The Boardwalk on Gaetz Entertainment Centre has a definite wow factor, and owner Jim Roth loves to see the reaction of first-timers.
"Their eyes get as big as watermelons when they first come in the door. That's the best part," Roth said about people who step into the modern arcade filled with flashy games that will make them forget their worries and just have fun.
He can't help but smile when describing people buzzing with energy after they experience the interactive 7D Dark Ride with 3D video, motion seats equipped with seatbelts, and 'blasters' by their sides to fend off on-screen monsters.
"They're just talking like crazy when they come out."
And screaming is absolutely normal on a Dark Ride adventure, he added.
"Everybody screams. It doesn't matter if you're 10 years old or 80 — everybody screams."
Located at 2410 Gaetz Ave., the old Peavey Mart site, Boardwalk will celebrate its first-year anniversary in June, where striking down pins at mini bowling is another crowd favourite, as well as laser tag set in a spooky, run-down fun house, complete with fog and eerie music.
In a few months a NASCAR-themed, indoor go-cart raceway will open at Boardwalk where children and adults will be able to put their skills to the test in electric go-carts.
Roth said currently the site can accommodate 200 people, but the go-cart expansion will add room for another 100 to 150 people. A second lounge area and more party/meeting rooms will be included in the go-cart area.
A full-service bar at Boardwalk attracts groups looking for a fun place to hang out. Pizza and wings from the onsite kitchen are always in demand.
A food stand with snacks like popcorn, cotton candy, and ice cream enhances the carnival atmosphere.
Roth said in the 70s, an arcade in downtown Red Deer is where he would spend hours hanging out with his buddies.
"This is really similar. It's still a meeting place, but it's much more advanced," he said about the centre's 45 high-tech games and activities.
Families book Boardwalk's party spaces for birthdays, but it's also a place where businesses hold meetings and events. People attending conventions or tournaments in the city drop in when they have free time, and word has spread to customers beyond Central Alberta.
Roth said he first had the idea for Boardwalk about 20 years ago. When he sold his business Hot Tub Wholesale, he realized he didn't want to slow down and Boardwalk became his retirement project.
"I decided now was the time to get it off the ground. We'll see how long I last. If I keep going until my 80s, that's okay."
For more information visit boardwalk-entertainment.com.
