leads, and haunt industry veterans as they break down what makes each scare unique, how the environments were crafted, and why Las Vegas is the perfect setting for this terrifying new venture.

Get Your Tickets

Universal Horror Unleashed opens August 14, 2025. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at Here.

Plan Your Visit

  • Universal Horror Unleashed is located at AREA15, just about 10 minutes from both the Las Vegas Strip and Downtown.
  • Rideshare is highly recommended, as on-site parking is limited and valet service is not available.
  • Please note that AREA15 enforces age restrictions and a chaperone policy during certain hours. Guests are strongly encouraged to review the official AREA15 FAQs before purchasing tickets or planning a visit.

Stay tuned to Coaster Nation for more behind-the-scenes coverage, haunt walkthroughs, and exclusive interviews as we get closer to opening night!

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