the mommy avenger

If you know me, you know I’m always on the lookout for unique experiences that bring the family together. As someone who has tried her fair share of escape rooms, it takes something extra special to land a spot as one of my absolute favorites. Enter Raider’s Revenge at Alcatraz Escape Games in Draper, Utah—this escape room was an epic, pulse-pounding adventure from start to finish.

You could be a seasoned puzzler or a total novice–Raider’s Revenge delivers on every level: creativity, immersion, and sheer fun. The moment we stepped into the room, it was as if we had been transported into the heart of an action-packed treasure hunt. From the intricately designed sets to the clever puzzles that demanded teamwork and brainpower, the experience was pure magic.

Raider’s Revenge is not your average escape room. This is a multi-layered, story-driven experience that pulls you into the role of an adventurer on the hunt for a legendary artifact. You know I love all things ’80’s and this escape room had us feeling like we were in an Indiana Jones movie–we loved it! The challenges were engaging without feeling impossible, and I loved that every member of our group—adults and teens alike—was able to contribute something valuable. It wasn’t just about solving puzzles; it was about collaborating, strategizing, and cheering each other on as we cracked codes and pieced together clues.

There were moments when we were stumped (those brain-benders don’t solve themselves!), but the design of the room subtly guided us back on track without giving anything away outright. I’m convinced the staff at Alcatraz Escape Rooms are masterminds, and their dedication to crafting an unforgettable experience shows in every detail.

One thing that truly sets Alcatraz Escape Games apart is their attention to detail and creativity. The room design was beyond impressive—from the lighting to the props to the sound effects, every element worked seamlessly to immerse us in the story. I can’t give too much away (spoilers would ruin the fun!), but let me just say there are surprises around every corner, and the creativity is unmatched. I wish I could share with you pictures because it was incredible!

The staff also deserves a standing ovation. They were friendly, enthusiastic, and clearly passionate about creating a fantastic experience for every group that walked through the door. From the moment we checked in, they made us feel like adventurers gearing up for a mission. It’s not every day you meet a team so dedicated to ensuring their guests leave with huge smiles and unforgettable memories.

If you’re looking for a holiday gift that’s more than just a box to wrap, Raider’s Revenge is it. Escape rooms are one of my favorite ways to share an adventure, and Alcatraz Escape Games has truly raised the bar. When I think about what makes the holidays special, it’s not just about gifts under the tree—it’s about the moments we spend together as a family. Raider’s Revenge is exactly the kind of experience that turns into a cherished memory. Instead of spending hours staring at screens or exchanging material gifts that are forgotten within weeks, why not invest in an experience that brings everyone closer?

This escape room is perfect for a family Christmas outing, a unique gift for that hard-to-shop-for relative, or even a holiday date night. There’s something undeniably bonding about working together under a ticking clock to “save the day.”

So, if you’re in Draper or anywhere nearby, make Alcatraz Escape Games part of your holiday plans. Trust me—it’s worth every second. The laughs, the teamwork, and the thrill of that final “we did it!” moment are gifts that will last a lifetime.

Book your adventure now, and let the treasure hunt begin!

^{*we were invited to facilitate a feature, all opinions are our own*}