Best Non-Gambling Attraction in Las Vegas? Universal Horror Unleashed at Area15
Las Vegas is known for its bright lights, endless casinos, and nonstop nightlife — but what if you’re looking for something different? If you’re traveling with family, if gambling isn’t your thing, or if you simply want a unique Vegas experience, Area15 has quickly become one of the top destinations outside the casinos. And now, with the opening of Universal Horror Unleashed in Zone 2 of Area15, the city has introduced something unlike anything else: a year-round haunted attraction.
So, is it worth adding to your Vegas itinerary? Here’s everything you need to know before visiting.
NEW Area 15 Attraction in Las Vegas! Universal Studios Horror Unleashed
What Is Universal Horror Unleashed?
Universal Horror Unleashed is Universal Destinations’ first-ever permanent haunt experience, located inside a massive 110,000 square-foot warehouse in Area15’s new Zone 2 expansion. This attraction features:
Four haunted houses with terrifying theming
Two themed bars for chilling cocktails
Two restaurants for spooky bites
Immersive design and scare actors that make it feel like you’ve stepped inside a horror movie
If you’ve ever wanted the thrill of Halloween Horror Nights — but outside the season — this is it.
Location: Area15 Zone 2 Expansion
When Area15 first opened, Omega Mart quickly became its flagship experience. With Zone 2, the complex is expanding in a huge way, bringing in even more unique attractions. Besides Horror Unleashed, Zone 2 will eventually feature:
A Museum of Ice Cream
A new Nacho Daddy restaurant
A restaurant inside an actual 747 airplane fuselage with DJs spinning below
But right now, the star of the show is Horror Unleashed.
Ticket Prices and Options
Like most Vegas attractions, the big question is: How much does it cost?
One-Time Access Pass: $69 (general admission) / $59 (Nevada residents) – lets you experience each haunted house once.
All-Access Pass: $99 + tax – unlimited access to all four haunted houses for the day.
For comparison, Omega Mart tickets are around $45, so Horror Unleashed is definitely a bigger investment. The real question is whether the unlimited scares are worth the higher price.
The Experience
From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere hits you — themed bars, actors lurking around every corner, and scares that start right away. Even if you’re not a hardcore haunted house fan, it’s an experience you won’t find on the Strip.
Expect:
Sudden jump scares (yes, I screamed right at the entrance)
Incredible set design and lighting
Creepy characters who never break character
Food and drink options to keep the night going
It’s not just a quick walk-through. With four different houses and lounges to relax in, you can easily spend a few hours here.
Is It Worth Visiting on Your Vegas Trip?
If you’re planning a Las Vegas vacation and don’t want to spend all your time in casinos, Universal Horror Unleashed is a must-see attraction. It adds a new layer to the city’s entertainment options, making Vegas more appealing for families, thrill seekers, and non-gamblers.
The only downsides?
It can get expensive, especially if you go with the unlimited pass.
There’s not much shade outside Zone 2 yet — and Vegas heat is no joke.
Staff experiences vary (some were great, others not so much).
But overall, this is a huge win for Area15 and an exciting addition to Las Vegas attractions. Whether it will survive long-term in such a competitive market remains to be seen, but for now, it’s a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Vegas is no longer just about slot machines and blackjack tables. With destinations like Area15 and attractions like Universal Horror Unleashed, the city is reinventing itself as an entertainment hub for everyone.
So, if you’re ready to trade in poker chips for a few screams, make sure to check out Horror Unleashed on your next trip to Las Vegas.