Proton packs and zombie bumper cars? Wonderverse in Oakbrook Center will have it all
Sony Pictures Entertainment is transforming a former Sears store to bring a first-of-its-kind entertainment experience to Oakbrook Center in December.
Wonderverse, a 45,000-square-foot movie-themed bar and restaurant, will offer guests an immersive experience based on popular films and TV shows. Featured attractions include the "Ghostbusters" virtual reality academy where guests can suit up with proton packs and capture ghosts or hop into the Ecto hovercraft for a high-speed chase. A virtual reality game based on "Jumanji: Reverse the Curse" allows participants to join the pursuit for a stolen jewel and a quest to stop the spread of evil. Other options include "Unchartered" escape rooms, "Zombieland" bumper cars and racing simulators based on the "Bad Boys" films. Pop-up attractions, such as the "21 Jump Street" bar, will offer guests immersive experiences of their favorite shows and films.
"Wonderverse is an exciting expansion for Sony Pictures growing location-based entertainment experiences," said Jeffrey Godsick, executive vice president of global partnerships and brand management and head of location-based entertainment at Sony Pictures. "Experiences like Wonderverse provide audiences the opportunity to enjoy our brands in new ways by immersing themselves in some of their favorite stories."
Though slated to officially open in January, guests can get an early peek at Wonderverse in December.
"We're thrilled to be the first location for Sony Pictures Entertainment's Wonderverse and have it as our largest entertainment option at Oakbrook Center," said Tim Geiges, senior general manager at Oakbrook Center, in a statement. "We often hear from guests how they love our mix of entertainment, so we're excited to offer a completely new experience for them to enjoy, especially as we approach the colder months."
Mixologist Jane Danger, from Oak Brook-based Pernod Ricard, will head up the Commissary Bar, which features cocktails, mocktails and small bites. Chef Scott Donaldson will head up the Commissary Restaurant which will offer a full menu of food, desserts and drinks.
Entry to Wonderverse is free, but attractions are individually priced. Guests are encouraged to book tickets to their favorite attractions in advance. Guests under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult 21 or older. Guests under 21 years of age will not be admitted after 7 p.m.; Wonderverse becomes an adult-only experience after 8 p.m.
For more information, visit wonderversechicago.com.