Spare Time Des Moines is located in the Jordan Creek area of West Des Moines, Iowa, right off Jordan Creek Parkway.
More Than Just Bowling: A World of Tactical Fun
While luxury bowling lanes are a centerpiece of the venue, Spare Time Des Moines offers a robust lineup of tactical and interactive attractions. The centerpiece is an epic laser tag arena that transports players into a glowing, multi-level battleground. The arena is designed for fast-paced missions where guests can duck behind barriers, strategize with teammates, and compete in adrenaline-fueled matches. In addition to laser tag, the venue features escape rooms with two distinct experiences — a 30-minute quick challenge and a full 60-minute immersive adventure. Both are built around clever puzzles and thematic storytelling, making them a favorite for groups looking to test their wits under pressure. The entire facility is designed to keep guests moving from one thrill to the next. After a round of laser tag or an escape room victory, visitors can step into the Game Zone arcade, which is packed with the latest interactive and redemption games. Whether you are chasing high scores or collecting prize points, the arcade adds another layer of competitive fun to the visit.
The Arena: Where Strategy Meets Action
The laser tag arena at Spare Time is described as "epic" for good reason. It features a dark, atmospheric environment with tactical obstacles, barriers, and hiding spots that encourage both stealth and speed. The arena is equipped with state-of-the-art laser taggers and sensor vests, ensuring every hit is registered with precision. The layout supports multiple game scenarios, allowing groups to play standard team deathmatches or more creative objective-based missions. The arena is suitable for players ages six and up, making it accessible for family outings while still offering enough complexity to challenge teens and adults. The escape rooms, meanwhile, are designed with intricate set pieces and multi-step puzzles that require communication and collaboration. Each room has a distinct theme, and the difficulty is calibrated to be challenging but solvable with teamwork. The 30-minute room is a great introduction for newcomers, while the 60-minute room offers a deeper, more rewarding experience for seasoned puzzle enthusiasts.
Celebrations and Corporate Gatherings Done Right
Spare Time Des Moines is a natural fit for birthdays, corporate events, team-building outings, and milestone celebrations. The venue offers four customizable birthday party packages — Bowling, Bash (bowling plus laser tag), Laser Tag, and Gamer — each designed to take the stress out of planning. Every party includes a dedicated host who handles setup, cleanup, and keeps the event running smoothly, allowing guests to simply enjoy the celebration. For corporate clients, the venue provides private event spaces like the Elite Suite, which features eight luxury bowling lanes, a private bar, plush seating, and dining space for up to 130 guests. The Climate Controlled Patio offers a more relaxed atmosphere with lounge seating around a firepit, while the full Restaurant Event Space can accommodate catered meetings and banquets for up to 130 guests. For large-scale events, the entire facility can be rented out, accommodating up to 975 guests. This makes Spare Time an excellent choice for company parties, client appreciation events, fundraisers, field trips, and wedding receptions. The catering team works closely with organizers to craft custom menus ranging from casual appetizers to elegant plated dinners and chef-manned carving stations.
Hospitality That Makes a Difference
The staff at Spare Time Des Moines consistently receives praise from visitors for their attentiveness and professionalism. Guest reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor highlight team members such as Cameron and Tyler, describing them as "gracious and top notch." The venue employs dedicated party hosts for all birthday and group events, ensuring that every detail — from food service to activity coordination — is handled with care. The event planning team is available to help customize experiences, working within budgets to create memorable and seamless gatherings. Whether it is a child's birthday party or a high-stakes corporate retreat, the staff's commitment to service helps set Spare Time apart from typical entertainment centers.
Relax and Refuel: Lounge Spaces and Dining
After the action, guests can unwind in one of several comfortable lounge and dining areas scattered throughout the venue. The Climate Controlled Patio offers a unique indoor-outdoor experience with lounge seating and a firepit, perfect for post-game conversations. The main restaurant and bar areas serve chef-crafted dishes and signature cocktails, providing a full dining experience without leaving the building. There is also a dedicated lounge area near the arcade and bowling lanes where guests can relax between activities. The entire facility accepts credit, debit, and Spare Time cards, with cash-to-card machines available near the entrance for convenience. With multiple bars, a spacious seating area, and a welcoming atmosphere, Spare Time makes it easy to turn a quick visit into an entire evening of entertainment.