Couresy Saratoga Esape Rooms
Saratoga Springs will soon welcome a new entertainment destination built around teamwork, storytelling, and immersive problem-solving. Saratoga Escape Rooms, founded by local entrepreneurs Tess and Brian Goodge, will officially open Nov. 14 on Gardner Lane in downtown Saratoga Springs.
The concept grew naturally from the couple’s complementary strengths. “We realized Brian had the engineering talent to bring these rooms to life, and I had the business acumen to make the venture possible, so we decided to take the leap,” said co-owner Tess Goodge. “Saratoga is home for us, and after visiting other cities with escape rooms, we were surprised no one had brought one to downtown yet.”
The Goodges have spent the past year designing themed adventures that blend atmospheric sets, engineered automation, and interactive puzzles. Each 60-minute experience is built for groups of two to eight players, who must work together to uncover clues, decipher riddles, and solve layered challenges before time runs out.
“We’re very proud of how automated and interactive the rooms are,” Goodge said. “Guests will be pleasantly surprised by the level of engagement our games require. Our third room will feature custom props we’re building ourselves, which is a whole new adventure.”
The venue opens with two completed rooms and a third scheduled for summer 2026. Saratoga School of Magic immerses players in a spell-casting challenge, while Echoes of the Lost Jungle uses hand-painted props and vibrant scenery to transport guests into an uncharted wilderness. A third room, Whispers Beneath Broadway, is under development and will introduce a more detective-style experience.
“I love a good detective-style mystery,” Goodge said. “Traditional escape games lead you from one puzzle to the next, but they often lack the evidence, deduction, and suspect-driven themes that make mysteries so engaging. Whispers Beneath Broadway will be closer to a true mystery game and draws on Saratoga’s rich Gilded Age history. It’s such a glamorous, interesting period, and we can’t wait to make it accessible for both locals and visitors.”
The Goodges see Saratoga Escape Rooms as a natural complement to the city’s lively hospitality scene. “Our location is right in the center of downtown, and we think it will be a great addition for groups looking for something fun before or after enjoying Saratoga’s outstanding food and drink scene,” Goodge said. “Escape rooms appeal to all ages and work well for team events, birthday parties, bachelor and bachelorette groups, and more. We’re also excited to partner with Indulgence Bakery next door to offer cakes for party packages.”
Saratoga Escape Rooms is family-friendly, with recommended ages of 13 and up, though younger children may participate with adult supervision. Pricing is $100 for groups of one to two players and $40 per person for groups of three or more. Hours are Wednesday and Thursday by appointment, Friday from noon to 8 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Learn more and make reservations at saratogaescaperooms.com.