Date Night Escape Room Near Columbus, Ohio
Dinner and a movie is fine. A private escape room where you have to outwit a Victorian murder mystery together — that's a date night you'll actually remember. Crooked Cottage in Delaware, Ohio is one of the most unique date night experiences near Columbus, and it's only 25 minutes away.
Why Escape Rooms Make the Perfect Date Night
There's something about being locked in a room together with 60 minutes on the clock that brings out the best in a couple. You communicate differently. You solve problems together. You cheer each other on. And when you crack that final puzzle — or hilariously don't — you walk out with a shared story that no restaurant reservation can give you.
Every room at Crooked Cottage is a private booking. That means no strangers, no awkward shared spaces — just you, your partner, and the adventure. Our facility is unstaffed during your session, so the atmosphere is completely immersive from the moment the door closes.
Choose Your Setting
Whether you want gothic and mysterious or ancient and adventurous, we have a room that fits the mood. All rooms are available for two-person bookings.
Crabtree Manor
A Victorian manor hiding a century-old secret. Dark, atmospheric, and deeply satisfying to unravel together. Our most popular room for couples.
Up to 12 — perfect for just the two of you
View roomHouse in the Woods
An isolated cabin with a deeply unsettling past. Atmospheric, tense, and rewarding — ideal if you and your partner love a good mystery.
Up to 8 players
View roomJoyce's Dollhouse
A paranormal investigation inside a haunted dollhouse. Strange, beautiful, and genuinely eerie. A great choice if you want something truly different.
Up to 6 players
View roomMayan Temple
Ancient puzzles, hidden chambers, and a ticking curse. Adventure-forward and satisfying — great for couples who like a challenge.
Up to 6 players
View roomWizarding University
Our newest room opens July 2026. Something magical is coming — watch this space.
Up to 6 players — booking opens soon
Before or After — Make a Night of It
Delaware, Ohio has a quietly great dining scene, and you're only 25 minutes from Columbus if you want to extend the evening. Before your session, explore downtown Delaware's independent restaurants and coffee shops. Afterward, stop into Raven's Cauldron — our partner curiosity and crystal shop — for something a little unusual to cap the night. Or head south on US-23 and Columbus is at your fingertips.
Pricing
Starting at $43.00 per person for 2 players, $39.00 per person for 3–4 players, and $35.00 per person for 5 or more players.
For a two-person date night that's $86 total — less than most Columbus dinner tabs, and far more memorable.
Want to give it as a gift? Crooked Cottage gift cards are available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can two people do an escape room?
Absolutely — all of our rooms work beautifully for two players. In fact, smaller groups often have a more intimate, focused experience. You'll have the entire room to yourselves with no other groups sharing your time slot.
Is it staffed? Will someone be watching us?
Yes, our gamemaster will guide you through everything. We have cameras in every room, and an advanced hint system, you are in good hands.
Which room is best for a date night?
Crabtree Manor is our most popular choice for couples — the Victorian atmosphere is moody and cinematic, and the puzzles feel genuinely collaborative. Joyce's Dollhouse is a great pick if you want something stranger and more unsettling. We're happy to help you choose if you reach out before booking.
How long does the experience last?
Each session runs up to 60–75 minutes. Plan for about 90 minutes total including arrival and your briefing.
Do we need to book in advance?
Yes — all bookings are made online in advance. We don't accept walk-ins, and weekend evening slots fill up quickly. We recommend booking at least a week ahead for a Friday or Saturday date night.
Where are you located?
We're in Delaware, Ohio — about 25 minutes north of Columbus via US-23. Full address and parking details are included in your booking confirmation.