You’re trapped in a room with nine other people and have one hour to get out. Can you put your heads together and strategize a plan?
The Great Escape Room in Royal Oak gives kids and families the chance to find out. It’s a real-life spin on popular escape-room online games. You’re locked in an ordinary room called “The Library” that’s filled with items from a bookcase to a grandfather clock. It’s up to your crew to find the color-coded clues, unlock the hidden mysteries and solve the puzzles to break free.
Talk about teamwork!
“Parents could take their kids to go see a movie, but why not try a new activity that is going to have your whole family working together for a common goal?” says TGER rep Casey Wynn. “It’s a great bonding experience – even with the strangers that book together. It’s challenging, intriguing and, most importantly, fun.”
Starting out in Florida, TGER counts southeast Michigan as its third locale. Since opening in late December, it’s already hosted tween/teen parties.
“They had a ton of fun,” Wynn says of a recent 13-year-old birthday group. “We have had a few 9-year-olds go through with their parents and siblings and really enjoy themselves. I have to mention, they tend to be great clue finders.”
Best for ages 12-plus, the game stimulates kids’ brains and taps into skills like critical thinking, math, geography, scientific logic, reasoning and problem solving.
And with a 23-percent escape success rate, it offers serious bragging rights.
Still, “I have yet to see a group walk out with any kind of disappointment,” Wynn says. “It’s always smiles and laughter coming out of the room.”
Private events allow 14 people max (there’s also a party room). Smaller groups are cool too; you’re just paired up with other participants.
“After they attempt to escape, we give them a rundown on the puzzles and take their group photo,” says Wynn, noting the process is about an hour and a half.
While there’s a one-time cap on experiencing a room, don’t fret. A second challenge, “The Game Room” is due to open in March. Check ahead for the latest!
The Great Escape Room
Address: 301 W. Fourth St., Suite LL110, Royal Oak
Phone: 248-291-7599
Cost: $23-$28/person
Hours: Various time slots available (book online)
