Meow Wolf Grapevine has officially gone global. The North Texas art exhibition was named the 2025 Top Location-Based Experience in the world at IAAPA Honors, one of the most prestigious awards in the attractions industry.
The announcement, made this month at Europa-Park in Germany, cements Meow Wolf Grapevine’s place as a leader in immersive art — and a cultural heavyweight in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
What Are The IAAPA Honors?
Presented by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, one of the most respected international trade associations for permanently located attractions, the IAAPA Honors recognize creativity, excellence and impact across the global attractions industry — from theme parks and museums to immersive art spaces.
Timed with Europa-Park’s 50th anniversary, this year’s event brought together industry leaders from more than 100 countries to spotlight the best in the business. Meow Wolf’s dual wins marked a major moment for Texas on the international stage.
Grapevine Takes The Gold
Meow Wolf Grapevine’s The Real Unreal was named Top Location-Based Experience of the Year — a fancy way of saying it’s one of the coolest places to step inside and explore. Blending interactive art, storytelling and a little hometown flair, the exhibit has become a North Texas must-see since opening in 2023.
“To see a Texas experience like Meow Wolf Grapevine receive global recognition is incredibly meaningful,” said Jamie Weaver-Garia, the location’s general manager, in an official statement. “This award is a tribute to the artists, staff and guests who’ve made it what it is.”
Houston’s Out-Of-This-World Barbecue
Not to be outdone, Meow Wolf Houston, which opened its doors in October 2024, earned global props for Cowboix Hevvven — a psychedelic-meets-saloon bar and grill that feels like stepping into a neon Wild West fever dream. Designed by Texan artists and backed by a Houston-inspired menu, Cowboix Hevvven won Best Food & Beverage Building Renovation or New Build.
“Cowboix Hevvven pushes the boundaries of what food and beverage can be in an immersive space,” said Aaron Johnson, general manager of Meow Wolf Houston, in an official statement.
Oh, And They Also Won A Webby (Or Two)
Just days before IAAPA Honors, Meow Wolf Houston took home two Webby Awards — often called the Oscars of the internet — for its surreal Radio Tave experience. The Fifth Ward installation, designed by more than 50 Texas artists, complete with creepy-cute animatronics, alien frequencies and music by Houston rapper Fat Tony, won both the juried Webby and the People’s Voice Award for Best Installation in AI, Immersive & Games.
Bigger Than Texas?
With new locations set to open in New York City and Los Angeles in 2026, Meow Wolf shows no signs of slowing down. But for now, all eyes are on Texas, where giant installations, haunted honky-tonks and alien radio stations are taking the art world by storm.
If you haven’t visited yet, consider this your cosmic invitation.
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