Experiential retail continues to boom in Chicago, according to a report from Newmark.
In its fourth quarter 2025 Chicago experiential retail report, Newmark listed several new entrants in the experiential space in Chicago.
Which new retailers are coming? Newmark pointed to Bally’s Casino, which is expected to open a 750,000-square-foot casino in the Goose Island submarket in the fourth quarter of 2026. There’s also F1 Arcade, a 24,000-square-foot race simulator and arcade, expected to open in the second quarter of 2026 in the River North submarket.
The Hand & The Eye, a magic-based experience, will open in the first quarter of this year on North Michigan Avenue.
Theater of the Mind, the immersive theater experience opened by musician David Byrne, opened in the third quarte of last year in the River North neighborhood. Activate Games, a 16,163-square-foot gaming experience, opened on North Michigan Avenue in the third quarter of last year.
Why are these retailers opening in Chicago? Newmark points to several factors. Consumers spent $35.7 million on entertainment and recreation, fees and admissions in 2025 in the Chicago market. Chicago also remains a top tourist destination, with Newmark citing the 93.6 million non-resident visits to the city in 2024.
Newmark said that the Fulton Market/West Loop and Oak Street/Gold Coast markets are leading the way when it comes to new experiential retail. The Mag Mile market is seeing an influx of destination dining and entertainment options.
