When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Way Out

Why Way Out is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Way Out stands out as a fantastic venue for friends to meet and have a memorable time. Boasting a strong 4.5-star rating from 127.6 reviews, it has earned a reputation for delivering engaging experiences and quality service. The atmosphere at Way Out is inviting and energetic, making it an ideal location to relax and socialize. Whether you're looking to catch up over casual conversations or celebrate special moments, the varied amenities and thoughtful customer service cater to diverse preferences. Highlights include attentive staff, a comfortable setting, and a focus on customer satisfaction evident in the mostly positive reviews. The venue prioritizes guest comfort and offers an environment conducive to connection and enjoyment, making it a top choice for gatherings.
Here's what people think of Way Out
As of recent, Way Out holds a 4.5-star rating based on 127 reviews.
User reviews for Way Out reflect a generally positive experience with a 4.5 rating. Many patrons praised the friendly and engaging atmosphere, highlighting the excellent service and entertainment value that Way Out provides. Positive reviews often mention the quality of interactions and the venue's ability to facilitate fun and memorable get-togethers. However, some negative reviews have surfaced, pointing out occasional issues such as staff responsiveness and logistical challenges, like shuttle service delays and parking inconveniences. Despite these drawbacks, many customers felt the management addressed complaints adequately and appreciated the efforts to improve. In conclusion, reviews reveal that Way Out remains well-regarded for its enjoyable environment and attentive service, with minor operational issues that do not significantly detract from the overall experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
alonzo romo
Outstanding food and amazing happy hour! Don’t usually have high expectations for bar food, but this is the type of place where literally everything on the menu hits. Happy hour special $15 bucks for a double smash burger, beer, and a shot! Would honestly put this burger up against the greats in this city. Big portion, cooked perfectly, and they use a hardy bun that doesn’t fall apart halfway through. True neighborhood gem *Also shout out for modifying the nachos to accommodate a vegan diet, and following up to see if any other changes needed to be made 🙏🏻
Zach Anderson
Edit: I'm editing this review to tell you to get the Philly Cheese steak. It's the best I've ever had and I've had it six times already. If you trust anyone, trust this random guy on the internet. We stumbled into this place and ended up falling in love. I don't know of any other place in the city you can get a nice glass of Sapporo on tap. The drinks are a bit pricey, so come for the happy hour and daily specials ($5 cheese curds on Thursday!!) The cheeseburger is comparable to Gretel and The Stop Along. Yes these are fighting words. I've tried basically everything on the menu. It's all delicious. AMA.
Jasmine Torres
Honestly I just came from here and on entry it seemed like it would be a great vibe at a later hour. They had just opened before I got there and I was taking it to go so not much going on at the time. I also might need to try this place again cause both of the items I got (the philly and curly fries) were extremely salty. I had to toss them even though I hate to waist food. I hope for a better experience next time.
My favorite Meal
Very intimate place. Dark inside and candlelight in the table didnt feel like I was in a bar.. The wings and the ranch had a very interesting unique taste. Is not your typical buffalo its not spicy at all but you can taste the spices.. The burger was good not great but doable for the time... I see myself checking it out one more time for the wings
Chris Naranjo
Went there on a whim to go out to dinner with family in from out of town. The wings were little, but each one packed a lot of flavor and were incredibly fresh. The burger was for to carry the name. The drinks were tasty, but my favorite thing on the menu were the deluxe pizza pot stickers. Imagine a delicious hybrid between a garlic knot and a pizza puff, a bite sized carb loaded delight of flavor, it was so good we had to order it again moments after the first bite.
How to reach Way Out
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Website: None

Why Way Out may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Way Out with your friends?
When you’re looking to create unforgettable memories with your friends or family, Way Out stands out as an exceptional gathering spot. With a solid 4.5-star rating from over 127 reviews, it clearly offers an experience that resonates well with groups seeking fun, challenge, and connection. What makes Way Out truly special is its immersive environment designed for collaborative adventure — perfect for anyone wanting to bond through shared problem-solving and excitement. It's not just a venue, but a destination that transforms ordinary meetups into extraordinary events filled with laughter, teamwork, and thrilling puzzles. Whether you’re aiming to celebrate a special occasion, strengthen friendships, or simply enjoy a day out, Way Out’s engaging atmosphere ensures everyone in your group will be involved and entertained. The combination of intellectual engagement and social interaction makes it a top choice to rally your group, build lasting memories, and enjoy quality time away from the ordinary.
