Issue link: http://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/898390
Escape to a New Enter tainment Option on Canner y Row B Y R E N E E B R I N C K S W hile visiting Kansas City last spring, an escape room experience with their granddaughter sparked a business idea for local entrepreneurs Christina and Barrie Riddoch. Escape rooms, like the Riddoch's Exodus Escape Room on Cannery Row, function as mental puzzles played out in real life. Participants race against the clock to uncover clues, tackle challenges and solve mysteries that unlock doors. The Monterey facility houses three separate rooms accommodateing six to 10 people. During each one-hour experience, groups collaborate—often with strangers—to navigate the game and free themselves. Christina designed the themed quarters and worked with a game developer to create clues and challenges. Since opening in August, the facility has welcomed local guests, corporate groups and traveling families. "It's especially fun to watch families," she says. "Teenagers often look skeptical when they go in, but when they come out an hour later, their whole demeanor has changed." In an age of ubiquitous screen time and 24- hour news broadcasts, the experience provides a break from the constant buzz. "It's interactive, it makes you think, and you engage with people while working toward a common goal," Riddoch says. "It's a great way to get out of your own head for an hour." For Exodus Escape Room reser vations, please visit www.exodusescaperoom.com/monterey or call 831/324-0513. SHORTCUTS AT LARGE Christina and Barrie Riddoch's Exodus Escape Room on Cannery Row brings a new and engaging interactive entertainment experience to the Monterey area. 70 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • H O L I D A Y 2 0 1 7 Photo: Kelli Uldall