Activate Games

Activate Games

Reviews Summary

Overwhelmingly positive with an average near 5 stars. Customers praise the fun, interactive games suitable for all ages, often highlighting family outings, birthdays, and team-building. Staff are consistently described as friendly and helpful. Many note the physical challenge, calling it a "workout in disguise." Minor critiques mention occasional crowding or lobby issues, but these are rare. Repeat visits are frequently planned, with strong recommendations for group activities. The digital booking system and rotating games add to the appeal. A standout for both kids and adults seeking active entertainment.

About This Listing

Wheelchair Accessible

Who Can Play?

Most arcades welcome all ages (some may have age restrictions for certain games)
Minors may need parent/guardian supervision (policies vary by location)
No gaming experience required - games range from beginner to expert level
Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes recommended for safety
Valid ID may be required for certain attractions or age verification
Groups and parties welcome (advance booking may be required)

*Note: Age restrictions and policies may vary by arcade. Check with your local facility for specifics.*

First-Time Visitors

First-time visitors may need to sign a waiver or register for a game card. Staff are typically available to help explain games and provide tutorials. Some arcades offer newcomer specials or free play sessions to help you get started.

Common Restrictions:

Age-Based Some games may have height or age requirements for safety reasons
Capacity Popular games may have wait times during peak hours

*Note: Policies vary by arcade. Confirm with your local facility.*

What to Bring

Cash or card for tokens/credits (some arcades are cashless)
Valid ID for age verification or membership signup
Phone to capture high scores and memories (check photo policies)

*Note: Payment methods and requirements may differ by arcade.*

Preparing for Your Visit

Check arcade hours and peak times online before visiting
Eat beforehand or check if the arcade has food options
Bring friends for multiplayer games and competitions
Wear comfortable clothes you can move freely in
Avoid bringing valuable items that could be lost or damaged
Check for special events, tournaments, or discount days
Set a budget for games and stick to it
Stay hydrated, especially during long gaming sessions

*Note: Tips may vary by arcade type and location.*

How to Get Started

Most arcades accept walk-ins, but call ahead during busy periods or for large groups. Check for membership deals!

Other Helpful Info

Most visits last 1-3 hours depending on games and group size
Popular games may have longer wait times during weekends and evenings
Many arcades offer unlimited play packages or time-based pricing
Some locations host tournaments and special events regularly
Prize redemption available at many arcades - save your tickets!

*Note: Policies, pricing, and features differ by arcade. Contact your local facility for details.*

Features

Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

1425 Montgomery Hwy # 173

Vestavia Hills, Alabama 35216

Hours

Monday 10AM-10PM
Tuesday 10AM-10PM
Wednesday 10AM-10PM
Thursday 10AM-10PM
Friday 10AM-11PM
Saturday 10AM-11PM
Sunday 10AM-10PM

Customer Reviews

We had the whole place to ourselves and it was AMAZING!! We were able to play the games at least 100 times and the Grid, the laser, the hoops, the control and memory board were our favorite ones. This was pure family fun and going on a busy day would not be an option after being spoiled with unlimited games and no waiting. The reason why that's important is because your time runs out even if you are waiting for a game room. We went at 10am on a Thursday and our entire time was maximized to the full. Oh and

We stopped in on a Saturday for a birthday party. It was very crowded. So it was a little hectic maneuvering through the crowds. The games were timed and only gave literal seconds for you to leave each room. It was a nice experience for what it was. We will be back. The staff were extremely pleasant but very busy.

Games are really fun. I took my 8 year old nephew. He had a blast.

Site wasn't working so I called them I had to call back to change the reservation. They were so friendly and helpful. Boys had an AMAZING time! Lobby space is tight around registration tablets and lockers. Seating is fabric and needs to be replaced ASAP. A few benches outside would be cool if landlord would allow it.

We had an absolute blast at Activate Games! It was me, Brycen, and Sydney ? and let me tell you, it was amazing! The games were super interactive, challenging, and full of energy. We were running, jumping, solving puzzles, and working as a team the whole time. It definitely doubled as a workout, but in the best way ? you're having so much fun, you don't even realize you're breaking a sweat. Such a unique experience for both kids and adults. We'll definitely be back!

I took my kids and grandkids (our ages are 10-13-16-33-34-35-37-67) and it was a blast! All of us had fun; there are so many variety of games and each game had varieties to choose from. The price is exceptional for the time you get to play. Will definitely be going back! And yes, I am the 68 year old who crawled on my hands and knees several times doing the lasers; shot hoops; threw balls at asteroids; ran around on tiles; jumped up and down--it was a blast! Very unique experience. Staff were awesome.

