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Alternative Atlanta: Why You Should Keep Escape Rooms on Your Radar

Alternative Atlanta: Why You Should Keep Escape Rooms on Your Radar

Escape rooms are one of my favorite pop culture topics.

In case you’ve resisted the zeitgeist, escape rooms are physical puzzles that challenge participants to solve mysteries. The goal? You guessed it, escape a room.

Over the last decade, escape rooms have taken off. But the trend is older than you might think. The first physical escape room challenge came from a Kyoto man named Takao Kato back in 2007.

But the idea of escaping a room using problem-solving skills first emerged in the early 1980s with the video game Planet Mephius. The point-and-click game included multiple room-based puzzles, requiring players to think their way past the door.

The idea stuck, going on to influence new game releases in the 1990s and early 2000s.

Fast forward to 2024 and you can find escape rooms in most major cities around the world. From Paris to Buenos Aires to Atlanta, they’re staples for adventurous thinkers on the hunt for a complex challenge.

But I was more than a little shocked to learn that Atlanta is the US’s escape room capital in terms of the number of providers and escape rooms. (Nashville, to my great surprise, is a close second.)

If you’re heading to Atlanta on the hunt for a good time, you might want to add escape rooms to your itinerary. Start with one of the providers listed below. They’re highly rated by escape room enthusiasts while also being accessible to first-timers.

Escape rooms? In Atlanta?

Atlanta isn’t a new hub for escape rooms. In fact, it was one of the first US cities to explore the trend.

Back in 2013, Seattle opened the very first US-based escape room called Puzzle Break. Only a year later in 2014, Atlanta’s Paranoia Quest set up shop in Georgia.

In quick succession, other operators in the city opened their doors. Breakout Games (recommended below) and Project Escape ATL followed shortly after in the mid-2010s.

Today, the city has around 155 distinct escape room themes and challenges that have been carefully crafted by its devilish masterminds. From alien invasions to art heists, Atlanta’s escape rooms are distinct, engaging, and very brainy.

While you might be imagining solving hardboiled mysteries while locked in a small room, Atlanta’s escape rooms offer something for everyone.

Need extra hints because you’re more focused on laughing with friends than solving problems? There’s an escape room for you. What about team-building exercises for new teams at work? Yeah, that’s available, too. What about terrifying haunted house-esque challenges? You’ll have more than a few options at your fingertips.

In other words, there’s an escape room for everyone in Atlanta. Here are some of the best.

Best escape rooms in Atlanta

Breakout Games

Welcome to the most varied and experienced escape room provider in Atlanta. There are currently ten escape rooms available with Breakout Games.

These cover a range of themes from escaping a volcanic eruption on an island to sneaking away from kidnappers to fleeing an asylum after the lights are cut.

Breakout Games gives players a 60-minute period to solve a diverse series of puzzles, including physical and mental challenges. Guests can take on a room alongside a handful of friends or with a single partner in crime.

It’s also a beginner-friendly option, as players can ask for more hints if they get stuck.

Book here

The Escape Game

Spread out across two locations in the city and offering eight different escape rooms, The Escape Game is one of Atlanta’s newest and hippest providers.

Its original location (The Battery) has a five-star rating from over 4,300 reviewers on Google—that should say enough. But let’s dig into what makes this company distinct.

The Escape Game offers a very high value in terms of its production. In other words, it looks and feels more believable than other escape rooms.

Its games cover themes like prison breaks, mishaps in outer space, and—one of my favorites—a gold rush-themed challenge. Its escape rooms are ranked in terms of difficulty, letting you choose the challenge that’s right for you.

Book here

PanIQ Escape Games

PanIQ is a Hungarian-American escape room brand that operates internationally. That means you’re benefitting from tons of experience, which has helped PanIQ enter Atlanta’s escape room market.

Similar to The Escape Game, elaborate productions are part of the magic. PanIQ also offers a unique range of themes.

Their Medieval Madness room has piqued my interest, along with its Wizard Trials challenge. While its number of escape rooms is limited, they’re distinctly in the realm of history and fantasy—topics that aren’t heavily explored elsewhere.