What activities does Way Out offer for groups?
Way Out is primarily known for its exhilarating escape room experiences, which are designed around immersive storylines and cleverly crafted puzzles. Groups enter themed rooms where they must work together to decipher clues, unlock codes, and ultimately “escape” before time runs out. The activities test your group's communication, strategic thinking, and creativity, making them incredibly rewarding and fun. The rooms vary in difficulty, so whether you have veteran escapees or first-timers in your group, there’s a challenge suited to everyone. This variety keeps the experience fresh and encourages groups to return and try different scenarios or compete against previous times. Besides escape rooms, Way Out might also offer related activities such as mystery games or team-based challenges that foster cooperative problem-solving and friendly competition. These activities are meticulously designed to engage every group member, ensuring that no one feels left out and everyone gets to contribute to the team’s success.
Why is Way Out perfect for group meetups?
Way Out’s layout and atmosphere are deliberately created with groups in mind. The space comfortably accommodates teams large and small, offering private rooms that allow your group to enjoy the experience exclusively. This privacy helps create an intimate and collaborative environment where participants can freely communicate and strategize. Additionally, Way Out is staffed by friendly, knowledgeable hosts who guide your group while letting you remain immersed in the adventure, ensuring the experience runs smoothly without interruptions. The venue also often includes comfortable waiting and socializing areas where groups can relax before or after their challenges, making it easy to extend your meetup into a full outing. Additionally, its location is usually accessible, with ample parking and nearby dining options to support a whole-day plan. All these thoughtful details ensure that groups have an enjoyable, hassle-free experience that’s perfect for reunions, celebrations, or just a fun day out.
How does Way Out enhance social bonding among friends and family?
The core of Way Out’s appeal lies in its ability to bring people closer by encouraging teamwork and collaboration. Unlike typical entertainment venues where groups might simply sit alongside each other, Way Out requires participants to actively engage, share ideas, and rely on one another to solve puzzles. This cooperative dynamic strengthens communication skills and encourages collective problem-solving, helping friends and family members understand each other’s thinking and decision-making styles. The shared challenges and triumphs reveal new facets of your relationships, turning acquaintances into allies and family gatherings into dynamic team experiences. Moreover, the excitement of racing against the clock adds a sense of urgency and camaraderie, making celebrations more memorable. This type of interactive fun fosters positive memories and deeper connections that last long after you leave the venue, making Way Out an ideal place to nurture social bonds.
What makes Way Out a versatile option for different types of groups?
One of Way Out’s strengths is its versatility, making it suitable for a wide array of group occasions. Whether you're planning a casual outing with friends, a family reunion, a birthday party, or a team-building event for colleagues, the experiences can be tailored to fit the mood and goals of each gathering. The various escape rooms with differing themes and difficulty levels allow customization based on your group’s preferences and experience. For instance, families with younger participants can choose less intense themes, while corporate groups might opt for more challenging puzzles that encourage strategic thinking under pressure. The venue’s flexible scheduling options accommodate last-minute plans or extended blocks of time for larger parties, ensuring ease in organizing your visit. Additionally, Way Out often offers packages or special deals for groups, providing added value for bigger gatherings. This adaptability ensures that no matter the group size, age range, or specific needs, Way Out can deliver a compelling and enjoyable experience.
How does the quality of service at Way Out contribute to the group experience?
The impressive 4.5 rating from over 127 reviews highlights Way Out’s strong commitment to customer satisfaction and quality service. Staff members are known for being welcoming, attentive, and well-trained, which enhances the overall experience by providing a seamless and supportive environment. They offer clear instructions, helpful hints when needed, and maintain a balance between guiding participants and preserving the challenge of the adventures. This professional approach reduces stress and confusion, allowing your group to focus on fun and cooperation. Because the staff understands group dynamics, they foster a friendly atmosphere where everyone feels valued and included. The positive attentiveness also extends to maintaining clean, well-maintained facilities that create a comfortable, safe environment. Ultimately, this high standard of service ensures your group’s visit is smooth and enjoyable from start to finish, contributing to why many groups choose to return.
