Netflix is expanding into physical entertainment with the opening of Netflix House in Pennsylvania, a large immersive attraction featuring shows like 'Wednesday' and 'Stranger Things,' with plans for additional locations in Dallas and Las Vegas, aiming to attract both local visitors and tourists, while also offering themed experiences, dining, shopping, and screenings.
Coney Island and Sunlite Pool in Cincinnati will permanently close at the end of the year and be sold to Music & Event Management Inc. (MEMI), a subsidiary of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. The new owners plan to build a state-of-the-art music and entertainment venue on the site, with a design that includes a modern sound system, adaptable seating, and a standing area. The venue aims to attract big-name performers and put Cincinnati among the ranks of top cities for entertainment.
The $2.3 billion Sphere arena in Las Vegas, the largest spherical structure in the world, has been dazzling crowds with its innovative and mesmerizing displays since its debut on the Fourth of July. The venue features 1.2 million LED lights that transform it into a gigantic display, while inside, a 16k-resolution curved screen provides a mind-blowing visual experience. Despite reporting an operating loss of $98.4 million, the CEO remains optimistic about its profitability, citing the success of U2 concerts and other events. Plans are underway to replicate the structure in London, although locals have expressed concerns about its impact on the surroundings.
The Sphere, a new entertainment venue in Las Vegas, reported a first-quarter operating loss of $98.4 million primarily due to opening expenses. Despite this, CEO James Dolan remains optimistic about the venue's profitability, citing increased interest from artists and plans for additional residencies. Dolan hinted at potential ticket price increases, noting that Las Vegas is an ideal location due to its constantly changing tourist market. The Sphere has received positive feedback and sold out performances since its opening, prompting the addition of more shows. Dolan also confirmed plans for future Sphere venues worldwide, but did not disclose specific locations.
The Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh is proposing a $45 million entertainment venue as part of its Pop District initiative. The venue would include a concert space, mezzanine, events space, and offices. The project aims to expand the museum's offerings and contribute to the cultural life of Pittsburgh. Construction could begin in spring 2024, pending approval from the Planning Commission.
OnCore Golf Technologies is reviving its plans for a golf-themed entertainment venue in Buffalo, after the original project was stalled by the Covid-19 pandemic. The new complex, called ShotClub Social Powered by OnCore, will be located at 555 Elk St. and will feature a two-story structure with an interactive driving range, gaming and entertainment options such as bowling and virtual reality, and dining options. OnCore has also purchased 10 acres in Knoxville, Tennessee, for a second identical venue. The total investment for both locations is over $60 million.
Deep Ellum's Punch Bowl Social in Dallas is set to debut a mechanical bull, becoming the second establishment in the neighborhood to offer this attraction. The Denver-based Punch Bowl Social chain's spokesperson confirmed that this is the first mechanical bull for any of their 15 locations. The bull will be unveiled with two grand opening parties in July, and riders who can last 10 seconds or more will have a chance to win prizes from Tito's Vodka.
The MSG Sphere in Las Vegas is a futuristic entertainment venue that is set to open later this year. Owned by Sphere Entertainment Co., the $2.3 billion structure stands at 366 feet tall and 516 feet wide, making it the world's largest spherical structure. It features 1.2 million LED lights on the outside, the world's largest video screen, and 160,000 speakers for high-quality sound. The venue can accommodate nearly 18,000 people and will host a variety of events, including live music, sports, and film screenings. The MSG Sphere will officially open on September 29 with a series of U2 concerts.
BetMGM is partnering with the Cincinnati Reds to open a new sportsbook and Nation Kitchen & Bar restaurant at The Banks in Cincinnati. The sportsbook will be located in the former Galla Park space and will feature several betting windows and self-service kiosks surrounded by televisions playing live sports action. The restaurant will be open to all ages, while the sportsbook will be restricted to those 21 and older. The new venue is set to open this fall and will be a premier entertainment venue for sports and food lovers alike.
Colin Jost and Pete Davidson purchased a decommissioned Staten Island ferry during an auction last year for $280,100 with plans to turn it into an entertainment venue. Although there have been no updates on the project, Colin clarified that he was sober when they bought the ferry and joked that his upcoming standup tour would help finance it. Meanwhile, Pete admitted he had no idea what was happening with the vessel.
Colin Jost has denied reports that he was stoned when he and Pete Davidson bought a 277-foot boat, the decommissioned Staten Island Ferry, for $280,100. The pair plan to turn it into an entertainment venue. Jost joked on Instagram that he was "stone-cold sober" when they made the purchase. The comedian also revealed that he will be going on a stand-up tour to help pay for the boat. The transformation of the ferry into an entertainment venue will cost millions of dollars and won't happen anytime soon.
Pete Davidson and Colin Jost bought a decommissioned Staten Island ferry for over $280,000 while stoned and now have "no idea what's going on with that thing." They originally intended to transform it into an entertainment venue, but are now brainstorming ways to get rid of it completely. Davidson joked that he hopes it turns into a Transformer and gets the "f*ck out of there" so he can stop paying for it.
The Arizona Coyotes are considering the former site of Fiesta Mall in Mesa for a new sports arena after losing a public referendum in Tempe for a proposed $2.1 billion entertainment district and arena. The team has a contract to play at Mullett Arena in Tempe through the 2024-2025 season but is exploring other options. Any potential arena deal in Mesa is likely to require a public vote and put forth another referendum and a potential special election.
