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Main Event Columbia restaurant in Columbia, MD
Photo: Main Event Columbia
View of Main Event Columbia in Columbia, MD
Photo: Vy H.
View of Main Event Columbia in Columbia, MD
Photo: Eron Cohen

Main Event Columbia

4.0(3,914 reviews)$$Entertainment
🕑 3-4 hours👶 Best for ages 5 and up. Elementary and middle school kids love the laser tag and arcade games, while tweens and teens enjoy the gravity ropes course challenge. Younger children (5-7) can participate in bowling with bumpers and easier arcade games, though the ropes course has height requirements.

About

Main Event Columbia is the ultimate indoor entertainment destination where families can experience bowling, laser tag, an extensive arcade, a thrilling gravity ropes course, and billiards all under one roof. With its diverse mix of activities and on-site dining, it's perfect for birthday parties, rainy day adventures, or weekend family fun that keeps kids entertained for hours.

Highlights

  • Multi-level laser tag arena with special effects and team competitions
  • Gravity ropes course with suspended challenge obstacles
  • 200+ arcade games with ticket redemption prizes
  • Cosmic bowling with black lights and music
  • Full restaurant and bar for parents to relax while kids play

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive when they open (11 AM weekdays, 9 AM Saturdays) to beat the crowds and have shorter wait times for popular attractions like laser tag and the ropes course
  2. 2.Purchase an all-you-can-play package online in advance for the best value if you're planning to do multiple activities
  3. 3.The gravity ropes course has height and weight restrictions, so check requirements before promising it to younger kids
  4. 4.Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes (required for ropes course and recommended for laser tag) and athletic clothing if your kids plan to try the gravity ropes
  5. 5.Book a party package even for small groups,it often includes reserved seating and game credits at a better rate than paying à la carte

Best Time to Visit

Weekday afternoons (11 AM - 3 PM) offer the smallest crowds and shortest wait times. Avoid Friday and Saturday evenings when teens and birthday parties dominate. Sunday mornings are also relatively quiet for families with younger children.

What to Know

Main Event offers full restaurant service with kid-friendly menu options including pizza, burgers, and appetizers. Activities are priced separately or available in bundled packages. The venue is fully accessible with wheelchair-friendly bowling lanes and accommodations.

Seasonal Notes

Indoor venue makes it perfect year-round, especially popular during hot Maryland summers and cold winter months. Great for spring break and holiday breaks when kids are out of school. Check their website for special holiday events and themed nights.

Nearby Eats

The Mall in Columbia is adjacent with numerous food court options including Chick-fil-A and Panera Bread. Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant is nearby for families wanting a sit-down meal with more variety.

More Activities Near Columbia

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Park

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Centennial Park is a spectacular 550-acre outdoor playground that offers something for every family member. With a designated lake swimming area, multiple hiking trails winding through woods and meadows, well-maintained playgrounds, and even a dog beach for four-legged family members, this expansive park is perfect for families who want to spend quality time outdoors without traveling far from Columbia.

Theater

Toby's Dinner Theatre

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Toby's Dinner Theatre offers a magical combination of Broadway-quality musicals and a full buffet meal, creating an unforgettable introduction to live theater for children. The intimate theater-in-the-round setup means kids are close to the action, keeping them engaged throughout the show while enjoying a delicious dinner,no need to juggle separate reservations!

Park

Blandair Regional Park West Playground

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Blandair Regional Park West Playground is a sprawling modern destination that goes far beyond your typical neighborhood park. With a spray playground for hot summer days, a dedicated skate park for adventurous kids, multiple sports fields, and an outdoor amphitheater hosting family-friendly performances, there's truly something for every member of the family to enjoy across all seasons.