In today’s adventure lets head to Lincoln Park, Illinois, where we find one of Spin Art Nation’s seven locations. While some of their other locations offer a smorgasbord of attractions, this one is all about bicycle spin art. You might remember spin art from your trips to a county or state fair, where you and a bunch of folks squirted paint onto a spinning canvas. Well gang, Spin Art Nation has cranked the fun dial up to eleven!
A Unique Artistic Experience
The moment you step in, you’re encouraged to unleash your inner artist. You pick a name for your nametag, don a “minion suit” (as described by associate producer Sarah Kingsburg) and you’re ready to create your masterpiece. But here’s the twist: it’s a team effort. It requires one member to sit on the bike and pedal, while the artist gives instructions to the biker on when to start, stop and how fast to go. All this happens while the artist chooses their inspiration along with the paint, glitter and whatever else they need to begin creating their masterpiece. It’s like a creative symphony on wheels!
During our visit, each bay was buzzing with different groups, from families to corporate teams and it clearly was a hot spot for date nights too. What sets this place apart is how it pulls everyone into the experience. Once the “minion suits” are on, and the goggles are in place, every artist, bicycle companion, and the cheering crowd are transformed. Their sole focus becomes the group they’re with and the art they’re creating.
When the adventure is over, you carry home your priceless artwork in a big box, just like a leftover pizza, for you to enjoy the next morning. Time is booked in hour increments which provides enough time for each guest to get changed, create a masterpiece, get cleaned up and hit the road with work of art in hand. The costs vary based on the size of the canvas, and the best part? You can walk away and let someone else handle the mess.
Excerpt adapted from Barry Zelickson’s special report for RePlay Magazine.
Our Favorite Parts of Spin Art Nation:
Great group experience and teambuilding opportunity.
Experience creating art from start to finish and getting to take it home!
Once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create art in a unique location.
Check out our full visit to Spin Art Nation on YouTube!
Looking to visit Spin Art Nation, Lincoln Park?
Address: 2828 N Clark St Suite 204, Chicago, IL 60657
Step right up, ladies and gentlemen, and prepare to be mystified, intrigued and downright entertained as we uncover the mesmerizing secrets of Ripley’s Believe It or Not! in Orlando, Florida. This is no ordinary attraction, my friends. It’s a mind-bending journey into a realm of curiosities and peculiar wonders that will leave you questioning reality itself.
Introduction to Ripley’s Believe It Or Not!
You’ve probably heard whispers of the legendary Ripley’s name, which traces its roots back to a daily newspaper cartoon that sprouted in 1918 and has grown into an empire of over 100 attractions across 10 countries! But hold onto your hats, because this is not just a history lesson – it’s a full-blown immersion into the uncharted territories of the extraordinary. As we approached the entrance, anticipation buzzed in the air like a swarm of bees.
We were greeted by General Manager Paul Hoffine, whose knowledge of the peculiar was infectious. He revealed that within these walls, 650 exhibits lay in wait across 14 astonishing galleries, and here’s the kicker – they’re 100% authentic but not necessarily real. That’s right, prepare to question everything you thought you knew as it is up to you whether to believe it or not!
Interactive Exhibits: A Hands-On Journey Into the Bizarre
Our charming host, Nate, had the privilege of navigating this treasure trove of the bizarre, and let me tell you, the interactive exhibits were next-level! It was as if Ripley’s had cast a spell, drawing us into their world of mind-bending challenges and hands-on edutainment. One particular exhibit caught Nate’s eye, and I can guarantee it will leave you spellbound as well. It was the chance to craft your very own shrunken head! Check out our YouTube channel for a glimpse of Nate’s creation…you won’t want to miss it! But the marvels didn’t stop there.
Ripley’s has mastered how to blend learning with entertainment, making it a haven for school groups and day care camps thirsty for a one-of-a-kind educational experience. Imagine being on a scavenger hunt through the labyrinthine halls, discovering the oddities and uncovering the mysteries that lurk within. It’s not just a mere field trip – it’s a thrilling quest for knowledge. Whether you’re a wide-eyed newcomer or a seasoned Ripley’s aficionado, one thing’s for certain: this place guarantees a fun experience like no other. Prepare to be awestruck and to have your beliefs challenged. Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is a must-see destination for every adventurer at heart.
Excerpt adapted from Barry Zelickson’s special report for RePlay Magazine.
Our Favorite Parts of Ripley’s Believe It Or Not:
Wide variety of unique exhibits and attractions to explore
Attractions offer experience and activities throughout Ripley’s
Over 650 total exhibits – all 100% authentic!
Check out our full visit to Ripley’s Believe It or Not on YouTube!
Looking to visit Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, Orlando?
Now my fellow thrill-seekers, let’s embark on a journey to the whimsical realm of Can Can Wonderland in the city of St. Paul, Minnesota. This is no ordinary wonderland; it’s a playful escape that owner, Rob Clapp, states, “Has one foot in the past and the other in the future!” It’s a place where nostalgia dances hand in hand with innovation.