Book here

Big Escape Rooms

Big Escape Rooms is another smaller-but-solid option. In addition to recreational escape rooms, they also offer team-building challenges, family-centric escape rooms (nothing too scary or difficult), and ice-breakers for new coworkers.

Its seven unique themes are also covered in great detail on the website, including factors like difficulty, escape rate, and the number of clues offered.

Escape rates are kind of a big deal in escape room culture. Highly seasoned puzzlers are usually on the hunt for new challenges with low escape rates. Their ‘outbreak’ escape room has an escape rate of only 19%.

Book here

Best Waterfront Rentals in Montana for Spring & Summer

From small towns like Philipsburg to major cities like Missoula, Montana seems to have it all.

That being said, most people head to Montana with the hopes of exploring natural wonders. With the Rockies passing through the state, there’s plenty to do in the way of outdoor adventures. And that fun gets doubled when there’s a body of water nearby.

I’ve explored the most remote reaches of Airbnb to find some of the best lakeside rentals in Montana, ideal for trips in summer or spring.

Some stays are way weirder (in a good way) than I could have imagined. From historic train cars to shipwreck-style cabins, the state is chock-full of memorable lakeside (and riverside) rentals.

Here’s where I’m planning on staying when I make it out to Big Sky Country.

Scandinavian-Inspired Lake Front (Lick Lake)

Eureka, Montana

Let this Scandi-inspired rental take you into Montana’s quaintest forest. The interior is modern and clean, like the title suggests. But it also comes with all the Montana amenities you’d expect, like a wood-burning fireplace, views overlooking the lake and mountains, and room to roam.

Plus, you also get access to the owner’s private lake, Lick Lake, and a brand-new sauna. The lake also comes with added amenities, including a kayak and canoe. (There’s also a really cute dog featured in the Airbnb photos—but I can’t promise that he’s included with the rental.)

Book here

Riverside Historic Train Car (Missouri River)

Cascade, Montana

I promised you historic train cars—and here we are. This rental was once a Northern Pacific Railway Post Office train car but has since been renovated into a seriously lovely two-bedroom stay. But that setup is hardly to best thing on offer here.

Along with a very cool and historical unit, guests are also treated to a private hot tub that overlooks the Missouri River. Sure, it’s not nearly as accommodating as a lake—but the backyard has been built to offer views and a lounging area designed for soaking up the atmosphere.

Book here

Shipwreck Stay (Williams Lake)

Salmon, Idaho

I know—this rental isn’t actually located in Montana. It’s just across the border in Idaho… which makes it close enough to still earn a shout-out. Also, it’s built in the shape and style of a pirate ship, which makes it fantastic for those who like a waterside rental.

When I say ‘shape and style of a pirate ship’, I mean that it’s designed with three floors designed to mimic a ship’s three decks. One of its bedrooms is shaped like the bow of a ship, while one of its living rooms is designed to replicate a Victorian-era pirate ship parlor. Plus, there’s a direct path down to Williams Lake. There’s even a rustic pagoda for you to pillage.

Book here

Lone Pine Hollow (Private pond)

Helena, Montana

Lone Pine Hollow is located near the host’s home, which includes acres of private land—and a functional, swimmable pond.

Unlike most other listings here, Lone Pine Hollow is equipped with all the amenities you’ll need to start enjoying the water. There are paddleboats and canoes, plus a massive lawn that stretches out to the pond that you’ll want to spend time in.

This spot looks ideal for a large gathering. The home’s upper floor is lined with beds, making this a solid getaway for younger groups or families. In fact, the hosts also allow for small events (at an additional charge). I personally love an open-minded Airbnb host that provides access to a private pond.

Book here

Yellowstone Rangers Outpost (Yellowstone River)

Gardiner, Montana

Like the title suggests, this location is located nearby Yellowstone National Park. That makes it a top-tier choice for anyone who wants to explore the park during the day. But this rental also lets you immerse yourself in the rugged outdoors.

