FAQs
WHAT IS AN ESCAPE ROOM?
An escape room is a themed interactive adventure game that follows a storyline; it’s a cross between a scavenger hunt and a puzzle game. Players work together to find clues and hidden objects, solve puzzles, open a variety of locks, and complete tasks to accomplish a specific goal within an established time limit. Escape games require communication, teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills; they are a multi-generational bonding activity where kids, parents, and grandparents can all contribute.
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ARE WE LOCKED IN?
No, the door is not locked. You may exit the room at any time.
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IS IT DARK?
No, the room is well-lit. One section has an overhead canopy, but there is still plenty of light to read clues and open locks.
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IS IT SCARY?
No, there are no scary elements.
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HOW MANY PEOPLE CAN PARTICIPATE?
Recommended group size is 2-4 players. If you need to add a fifth person, make a note in the “Message” section when booking, but please be aware that some areas will be cramped and tight, so you may be running into each other. For larger groups, we suggest you divide up into groups of 4 or less. While one team is playing, the other group can hang out in our puzzle café.
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WHAT AGES CAN PLAY?
The puzzles are designed for the minds of adults and teens. Children ages 8 and up can participate and enjoy the game with adult supervision, coaching, and assistance. All kids under 13 must be accompanied by an adult; adults are expected to actively supervise any minors in their group. Anyone under 18 must have a parent/legal guardian sign their waiver.
Escape room puzzles are rarely solved on the first try; multiple attempts are often needed which require patience and persistence. Parents should consider -- Is your child mature enough to remain engaged throughout a series of tasks for 60 minutes? For children with short attention spans who quickly lose focus and become bored, this activity may not be a good fit at this time. Escape Rooms are not safe for infants, toddlers, young kids, or pets.
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IS THE GAME ACCESSIBLE TO THOSE WITH DISABILITIES?
This experience may not be suitable for those with claustrophobia or panic attacks, those with mobility or balance issues, or those who cannot stand for prolonged periods. There are some tight or enclosed spaces and a ramp with an incline that cannot be navigated with a wheelchair or walker. Those using a cane should exercise extreme caution.
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HOW LONG DOES THE ESCAPE ROOM TAKE?
You have 60 minutes to complete your mission. Please arrive 15 minutes early for orientation.
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HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Most escape rooms in the Chicagoland area charge $25-$35 per person for a 60-minute experience. Our church is a non-profit organization; we do not charge an admission fee, but donations will be accepted.
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DO I HAVE TO MAKE A RESERVATION? DO YOU ACCEPT WALK-INS?
Since our room is staffed by volunteers who make a trip specifically to run the room for you, we need ample notice when you’re coming and when you’re not.
We cannot accommodate walk-ins. You must reserve your time slot at least 48 hours in advance. Please book only if you are reasonably certain you will be able to attend.
If you need to cancel, please do so as soon as you know you aren’t coming, but no later than 4 hours before your scheduled start time. Please don’t be a “no-show”.
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IS THE GAME PRIVATE?
Yes, you will only be in the room working with the people you booked with and brought with you; no strangers will be joining your group.
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WHEN DO WE NEED TO ARRIVE?
Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled start time to check in, use the restroom, receive instructions, secure your belongings, and watch a brief introductory video before your countdown clock starts.
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WHAT IF WE ARRIVE LATE?
Out of respect for any groups booked after you, your time clock will begin counting down at your scheduled start time, with or without you. If you arrive late, you can still play for the time remaining, but with less time available, you will be less likely to complete the challenge.
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WHAT SHOULD WE WEAR?
Wear comfortable, non-restrictive, modest clothing and footwear that allows bending and easy movement. For safety reasons, high heels are prohibited. You will be moving around in tight spaces with others; closed-toe shoes are recommended in case someone accidentally steps on your foot! Adults with aging eyes may find it helpful to bring their reading glasses.
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CAN WE BRING CELL PHONES?
Our puzzles require no internet research, so you won’t need a cell phone during the game. With the clock running, you won’t want to be interrupted by phone calls or text messages. No photos or videos are allowed during the game; there is a basket inside the room where you can store your phone. You are welcome to take a group photo afterward.
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WHAT ABOUT SNACKS AND DRINKS?
No food or drink may be brought into the escape room; refreshments may be consumed in our café area.
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WHAT ARE THE RULES OF CONDUCT?
Please do not touch or move the cameras in the escape room. There is no need to lift or move furniture or heavy items, such as barrels or crates. Our props are one-of-a-kind and are created specifically for this game; please handle them gently and treat them with respect. Do not treat them roughly or try to force anything. If you abuse a prop, you will be removed from the game. Please do not place props or keys in your pocket. Do not take anything from the room as a “souvenir”. We reserve the right to deny entry to anyone who is intoxicated, under the influence of drugs, or exhibits unruly behavior. No weapons are allowed on the premises.
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CAN WE LEAVE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE GAME?
We recommend that you use the restroom before the game starts. If you need to leave during the game, the door is not locked and you are free to exit at any time. However, your time clock will continue to run, so any time spent outside the game will be forfeited.
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WHAT IF WE GET STUCK DURING THE GAME?
You can request a hint at any time. You will be able to communicate with your game hosts throughout the game. They will be constantly monitoring your progress and can offer guidance when you don’t know what to do next. You can ask your hosts for as many hints as you need.
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WHAT DO WE WIN IF WE ESCAPE?
Bragging rights and the satisfaction of a job well done.
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WHAT IF WE DON’T ESCAPE IN TIME?
We’ll let you know when your time is up. You are welcome to come back another time and see if you can get further in the game; sometimes it takes more than one try.