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Must-Visit Interactive Group Games in Chicago

Leaving autumn behind might be a bittersweet experience, but November in Chicago isn’t without its advantages. As Christmas approaches in Chicago, people look for thrills at frightening pop-ups. What better place can be than escape rooms for that?

This winter, take your outings a notch up and make them interactive to increase adrenaline and productivity. With interactive party games like escape rooms, interactive team building games like axe throwing, and interactive horror games like haunted houses, there’s something for everybody in Chicago!

In this article, take a run down at the best interactive group games and make your outings worthwhile!

1. Visit Escape Room

Chicago is home to an exciting new phenomenon: escape rooms. These attractions capture the spirit of interactive group games and immersive entertainment. They’re more than simply games; they’re carefully crafted adventures where groups of friends, family, or even colleagues join a themed, riddle-filled world that calls for productive strategy and a love of discovery.

MindTrap Escape rooms are unlike any other Chicago interactive party games because they combine thrilling adventure, mental challenge, and compelling narrative in a way that no other game does.

The usual game time is taken to a whole new level with these plot twists, which force players to be creative, communicate well, and work together to conquer obstacles. Players in these family interactive game rooms interact in a physical, non-digital setting, as opposed to that of a typical board game or computer game.

Unlocking doors in a certain order, finding codes, or looking for clues hidden in real-world objects are all planned very carefully by the masterminds of MindTrap interactive horror games. The use of both visual and audio components, such as realistic objects or ambient music, creates an unparalleled degree of immersion.

When you visit MindTrap Escape Rooms, the adventure is both unforgettable and thrilling since players are able to completely immerse themselves in a different world thanks to this one-of-a-kind experience.

Below are a few of the most popular themes, each of which offers a distinct escape game experience in Chicago:

What Happened in Vegas?

Are you curious to find out what happened in Vegas? Although the saying is that what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, but here, you have a chance to uncover the truth. When you find yourself in a suite in Sin City, Minigames will provide you with clues, and interactive group games and puzzles will test your teamwork skills as you race against the clock to solve riddles reminiscent of Las Vegas.

In order to catch their scheduled flight, players must piece together the night’s narrative by interacting with themed items and reassembling dispersed puzzle pieces.

Vampire Escape Room

Vampire Escape Room challenges players to find a way out of the haunted Castle Horvath in order to save the bride from a vampire’s clutches. The interactive elements of the room, such as coded scrolls, concealed levers, and objects like stakes and old relics, contribute to the eerie ambiance.

Unlock tombs using secret keys, discover hidden compartments, and match clues from family relics. Players will experience what it’s like to be real vampire hunters as they go into the Horvath family’s sinister past in exciting and immersive interactive party games that appeal to all the senses.

Mafia Heist

Next theme is rather criminal but not illegal. An exciting criminal adventure awaits gamers in Mafia Heist. Codebreaking, lock picking, and keen observation will be required to interact with real-life props such as cash bundles, coded lockboxes, and safes in order to carry off the robbery.

There are motion simulators in this interactive group game room that make it seem like you’re really moving, and there are strobe lights and fog effects to make it even more scary. With each step of the robbery, players are dragged farther into the underworld of the mafia, putting their mettle to the test. Book now to live your criminal thriller dream!

The Collector

Players in The Collector find themselves trapped in a haunted mansion that a disturbed kidnapper has built. Resolving unsettling riddles and interacting with ghostly things in cramped confines puzzles your nerves and determination as you fight for survival.

In order to find out what to do next, players have to crawl, reach into tight spaces, or deal with scary objects. Physical obstacles and sensory components like mist, spooky noises, and secret doors combine to provide a dramatic horror experience in this room’s interactive features. Because of how immersed players are in this interactive team building game, they are drawn into a thrilling struggle for survival.

2. Go Axe Throwing

One of the most popular interactive group games in Chicago, axe throwing is sure to be a hit with both residents and visitors looking for an exciting, participatory experience.

Axe throwing is a blast to set up; players take turns slashing at a big wooden target with a bullseye and several ring markers to see who can rack up the most points. Here are some reasons to go axe throwing:

Immersive Experience: This sport provides an exhilarating, demanding, and very rewarding experience, whether you’re playing in a league, celebrating a birthday, or just hanging out with friends.
Under Trained Supervision: The game’s skilled Axeperts teach players the ropes of precise targeting, handling, and throwing very fast. Even for first-timers, these trainers keep everyone safe while providing pointers on how to hit the target. Anyone, regardless of skill level, can enjoy the game with the help of this entertaining tutorial.
Team-building Activity: Axe throwing has quickly become a popular option for interactive team building games at company picnics and other team-building events. As teams support one another, exchange tactics, and celebrate each successful throw, the sport promotes teamwork and bonding.
Healthy Activity: Axe tossing has real health advantages in addition to its social attraction. A great method to burn calories and relax, it demands strength in the upper body, concentration, and coordination. An exciting substitute for more conventional forms of exercise, the thrilling release felt with each throw helps players relax and unwind.