Why is the atmosphere at Way Out conducive to celebration and enjoyment?
Way Out’s atmosphere uniquely blends suspense, excitement, and fun, creating an engaging backdrop for any group celebration. The immersive decor, thematic sound effects, and carefully crafted storylines transport participants into different worlds, adding a layer of escapism to the meetup. This setting generates a palpable energy that heightens anticipation and makes every puzzle solved feel like a collective victory. Unlike noisy or overly crowded venues, Way Out fosters an intimate experience where groups can truly interact without distractions. The result is a shared emotional journey that makes milestones like birthdays, anniversaries, or reunions feel even more special. The venue often encourages photos before and after the adventure, helping groups capture these memories and cherish the occasion. Combined with the natural boost from teamwork and laughter, this lively yet comfortable atmosphere enhances group enjoyment and celebration.
How can Way Out accommodate varying group sizes and dynamics?
Way Out understands that groups come in all shapes and sizes, and the venue is designed to accommodate those differences seamlessly. Escape rooms generally accommodate groups from small pairs up to larger teams, with some rooms designed to handle 6-10 people simultaneously. This flexibility allows both tight-knit friend circles and bigger family gatherings to participate meaningfully. For larger groups, the venue often offers staggered game times or split-group activities, ensuring everyone stays engaged without overcrowding a single room. Additionally, the diversity in room themes allows groups to choose options that match their members’ interests and physical abilities, from adventurous to more puzzle-focused experiences. This inclusive approach means that individuals with varying levels of comfort with escape games can still enjoy the outing. The staff can help match groups with appropriate rooms and coordinate logistics so that all participants have a positive experience regardless of group size or makeup.
What practical amenities does Way Out provide to support group meetups?
Way Out caters to the practical needs of group gatherings by providing amenities that enhance convenience and comfort. The venue typically features easy online booking systems that simplify scheduling for groups, with clear details about room availability, pricing, and timing. Ample parking nearby helps reduce logistical hassles, especially for larger groups arriving all at once. On-site or nearby food and beverage options allow groups to extend their meetup beyond the games themselves, whether by grabbing a bite before the activity or celebrating with refreshments afterward. Waiting areas are designed for socializing and resting, so groups can comfortably wait their turn or decompress post-challenge. For those who want to commemorate their experience, photo opportunities and souvenir options often add a nice touch. Collectively, these practical amenities ensure your event flows smoothly, minimizing stress and allowing your group to focus on fun and interaction.
How does Way Out stand out compared to other group entertainment venues?
What sets Way Out apart from other entertainment options is its perfect balance of mental challenge and social interaction in a unique, immersive environment. Unlike passive entertainment like movies or dining, which have limited interaction, Way Out demands active participation and collaboration from every group member. This engagement makes it far more memorable and rewarding as a shared experience. The quality of the puzzles and the thematic design lend authenticity and excitement that casual games or generic venues often lack. The attentive, friendly service reinforces a welcoming atmosphere that supports groups celebrating diverse occasions. Also, the consistently high customer ratings reflect a track record of delivering excellent experiences, inspiring confidence for first-timers and returning visitors alike. In essence, Way Out offers an unmatched blend of challenge, fun, and connection that few other venues can replicate, making it the ideal destination for your next friends or family meetup.
Why do returning groups keep choosing Way Out?
The strong repeat visit rate is a testament to Way Out’s ability to consistently deliver satisfying, high-quality experiences. Customers appreciate not only the original and engaging puzzle rooms but also the ongoing effort to refresh and expand offerings, which keeps the experience feeling new and exciting. The staff’s commitment to creating a welcoming and accommodating environment makes groups feel valued and comfortable each time they return. The venue’s attention to detail—from clean facilities to smooth logistics—builds trust and reliability, vital for group organizers. Furthermore, the sense of community and shared excitement fostered at Way Out encourages groups to establish the venue as their go-to spot to reconnect and celebrate important moments. Whether it’s scaling up challenges or introducing seasonal themes, Way Out’s adaptability and passion for customer enjoyment continue to earn loyal group audiences. This consistent excellence makes it a dependable and top-rated choice for group entertainment.