Alex Patterson, former Tough Mudder executive, set out to create something bigger than a traditional escape room—an experience where every player actively participates, and the stakes not only feel real, but they are. Drawing from his background in operations, marketing and course design, he envisioned Beat The Bomb, a tech-driven, team-based game that eliminates the passive roles often found in escape rooms. By blending immersive gameplay with a dynamic, ever-evolving format, Patterson didn’t just tweak the escape room formula—he rewrote it.
Unlike traditional escape rooms, which can be puzzle-heavy and sometimes leave players sidelined, Beat The Bomb ensures that every participant is fully engaged. “It’s really truly video games that have been designed for team building,” said Michon van As, Beat The Bomb’s Marketing Director. Unlike fixed, costly-to-update escape rooms, Beat The Bomb is tech-enabled, with modular rooms allowing for endless game variations, keeping the experience fresh and scalable. The result is a thrilling, high-energy challenge that requires teamwork, quick thinking and a touch of coordination to succeed.
What began as a single location in Brooklyn has quickly expanded across the country, with Denver as its latest destination. The Mile High City, known for its adventurous spirit and booming entertainment scene, was a natural fit. “Denverites have this naturally adventurous spirit,” emphasized van As. “We felt like this concept would really resonate with the audience and the people here.” Surrounded by other immersive, team-based experiences like escape rooms, Topgolf and Meow Wolf, Denver’s energy aligns seamlessly with Beat The Bomb’s high-intensity, high-stakes gameplay.
But what truly sets Beat The Bomb apart is its heart-pounding finale. Teams that fail to defuse the bomb in time are drenched in paint, foam or slime, creating a one-of-a-kind, picture-perfect moment. And the fun doesn’t stop there. The Bomb Bar offers the ultimate post-game hangout to celebrate, strategize or simply revel in the experience. “We have about a 1,500-square-foot dining area in the very center of the location that overlooks the two glass-wall bomb rooms, so you can see groups facing their final fate—will they win or will they lose?” said van As. This spectator-friendly setup adds to the suspense, letting visitors soak in the action while enjoying a curated menu of drinks and bites.
The Bomb Bar serves up an impressive lineup of signature drinks, including its eye-catching Bomb Slushies. “Our Bomb Slushies are as vibrantly colored as our paint blasts,” said van As. Choices include Blue Hawaii, a tropical mix of rum, vodka, pineapple, blue curaçao and lime, alongside classics like the Margarita and Piña Colada. Feeling daring? Opt for a Mystery Slushie and let the bartender surprise you. For a booze-free option, try The Grape Escape, made with grape soda, lemon and lime, or a Shirley Temple Slushie.
If slushies aren’t your style, a variety of cocktails await. The Peach Blast offers a fruity twist on a cosmopolitan, while The Fuse blends Lunazul smoked tequila with melon, cucumber, peach and lime for a refreshing sip. The bar also features a rotating selection of local craft beers, showcasing Denver’s vibrant brewery scene, along with wine, seltzers, shots and additional non-alcoholic alternatives.
The food menu is just as exciting as its gameplay. For groups looking to share, favorites like Buffalo Chicken dip with tortilla chips or loaded fries deliver bold flavors. More classic options include pretzel bites, tots and crispy french fries.
For single-player meals, the chicken cordon ranch sandwich takes center stage, featuring fried chicken, Virginia ham, melted muenster cheese and ranch on a Martin’s bun. The Spicy Classic Chicken Sandwich, topped with dill pickles and chili mayo, brings the heat, while the Texas Dawg offers a satisfying bite with two franks on Martin’s potato rolls, loaded with chili, queso, jalapeños and Fritos. Don’t forget to try Jamaican beef patties or chicken gyros for a global twist.
No game night is complete without wings, and The Bomb Bar delivers. Choose from flavors like buffalo hot, BBQ, Thai sweet chili, garlic parmesan and van As’s personal favorite—Old Bay. For those who like a little fire, the spicy lemon pepper wings offer an extra kick.
End the night on a sweet note with Oreo Brownie Bites or Apple Cinnamon Empanadas, the perfect way to cap off an adrenaline-fueled experience.
Beat The Bomb isn’t just another game—it’s an all-encompassing, high-energy adventure where teamwork, strategy and a little luck determine whether you escape unscathed or leave covered in neon paint. Whether you’re diving into the challenge or cheering from the sidelines with a drink in hand, it’s an experience that guarantees unforgettable moments. So, Denver, are you ready to beat the bomb?
Planning a group outing? Beat The Bomb offers customizable group packages perfect for team-building events, birthday parties, corporate outings and special celebrations. Whether you’re challenging your coworkers, celebrating with friends or hosting an unforgettable event, these packages ensure an action-packed experience for groups of all sizes.
All ages are welcome at Beat The Bomb, but guests must be 21 or older on Fridays and Saturdays from 7:30 p.m. until close.
Beat The Bomb is located at York Street Yards, 3863 Steele St., #1273, Denver. Its hours are Wednesday – Thursday 3 – 9 p.m., Friday – 12 p.m. – 1 a.m., Saturday 11 a.m. – 1 a.m., Sunday 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., closed Monday and Tuesday.