A Kansas City Gem Shines Nationally: Atlas9 Named a Top U.S. Attraction
![]() |
| Kansas City's Atlas9 Named a Top US Attraction: Inside the Immersive Experience |
A standout experience in the Kansas City area has captured national attention. Atlas9, an immersive, movie-themed attraction, has been ranked the No. 2 Best New Attraction in the United States in the prestigious USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards.
This distinguished spot was selected from a nationwide search by travel experts, with the final ranking determined by votes from the traveling public. The recognition places a Kansas City creation among the country's most exciting new destinations.
Step Into The Story
Located at 1100 N. 98th St. in Kansas City, Kansas, Atlas9 opened its doors in September 2025. It transports visitors into a unique narrative: a struggling 1990s movie theatre that attempts to save itself with experimental holographic technology. When the technology malfunctions, it explosively brings the movies to life, blurring the line between screen and reality.
Spanning an impressive 46,000 square feet near the Legends outlet mall, the attraction features approximately 30 intricately themed rooms. Visitors can choose their own adventure:
A casual stroll to admire the artistic environments, like a meticulously crafted 1930s jazz club.
An engaged deep-dive to unravel layered narratives, complete missions, and unlock hidden experiences scattered throughout the space.
Homegrown Creative Innovation
Atlas9 is a product of local talent, conceived and built by Dimensional Innovations, a pioneering immersive design firm based in the Kansas City area. The company, known for projects like the innovative AMC theatre in Leawood, has poured its expertise into this massive undertaking.
"We are incredibly honored that visitors and USA TODAY readers nationwide have embraced this amazing place we’ve built," said Randall Statler, Executive Creative Director for Dimensional Innovations. "This recognition reflects the creativity, passion, and collaborative innovation that our team poured into every detail of the Experience."
Plan Your Visit
Tickets for this award-winning experience are available for purchase at tickets.atlas9.com. Pricing is structured as follows:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Wyandotte County Child (Ages 3-12) | $25 |
| Wyandotte County Resident | $35 |
| General Admission (Outside County) | $40 |
| Heroes (Teachers, Nurses, First Responders, Military) | $35 |
Atlas9 was edged out for the top spot by the Octagon Earthworks at Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks in Newark, Ohio—a newly designated UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient, geometric earthworks built 2,000 years ago.
This national accolade is a testament to Kansas City's growing reputation as a hub for creative and experiential entertainment, offering locals and visitors a one-of-a-kind adventure that is now officially ranked among the nation's best.
Atlas9, Kansas City attractions, USA Today 10Best, Best new attractions, immersive experience, Dimensional Innovations, things to do in Kansas City, family entertainment, travel, Midwest travel,
