Players on the glowing grid floor at Activate Games Columbus
2026 Finalist

Interactive challenge rooms Polaris $$

Activate Games

Timed interactive challenge rooms at Polaris for groups who want movement, puzzles, and a workout disguised as a game night.

8735 Lyra Drive, Columbus, OH 43240

Mon to Thu 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.; Fri to Sat 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.; Sun 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Awards

Why Activate Games why was this picked

Activate Games at Polaris is built around live-action game rooms, such as a light-up Hoops court and the Grid, where the floor tiles act like lava. Open Mode lets groups of two or more move from room to room during a timed session, and the company runs team play, a global league and tournaments for repeat players. Hours on Lyra Drive run noon to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and open at 10 a.m. Friday through Sunday.

  • Timed rooms that keep energy high
  • Active play without a pure gym script
  • Polaris cluster for food before or after

Know before you go

Activate Games is the timed active-game lab we book when a Polaris group wants laser rooms and climb challenges instead of another arcade night. Sessions run about an hour across interactive game rooms that score as you move; all-you-can-play passes keep rotating rooms open for the block. It suits teams, birthdays, and friends who want sweat with the competition.

Hours run Monday through Thursday 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., and Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Book ahead online and finish the waiver before you hit Lyra Drive. Park free in the Polaris lots beside the building in Polaris. Compare formats on our best entertainment venues list if you are still weighing game rooms against bowling or VR.

Parking
Free surface parking in the Polaris lots off Lyra Drive beside the venue.
Reservations
Yes, book timed play sessions online; lounge add-ons for parties should be reserved about two weeks ahead.
Tip
Complete the online waiver before you arrive so your group can start on the booked slot.