A Whimsical History: From Cannery to Wonderland
Can Can Wonderland has an interesting history, and was born out of a late1800s cannery facility. This huge factory, once owned by American Can Company, produced cans for household names we still cherish today, like Campbell’s Soup and Del Monte. The huge space provided a perfect place for an arts-based amusement extravaganza! Picture this: 18 local artists, engineers and fabricators, each with a very unique vision, all coming together to design a miniature golf course that will take your breath away.
Mini-Golf Masterpieces: Exploring the Artful Courses
This is not your average putt-putt experience. Oh no! Each hole is a work of art, a testament to creativity and ingenuity that will transport you to the realms of the unknown. Watch Nate putt through the Natural Disaster hole with a 20ft tornado with earthquakes too or Grandma’s Living Room and of course a Minnesota must, Prince’s Purple Carpet tribute hole. Can Can Wonderland doesn’t just offer fun, it creates a vivid tapestry of imagination that wraps you in its warm embrace. And it doesn’t stop with golf. This wonderland is bursting at the seams with a kaleidoscope of visuals and activities that will leave you dazzled and a sense of whimsy that will make you smile.
Creativity on the Menu: Culinary Delights at Can Can
Prepare yourself for a delightful culinary adventure at Can Can, where creativity takes center stage on their fun-inspired menu as well. We treated ourselves to gourmet hot dogs and hamburgers bursting with unique flavors, and accompanied by tantalizing sides. And if that’s not enough to excite your taste buds, brace yourself for a nostalgic twist – boozy milkshakes made with your favorite childhood cereals, including colorful Lucky Charms and Fruit Loops. Indulging in these mouthwatering delights will not only brighten your night but also leave you feeling fully satisfied. But the excitement doesn’t end there.
As you leisurely stroll down their captivating boardwalk of amusements, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of vintage arcade and pinball games, ready to transport you back to cherished memories of your childhood. Every decade is covered, and all in good working order too. The plethora of eye catching attractions ensures that every corner of Can Can Wonderland is teeming with fun and excitement, guaranteeing a memorable experience for everyone. So, if you’re seeking a place to satisfy your cravings for delectable delights or looking for a thrilling one-of-a-kind escape into a world of art and playful nostalgia, Can Can Wonderland is the perfect destination for an extraordinary, fun-filled journey.
Excerpt adapted from Barry Zelickson’s special report for RePlay Magazine.
Our Favorite Parts of Can Can Wonderland:
Great selection of food including nostalgic delights and familiar items.
Tons of activities including the mini-golf, arcade, and an entire boardwalk.
Covered in astounding artwork and visuals throughout the destination.
Check out our full visit to Can Can Wonderland on YouTube!
Looking to visit Can Can Wonderland, St. Paul?
Address: 755 Prior Ave N Suite #004, St Paul, MN 55104
There is no greater story than the person that takes a great idea and brings it to life. In this case, that person is Randy Stenger and that idea is Extreme Sandbox, a 10-acre site that allows all ages to play with life-size Tonka trucks! A dream come true for many, Randy says he’s “just a big kid at heart.” Stenger said that he got the idea from his son who, when they drove by a construction site when he was about 8- or 9-yearsold, said he wished he could get behind the wheel of a bulldozer. Stenger’s adventure concept got the attention of Shark Tank where he was able to not only make it on the show, but even received a deal from Mark Cuban and Kevin O’Leary. With so much attention it is not a surprise that Extreme Sandbox has guests traveling from around the world to try their skill behind these huge machines.
The Ultimate Play Experience
During our visit to Extreme Sandbox in Hastings, Minnesota, our host, Nate Reinhart, got behind the wheel of a 36-ton excavator and had fun digging. Of course, as with most over-the-top experiences, onsite training is a must, especially when safety is the number-one goal at Extreme Sandbox. Once training is complete, guests quickly learn that Extreme Sandbox even makes learning how to drive heavy equipment fun. They also incorporate a number of challenging activities that make for the perfect outing to test your skills and compete with friends, family or corporate teammates. They even offer certified industrial training.
Whether you are enjoying a family outing or corporate team building, Extreme Sandbox truly delivers a “bucket list” experience. Drive a bulldozer, crush a car, dig a pit and more, this place lets you get behind the wheel and have some big-time fun! But don’t take my word for it, check out our interview with Randy and hear it first-hand.
Check out our full visit to Extreme Sandbox on YouTube!
Beyond the Extreme Sandbox
After our Fun Across America visit, we learned they have recently opened up a nearby construction-themed restaurant called the Quarry Taphouse. Expanding on their concept with an additional food and beverage platform, the new addition serves delicious food and a large variety of beverages. It even serves up its own attraction: the Rock Range. Guests get to grab a large buck of rocks for $5 (or small bucket for $1) and start throwing at various targets like hubcaps and cowbells. No glass house here, so go ahead and throw all the stones you want!
Excerpt adapted from Barry Zelickson’s special report for RePlay Magazine.
Our Favorite Parts of Extreme Sandbox:
Unique take on an attraction and emphasis on fun and safety.
Great experience for all ages to try.
Global attention and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
