Meow Wolf, the art collective renowned for its mind-bending, immersive experiences, opened its fourth permanent exhibition, “The Real Unreal,” in Grapevine Mills Mall on July 14, 2023. We had originally checked out this location in 2023, and were invited back to see how things have changed over the course of the last year. I took my daughter to the exhibit both times; as she’s grown up, I found it a lot easier to really delve into the mysteries that The Real Unreal presents to attendees. This latest installation invites visitors into a fantastical narrative that blurs the lines between reality and imagination, offering a deeply interactive and sensory journey.
The Concept: A Suburban Mystery Unfolds
“The Real Unreal” is anchored by a compelling storyline that begins in the seemingly ordinary Delaney family home in Bolingbrook, Illinois. Here, reality has fractured, and a family member has mysteriously vanished, leaving behind a trail of clues and portals to other dimensions. Visitors can choose their own adventure: delve into the mystery, uncovering hidden narratives by exploring every nook and cranny of the house – from opening mail and books to sifting through computers – or simply wander freely, getting lost in the surreal artistry at their own pace.
The exhibition spans over 24,000 square feet across two stories, a testament to the collaborative effort of over 150 artists, including more than 40 from Texas. This local collaboration imbues “The Real Unreal” with a unique flavor, integrating regional artistic talent into Meow Wolf’s signature multiverse.
A Journey Through the (Un)real
The magic of Meow Wolf lies in its encouragement of curiosity and interaction. There are no maps or set paths; discovery is the guiding principle. Everyday objects transform into doorways: refrigerators lead to unexpected realms, washing machines become slides, and fireplaces and closets open into other dimensions like the “Lightning Room” or the captivating “Crystal Cloud Cave.” This latter space, with its mirrored sculptures reflecting an AI-generated sky, offers a serene contrast to the more vibrant, high-energy areas, providing a moment of calm reflection amidst the sensory explosion.
“The Real Unreal” is a feast for the senses. Colors, lights, and sounds merge to create a dreamlike atmosphere. Visitors are encouraged to touch, press, and explore almost everything, triggering unexpected lights, sounds, and movements. The attention to detail is remarkable, from the records of a jazz musician in the Delaney house to the handwritten notes and journals, all contributing to the rich, layered experience.
Visitor Experience: What to Expect
I would recommend at least two hours to explore “The Real Unreal,” though those keen on unraveling the entire storyline could easily spend much longer. For adults with a large amount of time, take out three or four hours. The experience is designed to be family-friendly and accessible, being ADA-compliant with elevators available alongside the more adventurous slides and stairs. Warning signs are placed before areas with potential visual interactions like strobe lights, and the facility has subtle hints of diversity and inclusion throughout.
A key recommendation from previous visitors is to download the Meow Wolf app beforehand, as cell signal and Wi-Fi can be weak on-site. Traveling light is also advised to maximize the hands-on exploration. While the exhibition is generally thrilling for all ages, it’s particularly engaging for older children and teens who can appreciate the interactive elements and the mystery-solving aspect. Parents have noted its value in teaching empathy, problem-solving, and art appreciation through play.
One recurring piece of feedback from visitors, especially those who have experienced other Meow Wolf locations like Omega Mart in Las Vegas, is to manage expectations. While “The Real Unreal” offers a unique and memorable experience, each Meow Wolf location has its distinct character and scale. Some visitors found the Grapevine location to be slightly smaller or less “grand” than Vegas, but still highly enjoyable.
Crowd levels can significantly impact the experience, with many reviewers suggesting weekday mornings or adult-only evening slots for a less crowded visit, allowing for a more personal exploration of the hidden gems.
While the immersive nature and artistic depth are widely praised, the price point of tickets (starting around $35-$50 for adults) is a common point of discussion, though it is in line with other immersive experiences. The opening of “Prime Materia,” an interactive bar and experience within “The Real Unreal” on June 20, 2025, will provide those of age individuals with another lens upon which they can view the attraction.
Conclusion
“The Real Unreal” is a captivating addition to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex’s cultural landscape. It delivers a rich, interactive, and endlessly explorable art experience that encourages visitors to lose themselves in a fantastical narrative. Whether you’re a seasoned Meow Wolf fan or a curious newcomer, “The Real Unreal” offers a unique adventure that challenges perceptions and celebrates the boundless possibilities of human creativity. It’s an outing that promises to be both fun and thought-provoking, inviting you to engage with art in a way you’ve never imagined.
Meow Wolf Grapevine Mills Mall – The Real Unreal / Domain / Facebook
