When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Whirly Ball
Why Whirly Ball is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
WhirlyBall offers a unique and thrilling experience that merges elements of lacrosse, hockey, basketball, and bumper cars into an exciting team sport. Played in suped-up electric bumper cars known as WhirlyBugs, this activity is perfect for groups looking for active and engaging entertainment. Suitable for all ages, WhirlyBall is ideal for family outings, friend gatherings, corporate team-building events, and social meetups. The energetic and interactive nature of the sport encourages teamwork, friendly competition, and lots of laughter. Beyond the main WhirlyBall game, many locations enhance the social atmosphere by offering additional attractions such as laser tag, bowling, arcade games, and table-top games. A full-service bar and a variety of food options are typically available, making it easy for groups to spend several hours enjoying food, drinks, and entertainment in one venue. Whether you come with a full team or as a smaller group, you can join games and even make new friends. WhirlyBall's dynamic and inclusive environment makes it a top choice for anyone seeking a memorable and active experience in a lively social setting.
Here's what people think of Whirly Ball
As of recent, Whirly Ball holds a 4.4-star rating based on 203 reviews.
User reviews consistently highlight the high entertainment value and accessibility of WhirlyBall. Many guests appreciate the fun, fast-paced gameplay that combines the thrill of bumper cars with sports skill, making it accessible for both young and old players. Positive reviews frequently mention the venue’s friendly staff, the availability of food and drinks, and the added amenities like laser tag and arcade games, which contribute to a well-rounded outing. The social and team-building aspects are particularly valued for group events such as birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and corporate outings. However, some negative feedback points to the logistics of game play, specifically that the initial instructions and briefing time reduce the actual playtime, leading to a feeling of receiving less gameplay than expected. Additionally, some customers note reservation policies requiring a food and beverage minimum when booking well in advance, which might be less appealing for casual visitors. Despite these points, the general consensus is very positive, with users recommending WhirlyBall as a uniquely enjoyable, active, and social experience that stands out from typical entertainment venues.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Michael Mili
What a fun place to take the kids for a nostalgic trip back in time to an old school arcade. They need to repair the broken machines we lost a lot of coins. However the whirlyball redeemed the destination. The kids had a blast.
Brittany Gibson
Super friendly staff, fun game. I went for a work party and we had so much fun. I haven't laughed that much in a long time! Thanks Whirly Ball for a unique experience!
Molly Welch Marahar
Love this place. Hosted a 11 yo birthday party and the kids loved it. We had plenty of table space and played back to back games for the hour and a half we booked. We brought in our own food and drinks and the kids were aslo able to play the arcade games. Thinking about doing my own birthday party here.
Chezza T
Frickin hilarious! Such good fun and its great you can BYOB and bring your own food too.
mike porter (Rose Tinted Archer)
Fantastic experience. Don't let the barebones look of the building deceive you! The real fun is inside. Staff are incredibly helpful for newcomers in explaining how the game works and are available throughout the game for commentary and tips. I also read of a league being available here too so if you really enjoy the game and want to take it up as a sport there is an opportunity to take your skills further too. Otherwise, definitely fun if you enjoy some team building or family experiences, especially if you've been to similar active activities like lazer tag or have ever wondered what Lacrosse or Basketball would be like if you played it in Dodgems (Bumper Cars).
How to reach Whirly Ball
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Why Whirly Ball may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at WhirlyBall with your friends? WhirlyBall offers a truly unique and engaging experience that combines elements of bumper cars, basketball, and lacrosse, all wrapped into one energetic activity. This mash-up is perfect for groups seeking a high-energy outing where teamwork, friendly competition, and laughter are guaranteed. Whether you're catching up with old friends or gathering with family, WhirlyBall’s immersive and interactive gameplay helps break the ice and deepen connections through a shared, adrenaline-pumping challenge. The excitement of maneuvering bumper cars while tossing a ball toward a goal creates moments filled with fun surprises and memorable victories. Moreover, the environment at WhirlyBall is built to foster social bonding—friendly cheers, light-hearted trash talk, and strategizing with your team members add layers of enjoyment that you don’t usually get from standard outings. Hosting a meetup here means your group will get to experience something out of the ordinary in a lively, dynamic setting that encourages participation from all skill levels. This makes WhirlyBall an excellent choice for people looking to escape the usual dinner or movie routine and instead create joyful memories that linger long after the games end.
