Listen to this article:
While the world of online baccarat is hugely exciting, no online casino will ever be able to offer the range of attractions found in Las Vegas. For example, one of the most famous entertainment destinations in Las Vegas, AREA15 recently unveiled expansion plans for a number of new attractions that are sure to appeal to players taking a break from the tables.
AREA15 is best known for its immersive rides, virtual reality zones, dining, and retail options. Now, the four-year-old hub has revealed plans for a 20-acre extension called “District 2” that will be home to two major attractions.
New Experiences in District 2
The biggest attraction at District 2 will be the John Wick Experience and Universal Horror Unleashed. Inspired by the Keanu Reeves action franchise, the John Wick Experience promises to deliver an interactive adventure for fans, while Universal Horror Unleashed is Universal Studios’ first permanent horror attraction outside its theme parks. The massive 110,000-square-foot venue is expected to open next year.
Also coming at some point in 2025 is Interstellar Arc. Felix & Paul Studios recently started work on the 20,000-square-foot attraction featuring a spaceflight simulator. This immersive journey will transport participants to a “26th-century deep space mission”, combining cutting-edge visuals and storytelling.
Felix & Paul Studios, which is best known for its Emmy-winning Space Explorers, the largest immersive production shot in space, are no strangers to VR-based experiences, with previous hits such as Artemis Ascending garnering the studio a reputation for merging technology and exploration.
Vince Kadlubek, the chief vision officer at Meow Wolf, which anchors AREA15’s original complex with its Omega Mart art installation, said:
“I have followed the work of Felix & Paul Studios for the past decade. I am thrilled to welcome like-minded creators as they bring their visionary storytelling to our shared space of boundary-pushing experiences.”
Superplastic’s Dopeameme Institute for Pleasure Research
If you are going to Las Vegas before any of these new attractions open, then don’t worry, there is still plenty to see, including the recently opened Superplastic.
For those who don’t know, Superplastic is a popular vinyl toy brand that was created by Paul Budnitz and it has now launched its latest experience at AREA15. The Dopeameme Institute for Pleasure Research, which debuted in November 2024, offers a 30-minute interactive adventure that brings together art and technology. Visitors explore a sequence of visually rich, connected rooms where entertaining characters like Janky, a mischievous cat, and Guggimon, a sharp-toothed rabbit, come to life.
The attraction is designed to trigger dopamine surges with its visually stimulating challenges and high-tech visuals. Best of all, tickets cost just $35.
More Attractions on Their Way
During a recent interview on KNPR’s State of Nevada, AREA15 CEO Winston Fisher hinted at a unique addition to District 2, a “psychedelic carousel” drop ride. While available details are limited, Fisher said the expanded 20 acres will feature numerous micro amusement rides and entertainment experiences.
Currently, AREA15 occupies 15 acres. Following the 2025 expansion, an additional 45 acres will remain available for future projects, including multifamily housing, retail and dining venues, office spaces, and a 200-room hotel. These projects are expected to launch as part of the “Immersive District” by 2037.
The Las Vegas City Council designated this 80-acre area as the world’s first immersive tourism district in August. It is expected to attract 3.5 million annual visitors and generate $796 million in yearly onsite spending.
However, despite optimistic forecasts, AREA15 has faced challenges, and last month it announced a number of layoffs. According to a company statement, the decision addressed “evolving marketplace conditions”. Additionally, Dan Pelson, the chief operating officer since 2019, departed from the company.
However, with exciting new attractions due to open soon and many more plans for the future, the expansion of AREA15 looks set to remain a must-visit venue for years to come.
Hi, I’m Caroline, an experienced editor with a rich background in journalism. My career began at several Boston-based newspapers, where I specialized in editing and …