My husband and I had a fantastic time during our first visit, which is why we were excited to return and bring our three boys along this time. They were thoroughly enjoying themselves until an unfortunate interaction with one of your associates dampened our experience. As we were leaving one of the hoops rooms, an associate approached us and stated, "On this game, you cannot throw the ball at the screen; you have to throw it in the basket." This caught our whole family off guard because none of us had inte

My crew had a BLAST at Activate! They were so generous and willing to accommodate our group. The games were fun and engaging. The place was clean & the staff members were helpful, always with a smile on their faces. We'll be back!

Our family loves Activate. Booking is easy online and the staff is always helpful during the check-in/check-out process. I love that everything is digital and that the games available in each room change/rotate from visit to visit. The kids and the adults had a wonderful time as there are different skill levels and games available to fit every age group and willingness to use your brain while you're playing. Activate is something my kids ask for regularly when given an option to pick a funtivity for the fam

First of all, I love this place and my family and friends love coming here. It has become a favorite game night activity spot. However, the elephant in the room must be addressed. During the weekend, there are a lot kids under the age of 12 being left unaccompanied by adults. The staff does their best to manage the chaos that the feral children cause but a policy change by the owners needs to be seriously considered. I have seen the kids ?split up? to sign into a bunch of different games at once, then ra

Took my 13 year old and her friends for her birthday. They had a ball!! they loved the games and the staff was friendly and helpful. We will definitely go back!

I first went to Activate last summer when we booked a corporate team building event there. It was such a nice change up from other team building places in the area and everyone had a blast. It was so much fun that I knew I had to bring my niece and nephew back for the fun and they were instantly hooked and obsessed after one time. It's now become a favorite place for us to go and they love the mega grid, laser and basketball rooms. There is something for everyone but come prepared for a workout and to leave

If you love interactive, cooperative, or competitive games and haven't heard about this place, you're missing out. Put on your game face, some active wear and bring it!. We went to celebrate my bestie birthday and it was a lot of fun. I'm very competitive, so I cleaned up a few times.????????

Took my son here for his 8th birthday along with my 20 year old nephews, my sister, and 16 year old niece. Literally every single person, myself included, had an amazing time. I've never felt like I actually get my moneys worth when going to places like this until now. I have zero things to complain about or that I wasn't them to change. Loved it all

I had a super fun time!! I went with my roommate who has epilepsy and staff was super accommodating and made sure it was safe before we played. We had a blast! Huge shout out to Jamie and Wesley, they both helped make our night.

Saturday, July 27, 2024 This is so much fun!!! There were teens and adults. I went with my group of adult friends, and I can't wait to go back!!! There are many rooms to choose from and yes you have to wait(not too long though). 3-5 in a group for the game rooms. We did have to split our group of 9 up when it came time to play games but you can mix your big group up. I can't decide which was my favorite game. I really liked Hide, Laser, [Mega]Grid. I also liked the hoops. They have an area in the back w

I absolutely loved going to Activate!! I enjoyed being there and getting to experience it. It was mine and my boyfriend?s first time. We loved it!! If you're looking to go somewhere for date night or a family outing; activate, is the place to go!!

Absolute TERRIBLE experience. It seems Activate in Vestiva Hills becomes an unsupervised drop off daycare facility after a certain time. They were tearing things up, playing on MY time card, refusing to leave the game after my card was scanned!! We deserve our minutes back or a full refund since we couldn't play due to the 20 unsupervised children refusing to exit the game! No parents in sight!! I do not recommend going on a weekend or after 4pm.. there needs to be better management.

Fun place for the family! My wife and I came (without the kids) we had a blast! I know for sure our kids will enjoy this next time.

We had the best time! Felt like we were in a video game and we got a lot of exercise! Joe was a great help!

I have been here twice now and my friends/family and I have had such great experiences both times. The people working have been super helpful and friendly. It wasn't crazy expensive. The games are all so interactive and fun. I will say it is also a workout.. both times we have left sweating, out of breath and red faced?? I absolutely recommend this for everybody. It's fun for kids and adults and I can guarantee a great time. Believe me when I say this place is WORTH the experience!

We LOVED Activate !!! I took my 11 year old for his birthday. We had the BEST time ! We will be back. I would love for you to bring this to Tuscaloosa !!!

This was such a fun experience!! I took my little sister there for her birthday just me and her- and we had a blast! There's so many different games that you can always find something that tickles your fancy. The staff was also super helpful and friendly! Especially our main game host, Jamie! Will definitely be booking more games in the future!!

Really great experience with a group. Make sure your knees and oxygen levels are prepared before you enter. Wear comfortable clothes.

