Family Escape Rooms in Ohio | Crooked Cottage
Escape rooms are one of the few activities where kids and adults are genuinely on equal footing. The puzzles don't care how old you are — they care whether your family can think together, communicate, and work as a team. Crooked Cottage in Delaware, Ohio is 25 minutes from Columbus and built for exactly that kind of experience.
Why Escape Rooms Work So Well for Families
Most family activities split the group — parents watch while kids play, or adults sit through something designed for children. An escape room puts everyone in the same room with the same goal and the same 60 minutes on the clock. Kids get to be the hero. Adults get genuinely stumped. And everyone walks out with a story they'll retell for years.
Every booking at Crooked Cottage is completely private — your family and no one else. You'll never share a session with strangers. The facility is unstaffed during your experience, which means it's fully immersive from the moment the door closes. No hovering, no interruptions — just your family and the adventure.
Choosing the Right Room for Your Family
Not every room is right for every family. Here's an honest guide to help you pick the best experience for your group's ages and comfort level.
Mayan Temple
Ancient ruins, hidden chambers, and exploration-driven puzzles. Adventure-forward with no dark or scary elements — our top pick for families with younger kids.
Up to 6 players
View roomCrabtree Manor
A Victorian mystery with a rich story. Puzzle-heavy and atmospheric — great for families with older kids who enjoy a good whodunit. Our largest room.
Up to 12 players — great for larger family groups
View roomHouse in the Woods
Suspenseful and tense. An isolated cabin with a mystery that needs solving. Best for families with teenagers who enjoy being on edge.
Up to 8 players
View roomJoyce's Dollhouse
A paranormal investigation built around real unexplained hauntings in this building. Dark, unsettling, and genuinely atmospheric. Not recommended for younger children — scare level 6/10.
Up to 6 players
View roomWizarding University
Our newest room opens July 2026. A magical academy setting — likely to be a family favorite from day one.
Up to 6 players — booking opens soon
Planning Your Visit
All bookings are made online in advance — we don't accept walk-ins, which is part of what keeps every session fully private. Weekend slots fill up quickly, so we recommend booking at least a week or two ahead, especially during school breaks and summer.
Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes early for your briefing. Each session runs 60 minutes. Most families budget about 90 minutes total for the full experience including arrival and wind-down time afterward.
After your session, downtown Delaware has great options for dinner or dessert — and Raven's Cauldron, our partner crystal and curiosities shop, is worth a browse if your family is curious about something a little different.
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.
Planning a family birthday? Every birthday booking includes an exclusive swag bag for the guest of honor — a $50 value curated by Raven's Cauldron around their zodiac sign. Learn more about birthday parties.
Gift cards are also available. Learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ages are appropriate for escape rooms?
All ages are welcome at Crooked Cottage. Players under 14 require a parent or guardian present. For younger teens (12–13) who want to play independently, a parent or guardian can sign off and remain on the premises. We recommend Mayan Temple or Crabtree Manor for families with younger children, and suggest avoiding Joyce's Dollhouse with kids under 12.
Are the rooms private for our family?
Yes — every booking is completely private. Your family will never share a session with strangers. The entire room is yours for the duration of your booking.
Is the facility staffed while we're inside?
Yes, our gamemaster will guide you through the entire experience.
Which room is best for younger kids?
Mayan Temple is our top recommendation for families with younger children — it's adventure-focused with no scary or dark elements. Crabtree Manor is also a great choice for puzzle-loving kids who enjoy mystery stories. We'd suggest avoiding Joyce's Dollhouse for children under 12.
How far are you from Columbus?
We're in Delaware, Ohio — about 25 minutes north of Columbus via US-23. Easy drive, free parking, and worth the trip.
Can we book for a family birthday?
Absolutely — and birthday bookings include a complimentary swag bag for the guest of honor, curated by our partner shop Raven's Cauldron around their zodiac sign. See our birthday parties page for full details.
Do you offer gift cards?
Yes — Crooked Cottage gift cards make a great gift for families, birthdays, or any special occasion.