Unlike other sports, axe throwing places like Bull & Bear Axe don’t call for years of training before you can have fun; it’s easor anybody to pick up and gives you a rush of adrenaline and pride the moment you do it.

3. Explore Haunted House

The excitement of entering a horror environment with live actors, shocking shocks, and other terrifying essences has made haunted houses an iconic part of Halloween for many years. Incorporating history, sensational effects, and interactive group games features, these attractions transport visitors to scary hallways and chambers that test their courage.

Not surprisingly, thrill-seekers looking for exceptional amusement love interactive horror games for their jump scares, whether it’s cramped tunnels, pitch-black passageways, or unexpected encounters with monsters of the dark.

Must-visit Haunted House in Chicago

Among the most popular haunted attractions, Massacre Haunted House stands head and shoulders above the rest. This place is unparalleled among haunted houses in terms of intensity, terror, and unique immersive experience.

Massacre Haunted House, located in Montgomery, Illinois, will be celebrating its 15th year in 2024. It is widely considered to be one of the top and biggest haunted attractions in the state of Illinois. Spanning more than 35,000 square feet, the house is filled with horrifying chambers that challenge bravery in their own unique ways.

The macabre torture chambers, deserted asylums, and ghostly cemeteries make Massacre Haunted House the most favored by visitors. Visitors will be on the edge of their seats from the moment they step foot in the interactive horror games haunted house thanks to the more than a hundred performers decked out in elaborate costumes and makeup.

Actors dazzle even the most unwary visitors with their expert use of timing, deception, and abrupt movements, leaving little room for predictable scares.

FAQs

Are interactive horror games suitable for a fun night out?

Absolutely! Interactive horror games offer a spooky thrill, perfect for groups looking for something different. Whether you’re trying to escape a haunted room or uncover a creepy mystery, these games deliver just the right balance of excitement and suspense, making for a memorable night out.

Can escape rooms be played solo or are they better with a group?

While escape rooms are designed for groups, some venues offer solo or “single-player” experiences. However, the real fun of an escape room comes from collaborating with others. The puzzles are often complex and require different skills, so working together as a team provides the best chance for success.

How do escape rooms compare to other group activities like trivia or board games?

Escape rooms offer a more immersive experience than trivia or traditional board games. While trivia and board games are fun, escape rooms place you directly into a storyline where you interact with the environment and each other.

Explore Chicago Like Never Before with Your Group!

You can never get enough interactive group game experiences in Chicago; whether you want to push yourself to the edge with mind-boggling escape room puzzles or get an adrenaline rush from a haunted house, you can do it all here!

No matter if you want to experience interactive horror games or more science-fiction family interactive games, get hands-on with your team at MindTrap Escape Room! As the number 1 escape room in Chicago, get ready to get the best experience of your life.

Plan your work events, birthday parties, or just a casual day out with friends, MindTrap Escape Room has got it all! Make your reservation today!

Fun Indoor Activities Chicago Await You!

“Chicago is a city that doesn’t ever have to measure itself against any other city. Other places have to measure themselves against it.”

Chicago has no shortage of fun things to do, but sometimes the weather or the vibe just calls for Chicago indoor activities. Whether you’re avoiding the windy chill or looking for something novel, the city is packed with fun indoor activities Chicago that can keep everyone on their toes. You can challenge yourself with immersive escape rooms, get creative with hands-on art experiences, or even dive into some friendly competition with bowling or laser tag. The best part? These options are perfect for all ages, so no one feels left out.

Whether you are looking for mysteries, adventures, or scary stories, Mind Trap Escape Rooms is your place to step into! No disappointment, bring over friends, family, and coworkers, and have a blast!

1. Art Institute of Chicago

If you’re in the mood for something a bit more refined, the Art Institute of Chicago is one of the best indoor activities in Chicago for art lovers of all ages. It’s not just a museum; it’s an immersive experience that spans centuries of creativity, housing everything from ancient artifacts to iconic modern masterpieces like Van Gogh’s The Bedroom and Seurat’s A Sunday on La Grande Jatte.

The best part? Whether you’re exploring with kids, teens, or friends, there’s something for everyone to appreciate—interactive exhibits, hands-on art workshops, and even scavenger hunts that bring the museum to life. The Chicago indoor activities for families here are so extensive that they can keep all generations engaged at a time.

