The Great Escape
Design Your Own Epic Escape Room
Choose Your Theme
Set the scene with an engaging storyline. Are you spies on a secret mission, detectives solving a whodunit, or adventurers seeking hidden treasure? A strong theme immerses your family in the game and makes every clue more exciting.
Set Up the Space
Designate a specific area for your escape room challenge, whether it's one room or an entire floor. Add props to match your theme, and remove distractions, like phones or unrelated items, to keep everyone immersed in the adventure.
Craft Your Puzzles
The puzzles are the heart of your escape room. Here are some ideas to keep your family engaged and entertained:
Jigsaw Puzzle
Hide the puzzle pieces around the room and let the players gather them. The completed picture can hint at the next clue or reveal a secret message.
Secret Message
Use UV markers or look up DIY invisible ink tutorials to create a secret message that can be revealed under a black light
Combation Lock
Lock something up with a combination lock, then hide numbers on objects or leave a math puzzle leading to the correct answer.
Hidden In Books
Hollow out a book to hide a key or clue, or circle something in the pages that will lead them to the next step
Mirrored Messages
Use a hand mirror to read a backward message written on a wall or a piece of paper.
Poppin' Balloons
Hide messages or numbers inside colored balloons. Match the balloon colors to other clues of the same color to create a cohesive hunt.
More Puzzle Tips
Start with the End in Mind
Think about the final goal of the escape room, such as finding a key or solving a mystery. Work backward from this point to create puzzles that lead to the final solution.
Incorporate Clues and Hints
Provide subtle hints within the room to guide players if they get stuck. Use sticky notes, hidden messages, or recordings that can be played back for clues.
Create a Logical Flow
Ensure that one puzzle logically leads to the next. This helps maintain the narrative and keeps participants engaged. Use a sequence of clues that build upon each other to reach the final goal.
Use Online Resources
There are many free resources and puzzle generators available online. Websites like Puzzlemaker can help you create word searches and crosswords. You can also find templates for number puzzles and brain teasers.
💬Conversation Starters
"Which puzzle was the most fun to solve?"
"If we designed another escape room, what theme would you want to do?"
"Should we try a "real" escape room next?"