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Whether you’re a multiverse regular or a Meow Wolf first-timer, here’s what you need to know to have the best experience at The Real Unreal
Photo by Kate Russell
“True” crime. Interdimensional travel. Brain beans. Intrigued yet? Get ready for the trip of a lifetime – and definitely the trippiest experience of interactive art near DFW. As you step into Grapevine Mills Mall, you’ll find a new addition in place of a former department store. From The Real Unreal café with its towering neon ceilings to the Delaney house, a beautiful home base for your experience – Meow Wolf Grapevine offers a chance to get lost in a fresh space. Here’s what to expect at The Real Unreal.
If you know Meow Wolf, you know we’re more than an art exhibit. If you’re a first-timer, welcome to your new favorite place! The Real Unreal is designed to be a fully immersive experience. We don’t want to tell you too much, but you’ll be on the lookout for Jared Fuqua – a 10 year old boy who’s mysteriously disappeared from the Briarcliff Community. And if you want to get him home for Sunday dinner, you’ll need to pay close attention. (You’ll probably want to download the Psychic Sensor app, too).
The biggest difference between Meow Wolf and other art installations? You’re supposed to touch the art here. In fact, you’ll have to get up close and personal during your cosmic walkthrough to discover all 16 Brain Beans. What are those, exactly? Cute ‘lil bean sprouts you’ll find hidden throughout The Real Unreal. Upon finding a bean, you’ll text a secret code to a mysterious number for a surprise when you say “goodbye” for the day.
Meow Wolf locations are no stranger to otherworldly visitors. You’ll find plenty of them around The Real Unreal. Check out The Greeter; don’t let his red eye and wrinkly legs fool you, this furry guy is a friend. And don’t miss Happy Gary (aka Hapulusgarrulus Lapnoaquaflori), a regular throughout all of The Real Unreal. Honorable mentions go to the toilet creature, the residents of the Glowquarium, and um, whatever escaped from that laboratory.
If you’re delving into the mystery of Jared Fuqua’s disappearance (or if you just love drawings of cute sea creatures), you’ll want to find and flip through the kid’s sketchbook. You may find some intriguing clues within its pages, and you’ll be treated to some adorable drawings of Happy Gary.
From laptops to cell phones, check out the Fuqua family’s electronics for clues to solving Jared’s disappearance. Videos, emails, and photos may help guide you through the experience. And as an added bonus, you’ll get to know all the lovable members of Jared’s blended family.
Flashing lights, peculiar clouds, panels constructed from remnants of the Los Alamos National Laboratory. (No, seriously – through some magical and mysterious behind-the-scenes connections, Meow Wolf has acquired the last of the surplus from The Black Hole, the official surplus vendor from the Los Alamos nuclear site. Don’t worry, it’s all been certified safe).
A fan-favorite at Meow Wolf Grapevine, this automatic teller won’t spit out cash. Instead it takes its job quite literally and tells your future. And with the right code, it might even help you activate another secret of The Real Unreal.
How long does it take to go through The Real Unreal?
Time is… bendy when you’re in The Real Unreal. The average visitor spends about 90 minutes exploring the Briarcliff community, but we recommend setting aside at least two hours. Some explorers have reported spending an entire day in the Meow Wolf Grapevine neighborhood.
Is The Real Unreal suitable for children?
Similar to other Meow Wolf locations, The Real Unreal multiverse is a wonder of color and imagination. While it may be a little surreal or spooky for some kids, nothing will jump out at you and the exhibits aren’t intended to be scary. For a curious kid, it’s a great place to explore.
Are there any dining options at Meow Wolf Grapevine?
There sure are. Grab some interdimensional sustenance at The Real Unreal’s Grapevine Café – where you’ll be surrounded by sky-high neon walls. Fuel your adventure with a juicy burger, indulge in a magical milkshake, or get a caffeine buzz before heading into the portal.
What is The Real Unreal story about?
Another Meow Wolf house? Why yes. But this one’s a bit different. A boy named Jared has disappeared from his home through a mysterious portal (with the help of a giant imaginary (or is he?) friend, Happy Gary. Your search for Jared will lead you through the otherworldly ether. From Jared’s own bedroom to the Glowquarium and beyond, The Real Unreal is ready to unfold as soon as you walk through the portal.
How big is The Real Unreal?
The Real Unreal unfolds over 29,000 sq. ft. (Imagine the average American family home x 10.) The space holds more than 30 rooms, with art created by 150 local artists from the Grapevine scene.