Some things to remember from the art institute are:

The majestic Murakami piece at the very top corner of the modern art wing
Egyptian exhibit
Brushstrokes on van Gogh’s Self-Portrait
An exhibit on Ceramics

2. Mind Trap Escape Rooms

For a truly one-of-a-kind escape room experience in Chicago, Mind Trap Escape Rooms stands out from the crowd. Unlike many other escape rooms, which might stick to the same old formulas, Mind Trap takes things up a notch with its cinematic-level design and attention to detail. Each room offers a completely immersive adventure that feels like stepping into a live-action movie. Whether you’re unraveling the mysteries of ancient civilizations or trying to escape a high-tech heist, the storylines are dynamic, the puzzles are clever, and the stakes feel real.

What really sets Mind Trap apart from other indoor activities Chicago is its focus on engagement for all skill levels. You’ll find their rooms challenging but fair, with surprises that keep you on your toes without ever feeling too overwhelming. Plus, with new themes and room rotations, there’s always something fresh to try.

Perfect for groups of friends, families, or even corporate teams, Mind Trap Escape Rooms delivers an experience that goes beyond the typical escape game—this is indoor entertainment at its finest.

Visitors were all praises after paying a visit. Wanna peep?

“Our group of four did all seven rooms over two days. We are very experienced escape room players. This place exceeded our expectations. The immersive experience in each room was very well done. Impressive props and electronic elements.”

Mafia Heist

You’re a part of the mafia now, and the big boss has assigned you and your team the ultimate test of loyalty: a high-stakes heist in the heart of the 1980s underworld. Your mission? Prove you’re worthy by breaking into a heavily guarded vault, cracking codes, and avoiding traps set by rival gangs. But there’s a catch—you only have 75 minutes to pull it off.

Will you and your crew rise to the challenge, or will this daring heist be your downfall?

Storm Surge

In Storm Surge, you’re aboard a ship loaded with nearly a thousand tons of cargo, navigating from Chicago to Holland. As the vessel sets sail, disaster strikes: thick fog rolls in and a fierce storm surge causes your ship to run aground, leaving it precariously balanced just 300 feet off South Manitou Island. With only 60 minutes on the clock, your crew must work together to solve puzzles and navigate through the chaos.

Can you escape the impending capsizing of the ship before it’s too late?

Doctor Death

You and your friends are urban explorers who find yourselves trapped in the eerie Medical Centre. With just 60 minutes to escape, you must solve puzzles and uncover the dark secrets of the hospital before the sinister Doctor Death arrives to claim his next victims.

Will you unravel the mysteries in time, or will you become part of Doctor Death’s haunting legacy?

3. Shedd Aquarium

Shedd Aquarium takes you to an underwater world, where the magic of marine life captivates visitors of all ages. From vibrant tropical fish to awe-inspiring sharks, Shedd is home to thousands of species that will spark curiosity and wonder. You can watch dolphins flip through the air, touch a stingray, or even get up close to penguins as they waddle by.

What’s great about Shedd is that it offers more than just aquarium tanks—it’s one of those Chicago indoor activities with live shows, hands-on exhibits, and educational programs that make learning about the ocean fun and engaging. Whether you’re bringing the kids or spending the day with friends, this aquatic adventure is one of the best indoor activities in Chicago that’s sure to make a splash! However, visitors were disheartened with so many closed exhibits and the aquarium being on a pricier end.

4. Garfield Park Conservatory

Garfield Park Conservatory – A lovingly maintained conservatory with all the variety of plants you can think of! Often referred to as “landscape art under glass,” this fun indoor activity Chicago lets you escape the city’s hustle and bustle while exploring vibrant plant life from around the world.

To your amazement: it’s free!

You’ll love wandering through lush ferns, towering palms, and exotic flowers in various themed gardens, no matter the weather outside. It’s a serene indoor activity for kids in Chicago. Your little ones will be marveled at nature.

5. Chicago Cultural Center

For a cultural fix that’s both free and fascinating, the Chicago Cultural Center is a must-visit indoor gem. Known for its stunning architecture—featuring the world’s largest Tiffany stained-glass dome—it’s a visual treat as much as it is a hub for all things art and culture. Whether you’re catching a live performance, viewing contemporary art exhibitions, or exploring the beautiful halls, there’s always something new to discover here. Plus, the center regularly offers workshops and Chicago indoor activities for families, making it a fantastic spot for visitors of all ages to get involved. It’s an inspiring indoor activity for kids in Chicago that blends Chicago’s rich cultural history with creative modern experiences, perfect for adding a little extra flair to your day!

