Forget ghost towns, the real estate struggle plaguing America lies within its once-thriving shopping malls. Anchored by now-defunct department stores, these sprawling complexes stand as hollow testaments to a bygone era of retail. But recently, streaming giant Netflix offered a glimmer of hope, unveiling plans to transform these retail relics into something entirely new: Netflix House.

First announced eight months ago, Netflix House is more than just a store. It’s an “experiential entertainment venue,” a permanent destination designed to bring your favorite Netflix shows to life. The initial locations, slated to open in 2025, will occupy prime real estate – the vacant department stores within two of America’s most popular shopping centers – the Galleria Dallas and the King of Prussia Mall, Pennsylvania — located just outside Philadelphia.

These aren’t pop-up experiences; Netflix is diving headfirst into the brick-and-mortar world, dedicating over 100,000 square feet in each location. Imagine stepping out of the hustle and bustle of the mall and into the world of Stranger Things, the series that prominently featured a fictional Starcourt Mall in its third season. While the Starcourt Mall wasn’t accessible to the public during filming, it serves as a fitting metaphor for Netflix’s ambitions. Their past success with themed pop-up experiences seems to have convinced them that a permanent Netflix wonderland is the next logical step.

What exactly will fill these vast spaces? While details are still under wraps, Netflix’s Chief Marketing Officer, Marian Lee, promises “regularly updated immersive experiences” alongside “unique food and drink offerings.” While Netflix hasn’t revealed the interior design, they did provide a glimpse of the exterior – a vibrant spectacle featuring “eye-popping sculptures and a mural mash-up of characters from your favorite Netflix titles.” Perhaps a towering Demogorgon statue will indeed become the beacon that lures fans in and breathes new life into these ailing malls.

The concept is undeniably intriguing. Imagine stepping into the Upside Down from Stranger Things, sipping on themed cocktails while navigating the Hawkins National Laboratory. Or maybe you crave a Regency-era afternoon tea at a Bridgerton-inspired cafe. The possibilities seem endless, and for Netflix, this venture represents a fascinating experiment – a chance to not only sell merchandise but truly forge a deeper connection with their audience, allowing fans to step into the worlds they love.