The patio out back provides a perfect birds-eye view of Yellowstone River below, letting you soak up the wonders of the park without ever setting foot inside of it. Plus, this rental was recently renovated, meaning you’ll have all the creature comforts you’d expect of a modern Airbnb.

Book here

Duck Lake Loft (Duck Lake)

Babb, Montana

As with the Yellowstone River rental, Duck Lake Loft provides a larger-than-life view of Duck Lake. While you won’t be located right beside the body of water, you’ll be treated to a view that overlooks the forest rimming the riverside—and it’s western-facing, giving you a seriously unspoiled view of the sunset.

The living room also overlooks Duck Lake, allowing you to soak up the views straight from the couch inside. Plus, it’s located near Glacier National Park, giving you direct access to the highly sought-after park.

Book here

Placid Lake Paradise (Lake Placid)

Seeley Lake, Montana

If you’re after a traditional lakefront stay, then I’ve found the perfect spot for you. Located right on Lake Placid, this newly launched rental offers a whopping 11 beds and 3.5 baths. For large groups of all stripes, that’s a big win.

But it’s the lakefront location and private dock that have stolen my heart. This makes it easy to get out on the water—whether you’re looking to fish, take a dip, go kayaking, or simply soak up the lakeside views.  

Book here

Cowboy Lake Lodge (Cowboy Lake)

Emigrant, Montana

Looking for a classic cowboy design in your rental? (It’s a thing—you aren’t alone.) Look no further—this rental has all that country-centric design you’re after. From its stone fireplace to its leather couches, there’s an austere atmosphere at the Cowboy Lake Lodge.

Plus, you’ll have direct access to the lake, which is framed by stunning mountains in the background, including Emigrant Peak. The lake also comes with private biking and hiking trails, letting you get out into nature. If you’re a fisher, you’ll be happy to know that Cowboy Lake is supplied with trout.

Book here

Long-Term Travel: Why Are Travelers Opting for Longer Trips?

If you follow travel trends like me, you might notice there’s a new approach to vacation planning.

This approach revolves around crafting longer-term trips. No more weekend getaways or four-day escapes.

Travelers today are opting for longer trips that last at least eight days. This approach is backed by science and has been shouted out in publications from The Washington Post to The Wall Street Journal.

From lifestyle coaches to psychology professors, there’s evidence that longer trips allow travelers to unwind with greater results. It’s a chance to let their bodies and minds ‘log off’ from the work week.

And given most Americans don’t take all their vacation days available, that’s an important factor. After all, what’s the point of taking a vacation if it doesn’t actually relax you?

I recently took a week off to soak up the sun in Sicily. For the first three days, I had to actively remind myself not to check my email and other apps like Slack. I spent the first twenty minutes each morning reminding myself that I was off the clock.

I imagine I’m not alone in that.

But not every reason behind this eight-day vacation trend is based on science or relaxation. Some factors are largely mundane. For example, an eight-day vacation is appealing to many Americans because we tend to think of our life in week-long chunks, making a seven-day or eight-day getaway more manageable than a ten-day or twelve-day trio.

So what else is behind the fact that travelers are starting to opt for longer trips? Let’s explore.

Longer distances = longer trips

Seasoned travelers know that things haven’t quite been the same since COVID.

The pandemic required airlines to slash their staff, along with airports. Since then, many positions have been left vacant, translating to subpar (at best) airport experiences around the world.

In the last year, I have traveled internationally five times. Only one of my flights took off on time. (You’re my hero, Swiss Air!) Reasons for delays are varied, from a lack of air traffic controllers to volcano eruptions. That Sicily trip I mentioned above involved a day-long airport re-route thanks to smoke plumes from Mt. Etna.

In other words, the new normal at airports (whether due to short staffing or environmental delays) means that travelers are more at risk of spending entire days getting from Point A to Point B.

Longer trips help recoup these seemingly inevitable delays.

The rise of relaxation tourism

One recent article from the Harvard Business Review found that vacations are an important part of long-term professional success. In fact, overwork can even lead to subpar success rates at work.

That means that vacations aren’t just about exploring the world. They’re also about recuperating the mind, body, and spirit. I believe this trend is linked to a growing suspicion of ‘hustle’ culture.

