Stranger Things Experience, Yas Island: I Stepped Into the Upside Down (And It Was Everything)

If you had told me a year ago that I'd be standing inside Hawkins Lab, helping Eleven fight the Mind Flayer, and literally stepping into the Upside Down, I would've thought you were crazy. But on January 11, 2026, that's exactly what happened at the Stranger Things: The Experience on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

And honestly? It was one of the most nostalgic, thrilling, and beautifully executed immersive experiences I've ever had the privilege to be part of.

Why This Experience Meant Everything to Us

Let me set the scene: Just 10 days before visiting this experience, on January 1st, 2026, we watched the Stranger Things series finale. After years of following the adventures of Eleven, Mike, Dustin, Lucas, Max, and Will through four incredible seasons, the show that defined a generation had come to an end.

The emotions were still raw. The nostalgia was overwhelming. And then we discovered that the Stranger Things: The Experience—a limited-time immersive popup—had opened at Yas Island in November 2025 and would only run until February 2026.

Talk about being at the right place at the right time! This experience is only available in a handful of cities worldwide (Sydney, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, London, Atlanta, Paris, Toronto, Seattle, and now Abu Dhabi), and we were lucky enough to catch it during its short run in the UAE.

As massive Stranger Things buffs, this was our chance to say goodbye to the series in the most epic way possible—by literally stepping inside it.

What Is Stranger Things: The Experience?

This isn't just a photo opportunity or a themed exhibit. The Stranger Things Experience is a fully immersive, story-driven adventure that places you directly inside the world of Hawkins, Indiana.

The experience is divided into two distinct parts: the immersive Hawkins Lab adventure and the Mix-Tape social area. Both are incredible in completely different ways.

Part 1: Inside Hawkins Lab - The Immersive Journey

The moment you step through those doors, you're no longer in Abu Dhabi. You're in Hawkins Lab, and something has gone terribly wrong.

What follows is a 40-minute guided narrative experience where you become part of the story. Live actors play characters from the show, stunning practical effects bring the world to life, and you're given an active role in helping save Hawkins from the supernatural forces threatening it.

Without spoiling too much (because discovering it yourself is half the magic), here's what you can expect:

• Interactive Storytelling: You're not just watching—you're participating. The actors engage directly with you, and your actions matter to the story's progression.
• Iconic Sets: The attention to detail is insane. Every room, every prop, every sound effect feels authentic to the show.
• The Upside Down: Yes, you actually step into the Upside Down. The atmospheric effects, the creeping vines, the eerie soundscape—it's genuinely unsettling and absolutely thrilling.
• Live Actors: The performers are phenomenal. They stay in character completely and make you feel like you're genuinely part of the Stranger Things universe.
• Practical Effects: From flickering lights to unexpected scares, the production quality rivals theme park attractions from major studios.

There's a moment when you're standing in a dimly lit corridor, the lights flicker, and you hear that familiar, spine-chilling sound from the show. Your heart races. You know something's coming. And when it does, the rush of adrenaline mixed with pure nostalgia is indescribable.

This is what separates a great immersive experience from a good one—it doesn't just recreate the show visually; it makes you feel the same stress, anxiety, and excitement that our favorite characters experience episode after episode.

Part 2: The Mix-Tape - Your 80s Playground

After the intensity of the Hawkins Lab adventure, you emerge into the Mix-Tape—an open-concept area that's pure 80s nostalgia heaven.

This is where you can:

• Explore Iconic Locations: Visit Will's house (complete with the famous Christmas lights alphabet!), Joyce's living room, and other beloved settings from the show
• Photo Opportunities: Every corner is Instagram gold. From retro arcade games to period-accurate props, you'll want to capture everything
• Scoops Ahoy Ice Cream: Yes, you can actually get ice cream from the Starcourt Mall's famous parlor
• Palace Arcade: Play classic 80s arcade games like Joust and Pac-Man
• Merchandise Shop: Exclusive Stranger Things collectibles, apparel, and memorabilia
• Food & Drinks: 80s-themed treats and beverages

The best part? There's no time limit in the Mix-Tape area. You can stay as long as you want, soaking in the atmosphere, taking photos, and reliving your favorite moments from the show.

We spent nearly an extra hour just exploring every detail, from the vintage posters on the walls to the perfectly curated 80s soundtrack playing throughout the space.

The Emotional Impact: One Last Adventure

What struck me most was how much care went into every aspect of the experience. The creators didn't take shortcuts. They could have easily made this a simple photo-op attraction with some themed backgrounds, but instead, they built something that genuinely transports you into the world of Hawkins.

The live actors deserve special praise. They weren't just reciting lines—they were embodying these characters with genuine emotion and energy. When they looked at you with fear in their eyes and asked for your help, you believed them. You wanted to help save Hawkins.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Best times to visit: Weekday evenings (Thursday) tend to be less crowded than weekend afternoons. If you prefer a more intimate experience with smaller groups, aim for the earliest time slots.

Getting there: Yas Island is about 20 minutes from Abu Dhabi city center and 10 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport. The experience is located near Etihad Arena Parking. If you're combining it with other Yas Island attractions (like Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, or Yas Marina Circuit), plan for a full day on the island.

Is It Worth It?

Absolutely, yes—especially if you're a Stranger Things fan.

At 75 AED (~$20 USD), this is one of the best-value entertainment experiences in Abu Dhabi. For the price of a movie ticket, you get:

• A 40-minute immersive theatrical experience with live actors
• Unlimited time in the Mix-Tape area with photo opportunities
• Access to exclusive merchandise
• An unforgettable memory celebrating one of the greatest shows of our generation

But more than the monetary value, it's the emotional value that makes this special. In a world where so much content is consumed digitally, having the chance to physically step into a story you love, to touch the sets, to interact with the characters, to feel the fear and excitement—that's priceless.

The Bittersweet Goodbye

As we left the experience and stepped back into the bright Abu Dhabi sunshine, there was a mix of exhilaration and melancholy. We had just said goodbye to Stranger Things in the most immersive, memorable way possible.

The show that gave us unforgettable characters, spine-tingling scares, heartwarming friendships, and a perfect nostalgia-infused blend of horror, sci-fi, and coming-of-age storytelling had finally concluded its journey. But through this experience, we got to be part of that world one last time—not as passive viewers, but as active participants in the story.

If you're in Abu Dhabi (or planning a visit) before February 15, 2026, do not miss this. Whether you're a die-hard fan who can quote every line or a casual viewer who just enjoys the show, the Stranger Things Experience delivers something truly special.

It's not just an attraction. It's a celebration. A love letter. A thank you to the fans who made this show what it is.

And most importantly, it's one hell of a final adventure.

Thank you, Stranger Things. For the memories, the scares, the laughs, and the reminder that even in the darkest times, friendship and courage can light the way.

Have you experienced the Stranger Things popup in your city? Or are you planning to visit the Abu Dhabi edition? Share your thoughts with me on Instagram @one_punjabi_binger!