Written by

Tamatha Hazen

September 11, 2024

Edited by

Kristen Cramer

Fact-checked by

Tara Farmer

Average escape room cost

An escape room costs $30 to $40 per person on average, depending on the location, group size, and booking day and time. Escape room prices are highest in major cities and tourist destinations, for small groups of 1 to 2 players, and during peak hours and weekends.

Escape room prices

Escape room prices can vary depending on the place and time you choose. Most places charge $30 to $40 per person, but some high-end experiences can cost more. The table below shows the prices for popular escape room providers.

Escape room cost factors

Compared to other forms of entertainment, like theme parks and sporting events, the unique, immersive experience of an escape room offers good value for the money. However, not all escape rooms are created equal, and prices vary depending on several factors:

• Location: Escape rooms in major cities or tourist destinations are often more expensive than those in smaller markets.

• Room complexity & quality: Escape rooms with more elaborate, high-quality setups tend to have higher pricing compared to cheap escape rooms with simpler décor and puzzles.

• Duration: Longer experiences lasting 90 minutes or more are priced higher than standard 60-minute rooms or shorter 30- to 45-minute escape rooms.

• Group size: Many escape rooms offer discounts for larger groups, especially for private bookings. Smaller groups may pay a higher per-person rate.

• Weekday vs. weekend: Rates often increase on weekends, when groups of friends are more likely to book. Discounts are common during slow weekday periods.

• Party packages: Many places offer party packages for birthdays and other celebrations that include private room rental and food/drink options.

• Corporate events: Escape rooms are ideal for corporate team building, client entertainment, and other business-focused events. The pricing may be higher than standard public bookings, to account for the customized experience and amenities.

• Late policies & cancellations: Escape rooms often have late fees for missed schedules and cancellation charges to recover lost revenue. Be sure to review their policy before booking, as fees can range from a flat rate to the full cost depending on how late you are or when you cancel.

Ways to save money on an escape room

Here are some money-saving strategies to save on the cost of an escape room:

• Gather a bigger group: Escape room prices are usually per person, and often, the more people you bring, the lower the cost will be for each player.

• Look for deals and discounts: Many escape rooms offer discounts for student groups, military personnel, or seniors. You can also find deals and coupons online or through discount websites like Groupon or LivingSocial.

• Play during off-peak hours: Escape rooms are typically more expensive during peak hours, such as weekends and evenings. If you're flexible with your schedule, consider booking your escape room experience during the week or earlier in the day.

• Join a shared game: Some escape rooms offer public or shared games where you are paired up with other players to form a team. This can be a great way to save money, as you won't have to pay for the entire room yourself.

• Look for online or at-home escapes: There are a few companies that offer online or at-home escape rooms in a box. While not quite the same as a physical escape room, they can still be a fun and challenging way to test your puzzle-solving skills.

• Create a DIY escape room: You can even create your own escape room experience at home using free online resources and printables.

What to expect from an escape room

Escape rooms offer a unique, themed, and collaborative puzzle-solving experience that challenges participants to work together to “escape” in time. You can expect:

• Immersive themed environments: Escape rooms are designed to transport you into a themed setting, like a prison, western saloon, or secret laboratory. The rooms are often elaborately decorated with props, décor, and interactive elements to create an immersive experience.

• Puzzle-solving challenges: The core of an escape room is solving a series of puzzles, riddles, and challenges. This can include finding hidden clues, cracking codes, and using logic and teamwork to progress through the game.

• Collaborative team experience: Escape rooms are designed for groups of 2 to 8 players who must work together to solve challenges. Teamwork and communication are key!

• Varying difficulty levels: Most places rate their games based on difficulty with varying levels:

  • Beginner games are more straightforward with basic locks and hidden objects.

  • Intermediate games offer more challenge, with combination locks, thematic elements, and the need to think creatively.

  • Advanced games are for seasoned players, with complex puzzles, elaborate storylines, and intricate mechanisms. These games are sometimes longer and require better problem-solving skills and teamwork.

Escape room tips

Escape rooms are designed to be fun, but for the most competitive among us, they are also an opportunity to test your problem-solving skills. These tips can help your team work together and improve your chances of escaping in time:

• Identify what the “lock” or solution is looking for, whether it is a number code, letters, or colors. This will help you focus on relevant clues.

• Look for patterns and connections. Carefully observe the room for any repeated elements, symbols, or logical relationships between objects.

• Discuss findings with your team and build off each other’s ideas. Teams may find it helpful to designate roles to ensure all puzzles are thoroughly examined and everyone is included.

• Use hints strategically. Try to solve as much as possible on your own but don’t be afraid to ask for hints, as they can keep you from wasting time.

• Don’t get stuck on one puzzle. There may be other clues or solutions you need first to solve it.

• Once you've solved a puzzle, make sure to thoroughly inspect any containers, compartments, or new areas it unlocks. There are usually clues or items you’ll need for the next challenge.

Escape room FAQs

What is an escape room?

An escape room is an immersive puzzle experience where you and your team are “locked” in a themed room. You work together to find clues, solve puzzles, or complete challenges within a time limit to “escape” the room. But don’t worry, you are not literally locked in and unable to leave.

How long does an escape room take?

Most escape rooms last 60 minutes. The game ends when you solve the final puzzle and “escape” or when time runs out. Some kid-friendly rooms are shorter 30- to 45-minute experiences. More elaborate and challenging games maybe 90 minutes long, but those tend to cost more.

Are escape rooms suitable for all ages and abilities?

Escape rooms may not suit all ages or abilities. The puzzles can be quite challenging, and some rooms have physical limitations or scary themes, often restricting access to ages 10 and up. However, family-friendly options and adjustable difficulty levels exist. Discuss any accessibility needs with the venue beforehand for the best experience.

What should I wear to an escape room?

Escape rooms are all about having fun, so dress for comfort! You may find yourself crawling on the floor looking for clues, so wear clothes that allow you to move freely. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are also a good idea for safety. For an extra dose of fun, consider dressing up to match the room’s theme.