In fact, this seems to be reflected in another travel trend: an uptick in wellness-based vacations. Whether heading out on a wellness retreat or booking a stay at a wellness-focused hotel, travelers are opting for more zen-like escapes.

And what’s more relaxing than a full week off the job?

Spending habits

Travel was once a novel experience. International vacations, in particular, were billed as the ‘trip of a lifetime’ when I was growing up in the 1990s. Even heading someplace close like the Bahamas or Mexico was a pretty far-out idea (at least in regions like the Midwest).

That phrase ‘trip of a lifetime’ used to have a lot more depth. Vacations to places like Australia, China, or South Africa truly might only come once in a person’s life.

Tourism has since become a commodity. Many tourists are willing to pay top dollar to see faraway places, wait in hours-long lines to sample famous foods, and otherwise take trains, boats, and planes to some of the world’s coolest destinations.

In other words, shelling out thousands (or tens of thousands) for vacation is par for the course these days. This shift in spending habits has helped generate longer vacation times.

Additionally, the roll-out of multi-day vacation packages and exotic resort bundles has also made it easier for the average person (who might not have so much to spend on a trip) to hit the road.

Heritage Railways in Alaska: Skagway Railway Spotlight

You might know Skagway, Alaska thanks to its ranking as one of the friendliest small towns in the United States.

Or maybe you’ve heard of this Alaskan outpost thanks to its famous train line.

Back during the Klondike Gold Rush (1879-99), Skagway was connected to Carcross, an outpost located in Canada’s Yukon Territory via a high-speed train route.

What began with a modern railway designed to connect North America’s remote goldmines has since become a standout rail line—one that’s renowned as an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark over a century later.

If you dream of scenic, remote journeys out in the wilderness, it simply doesn’t get any better. From towering mountains to bright-blue glaciers to historical landmarks, tourists have it all when they step onto the train.

Here’s why you need to keep the Skagway Railway (officially known as White Pass and Yukon Route) on your radar.

Unbeatable scenery

The Skagway Railway was originally designed to ferry gold minders between Carcross and Skagway. Since then, the route has expanded.

The modern route runs from Skagway Junction in Alaska north to Canada’s Whitehorse—almost doubling the original trip that stopped at Carcross.

Along the way, guests are treated to some bird’s eye view of steep gorges and tree-covered mountains. There are steep ravines throughout, crystal-clear lakes nestled in narrow valleys, lovely waterfalls lacing through the rocks, and snow-capped mountains galore.

It’s a clear win for those who want to experience the glory of nature without getting their boots dirty. But aside from the train’s beautiful setting, I think its main appeal is its vintage railcars and emphasis on the old guard of railways.

Vintage railcars and more

The Skagway Railway is a huge destination for rail fans. That’s partly because it still uses vintage-style railcars, including dining cars. Even the cars that aren’t vintage showcase the historical appeal of the railway with vintage features like wooden paneling and wooden furniture.

That should clue you in: the interior of most railcars is basic, meant to reflect means of travel from the late 1800s and early 1900s. That being said, the seating looks comfortable and is designed to provide great views of the passing wilderness.

Interior design aside, some trains, including Steam Engine #73, showcase the locomotives of yore. Though they run on modern engines, they showcase the engineering feats that would have been used a century ago.

And despite the emphasis on history, the train operates with all the standard amenities that modern travelers want. There are restrooms in each car, for example.

The tourist experience

You probably won’t find any locals on the train. That’s because the Skagway Railway is operated entirely as a tourist venture.

Following the Klondike Gold Rush, the railway slowly fell out of use and into disrepair. Back in the 1980s, major efforts were undertaken to save the railway.

By 1988, the locomotive and its cars had all been renovated and refurbished. Once more, the Skagway Railway was up and running—but this time around, it would be catering only to tourists. That’s a huge plus for me because it signals that the crew is acquainted with the types of questions and concerns that visitors have.