What activities are available at WhirlyBall and why are they ideal for group meetups? The signature activity at WhirlyBall is, of course, the WhirlyBall game itself, which electrifies the experience of bumper cars combined with a ball game resembling lacrosse or basketball. Players ride in motorized bumper cars equipped with scoops used to handle a whiffle ball, aiming to score points by shooting into a target goal on the opponent's side. This blend creates fast-paced, strategic gameplay requiring both coordination and agility, making it a thrilling group activity that encourages camaraderie and communication among teammates. Beyond just WhirlyBall, many locations offer laser tag, an exciting alternative that also encourages teamwork and competitive fun for groups that might want to switch things up or include players who may prefer less bumping and driving. Some venues additionally provide party or event spaces where groups can relax, eat, and socialize before or after playing. The most compelling reason WhirlyBall shines for group meetups is its versatility; it can entertain small groups casually walking in as well as larger parties booking courts in advance to ensure ample playing time and exclusive use. This flexibility combined with a playful, action-packed atmosphere guarantees that all participants, regardless of age or skill, will find something engaging to enjoy together.
How does WhirlyBall create the perfect environment for hosting meetups with friends or family? WhirlyBall’s venue is designed to promote socialization and group bonding through active involvement. The playing courts are spacious and visually stimulating, giving crews of friends ample room to engage in friendly rivalry. The indoor setting ensures a climate-controlled, comfortable environment no matter the weather, so meetups can happen year-round. In addition to the physical action on the courts, the staff typically facilitate games by providing referees who explain rules and keep the excitement flowing, making newcomers feel welcome even without prior experience. Some locations also have bar and food options, allowing groups to picnic or celebrate onsite, turning the meetup into a full social event rather than just a game. Importantly, the sense of competition paired with teamwork brings out high energy and shared joy, helping people reconnect in a way that more passive social settings cannot. WhirlyBall's emphasis on collaboration and good-natured competition encourages everyone to root for their teammates, creating an atmosphere of togetherness that enhances friendships and family ties.
What makes WhirlyBall stand out compared to other group activities or entertainment venues? WhirlyBall isn’t just another place to hang out; it offers a singular game experience that combines physical activity, strategy, and fun vehicle driving wrapped into a social sport, which is rare to find elsewhere. Unlike bowling alleys or arcade centers, WhirlyBall requires more dynamic movement and cooperation between players, making the interaction and engagement levels much higher. People often remark on how the game’s fast pace and quirky combination of different sports keep everyone on their toes, sparking laughter and friendly banter. Because the game appeals equally to casual players and those seeking a competitive edge, it naturally appeals to diverse groups and mixed ages, perfect for families looking for something active that the kids and adults both enjoy. Furthermore, booking court time or participating in pickup games keeps the social energy buzzing and the environment lively and inviting. WhirlyBall also facilitates memorable gatherings by being more than just a game venue—many consider it ideal for celebrations, corporate team-building, and milestone events, given its unique offering, which encourages inclusiveness and shared achievement.
How can booking at WhirlyBall benefit a group compared to visiting spontaneously? Planning and reserving a spot at WhirlyBall ensures your group has exclusive access to the courts, allowing for uninterrupted game time tailored to your exact needs. This is particularly advantageous for larger meetups that require multiple courts or spaces to accommodate everyone comfortably. Reservations also help in coordinating the timing of the event with catering or food services the venue might offer, turning the meetup into a seamless, well-organized occasion. While walk-in guests can sometimes find pickup games, there is often a wait or limited court availability, which might curtail group play or reduce the overall experience quality. With a reservation, groups receive priority treatment from staff who assist in managing game rotations, refereeing, and providing equipment, which helps maximize the fun and reduces downtime. For any event—from birthdays to reunions—booking ahead aligns visitor expectations with reality, ensuring that the gathering goes smoothly and everyone leaves with positive memories.
What should visitors know before going to WhirlyBall? While WhirlyBall promises a unique and exciting time, visitors should call ahead or book in advance to avoid potential scheduling disappointments since courts can be in high demand, especially on weekends or holidays. Comfortable, sporty clothing is recommended as the game involves active participation inside vehicles and requires some physical movement. Some locations may have food and drink options, but it’s helpful to inquire about catering availability and menu choices prior to arrival if planning a longer event. Because WhirlyBall attracts groups ranging from families to bachelor parties, the environment tends to be energetic and lively, so it suits those looking for an upbeat outing rather than a quiet one. Lastly, players should be prepared for a short briefing session upon arrival where referees explain the game rules and safety protocols to ensure everyone has fun and stays safe while playing. Being mindful of these tips helps guests maximize their experience and truly enjoy what WhirlyBall has to offer for group social events.