6. The Chicago Theatre

Step into Chicago’s past and present all at once with a visit to the iconic Chicago Theatre. This legendary venue, known for its dazzling marquee and rich history, offers more than just shows—it’s an experience, like the experience!

Whether you’re catching a live concert, a comedy show, or a Broadway production, the atmosphere alone is worth the trip. The intricate French Baroque interior, complete with grand staircases and ornate details, will transport you to another era, making it one of the memorable indoor activities Chicago for any age group. Plus, if you’re looking for indoor activities in Chicago for adults, the theatre offers behind-the-scenes tours that take you through its storied past and onto the grand stage itself.

FAQs

How do indoor activities impact social connections?

Participating in indoor activities like escape rooms encourages interaction, fosters new friendships, and strengthens existing relationships through shared experiences and challenges.

What are some unique features of escape rooms compared to other indoor activities?

Escape rooms combine immersive storytelling with interactive puzzles, offering a one-of-a-kind experience that challenges both the mind and teamwork, unlike standard board games or movies.

Do escape rooms offer gift certificates?

Many escape room venues provide gift certificates or vouchers, making them a fantastic gift idea for friends or family looking for fun indoor activities.

Take the Plunge into Exciting Indoor Activities Chicago!

Chicago is a city full of options! As you wrap up your exploration of Chicago’s exciting indoor activities, consider the unparalleled experience that Mind Trap Escape Rooms offers. With its top-notch offer discussed below, it’s not worth being missed.

Immersive Storytelling: Each escape room is designed with rich narratives that pull you into a world of mystery and intrigue.

Variety of Challenges: Whether you’re solving puzzles in a high-stakes heist or navigating a haunted hospital, there’s something for everyone, never letting you get bored indoors!

Fresh Experiences: With rotating themes and new rooms regularly added, there’s always a new adventure waiting for you.To avail of such offers for your birthdays, team building activities, and group outings book here!

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Must Visit Family-friendly Attractions Near Me in Chicago

Family vacations always hold a different place in your heart. From moments filled with laughter to innocent fun, we all can agree that the memories we make at family-friendly attractions are special.

If you’re looking for exciting family-friendly attractions near me in Chicago while on vacation, we promise that you’re in for a ride. There is a great variety of parks, museums, movie theaters, and wildlife in the city that families may enjoy together. The number of options makes choosing what to do and where to go overwhelming. That’s why we’ve organized this list of Chicago family-friendly attractions by kind of activity. After all, not every family member is the same!

With places like Mind Trap Escape Rooms, you can create an itinerary that will be enjoyable for everyone, including children. With that in mind, here’s a list of must-visit family attractions in Chicago:

1. Shedd Aquarium

One of the top Chicago attractions for families is the Shedd Aquarium. It is a place where children will find interesting and instructive subjects, and it is jam-packed with exhibits suitable for adults. As one of the most favorite kid-friendly family fun attractions, the World’s Aquarium, for instance, you can see the most fascinating marine animals from the perspective of a diver. You can see sharks, moon jellies, beluga whales, parrotfish, and the gigantic octopus all in one panoramic view via the display windows that stretch from floor to ceiling.

The Polar Play Zone and Caribbean Reef are two other popular exhibit sections that showcase important marine environments while offering a ton of interactive fun. You can pretend to be explorers at Shedd Aquarium’s eight different displays. The good things about this family-friendly Chicago attraction aside, many visitors have complained about the rude customer service and pricey tickets. Moreover, one visitor highlighted the lack of fish on display and the aquarium not being stroller-friendly.

2. Mind Trap Escape Rooms

Who doesn’t like a bit of mystery and fun? Families and friends looking for a good time must visit Mind Trap Escape Rooms in Naperville because they don’t make ‘em like this anymore. With multiple escape rooms, you can choose the themes that interest you the most depending on the difficulty level.

This is not it. If you think that escape rooms alone might not be enough for your family outing, Mind Trap Escape Rooms offers much more. Adults can experience axe throwing for some extra adrenaline. The professionally qualified axe instructors will guide you and your friends in a variety of axe-throwing actions to ensure a safe and effective session.

Next comes the haunted house. Yes! Family-friendly haunted attractions are an all-time favorite of many families. It’s more about seeing you get more scared and who stood their ground firm! You can have it all in one place, that is, the Mind Trap Escape Rooms. So, when in Chicago, you must visit this house of entertainment.

3. Adler Planetarium

Visit the first planetarium in the United States and feel like you’re in space without ever leaving Chicago. No more searching for family friendly attractions near me because this is the place that you need to visit. Take a space adventurer role-playing with your little one at “Planet Explorers,” the museum’s most interactive and immersive exhibit to date. Also, don’t miss their most recent and thrilling sky program, “Planet Nine,” which chronicles the search for a ninth planet.