There are plenty of day trip excursions available, from hiking through scenic outposts to exploring heritage museums that dive deep into the Klondike Gold Rush. If you’re a history nerd like me, you’ll enjoy this well-rounded approach. You’re not just getting acquainted with a region, but also its history and legacy.

The tie to tourism goes deeper than that, though. Back in 2018, Klondike Holdings joined with Carnival Corporation (from the world-famous Carnival Cruises) to buy the railway. Cruise guests can walk straight from the docks to the railway station in Skagway, making it easy for cruise guests to take this heritage railway.

Interested in booking a trip on the Skagway Railway? You can book directly from the website or via TripAdvisor. If you have any more questions about the routes offered and experiences, I suggest looking through TripAdvisor’s reviews.

Best Cottages in Michigan for Enjoying Fall Foliage

No matter the season, Michigan is a popular holiday destination.

In spring and summer, its woodlands come alive as hikers and campers hit the trails. The same goes for its lakesides, which see families from across the region pack into rentals to get out on the water.

Given the state’s cold climate and long winters, it’s also a popular choice for those on the hunt for snowy winters and delightful Christmas displays.

The same goes for autumn, which sees the state’s thick forests transform with fall’s warm colors. Places like Houghton and Alpena are top of the list for autumn-lovers.

But what about more remote destinations?

Thanks to rental platforms like VRBO and Airbnb, autumn-lovers can find top-tier cabins and cozy getaways that put them right in the middle of the fall foliage display.

Want to cuddle up with your loved one while staring dreamily into fiery canopies? I’ve got a few selections that will let you soak up the loveliest days of autumn. (I know, I know—the photos below aren’t all taken in autumn. You’ll just have to use your imagination.)

Log Cabin Tiny Home Getaway

Cadillac, Michigan

I love a classic cabin like this tiny getaway. The woodwork features plenty of knotty pine and hickory—the kind that fills a cabin with that beloved rustic scent.

But that’s enough about the interior. This cabin is surrounded by dense woodlands, letting visitors immerse themselves in a display of fall foliage. Plus, there’s a fantastic porch and fire pit that provide the perfect outdoor hangout space.

Book here

Lake Superior Beach with Porcupine Mountain Views

Ontonagon, Michigan

This cabin is a bit more done-up than others on this list, with a modern and sleek exterior and fully refurbished interior. Design aside, it’s got plenty of broad windows that showcase the surrounding forest and nearby lakeside.

There’s also a massive back porch with plenty of seating. Once again, you’ll be able to soak up the autumn display from inside the cabin or straight from its outdoor lounging areas.

Book here

Historic Cabin

Mancelona, Michigan

This historic cabin is seriously rustic. It’s an old-school log cabin with unfinished interior walls and a cobbled stone fireplace that looks ancient.

If you’re on the hunt for pioneer-esque rentals, this selection is for you. Along with its historical appeal, it also benefits from a remote location. You’ll be treated to a lovely forest escape that’s close to misty rivers and quiet walking paths. Like a Walden Pond vibe for all the Thoreau’s out there.

Book here

Cabin on Lake Fanny Hooe

Copper Harbor, Michigan

Located right on the lakeside, this cabin offers multiple ways to soak up the autumn foliage. You can do so from the dock overlooking the lake, from the porch that’s surrounded by tall trees, or even from the cabin’s interior, which features massive windows.

While the cabin’s design is worth writing about, the magic here is in the sheer number of exterior coves that make it easy to comfortably enjoy the fleeting weeks of fall.

Book here

The Morel Cottage

Grayling, Michigan

Who doesn’t love a good A-frame? When it comes to cool-weather getaways, A-frames provide the ultimate in cozy comforts.

The Morel Cottage is a remote A-frame that offers a front-seat view into Mother Nature. It’s surrounded by forest and includes a rock-lined fire pit for bonfires and late-night stargazing, letting you soak up the autumn vibes.

Book here

Cheerful Six Mile Lake Log Cabin

East Jordan, Michigan

This lakeside cabin looks perfect for a summer getaway—but let me sell you on an autumn escape instead. Not only is there a large fireplace that’s perfect for cool evenings, but there’s also a large fire pit enclosed by mature trees and a partly covered back porch ideal for lounging beneath the changing leaves.

