I knew going into the planning, that we’d need to go big to properly celebrate our kid’s big double-digit birthday – I mean, it’s ten! TEN! So what better place in Richmond to take a pack of boys and girls of all ages for BIG fun, but Peak Experiences Indoor Climbing Center? Some of the families had never been to the facility, so I was excited to introduce them to one of our favorite spots in RVA.
A key ingredient in a successful kid’s birthday party (at least for the parents) is ease of planning. The team at Peak has this in mind and helped with every part of the party. The party includes an hour and a half of climbing time, followed by a half hour of party time on their cool mezzanine overlooking the climbing gym. When we arrived at Peak, the staff made sure every climber had a waiver on file (I had sent the link to parents ahead of time), then harnessed and helmeted the climbers and went over the rules. There is friendly and experienced Peak staffer for every five climbers, and I’m telling you, it’s the safest activity kids (and grown-ups) can do that feels death-defying. After the party, one parent texted me and said, “Wow! What a confidence-builder! Thank you!”
There are a variety of climbing walls available, from the smaller scale to the fifty-foot monster wall. The older kids tackled the taller walls, while the younger siblings had a blast on the smaller walls. Hanging ladder races were a favorite, too, which are positioned right in the middle of the rock wall action.
When we finished climbing and headed back up to the mezzanine, the staff at Peak had tables all draped with tablecloths, balloons tied around the tables, and cool Peak party favors at every seat. If you’d rather bring your own decorations, or add to theirs, they’re fine with that, too.
For food, Peak has a full size refrigerator and freezer available to keep drinks, cake, and ice cream cold. They have pizza deal with Papa John’s, and will order it, cover the delivery fee and tip, and make sure it’s hot and ready when the group finishes climbing. Cost is $11 (plus tax) for a large 1-topping pizza. All we had to do was give our order to the supervisor on duty when we arrived – easy as pie. They have even partnered with a local baker for your cake or cupcakes that can be delivered to Peak and ready for you when you arrive (but here’s my insider’s tip – there’s a Sugar Shack right down the street, and making a donut tower is a HUGE hit with the kids!). To finish off the “easy party package,” let one of Peak’s contracted professional photographers capture every exciting moment of the party, so you don’t have to.
It’s tough to find a party that appeals to boys and girls of all ages. This one hit the nail on the head. Our party at Peak Experiences Rock Climbing Center was turnkey, thrilling, and most of all – FUN for all!
(Margaret received a complimentary trial of this service in exchange for sharing her thoughts with RFM readers.)
