Interactive Adventures
Unlocking the Wonders of Activate and 5 Wits
by Barry Zelickson
In the ever-evolving landscape of entertainment, few places capture the essence of imagination and excitement like Activate at American Dream in New Jersey and 5 Wits in Syracuse. Prepare to embark on two exhilarating adventures as Fun Across America takes you inside the captivating world of these two immersive entertainment destinations, each promising to awaken your senses and ignite your imagination like never before.
Activate American Dream – East Rutherford, NJ
Activate American Dream is not just a mere entertainment complex; it’s a portal to realms of limitless possibilities. Nestled within the massive American Dream Shopping Mall, this location is currently one of 20 American and 15 Canadian locations. These entertainment venues seamlessly blend cutting-edge technology with immersive experiences to redefine the very essence of fun. From interactive gaming zones to adrenaline-pumping rides, every corner of Activate pulsates with an infectious energy that ignites the senses.
We were lucky enough to get a sneak peek before they were officially open, and one of the initial highlights of our visit was seeing their great use of lights and color that really enhance the experience. Activate provides a challenge driven experience where YOU become the player in the world’s first active gaming facility. No virtual gaming here, instead each dynamic game room has interactive technology that reacts in real time, ensuring an adrenaline-filled adventure.
Moreover, Activate boasts a plethora of attractions catering to visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker craving heart-pounding excitement or a family looking to create lasting memories – from climbing and laser games to less physical problem solving games – there’s something here for everyone.
In our YouTube video, check out our host Nate Reinhart playing The Grid, his favorite game. Operations Manager Luke Fateiger, who gave us a first-class tour, said his favorite is Climb, which he says is a must-try for all. The great attention to detail in each experience ensures that every visit is filled with wonder and delight.
With a variety of game rooms to choose from, your adventure allows for hundreds of combinations because there are multiple skill levels with varying degrees of difficulty as well. I feel it’s important in this industry to encourage repeat customers and Activate does it right by providing each player with an electronic wristband. It tracks your progress so you can rack up points, advance through levels, earn prizes and gain the reputation as the best in your group. And, points are saved so you can continue to improve and gain more points and prizes each time you visit.
Beyond the attractions themselves, Activate fosters a sense of community and camaraderie unlike any other. The vibrant atmosphere is contagious, encouraging guests to interact, engage and forge connections as they embark on their entertainment odyssey.
Arcade Arena – Roseville, MN
www.youtube.com/watch?v=150vWcQ6aJw
Stepping into 5 Wits in Syracuse, N.Y., is akin to stepping into a living, breathing adventure. From the moment you enter, you’re transported into a realm where reality blurs with fantasy, and every turn brings new surprises. The attention to detail is astounding, immersing visitors in richly crafted narratives where they are the characters in the story that unfolds around them.
5 Wits provides interactive walk-through adventures, ensuring there’s something for every taste and age group. Each adventure transports visitors into fantastical worlds where they become the main character and can battle dragons, explore ancient ruins, or even journey through outer space. Depending how well you do in the adventure, determines how you end your story. The level of immersion is truly unparalleled, making every moment feel like a thrilling adventure providing excitement, intrigue, and plenty of memorable moments.
One of the standout experiences during our visit was playing the game Espionage where we found ourselves thrust into the heart of a thrilling spy mission. From deciphering codes and hacking a computer system to navigating treacherous obstacles like dodging lasers, every challenge tested our wits and teamwork, creating an adrenaline-fueled experience. In short, who wouldn’t want to be a secret spy to save the world? We had a blast and I know you will, too.
Beyond the immersive attractions, what truly sets 5 Wits Syracuse apart is its commitment to storytelling. Each adventure is meticulously crafted to unfold like a cinematic journey, with twists, turns, and unexpected surprises keeping guests on the edge of their seats from start to finish. In addition, as Nate mentions in this episode of Fun Across America YouTube video, the level of detail they have created at this entertainment venue is beyond anything we have seen before. Truly at a level you would only expect to see at a major theme park.
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To sum it up, both attractions showcase how interactive technology takes entertainment to a whole new level of fun where we get to be the main character in the game. Activate stands as a beacon of innovation and excitement in the world of entertainment. From its cutting-edge technology to its immersive experiences, this destination is designed to captivate and inspire. It delivers an unforgettable journey into the realms of imagination. 5 Wits is more than just an entertainment destination: it’s a gateway to unforgettable experiences and thrilling adventures. From its immersive storytelling to its diverse range of attractions, this venue is designed to captivate, inspire, and ignite the imagination, too.
Please make sure you go check out the Fun Across America YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@funacrossamerica to see Nate walk you through both unique attractions.
Finally, if you are looking for coaching services to take your facility to the next level, please reach out to our partner TrainerTainment (trainertainment.net), who not only provides great training services to the entertainment industry but also support our efforts to create this fun content.
Barry Zelickson, is the co-creator of Fun Across America, a YouTube channel travelogue show. Zelickson has worked in the entertainment field for almost 30 years and has been awarded several IAAPA Brass Ring awards including one of the association’s highest honors, Family Entertainment Center of the World. His other projects include commercials, infomercials, feature films, documentaries, live events and entertainment centers.
Nate Reinhart, host and co-creator of Fun Across America, is a content creator for NalterDeeds and NalterCards on YouTube and content consultant for creators and businesses alike. After a shoutout from MrBeast, Nate has accumulated over 250,000 subscribers on his YouTube channels.