What’s that? You say Spring Break is still weeks away and you can’t possibly play another riveting game of Memory or imitate farm animal sounds for one more second? Strap your cherubs into the back seat and make the drive out to Ashburn, Va. to spend a few hours at The Zone—NoVa’s answer to Dave & Buster’s (for adults and kids).
The Space
Located on the ground level of a mixed-use building (BLVD-Loudoun Station apartments tower above), The Zone boasts 17,500 square feet of entertainment and dining space, including five private party suites that can be reserved for birthdays, showers and holiday shindigs. Both the bar and restaurant are equipped with TVs that can, upon request, connect to one of the many video cameras on site so you can watch your older daredevils give the bowling bumpers a run for their money while you sneak in a plate of fries.
The Fun
The Zone bills itself as “Limitless Fun for Everyone” and it certainly delivers: cosmic bowling, laser tag in a Mayan jungle, and 37 blinking, buzzing arcade games mean you may be dizzy upon exit, but your kids will surely never complain that they’re understimulated.
The Food
Should anyone get the munchies after piloting the flight simulator or outscoring everyone in a game of NBA Hoops, grab a snack or a full meal in the restaurant—or, weather permitting, on the patio snuggled up to one of the many standing heaters. While there’s plenty of the typical arcade fare (burgers, wings, and French fries), you can also order lime ceviche, chicken tikka skewers, or one of The Zone’s seven artisan pizzas. Vegetarians also have plenty of options, including a hummus sandwich and a spattering of drool-inducing salads.
And Another Thing…
Be sure to check their online calendar for daily specials, such as a “free” burger (with the purchase of a $10 Game Card), half-price bottles of wine, and half-price arcade games). Red Tricycle parents who mention promo code “XY43100” (expires September 1, 2015) at the welcome counter will receive one free game of laser tag (a $9 value). Also be sure to have Kenny Loggins primed and ready to go on your car stereo for the ride home, because your lil’ tykes will be too tired to make fun of your front-seat dance party.
The Zone
43811 Central Station Dr., Ste. 100 (Ashburn, Va)
703-724-9663
Online: thezoneusa.com
Have you checked out The Zone yet? Tell us about your trip in the Comments section below.
—Katie Brown
Photo: The Zone via Facebook
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