Chicagoans looking for a new kind of cultural escape won’t have to go far this fall. On Friday, September 26, Rosemont’s Pearl District debuts EXP, a 26,000-square-foot venue designed to make history, science and imagination collide in stunningly immersive ways.
Created in partnership with Montreal-based PHI Studio, a global leader in immersive arts, EXP launches with two massive VR adventures: "Horizon of Khufu" and "Life Chronicles." Together, they promise to transport visitors thousands of years back in time and millions of years across Earth’s history.
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The headliner, "Horizon of Khufu," takes participants inside Egypt’s Great Pyramid of Khufu, the 4,500-year-old wonder of the world. Armed with a VR headset, you’ll move freely through chambers usually restricted to archaeologists, ascend to the summit of the 146-meter pyramid and even sail down the Nile during King Khufu’s funerary rites.
The second offering, "Life Chronicles," zooms out to tell the grand story of Earth itself. Over the course of 45 minutes, guests trace 3.5 billion years of evolution, beginning with single-celled microbes before plunging into ancient seas teeming with life. It’s a visually dazzling, scientifically grounded trip through deep time.
Both experiences are designed as “free-roaming” expeditions, which means no sitting still or staying tethered to one spot. Visitors can wander through the digital environments alongside friends or family, either sharing the same journey or splitting up for different ones.
“EXP will be a cultural catalyst for the Midwest,” PHI Studio CEO Eric Albert said in a statement. “We’re proud to launch it with stories that bridge art, science and imagination.” Rosemont’s mayor, Brad Stephens, echoes the excitement, calling it the first step in making EXP a major destination for residents and visitors alike.
Located at 9900 Berwyn Avenue, EXP joins Rosemont’s already packed entertainment lineup, which includes Parkway Bank Park, the Allstate Arena and the Fashion Outlets of Chicago. But unlike a concert or a shopping trip, this is an experience designed to reshape how we think about storytelling and technology.
Timed entry tickets are on sale now at exprosemont.com, starting at $43 for adults and $31 for kids ages 8–16, with discounts for families, students and seniors. VIP packages include priority entry, a custom badge and tote bag.