In recent years, escape rooms have skyrocketed in popularity, offering an exhilarating and distinctive experience. These immersive attractions challenge players to tap into their intelligence and problem-solving abilities, as they race against the clock to decipher puzzles and break free from locked rooms.
With numerous captivating escape rooms scattered across the United States, we’ve compiled a list of the absolute must-try destinations for avid fan of this thrill-seeking pastime.
1. THE BASEMENT – Los Angeles, California
THE BASEMENT in Los Angeles is not your average escape room.
It is a highly immersive experience that takes place in a dimly lit basement, where players must solve puzzles and unravel the secrets of a deranged serial killer that lurks within. The attention to detail in this escape room is unparalleled, and the clues are cleverly hidden throughout the room. You’ll need to work together with your teammates to escape before time is up.
2. Komnata Quest – New York, New York
Komnata Quest in New York City is not for the faint of heart. Their escape rooms are some of the most difficult around, with puzzles that require a lot of brainpower and attention to detail.
The themes vary, but some of the most popular include a film noir story, kidnapping by the Joker, and a post-apocalyptic bunker. The sets are incredibly immersive, and you’ll feel like you’re really in the world being portrayed. This is one of the most memorable offbeat activities you can choose in NYC.
3. Escapology – Orlando, Florida
Escapology has several locations in Orlando, and it takes escape rooms to a whole new level. Their rooms are technologically advanced, with sensors and gadgets that make the puzzles feel more immersive.
The themes range from a Sherlock Holmes mystery to a Western-themed bank robbery. There is a Scooby Doo room for younger players! The attention to detail is impressive, and you might find yourself visiting Escapology more than once.
4. MindEscape – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
MindEscape in Philadelphia is one of the most challenging escape rooms on this list. The themes are varied, ranging Jack the Ripper to a haunted house.
Read more: Spooky experiences in the US
The rooms are incredibly well-designed, and the puzzles are some of the most difficult around. This is not a room for beginners, but seasoned escape room enthusiasts will love the challenge.
5. 60out Escape Rooms – Los Angeles, California
Voted TripAdvisor’s #1 escape room in LA, 60out Escape Rooms in Los Angeles offers some of the most technologically advanced rooms around. The themes range from a time-travel adventure to a carnival-themed room.
What sets 60out apart is the use of technology in their puzzles – you’ll need to use gadgets like infrared cameras and UV lights to solve the mysteries of the room.
6. The Great Escape Room – Royal Oak, Michigan
The Great Escape Room in Royal Oak is a unique escape room experience, with themes including:
- Moriarty’s Gameroom: The Hunt is Afoot!
- Infirmary: Surgical Crisis
- Poker Night at The President’s Bunker
This escape room is perfect for high-energy groups.
7. Palace Games – San Francisco, California
Palace Games in San Francisco is not your typical escape room. It takes place in a historic building and offers several rooms with different themes, including one that is centered around a real-life puzzle that was found in the Palace of Fine Arts.
Read more: Cool museums to visit in the US
You’ll find games honoring Houdini, Edison and more! The attention to detail and historical accuracy in this escape room is impressive, and the puzzles are challenging and engaging.
8. Red Door Escape Room – Plano, Texas
Red Door Escape Room in Plano offers a variety of rooms with different themes, including a treasure hunter-themed room and a warrior room. They also have virtual reality escape rooms for a unique experience — check out their personality quiz to get started.
9. Fox in a Box – Miami, Florida
Fox in a Box in Miami offers several rooms with creative themes, including a zombie apocalypse and a prison break. The puzzles are challenging and the rooms are designed to fully immerse you in the experience.
An excellent choice for team building and other group excursions, Fox in a Box can host 42 people at once!
11. Mission Escape Games – Anaheim, California
Mission Escape Games in Anaheim is an exciting escape room that takes place in a variety of themed rooms. From a hunting lodge to a bank heist, there’s something for everyone here.
What sets Mission Escape Games apart is the attention to setting detail. Note that some of the escape rooms (e.g. the apocalypse one) feature flashing lights, which could be a health hazard.
12. EscapeHouse – Chicago, Illinois
EscapeHouse Chicago offers an immersive escape room experience where players become part of thrilling narratives. Step into themed rooms, such as “The Hotel Detective” and “The Mob”, and challenge yourself with a series of intellectually stimulating puzzles and logic games.
With detailed sets and props that transport you into a different world, EscapeHouse Chicago provides an engaging and immersive adventure. Whether you’re looking for a fun outing with friends or a team-building activity, this is the perfect destination for an unforgettable escape room experience.
Test Your Problem-Solving Skills 🕵️♀️
After reading about these amazing and creative escape rooms, it’s hard not to be excited about giving them a try! Add an escape room adventure to your bucket list and you might just end up hooked on the experience.
With so many options out there, you’re sure to find one that fits your interests and experience level. Whether you’re a seasoned escape artist or a newbie looking for a fun new experience, there’s an escape room out there for you.
