When we think of activities such as laser tag, arcade games or miniature golf, oftentimes nostalgia hits us like a ton of bricks and childhood memories surface. With that in mind, any of the aforementioned activities are great to do with family, friends or even on a date. Take the kids for some fun with the family! Or, if you model yourself after the character of Barney Stinson from “How I Met Your Mother,” and fancy yourself an adult laser tag champion, there is absolutely zero shame in that.
There are plenty of local establishments that offer at least one of those nostalgic activities, but for our convenience, a good number of them offer multiple options in one place! If you are so inclined, allow me to digitally take you on a tour by way of words.
CJ Barrymore’s, 21750 Hall Rd., Clinton Twp., is probably the most obvious and most well-known choice on the list. Laser tag at CJ Barrymore’s is an adventure in and of itself. With obstacles and distractions such as pylons, fog, black lights and more, the atmosphere is right for some quality laser tag action. The arcade features 150 games, and its redemption store offers more than 100 prizes. This establishment can please just about anybody, though. Other fun things include batting cages, bowling (as well as mini bowling), bumper cars and a golf dome.
Paradise Park, 45799 Grand River Ave., Novi, has it all. An outdoor mini golf course resides at the front entrance, and features scenic waterfalls, streams and landscaping. If you’re still only interested in laser tag and arcades, not to worry, Paradise Park has both. Saturday is laser tag night for ages 13 and older, which for $15 includes two hours of laser tag games (with a variation of styles), beverages, table snacks and more. The arcade features interactive sports games, dancing games, hands on games and more. Wall climbing, go-karts and soccer cages are also available.
Play Atlantis, 19400 Allen Rd., Melvindale, is open seven days a week and is another major player in the fun department. Laser tag, an extensive arcade (complete with pool tables), mini golf, go-karts and bouncers for the little ones round out the activities at Play Atlantis. Perhaps the best part for those of us 21 and older is Bar Atlantis. The full-service bar offers liquor, specialty drinks, bottled and draft beer and more. There are always great deals and specials being offered. Keep up by visiting the Facebook page.
Galaxy Zone, 12841 Ford Rd., Dearborn, is another fine option to consider. Laser tag is the specialty here, and the arena is quite extensive. It boasts multiple levels, and features ramps, bridges, glowing pillars, arches and passageways. Galaxy Zone also has well-known games in its arcade arsenal, such as “Guitar Hero,” “Fruit Ninja” and more. If you work up an appetite during all of that running around in the arena, don’t fret. There is a food available! The menu includes appetizers, subs, burgers, pizza and more. Check out the current packages and specials.
Laser Edge, 35335 Gratiot Ave., Clinton Twp., focuses mainly on laser tag. Game types include Capture the Flag, Dead Aim, Time Warp and a plethora of others. Laser Edge also offers arcade games and has three party rooms for its “Explosive Parties.” Fun events often take place as well, including “Tag Til’ You Drag,” where you get unlimited games of laser tag on Wednesdays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. There is also overnight laser tag offered from time to time. The next overnight takes place this Saturday from midnight to 6 a.m. ($35 per person, $30 per member).
With knowledge of options like these, you now have limited excuses to not go out and have fun this weekend. You’re never too old for laser tag or arcade games.