What’s the Deal with Activate?

Photo credits: https://playactivate.com/birmingham

Finding a hangout spot with friends that promises to keep you engaged and active can be a challenge. Of course, there’s always the Vestavia Bowling Alley, which consistently proves favorable for casual meet ups, and the classic Dave and Busters, which serves as the perfect venue for combining arcade games with a sports-style setting. However, in case neither of those options appeal, I invite you to consider one of the newest additions to Birmingham’s selection of fun, indoor establishments: Activate. 

Originally founded in 2019, this highly praised gaming facility has since expanded throughout North America, with over 20 sites across the U.S. and Canada. Most recently, in December of 2023, Birmingham, Alabama became one of those select locations. Nestled within the Park South Plaza shopping center, which also happens to be home to some local favorites like Diplomat Deli and Tazikis, Activate’s close proximity represents just one of its many appeals. The establishment is also relatively affordable and worth every penny.

Photo credits: https://www.facebook.com/activateburlington/

Activate offers a variety of both physical and mental challenges to keep you and your friends occupied and entertained. If you’re a fan of laser tag, basketball, strategy games, obstacle courses, bright lights, and short wait times, then come check it out. All you have to do is reserve a time to come in, and then go through a quick check-in process once you arrive. In that time, you will also receive an electronic wristband that serves as the tracker for your gaming progress. This tracker ultimately determines your ranking on the Activate leaderboard, which is displayed within the central gaming room. 

Once you’re all set up and ready to start playing, the rest of your experience is yours to determine. If you’re looking for a more casual night out, Activate’s got you covered. Each of their high quality game rooms provides a range of intensity settings, allowing you to take it easy and have fun without all of the stress and competition if that’s what you prefer. If you’re looking for something more challenging though, then choosing a more high speed game might be best. Besides, not only do the games at Activate allow you to choose between a multitude of different types and whether or not you favor an easy challenge or a hard one, they also offer numerous levels within each game that you unlock as you continue to play. 

And don’t worry about having to start all over again when you leave because Activate keeps up with your progress and saves it for when you come back again. So come try it out if interactive game rooms interest you and find that Activate offers something fun for everyone.