We had a fantastic experience at activate. The games were varied. The entire design makes jumping from room to room fun instead of frustrating. We never felt like we had to wait for long to get into another game room if someone else queued into the room we were in.. The staff were friendly, informative, and well trained. We'll absolutely be booking more time at Activate in the future.

Approx $22 a person on weekdays $26 a person on weekends. We went on a Monday around 5. Made an online appointment. Check in process was fast and staff was great. Complimentary locker came with ticket price. Time flew by and our group of friends had a blast. I was shocked to see how empty it was. Has a point reward system to bring you back. Place was super clean. If you love to be more active and looking for a little bit of a challenge this is a must try. Your ticket includes an hour and 15 min of time. It

Super clean! Super fun! Super awesome place to take the family! Thank you Activate team!

Great place to enjoy indoor games with the kids and I am only taking one star off due to too many people allowed in the game area. The staff were friendly and took reserved times to enter the area, it would be a better experience if they allowed fewer people in the area since your time is limited. We spent as much time waiting to play a game as we did play. I still recommend this to anyone wanting to play an active style game with their kids or friends, just pick a less busy time.

Sooo much fun!! I'm in my late 20?s and it still felt age appropriate. Super unique and organized. Will 100% be returning!

This is the best. My kids have so much fun!!! It's a good workout to.

This was alot of fun for me & the kids(teenagers). It was more difficult for my 11 year old son to keep up but he still had fun. My only recommendation would be if they would sell bottled water because you definitely need it because the games are a workout.

100018383828/10 VERY fun highly recommend so many different games and the staff was really nice too!! overall if your thinking of going STOP reading this and GO!!!!

So much fun! A great time with the family doing a physical activity in a cooled space. We had a party of 4 and went on a Wednesday. We only waited 1 or 2 times to get in a game room. The set up makes it so easy to move from room to room quickly, with little wait times and lots of action. The tech they use to is amazing and makes everything so easy. You can get a locker for your stuff for free. We will definitely be back.

I wasn't clear what this place was from the website, but this was way more fun than I expected! There are several different rooms with their own activity, which can range from pitching, shooting, or actively moving to accomplish a task. Make sure to make your reservation online before you go and be prepared to spend time filling out waivers first. 10/10 would recommend!

The most fun I've had in AGES!! So nostalgic.. and yes.. IT CAN BE A WORK OUT LOL The staff were very friendly...Our host Torrence was fantastic with showing us around... Very knowledgeable of the games and everything! 10/10 I'D DEFINITELY RECOMMEND! With so many side games I'm definitely looking forward to coming back!

We went for my grandson's birthday and had a blast. It's a workout without working out!!!! This place is tons of fun...

Boy did my family have fun here! This place is truly fun for the entire family. My son who is a gamer was so impressed. The different rooms kept his attention. We can't wait to come back here!

My wife and I had a great time here! Can't wait to go back and do some of the games we didn't get a chance to play!

This place was so much fun. We are nearly 40 yo and thought this might be more for kids, but no. This was challenging and so much fun. Come with athletic wear and tennis shoes. Dress light- you will get sweaty. This is definitely a fun group date night. Each game will take up to 5 players. GO!!

We had a blast!!! Lots of fun games to choose from (but try them all) we booked ahead and everything else was a breeze. We will definitely be back very soon!!! Highly recommend as a date night or even a team building exercise!!!

Such a fun place! My kids (ages 8 to 17) loved it and cant wait to return!! Its similar to an arcade, but you are physically playing each game (throwing balls, dodging lasers, stepping on/over moving colored tiles).

I brought a group of students for a team building field trip and it was fantastic! They all had so much fun and really did grow closer as a team. They all told me that it was the best field trip that they had ever had. I highly recommend this!

Had a great first experience! Josh at the front desk was very enthusiastic and polite. Will definitely return soon!

This place is awesome! The larger group you come with, the better. Would not recommend for anyone under the age of 12 as the majority of the games they wouldn't be able to play. But definitely hours of fun! You will be challenged physically and forced to think strategically. You will definitely discover your strengths and weaknesses and really bond with whomever you go with!

First time going with my nieces and we had a blast! Everything was easy to book and once we got there it was easy breezy. I'd definitely recommend it was fun for all age groups as well. I'm 33 and had a blast with my 13 & 22 yr old nieces lol wish it was 2 hrs but I'd probably be out of breath haha

Activate games was great! So much fun. The staff were very helpful especially Rollins and Joe

First time visitors with my family. Had a great time and would highly recommend to all families.

