Meow Wolf’s Texas-based exhibitions have earned major international recognition at IAAPA Honors 2025, one of the global attractions industry’s most prestigious awards programs. Announced this week at Europa-Park in Rust, Germany, Meow Wolf Grapevine was named the Top Location-Based Experience (LBE) in the world for 2025, while Meow Wolf Houston received the award for Best Food & Beverage Building Renovation or New Build for its immersive dining concept, Cowboix Hevvven.
This year marked the first time IAAPA Honors was held in Europe, coinciding with Europa-Park’s 50th anniversary. The event brought together industry leaders from over 100 countries to celebrate creativity, innovation, and excellence in theme parks, museums, and immersive experiences. Meow Wolf was among a select few U.S.-based companies to be honored.
The Top LBE of the Year award—one of the evening’s highest honors—highlights Meow Wolf Grapevine’s success in redefining immersive art. Located in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, The Real Unreal exhibit combines interactive storytelling, vibrant visual art, and strong community engagement. Since opening, it has become a cultural landmark in North Texas.
“To see a Texas experience like Meow Wolf Grapevine receive global recognition is incredibly meaningful,” said Jamie Weaver-Garia, General Manager of Meow Wolf Grapevine. “This award is a tribute to our artists, team, and guests who’ve helped create something truly extraordinary. We’re proud to represent North Texas innovation.”
Meow Wolf Houston, which opened in October 2024, was recognized for Cowboix Hevvven, a psychedelic western-inspired bar and grill designed by local Texas artists. Featuring a creative menu that reflects Houston’s diverse food culture, the venue has quickly become a standout in the city’s culinary and artistic scenes.
“Cowboix Hevvven reimagines what food and drink can look like in an immersive environment,” said Aaron Johnson, General Manager of Meow Wolf Houston. “This award honors the incredible imagination and talent of Houston’s artists and chefs who brought this vision to life.”
These dual honors reinforce Meow Wolf’s status as a global leader in immersive art and entertainment. With both Texas locations open for less than two years, the awards mark a significant moment for the state’s creative community. The accolades follow recent Webby Award wins, further highlighting Meow Wolf’s rising influence worldwide and online.
For the complete list of IAAPA Honors 2025 winners, visit IAAPA.org. Tickets to Meow Wolf Grapevine’s The Real Unreal and Meow Wolf Houston’s The Real Unreal: Radio Tave are available now at the website. Stay connected through Meow Wolf’s social media channels for event updates, artist spotlights, and behind-the-scenes content.
