(NOW OPEN!)
Fort Payne’s first ever Escape Room!!
Be among the first to race the clock, crack clues, and solve the mystery all right here in Fort Payne. Perfect for families, friends, teams, and date nights!
430 Gault Ave North
Right across from Fort Payne City Park
What is an escape room?
At Racing to Escape, you and your group will step into a themed room full of puzzles, clues, and challenges you solve together before time runs out.
- You are never physically locked in the room—you can step out at any time.
- Our rooms are designed to feel open and comfortable, not cramped or claustrophobic.
- There are no strobe lights, jump scares, or horror elements—just exciting, family-friendly puzzles that everyone can enjoy together.
- Every room is built to be challenging but fun for families, friend groups, business outings, and date nights, ensuring a memorable experience for all participants.
- A dedicated game master will guide your experience, offering hints and tips, as you race against the clock of 60 minutes to solve puzzles and escape.
Our Story
We’re John and Lee Ann, retired biomedical scientists who traded lab benches for lockboxes. After years solving complex problems, we brought our love of puzzles home to Fort Payne to create Racing to Escape, a welcoming, family‑friendly adventure for all ages.
Rooms
Race the clock in themed escape rooms designed for families, beginners, and seasoned puzzlers visiting historic downtown Fort Payne.
Room 1. (Good for beginners) 2/5 Star Difficulty
‘Where is Coach?’
Mystery of the lost coach… Coach Calley loved her players and their hard work paid off by winning 3 straight state championships! But the day before the 2025 championship game she went missing…where could she be? The team searches their locker room for clues…
Work as a TEAM to try and find their coach before the game tomorrow!!
Room 2. (Good for intermediate Players) 3/5 Star Difficulty
‘The Secret Toxin’
Dr. Freerus was once a world-renowned scientist on his way to winning the Nobel Prize, but his inflated ego cost him everything! He was fired from the University and is now working in his basement to develop a very bad toxin to inflict harm on thousands! You have all been selected to find this toxin and turn it over to the proper authorities. PLEASE HURRY!
Team Building or Private Events
Send us an email or give us a call to book or inquire about a private event at our location on weekdays for your special event or business retreat!
HOURS, PRICING, and RULES
Hours:
Friday: 4-9pm
Saturday: 1-9pm
Sunday: 1-6pm
Pricing: (ages 10 and up; kids 5-10 FREE)
$28/per person with a minimum of 3 people/room
Each room is private with members of your group.
Must be booked in advance with a maximum of 8 players in Where is Coach Room and 6 in the Secret Toxin Room.
**We offer full refunds for any cancellation made at least 48 hr prior to the booked reservation.
Age limits:
Under age 5 must be restrained (stroller/arms). Youngsters can hang out with a non-participating adult in the Lobby.
5-14 years old must have adult supervision in room.
Always must have someone 16+ in each room.
Late arrival:
To be fair to all customers, if you are late in arriving, your 60 min timer will start at your booked time. You will be allowed to enter the room, but will have less time.
Please try and arrive ~10 min prior to your reservation so we can complete the check in process prior to entering the room.
Waivers must be signed by ALL participants prior to entering room
Racing to Escape 