Plus, a stellar lakeview, which lets you soak up a panoramic view of autumn on the water.

Book here

The Granary Northport

Northport, Michigan

This rental has a design-forward focus, making it ideal for those who are a little picky about their Airbnbs. But what I love is the outdoor area.

There’s a porch with a grill connected to a sauna and a fire pit area, which provides an all-in-one outdoor area that I love. The home is surrounded by grasslands and forest, which I imagine transforms into a delectable fall display.

Book here

Heading to Japan? Forget Trains—Go by Ferry

Ferries are growing in popularity.

In places like Europe, ferries let travelers take scenic routes across the continent. From Helsinki to Turkey, you can find diverse ferries that are geared toward adventurous travelers looking for lesser-known destinations.

By comparison, the US’s ferries are few and far between. The most well-known ferries, including New York’s Staten Island Ferry, are often used for public transportation just as much as sightseeing.

But ferries in both regions don’t hold a candle to Japan’s network.

In case you didn’t know, Japan is an archipelago that’s home to over 6,000 islands, with a whopping 421 listed as inhabited. Ferries are the most viable option for island-hopping—and many of Japan’s ferries are just as high-tech and functional as its bullet train system.

They’re cheaper, too.

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, consider booking one of these ferry rides. Whether you’re looking for a next-level sightseeing adventure or simply want to get from one city to the next, you’ll have options. (Really, really cool options.)

A quick introduction to ferries in Japan

At their most basic, ferries in Japan are designed for public transportation.

Just like US options, these ferries include seating, restrooms, and small shops selling drinks and snacks. They can help you get from locations like Tokyo to Osaka to Kobe by traveling up and down the coasts.

Many ferries are designed to transport locals and visitors off the mainland and onto its smaller islands.

Some ferries are designed for longer journeys by sea, too. In these cases, travelers have access to hotel-like stays. These ferries might even offer extra bonuses like entertainment, lounges, spas, and more.

Depending on the ticket tier (from first class to second class), guests might also have access to multiple dining options, pet rooms, game rooms, and more.

In my research, I’ve found dozens of options—from basic thirty-minute trips to 40-hour treks up the coast. These are my top three picks for those heading to Japan.

MOL Sunflower

Multiple routes

This is the ferry that started it all—thanks to an Instagram post, nonetheless.

From the cabins to the restaurants to the shops, MOL Sunflower ferries offer a truly luxurious way to travel across Japan. But the ships also have a few extras that made me put it first on this list.

First, there’s a panoramic bathing area that offers views of the sea. Second, there are kid-friendly spaces that make it great for traveling families. Third, there’s a digital skylight that puts on some pretty mesmerizing shows.

Best of all, MOL ferries are cheaper than a bullet train.

Book here

Hankyu Ferry

Transportation between Kyushu, Osaka, and Kobe

The Hankyu Ferry is like a mobile four-star hotel that glides through the water.

Seriously—this option might not have kicked off my interested in Japanese ferries, but it’s high on my list now. It has all the added features of a long-distance ferry cruise, from restaurants to shops to pools. (That’s right, you have multiple bathing options.)

But there’s a bit more on offer, too. Guests can choose between indoor and outdoor baths, enjoy the night with friends in a karaoke bar, spend an afternoon in the game room, and even get a little grooming done in the pet room.

Book here

Tsugaru Kaikyo Ferry

Transportation across Tsugaro Strait to Hakodate, Aomori, and Honshu

This ferry doesn’t traverse a popular route, from what I can tell. Instead, the appeal seems to be the views of Tsugaru Strait and other more remote destinations.

In fact, it’s billed as a ‘cruise-ferry’, which should clue you into the relaxed vibe here. The ferry includes all the major amenities you need, from dining options to lounge areas that let you soak up the views and atmosphere.

But you can also get to some of Japan’s cooler and lesser-known outposts with the Tsugaro Kaikyo Ferry, from Ryusendo Limestone Cave to Naruko Valley.  

Book here