New Shelbyville entertainment center aims to bring families together

SHELBYVILLE, Ill. (WAND) — A new family entertainment destination is now open in Shelbyville.

Game On Shelbyville aims to bring people together and give families more to do close to home.

It officially opened its doors on Friday. The space offers a wide range of activities designed for all ages, from inflatables and simulators to interactive experiences and party options.

Co-owner Kris Metzger said the idea for the business grew out of a need she saw firsthand in the community.

“Being in Shelbyville, that’s just been something that we have struggled with for families, something to do,” Metzger said. “So it has just kept escalating on one thing after another, and this is where we landed.”

The business is located in a space previously used as a tumbling studio, which the Metzger family transformed into a multi-use entertainment center. Co-owner Jake Metzger said the idea evolved over time with input from their entire family.

“We just started brainstorming on what we’re going to do with this space, and it turned into a vision that she had,” he said. “With the help of our children… we ended up with golf simulators, dart boards, inflatables.”

Inside Game On Shelbyville, visitors can find a variety of attractions. There are “Party Pals,” similar to a build-your-own stuffed animal experience, along with golf and multi-sport simulators, dart simulators inspired by venues in larger cities, and multiple inflatables available for both on-site fun and weekend rentals.

Metzger said the simulators are a standout feature, allowing guests to play more than just golf.

“It’s not just golf. You can play 15 to 20 different games on it, and so that’s really nice for families to enjoy,” she said.

The owners also emphasized the uniqueness of bringing larger-city entertainment concepts to a smaller community.

“The dart simulators… we got the idea from places in Chicago and St. Louis,” Metzger said. “There’s not many companies that offer it, so that was a big process for us to get them here.”

Beyond the attractions, the Metzgers say their main goal is to create a space where families can reconnect.

“I just want them to become united again as a family and enjoy that family moment that we’ve lost over time,” Kris Metzger said. “Put their phones down and enjoy their kids.”

Jake Metzger said early feedback from soft openings has already shown that impact.

“It’s really neat to watch people come in here… and see people put their phone down and get on the obstacle course and interact,” he said. “It’s just neat to see everybody come together with family.”

The business is currently closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, with hours Wednesday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 6 p.m. The space is also available for private events and parties.

The Metzgers say they hope Game On Shelbyville becomes a go-to destination for families across the region. To learn more about it, click here.

There is also a lake loft for rent at the space.

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