The Fun Lab

The Fun Lab is located in the North Metro area of the Twin Cities, in Blaine, Minnesota, inside a converted 22,500-square-foot space that once housed a Gander Mountain store.

A Playground of Tactical and Interactive Adventures

The heart of The Fun Lab is its custom-designed 5,000-square-foot laser tag arena, a multi-level battlefield complete with a second-story mezzanine, fog-filled corridors, and glowing obstacles. Players navigate through an intricate maze of hiding spots and strategic vantage points, making every match a fresh tactical challenge. Beyond laser tag, the venue offers ValoArena — the only location in Minnesota where guests can play this interactive gaming experience that blends physical movement with digital gameplay, demanding both reflexes and strategy. The XD Dark Ride adds a 7D cinematic layer, combining 3D visuals, surround sound, and motion-synchronized seats for an immersive adventure. For those who prefer a different kind of challenge, the Laser Maze lets guests channel their inner secret agent, weaving through a web of laser beams without setting off alarms. The Hologate Virtual Reality system transports players into alternate dimensions — battling zombies, exploring underwater worlds, or soaring through space alongside teammates. Each VR session accommodates multiple players, making it a natural fit for group adventures.

The Arena and Its Obstacles: Built for All Ages

The gaming floor is thoughtfully laid out with an open design that allows parents to keep an eye on children across different activity zones. The three-story ropes course offers multiple difficulty paths and obstacles, providing a solid workout while building confidence — safety harnesses ensure participation regardless of experience level. The Spin Zone features bumper cars that rotate 360 degrees, adding an unpredictable and hilarious element to every collision. For younger visitors, Ballocity is a multi-level soft play area with ball blasters, climbing structures, and interactive elements, enclosed for safe exploration. The arcade zone houses over 45 games, from classic Skeeball and air hockey to modern ticket-earning machines and racing simulators. The entire facility carries a cohesive “scientific lab” theme, with clever naming conventions and décor that make the experience feel intentional and unique rather than just a random collection of activities.

Popular Scenarios and Group Programs

The Fun Lab offers structured experiences for a variety of group types. Birthday parties come in three tiers — High Voltage, Nitro, and Super Nova — each including a private party room for 90 minutes, a dedicated party host, cupcakes, pizza, and arcade cards for participants. Field trips start at $12.99 per student with complimentary admission for chaperones, making it a popular destination for school groups from across the north metro. Corporate and group events are handled through a custom inquiry process, with options ranging from small team outings to full facility rentals. The venue also hosts fundraisers, allowing organizations to earn a percentage of event sales or sell gift cards to pocket the profits.

Beyond the Games: Dining and Relaxation

The Food Lab is the on-site restaurant serving brick oven pizzas, gourmet burgers, savory appetizers, and sandwiches, paired with craft beer and wine. The dining area maintains the facility’s energetic atmosphere while providing comfortable seating for meals and refreshments. Unlike many family entertainment centers, The Fun Lab genuinely caters to adults with sophisticated food options and a full bar, making it suitable for date nights and adult gatherings as well. There is no general admission fee and parking is free, so guests can drop in and build their own adventure without pressure.

What The Fun Lab Is Best For

The venue is particularly well-suited for birthday parties for children ages 5 through adult, corporate team-building events, school field trips, youth group outings, and family celebrations. The combination of high-energy attractions and structured party services makes it a natural fit for celebrations where stress-free planning is a priority. Each party includes a dedicated host — referred to as a Funologist — who manages the schedule, food service, and activities from start to finish. The facility was founded by Jim and Marilyn Webber and their family, who envisioned a space where families and friends could bond over great food and entertainment. Their commitment to service and memorable experiences is evident in the attention to detail throughout the venue.