Best Laser Tag In Minnesota
As an exhilarating fantasy sci-fi experience, laser tag is beyond compare. What began as a Star Trek toy in 1979, and was depicted in the "Star Trek" movie, then evolved in 1984 as the first laser tag site built in Dallas, Texas by George Carter. Now, entertainment centers all over the US simulate close combat situations with multiple levels, structures, columns, mazes and jungles. The indoor version of this sport is gaining popularity for several good reasons. Tightly integrated equipment and computer control systems facilitate complex scoring and gaming special effects. While paintball involves potentially painful physical projectiles, lasers are preferable when children are involved. Furthermore, kids of most ages can play competitively, even with adults. Finally, most indoor arenas monitor play and do not allow running or roughhousing. Take a look at these good Minnesota laser tag sites.
AirMaxx Trampoline Park
7000 Washington Ave. S.
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
(952) 232-0096
www.airmaxxtrampolinepark.com
Battle to booming techno music and billowing fog in a maze filled with barriers and props. Compete in a maze filled with a light show. Up to 21 people play in the 2,400-square-foot facility. Play a new game every 15 minutes on the hour. Manager Ryan McQuillen is a pro in the laser tag business and knows the Texan who built the first laser tag site.
Brunswick Zone XL
11129 162nd St. W.
Lakeville, MN 55044
(952) 435-2695
www.bowlbrunswick.com
Most Brunswick Zone XLs feature a full-sized Laser Zone arena. This location boosts an arena as well as 38 bowling lanes, billiard tables, event rooms, the Game Zone Arcade and a bar and grill. Other Brunswick Zone XL facilities are located in Blaine, Brooklyn Park and Eden Prairie.
Grand Slam in Coon Rapids
2941 Coon Rapids Blvd. N.W.
Coon Rapids, MN 55433
(763) 427-1959
www.grandslamcoonrapids.com
Up to 20 players compete, green vs. red, in Grand Slam's two-level laser tag arena filled with green and red pillars and a green and red home base. Score points by tagging players on the other team. Make the first move with synchronized assaults on the opponent's base. Score additional points by tagging boxes in the other team's base.
Grand Slam in Burnsville
12425 River Ridge Blvd.
Burnsville, MN 55337
(952) 224-0413
www.grandslammn.com
Up to 40 players compete in a two-level laser tag arena filled with neon pillars. Players divide up into two teams and battle for the highest score. Tag a player or tag the other teams box hidden in their home base for more points. Team play is essential for a synchronized two-level attack on the opposing team's base. The Burnsville Grand Slam is under different ownership than Coon Rapids.
Triple Play Sports
5832 Industrial Lane S.E.
Prior Lake, MN 55372
(952) 440-3330
www.tripleplaysports.biz
Up to 20 people compete in dense fog, with intense music, in luminescent light, glowing scenery and laser effects. The jungle-themed arena of 3,200 square feet has elevated platforms and computer scoring.
Whirly-Ball Twin Cities
13644 80th Circle N.
Maple Grove, MN 55369
(763) 657-1555
www.whirlyballtwincities.com
Up to 20 players at a time can play the game of their choice such as playing solo, as a team, with multiple teams or with bases. The large 4,000-square-foot facility was originally a movie house with three theaters. WBTC's urban adventure theme features two levels, fort-like higher levels in ruined buildings, corners and back alleys in fog, lasers and lighting effects. A live screen shows team and individual scores as well as individual accuracy. Manager Ashley says corporations find Whirly-Ball laser tag great for team building.
Robin Johnson was born in Annandale, Minn. and graduated from Richfield High School and then the University of Minnesota where he studied Political Science, Business and Industrial Relations. A writer for Examiner.com, he also consults with a variety of organizations and individuals helping them develop and grow. His work can be found at Examiner.com.