Activate was a team building activity with my staff. I enjoyed the experience thoroughly. The price was VERY affordable. The Staff was OUTSTANDING!!! They explained everything I needed to know. I'm competitive, so once I realized where I placed on the leader board, I was ready to compete. Lastly, adhere to the times when u purchase your wristlet. once you complete all the activities, I promise (unless you are a kids) that's all the time you will need. It's very interactive. I was so tired. I haven't worked

Me and my best friend decided last minute to try something new this summer and we came across Activate on a Facebook post. It was super easy to book (we did it the night before). It was SO fun, they had so many game options and it made me feel like I was working out my brain and body ?? We were nervous at first because we had never been to anything like this before, but the staff was so friendly and patient with us. We felt so comfortable and just had an all around amazing experience. We've decided we're go

Cool concept for a fun, interactive gaming experience! Make sure to wear your workout clothes and sturdy shoes, because this is a full body interactive game. There are different levels and game styles, so there is something for everyone. You get a wrist band that tracks your progress through every game room, and you have 75min of play time per visit. I had a blast and would definitely recommend anyone come visit!

My daughter and I absolutely love it! Next time we will definitely be bringing a bigger group! We went on a Saturday with a scheduled time for 12:30pm-by the time we were leaving it was getting kind of busy so I would suggest maybe going around that time or earlier to avoid waiting in line for the rooms to play the games. We really didn't have to wait much and the waits aren't that long- 1 to 3 min top! This is fun for adults and kids! We will definitely be back!

This place is awesome! Fantastic games and so much fun. Great Double date option or just a night with friends and family!

My 9 year old and I went just the two of us for his birthday a few days ago. We had never been and weren't sure what to expect, but we got full instructions from the attentive staff, and had the time of our lives. The facility was clean, staff was helpful, the games were a blast. It was a holiday so it was crowded, which is to be expected, but because the games are so fast paced, we never had to wait very long. My son told me over and over how much fun he had!

A great workout. As a non-execiser, I was very stiff the next day. For those like me, definitely do some good stretches before starting & take an anti-inflammatory. Trust me. Super fun experience with the family. I could see this being an awesome birthday venue.

We took our church youth group and they had a great time! The staff was professional and helpful. Highly recommend!

Very different date night experience in Birmingham--and so much fun! Went on Valentine's Day with my husband and we had a blast! The staff was very thorough and nice. We didn't spend much time at all waiting on any of the game rooms. Can't wait to come back for more date nights!

First timer at Activate and I definitely recommend. You can have larger parties or ones as small as 2 participants. The atmosphere was clean, staff was friendly, the games were engaging mentally and physically; I'll for sure be returning. If you're looking for something interactive to do with friends and/or family at a reasonable cost, this is definitely the place to be????

My fiancee and I came here 2 days ago and had the time of our lives. This, by far, is a great place for all ages. I would highly recommend anyone checking this establishment out. It's fun and can be competitive as well. No fighting, all fun.. Check it out, everyone!!

Went for the first time last time. As soon as you walk in you are greeted. Staff are very friendly, helpful, and overall nice. Even though it's only been open for a week, it wasn't crowded at all. I know it's not going to stay this way for long, but I enjoyed not having to wait to enter into the rooms. Loved that the rooms have places to put your phone to make videos. I made so many videos and played so many games. 75 minutes is enough time for fun. Will be going back.

I tried it one night with my daughter and we had a ball!!!! The staff were super helpful and friendly. Loved everything about this experience. We will definitely be returning. Heads up, it's definitely like a workout so be ready!! Loved this!!!

This was so much fun! Joe and all the staff were just awesome! Will def be back!! Fun for adults and kids!! Yay!!!

Exciting place, a lot of fun and offer different levels of challenges. Designed for all levels of fitness.

My son and his friends went to Activate to celebrate his birthday. They had a great time and plan to go back soon! A lot of fun and very well organized!

It is such a great place for family and friends. My best friend and I come every time she is in town.

Up to 5 players per team. Great for all ages. Locker rental is free. These are video games that you play like a physical challenge, such as shooting basketballs to answer trivia, or throwing small balls at asteroids on a screen, or ducking and jumping over lasers. The only set back is that there are no refreshments. Just a water fountain. You can always walk next door, but your 75 minute session starts as soon as you pay.

This place was so much fun for our family! My doctors have been telling me to become more active and this was a perfect place to do it. I was with the people I love, having fun and being active at the same time. I need a membership to this place! Love it. 1000 out 10!???? The staff was also super nice and helpful!

I love this place!! Me and my boyfriend just had the best time of our lives here. I highly recommend spending some time here. Jamie was so awesome to us! ??

