Ever find yourself on a lazy Sunday evening, wondering where the weekend went? We’ve all been there, kids glued to screens, adults caught up in chores, and that itch for something exciting just waiting to be scratched.
At Holiday World Maspalomas, we’re all about unforgettable family adventures, from the exhilarating rides at Wooland to the brain-teasing fun of our escape rooms. But what if you could bring a sprinkle of that magic home?
Well, let us let you in on a secret: some of my family’s favourite memories started with a simple idea and a bit of imagination. We are talking about setting up your very own escape room right at home. Trust us, it’s not as tricky as it sounds, and the look on your kids’ faces when they crack a tough clue? Priceless. It’s the perfect way to warm up for your next visit to Holiday World, or keep the fun going once you’re back home!
So, if you’re ready to swap screen time for teamwork and laughter, grab a cuppa and let’s dive in. This is the guide we wish we’d had when we first started, packed with real-life tips and a few lessons learned the hard way!
How to make an escape room at home: Step-by-Step
Ever wanted to turn your home into an adventure? Honestly, it’s easier than you think and way more fun than just another movie night. After all, there’s nothing like seeing your family work together to crack a mystery, just like the teamwork you’ll need for some of Holiday World’s challenges! So, let’s get started with 6 simple steps that’ll help you create a DIY escape room everyone will love!
1. Pick a theme that suits your crew
Honestly, this is where the fun begins. Think about what gets your family buzzing. Are you a bunch of wannabe detectives, budding wizards, or maybe treasure hunters at heart, perhaps inspired by the many adventures you can find in Gran Canaria? Don’t overthink it, just go with what feels right.
Here are a few themes that have worked for us:
- The Pirate’s Treasure: Pretend you’ve stumbled upon Captain Blackbeard’s secret hideout. Your mission? Crack the codes and grab the loot before rival pirates show up!
- The Forgotten Potion: Imagine it’s the night before the big potions exam, and the recipe’s gone missing. Can you find it in the professor’s study before he returns?
- Jungle Rescue: Picture your family as explorers stranded in the Amazon. Fix the radio and send a distress signal before the storm hits!
2. Spin a simple story
Now, don’t worry about writing a novel. A quick story to set the scene is all you need. Here’s one we used recently:
«Attention, agents! Grandma’s secret cake recipe has been stolen and hidden somewhere in this very room. You’ve got to follow the clues, crack the codes, and find the recipe before the thief comes back. The future of family desserts is in your hands!»
Trust me, even the silliest story gets everyone in the spirit, just like the exciting narratives you find in Holiday World’s attractions.
3. Craft clues that fit your crew
Here’s where things can get tricky or hilarious. The key is to tailor the clues to your kids’ ages. What’s a fun challenge for a 12-year-old might stump a 7-year-old, and nobody wants tears before bedtime. Think of it like the different levels of fun at Holiday World Maspalomas, something for every age!
A few tips from our own adventures:
- Keep it age-appropriate: If you’ve got a mix of ages, set up parallel challenges. Maybe the older ones tackle a tricky code while the little ones hunt for red objects in the room.
- Make it flow: Plan how the clues connect. Nothing kills the mood like everyone staring blankly at each other, not sure what to do next.
- Get creative: Link each clue to your story. Spies get secret messages, pirates get treasure maps, and wizards get magical riddles.
4. Choose your adventure zone
You don’t need a mansion for this. Sometimes, a single room packed with clues is perfect. Other times, turning the whole house into a maze of mysteries is even more fun. Go with what feels right for your story and your space. While it’s not the sprawling fun of Holiday World’s amusement park, your home can be surprisingly adventurous!
5. Set the scene
You don’t need a Hollywood budget. A string of fairy lights, some spooky music from Spotify, and a few props from around the house can work wonders. We once used a frozen key in an ice cube as a clue, and the kids still talk about it! Just like the immersive theming at Holiday World, a few simple touches can make a big difference.
6. Keep everyone involved
If you’ve got kids of different ages, make sure everyone has a role. Maybe the little ones are on the lookout for hidden objects, while the older ones tackle the brain teasers. The goal? Make sure everyone feels like the hero of the story, fostering teamwork just like you would on a family day out at Holiday World.
FAQs
How long does setup take? The first time, give yourself a couple of hours and a strong coffee. It gets quicker each time, and honestly, it’s more fun than binge-watching the latest series.
How can I make the clues more creative? Use everyday stuff in unexpected ways. Hide a message in a pillowcase, write a clue on the last few sheets of toilet roll, or freeze a key in an ice cube. The sky’s the limit!
Wrapping Up
At the end of the day, it’s not really about the locks or the clues. It’s about watching your family work together, seeing the “aha!” moments, and making memories that’ll last a lifetime. Creating your own escape room at home is a fantastic way to bond, practice your problem-solving skills, and enjoy some quality time together.
And when you’re ready to take your adventure to the next level, or simply want a hassle-free day of thrilling fun, remember Holiday World Maspalomas in Gran Canaria! We offer incredible experiences for all ages, from our exciting escape rooms to thrilling rides and fantastic dining options. It’s the perfect family day out, where all the setup is done for you.
So, whether you’re crafting puzzles at home or exploring the wonders of our park, let the adventure begin! Plan your visit to Holiday World Maspalomas today and create even more unforgettable memories!