Ultimate Indoor Nerf: Gotcha Arena

Hey Readers: I’m about to tell you about Gotcha Arenas, a place we thought was awesome. However, they did pay for our experience at the arena. This did not affect my review, but I wanted to let you know.


I’m going to whisper a word in your ear: nerf. Did your kid hear it? Because I think my kid heard, he is in the other room. I kid…but Nerf is like the real-deal big kid thing - they love it. So imagine the thrill of Nerf plus a huge arena where the imagination can run free. Yup, that’s Gotcha Arena.

While I enjoy a good game, I thought Gotcha would make the perfect dad and son fun day out. They invited two other dad and son friends, and it was game on. They had a total blast. In fact, they went a few weeks ago, and all the boys (and dads, haha) are still talking about it and want to go back. My son is planning his next birthday there, which is over six months away. Needless to say, this place is a great time. Let me tell you all about it!

What is Gotcha?

Gotcha is the ultimate Nerf experience (aka foam darts). It’s a large indoor arena set up for imaginative Nerf battles. It’s divided into two areas: pirates on one side and space on the other side. When you arrive, you pay for your entrance, and everything is included for the nerf play (except the socks, you buy those once and then bring them back on your future visits). You will get a nerf blaster (four types available, and you can switch out as you play) and protective glasses. Then you head out into the arena for some fun!

During your time, the staff at Gotcha will offer up some different games for everyone to join in. For instance, they played freeze tag with the nerfs and parents versus kids. Otherwise, it’s a free for all play style! Perhaps you’ll make alliances or go solo.

Who can play at Gotcha?

Kids ages five and up can play…yup, big kids (aka adults) are also allowed to play. Kids under five can play during Preschool Popper Time - often offered on weekdays from 11 AM-2 PM. Instead of the Nerf blaster, they get poppers!

Where is Gotcha?

The Gotcha Arena is in Auburn, WA. It’s inside the Auburn Outlet Collection Mall.

Tell me More!

  • Gotcha is a giant indoor play space perfect for those rainy WA days or in the summer on hot days, and you are desperate for A/C.

  • No need to buy your tickets in advance online; you can walk in and play! The prices are $16/player for 30 minutes or $24/player for an hour. If you live close enough to go frequently, they offer memberships.

  • The boys went to Red Robin afterward, and it was kid perfection. They also have pizza and popcorn available at Gotcha.

  • You can have a birthday party at Gotcha - check it out!

  • They are open daily! Hours are Monday to Friday 11 AM-8 PM, Saturday 10 AM-9 PM, and Sunday 11 AM-8 PM.

  • Honestly, this is a great way to get some of your older kids out and moving.

Instagram Highlight:

If you have an Instagram account, check out my highlighted story in my profile for more photos and videos. Also, check out the Gotcha Arena Instagram account.

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