Highly recommend Activate Birmingham! My wife and I took our daughter and her best friend, and all 4 of us had a blast. The employees were kind, helpful, and made sure we understood how to transition between the games. Check-in was quick, and the facility was clean. We can't wait to go back again!

We had an absolutely awesome time celebrating my bday at Activate-Bham, AL. From the greeting as we walked in to the exit out, everything was awesome!! Definitely will return with the kids and another adult fun day out.

Took 3 teenage boys. It was fun and tiring at the same time. You will get a workout playing these games. We went on a Sunday @ 12:45 and it was not crowded. We were able to play each room without having to wait

This is a blast! Fantastic fun and a heck of a workout.

My group had so much fun! The staff were extremely nice & helpful! We will for sure be coming back!

I brought my 4 Grandchildren ages 9, 12(2) and 17. We had a great time playing the games together. Great family time. They all loved it!

Fun for everyone! Went with a group of friends and we had a blast. The laser room was our favorite!

My wife and I have been 2 times in one month. It has been so fun and challenging. Great to have someone ready for the fun challenges...love this place . Always reserve your slot because it stays packed

AMAZING!! Such a smooth process to the checking in and understanding the games. Never felt like we were waiting too long for one game. You can even go inside most of the games with your kids and help them understand. Some are floor activated and harder to do that with. So much fun well worth the money. Will go back.

Awesome experience! This was such a unique place to visit, and the time flew by. It seems appropriate for all ages, there were a mix of families with young children to college students and older adults without kids. This was a great outing for a date night!

Really fun way to get a workout. Jamie really cool and fun to be with when playing and helping around. Would recommend, and might go again one day. :)

Extremely fun! Staff was also great- one of the staff members, Rollins, was right there to explain the different aspects of the games whenever we needed

Had a great time! Very interactive games. Something fun to do on the weekend with friends or family.

Absolutely loved this place. If you are looking to have a fun time and sweat a little. This is the place. I brought a group of 5 and we had a great time. And was wore out afterwards?

Fun, but I found an employees vape in one of the rooms, imagine some little kid found it before me.

it was super fun. i have a hard time getting along with my cousin, but here it was like all of our issues just went away. it was so entertaining with endless things to do!

This was great double date spot for us and it was so much fun, the staff was very friendly and informative. Its a must to try!!!

We had an absolute blast ! Five of us did girls night celebrating my sister?s 31st birthday and we had the most fun ever . We are already planning our next trip !

The kids and I loved it. We had an awesome time. My daughters both already asked could we go back on their birthday in February. They said it was so fun.

SO MUCH FUN! Be prepared, you'll be running around and sweating so dress accordingly! They have water fountains for breaks in between games and PLENTY of game rooms to choose from! My new favorite thing to do in bham!

Our group had a great time at Activate yesterday! The staff was so friendly and helpful and all of the games were a lot of fun! I highly recommend it. We are already looking forward to going back!

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s it like visiting an arcade today?

It’s a mix of nostalgia and high-energy fun! Many arcades blend retro classics like Pac-Man and pinball with modern VR games, racing simulators, and rhythm challenges — often with music, lights, and a social vibe.

Is it better to go alone or with friends?

Both can be great! Solo visits let you focus on your favorite games, while going with friends adds competition, teamwork, and laughs. Many people plan arcade meetups as a casual hangout or even date spot.

What should I bring to an arcade?

Usually just yourself and a way to pay (some arcades still use coins, others use cards or apps). If you're competitive, bring your A-game. If you're social, bring friends or meet new ones over multiplayer games.

What’s the best time to visit an arcade?

Weekdays or early afternoons are usually less crowded — perfect for focused play. Evenings and weekends bring the buzz, especially at barcades or venues with DJs, tournaments, or themed nights.

Can I meet new people at arcades?

Absolutely! Arcades attract a mix of casual players and serious gamers. Whether you're jumping into a four-player co-op or chatting between rounds, it's a fun, low-pressure way to connect over shared interests.

Are arcades still just for kids?

Not at all. While many arcades are family-friendly, there are also adult-oriented ones with full bars, 18+ nights, or vintage nostalgia themes. Arcades today cater to everyone — from first-timers to lifelong gamers.

Are there events or tournaments I can join?

Yes! Many arcades host regular competitions, retro nights, cosplay parties, and more. Whether you're into high scores or just want to watch and vibe, events add an extra layer to the experience.

What if I’m not great at arcade games?

No worries — arcades are about having fun, not being perfect. Try a variety of games, ask others for tips, and remember: the vibe is more “let’s play” than “let’s win.”