The White Rabbit Virtual Reality Arcade

Where the Rabbit Hole Begins

The White Rabbit VR Arcade is tucked inside Merle Hay Mall in Des Moines, Iowa — a welcoming, community-focused space where cutting-edge technology meets old-fashioned fun. It sits near the Flix Brewhouse, making it easy to find for anyone exploring the mall or looking for a unique outing just off Merle Hay Road.

Step Into the Game: Experiences That Go Beyond the Screen

The White Rabbit offers four distinct ways to play, each designed to make you forget you're standing in a mall in Iowa. The VR Arena is a free-roam, full-body multiplayer battleground where up to four players can dodge, duck, and team up in real time — no joysticks, just movement. The VR Arcade is a more traditional seated or standing experience with over 30 games ranging from "Half-Life: Alyx" to "Job Simulator" and "Beat Saber"-style rhythm titles. For puzzle lovers, the VR Escape Rooms drop you into richly detailed worlds like "Chernobyl," "Cyberpunk," and "Alice" where teamwork and quick thinking are the only way out. And for those who crave a good scare, the VR Haunted Houses deliver spine-chilling horror with titles like "House of Fear" and "Sanctum" that react to your every move. Each experience is built around personal playing areas, so whether you're solo or in a group of four, you get your own space to move, swing, and explore without bumping into anyone. The equipment is state-of-the-art, and the staff provides full instruction and support before you even put on the headset.

More Than a Game: What Makes This Place Tick

What sets The White Rabbit apart is the people. The owner, Ben, is frequently mentioned in reviews as being patient, kind, and genuinely invested in making sure every guest has a great time. First-timers are treated with extra care — the staff helps choose games based on comfort level, explains controls thoroughly, and even offers a $5 VR Teaser Experience for those who want to dip their toes in before committing to a longer session. The space itself is clean, well-maintained, and designed to feel welcoming rather than overwhelming. The venue is particularly well-suited for birthday parties, family outings, corporate team-building events, and special celebrations. The VIP Exclusive Experience lets you rent out the entire space for a private event — one hour for up to eight players with unlimited access to every game, guided by your own Game Master. A two-hour upgrade is also available for those who want to go deeper.

Built for Groups, Loved by Families

Whether it's a group of 11-year-old boys celebrating a birthday or a family gathering with multiple generations, The White Rabbit has proven to be a hit across age groups. The games are rated for ages 8 and up for most experiences, with the Haunted Houses recommended for ages 13 and older. Cooperative and competitive play options mean that both shy first-timers and seasoned VR veterans can find something to enjoy side by side. The staff is known for helping nervous players feel comfortable, suggesting gentler games for those who are anxious or prone to motion sickness. The venue also offers a traditional arcade setup alongside its VR offerings, giving guests even more ways to play. Walk-ins are welcome, though booking ahead is recommended — especially on weekends and holidays.

A Space to Gather and Celebrate

While the focus is squarely on the virtual worlds inside the headsets, the physical space at The White Rabbit is designed to accommodate groups comfortably. The VIP experience includes private access to the entire venue, making it a solid choice for celebrations where you want the place to yourselves. The mall location also means that food, drinks, and additional entertainment are just a short walk away — perfect for extending the outing before or after your VR session. The atmosphere is laid-back and unpretentious. This isn't a slick, corporate entertainment center — it's a local business run by people who genuinely love what they do, and that warmth comes through in every review and every interaction.