Meow Wolf and Niantic Spatial Announce Plans to Explore an Expansion of the Meow Wolf Universe

Meow Wolf, known for their monumental story worlds and immersive multimedia art, has partnered with Niantic Spatial on a proof of concept to bring those worlds beyond the walls of physical exhibitions and into the world of augmented reality. Niantic Spatial is a geospatial AI company transforming how people and machines understand and interact with the physical world. Together, the two companies are exploring how location-based AR—powered by Niantic’s Visual Positioning System (VPS)—could unlock new ways for audiences to engage with Meow Wolf’s Universe in everyday environments.

The partnership launches with a closed beta activation later this year at Meow Wolf’s Convergence Station in Denver. This initial phase will test ways to connect real-world discovery with in-exhibition storytelling. If successful, the collaboration could evolve into a broader multiplayer platform that invites users to explore art, uncover storylines, solve spatial challenges, and contribute to a shared universe beyond traditional exhibition walls.

“This partnership with Niantic Spatial can open portals to an entirely new layer of imagination,” said Vince Kadlubek, Meow Wolf Co-Founder and Chief Vision Officer. “The world becomes a canvas for creative expression—a scavenger hunt for physical and digital art.”

“Meow Wolf’s narrative universe is unlike anything else—layered, nonlinear, and emotionally resonant,” said Thomas Gewecke, President & Chief Operating Officer at Niantic Spatial. “It’s a perfect match for geospatial AR, where your surroundings become part of the story.”

While still in development, the goal is to prototype an experience where participants can engage with Meow Wolf content across city streets, parks, and public spaces—unlocking portals, discovering monumental art, and diving into layers of hidden lore. Inside Meow Wolf exhibitions, those same interactions could carry over, offering deeper story progression and access to exclusive content.

Possible features under exploration include:

• AR Portals Anywhere – Enter the Meow Wolf Universe from sidewalks, parks, or neighborhoods and reveal a layer of digital art experiences around every corner
• Quests & Show Moments – Complete scavenger hunts, solve puzzles, and build status to unlock exclusive in-exhibition content and experiences
• Community Worldbuilding – Co-create the Meow Wolf Universe by contributing art, characters, storylines, and quests for others to discover

The collaboration will be officially unveiled during Niantic Spatial Chief Technology Officer Brian McClendon’s keynote at AWE on June 11. Following the keynote, attendees can stop by the Niantic Spatial lounge for an early look at what’s in development. McClendon, Kadlubek, and Hugh Hayden, Head of Go to Market at Niantic Spatial, will be available for informal conversations with attending press.