Las Vegas Launches First Immersive Tourism District With $796M Entertainment Complex
“I really see it as a spark that’s going to bring that area of Ward 3 to life and further revitalize it,” says councilmember Olivia Diaz, who represents the ward, according to Casino.org.
AREA15’s massive 20-acre expansion, known as District 2, will open in 2025 and feature mind-blowing attractions. Universal Studios has chosen this location to build its first standalone horror attraction – Universal Horror Unleashed. Thrill-seekers can also look forward to an intense John Wick experience inspired by the action movie franchise.
The centerpiece will be a massive 20,000-square-foot flight simulator called Interstellar Arc. This next-gen ride created by Felix & Paul Studios will take guests on wild space adventures set in the 26th century when it opens next fall.
But that’s just the beginning. District 2 will also feature a psychedelic carousel drop ride with various amusement attractions scattered throughout. The district’s first experience recently opened – the SuperPlastic’s DopeameMe Institute for Pleasure Research blends stunning artwork with high-tech features in quick 30-minute shows.
The complete development project covers 80 acres bought in 2005 by Fisher’s family. The full plan includes 585 residential units, retail and dining spaces covering 418,000 square feet, and 320,000 square feet of office space. The project hopes to reach full capacity by 2037.
Things haven’t been perfect with the ambitious expansion. The venue recently had to lay off some employees due to market changes, and their chief operating officer left during the reorganization. Still, these changes are necessary to solidify Las Vegas as a tourist destination spot and entertainment hub.