Working in close contact with owner, CSSI’s Director of Creative Development Jeff Bartle redesigned several areas based on the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. The goal of the new areas was to create a challenging and changeable experience that will keep visitors coming back for more.

The first redesigned area is the “Blaze Maze,” a completely interactive and alterable area that pits visitors against the onset of Chicago’s infamous 1871 event. Fifty punching bags hung from charred wooden beams and wrapped in fiery graphics represent the fire. Visitors must smash through to find the bag with the alarm bell attached to it. Once the bell is rung, visitors move to area two, “Stomp It Out.”

“Stomp It Out” features the projected image of the Chicago fire on the room’s floor. Visitors can stomp out the spreading flames that are created by high-tech computer software. Visitors know if they’re successful or not when they see smoldering embers slowly replace the flames. Chicago Scenic’s design plan allows for future elements to be added as Premier Yachts continues to alter the attraction.

When Amazing Chicago was first conceived, Chicago Scenic worked with Amazing Chicago’s owner, Premier Yachts, and design firm Jack Rouse Associates for over a year to complete the family entertainment center. Chicago Scenic served not only as the construction manager, coordinating the designers, architects, and contractors from permitting through the project’s completion, but also as the show set fabricator, providing all detailing, graphics, construction, automation, and installation of the project’s elements.