13 "Must-Play" Laser Tag Arenas to check out in '16!
If you've ever watched an episode of "Star Trek" or Star Wars and thought it would be cool to use a phaser to zap an enemy into oblivion, laser tag will be your thing.
It's basically a game of "tag" amped up by a gun that emits infrared rays. When those rays hit special sensitive targets (usually embedded in a vest worn by each player), the target is then "tagged." Some indoor facilities also place targets in the walls or other structures, so you can blast away at imagined enemy fortifications. It can get seriously complex - but in a good way.
Laser tag was invented in the 1980s in Texas. There's some dispute over who can actually claim the title of the "first" inventor: Lee Weinstein claims he built his "Star Laser Force" game in 1984, and opened a game center near Houston. That same year in Dallas inventor George Carter opened the first "Photon Game Center," which would eventually branch out to 70 franchises nationwide. As with most things in the Lonestar State, even the arguments are big - but what's not in question is how insanely popular laser tag has become.
Laser tag can be enjoyed by pretty much anyone. For families, kids generally have to be over 6 - and be aware that it IS played in the dark for any child who might not appreciate that. Teenagers love the game, and it's a huge "team building" activity among corporate types. Some locations have you play as part of a team, but others allow you to operate a solo game.
So suit up and fire when ready. Here are some of the coolest places to play.
1. Bowlmor Chelsea Piers, Pier 60, New York City
Yes, it has bowling lanes, but it recently added a 3,000 sq. foot laser tag arena. You'll get the "how to's" of the game in a briefing room that channels Central Park. Then, enter a darkened labyrinth that features iconic Manhattan landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Washington Square Park and the glorious New York City skyline.
2. Ultrazone, Bensalem, PA
After you've wolfed down the cheesesteak and seen the Liberty Bell, head to Philly's favorite place for laser tag. It features multiple levels to play on, and can accommodate large groups. Score sheets provided at the end of the game will let you know if you rule - or if you need to put in some practice time!
3. Laserland & Adventure, Miami, FL
South Floridians love this place for its precise "tagging" technology, the lightweight gear and the satisfying length of each game (20-25 minutes). Plus, a DJ provides some cool mixes to amp things up during the game. The owners are big on making this a family-friendly place to play, too.
4. The WEB Extreme Entertainment , West Chester, OH
The longest-running laser tag facility in the Cincinnati area is also the largest. It boasts eight upper-level platforms with open floor grids to give you a 3-D experience during the game. Arena lights show which player is in the lead, while individual power packs give you real-time information on how you're doing.
5. Laser Quest, Norridge, IL
In the Chicago area, players flock to this facility to get their game on. Over 90 million games have been played there since they first opened! Not only does Laser Quest enhance the experience with music, lighting and multiple levels of play, a fog machine provides a cool Great Lakes vibe.
6. Whirlyball Twin Cities, Maple Grove, MN
Duck out of a cold Minneapolis winter and into this facility's 4,000 square foot laser tag arena. They've created what they call an "urban adventure," with plenty of forts, back alleys and other structures to weave through. They also boast state-of-the-art equipment for super-realistic play.
7. Battlefield Houston, Houston, TX
This is laser tag on steroids, designed to provide ultra-real "urban combat simulations." You can choose from a variety of tactical scenarios with names like "Search and Destroy" or "Sniper." Their motto is "live the game," so here's your chance to embrace your inner Rambo.
8. Blazer Tag, Austin, TX
Three stories, ramps, bridges, towers --you name it, this place has got it. The largest indoor laser tag arena in Texas fills every inch with fun, challenging structures. Fans also love the creative scenarios, helpful staff and reasonable prices.
9. Shenaniganz, Rockwall, TX
The very first major laser tag arena was created in Dallas, and this DFW area facility keeps the tradition as "big as Texas." Besides playing regular opponents, kick it up a notch by playing amongst the ruins of an ancient Cambodian temple. In that game, you'll face off against aggressive monkeys - even a vicious puma!
10. Laser Quest, Denver, CO
In the Mile-High City, this is the place to go for an awesome laser tag experience. They specialize in making the game fun for everyone, whether it's little kids at a birthday party or more aggressive corporate types getting together for some team building. Features a multi-level maze and tons of special effects that take the game to another level.
11. Stratum Lasertag, Mesa, AZ
At 13,000 square feet, it's billed as the World's Largest Laser Tag Arena. It also features design work by folks who put together some of Las Vegas' and Universal's biggest attractions. There are 15 different levels, a theatrical light show and state-of-the-art music. If that's not enough, step into their "Black Hole Time Travel Simulator" and see how you fare.
12. Virtual Sports, Tukwila, WA
The streets of Seattle will never look the same once you've "played" them. The VS experts have included familiar landmarks to work around, and their realistic equipment is the actual weight of military-grade guns. You'll be immersed in battlefield lights and sounds, and your stats are kept online. Which - depending on how you do- may not be a good thing!
13. Ultrazone, Sherman Oaks, CA
In the L.A. area, Ultrazone is considered the go-to place for laser tag; celebrities like Ashton Kutcher have been spotted there. The facility features state-of-the-art lights and music, and is a popular place for parties. They also regularly donate proceeds from thousands of those parties to local community efforts. So you can do some good while wiping an opponent off the map.