One of the three full-size theaters at the museum will host a spectacular space show. Taking a stroll out onto the north or south terraces of the Adler to take in the stunning Chicago cityscape isn’t the end of the pleasure either. The location is also perfect for taking photographs; you’ll treasure the memories of your children and family members playing here with Lake Michigan or the cityscape of Chicago as a backdrop.

While there is no doubt that it’s one of the world’s most visited family-friendly Chicago attractions, but not many visitors have been agreeing to it lately. This one visitor said that the place was very bland, and if you’re late even by a few minutes, they ask you to purchase add-ons.

4. Brookfield Zoo

Visit one of the biggest zoos in Chicagoland next from our list of kid-friendly family fun attractions and spend the day interacting with some of the most interesting and endearing animals on Earth. Your children are sure to have a blast at this 216-acre natural park, which is home to a diverse array of animals, plants, and even a carousel with an animal theme.

See the “Great Bear Wilderness,” go on the Motor Safari tram, and stop at the “Butterflies!” display. People of all ages will have a blast at the Family Play Zoo, where they can run about and play without limits. Children can engage in role-playing as zookeepers, put on a lemur costume, and create animal-themed art projects to foster their creativity.

Many visitors to this place are the ones who have been coming here since their childhood. However, they all agree that the condition of zoos and their animals has drastically worsened. You will see wounded and deprived animals that can leave you and your kids traumatized.

5. Navy Pier Centennial Wheel and Rides

Whether you’re with kids or adults, you’re sure to find something entertaining to do at Navy Pier and the nearby family-friendly attractions. You can start by wandering the pier, eating some traditional boardwalk fare, and riding the famous Ferris wheel for postcard-perfect vistas of the city. Get 4-ride admission to Navy Pier attractions, including the ever-popular Centennial Wheel, with your Go Chicago Card All-Inclusive admission.

In addition, there are swings, a carousel, and boats that can be piloted from a distance. When the city lights up at night, this becomes an even more enjoyable family activity in Chicago. While we all crave a good day out with family, it is not worth it with rude staff. Many visitors who visited Centennial complained about the staff not replying properly and misguiding them.

6. Skydeck Chicago or TILT at 360 CHICAGO

Take your family day out a step up, or up to the sky at Skydeck Chicago. The glass boxes of Willis Tower, the world’s highest structure, reach a height of almost 1,300 feet from the base of the building, some four feet below the surface.

Moreover, you can get a bird’s-eye perspective of four states as you tilt outward more than a thousand feet over the Magnificent Mile. Housed in the landmark John Hancock Building, TILT is located at 875 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago.

The sky is the limit, and you can experience that in these attractions with your family in Chicago. However, watch out for the pricing and safety measures.

FAQs

Is Chicago worth visiting with kids?

It’s the inspiration kids find in all the things to do and see in Chicago that makes the city feel like home—if home were the ultimate playground. From toddlers to teens, there are family-friendly attractions to satisfy every interest and fuel all imaginations.

Are escape rooms safe for seniors and kids?

Absolutely. Escape rooms like Mind Trap Escape Rooms are made keeping in mind inclusivity for people of all ages. Whether you want something less haunting or high-difficulty level escape room themes, you can find it all here.

How should you prepare when going to family-friendly haunted attractions?

Take a look at the forecast and dress appropriately. If you want to be prepared in case it rains, bring an umbrella. You may not have a covered waiting area. When visiting a haunted home, it is best to avoid wearing shoes with exposed toes, sandals, or high heels.

What do I never do in a haunted house?

Actors and tourists alike are expected to adhere to strict no-touch regulations at most family-friendly haunted attractions. Actors, other visitors, and objects should not be touched for safety reasons. Always get there sober if you want to keep your emotions and behavior in check.

Is axe-throwing safe?

Axe throwing is completely risk-free. We know that it can seem scary to some, but if you’re collaborating with professionals, there’s no need to be anxious.

Visit Kid-friendly Family Fun Attractions in Chicago!

And that is all for our family friendly attractions near me list. For your family trip to Chicago, we have compiled a list of some of the best attractions and activities, with Trap Mind Escape Rooms being our favorite pick of all. A family outing is all about keeping diversity in the plan so that everyone can enjoy it equally. Escape rooms provide that. You can choose multiple themes as per the member’s liking and enjoy other activities like axe-throwing and haunted houses all in one place.

So, when planning your next trip, think about including some of these Chicago family-friendly attractions offered by Trap Mind Escape Rooms. Book now and have fun!

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