u/Acrobatic_Wolf_1325

Most people can name local icons like R.L. Stine or Jack Nicklaus, but in the 1920s, the most famous man on the planet was a kid from Columbus named Howard Thurston.

His obsession started right here in 1876. When he was just 7 years old, he watched the legendary Alexander Herrmann perform at the Grand Opera House on High St., and it changed his life forever. He eventually ran away at 13 to follow that dream, eventually becoming the world’s leading illusionist.

When he was at the height of his fame, he would return to the city as a conquering hero to perform his "Wonder Show of the Universe" at the Hartman Theater (which used to stand at State and Third). His shows were so massive they required dedicated train cars just to haul the illusions and animals into downtown.

I’ve been fascinated by his story since I stumbled upon Thurston for an escape room project I was researching back in 2023. It struck me as odd that there isn't a major landmark for a guy who quite literally "made magic" for the world. (At least I don't know of one unless we consider his entombment at Columbus' Green Lawn Abbey mausoleum.) Howard Thurston's story inspired me to create an immersive experience on Gay St. designed to feel like the 1920s world he lived in (Magician's Secret).

Does anyone else have some great stories from Columbus' history? I’m looking for more stories about the old theaters or forgotten local legends. I'm sure our city has a wild history hidden in plain sight, and I’d love to hear what else you've found.

This may shake the hornets' nest for some, but I am for the kids.

Every owner and GM has a different philosophy on this, and I’m curious where the community stands today. As a builder, I've relaxed on this old rule. Here we go...

Should kids be allowed to play escape rooms? And if so, what is the "ideal" minimum age?

It would seem that 12 years of age is the common cutoff, but I've seen some 12-year-olds struggle and some 9-year-olds have amazingly quick puzzle solves.

For parents, escape rooms are a fantastic way to teach kids teamwork and logic. (I allow kids to play with the adults without too much concern about their ages. Kids are smart.)

For owners, the worry of a maintenance nightmare created by kids breaking things. (I now consider this old thinking with more players, in general, understanding not to disassemble or destroy escape room props. Plus us builders have gotten better at building things that can withstand the demands of high and hard usage. Some of the worst damage has come from drunken guests or ignoramai.)

For the Owners: Do you have a hard age limit? Do you require a private booking for groups with kids, or do you have a "family-friendly" version of your rooms?

For the GMs: What’s the biggest challenge (or the most surprising win) you’ve had while running a room for a younger group?

For the Players: Does it bother you if a venue is able to accommodate kids or are you fine with kids being able to play the same games (maybe just not with you)?