KC’s newest “movie theater” isn’t about popcorn + previews — it’s a ticket into another dimension.
Enter Vacation Village’s newest anchor, Atlas9. This 46,000-sqft immersive art experience allows guests to wander through themed rooms and corridors — including a 1940s jazz club, a 240-seat auditorium draped with projection mapping, an arcade, a pizza parlor, and more — uncovering a supernatural narrative.
Sounds familiar? It’s a similar concept to Meow Wolf, with the addition of rotating, limited-time programming like performances by KC collective Quixotic.
Doors are now open to the public, with weekly hours spanning Tuesday through Sunday. Tickets run $40 for adults, but Wyandotte County residents get $10 off.
A local’s perspective
Editor Maddie here. I snagged a sneak peek at Atlas9, KCK’s new immersive art experience, and brought a friend along for the ride.
From the outside, it’s a mysterious black cube. Step inside and you’re suddenly in a Glenwood Arts–style box office (a perfect first photo op), before grabbing your wristband and snacks. I went classic with butter-drenched popcorn, while my friend gave the pizza a glowing review for its fluffy crust and nostalgic movie-night vibes.
Once you enter the rooms, Atlas9 casts you as a “researcher” in a trippy sci-fi storyline. Employees stay in character while nudging you along, where you can either chase down every clue to piece the narrative together or, like me, wander wide-eyed and let the story spill over into your next visit.
Our favorite finds? Interactive movie posters that cast you in the film and a hidden speakeasy for the 21+ crowd. The real winner: Your RFID wristband comes with admission — unlike Meow Wolf, you don’t have to shell out extra to actually play.
