Escape Rooms Near Marion, Ohio
Marion doesn't have an escape room. The closest one worth doing is 30 minutes south in Delaware, Ohio — and it's nothing like what you'd find in a strip mall. Crooked Cottage is a real historic building with five immersive rooms, private bookings, and stories that don't end when you walk out the door.
What Happened to Larry Simcox?
Larry Simcox was last seen at a house in the woods outside Delaware, Ohio. Those who knew him say the change came gradually — a growing obsession with things better left alone, messages that grew darker and more fragmented, and then silence. The last transmission anyone received from Larry was a single line: don't come looking.
Constance Merriweather — Larry's distant relation, reluctant as she is to involve herself in family matters — has pieced together what she can. She believes someone with the right eyes can still find out what happened inside that house. She's not willing to go herself. That part is up to you.
The House in the Woods at Crooked Cottage is a paranormal investigation built around Larry's disappearance. Your group has 60 minutes to uncover what happened — and decide whether you want to know the answer.
The House in the Woods — Our Marion Recommendation
For groups coming from Marion, the House in the Woods tends to resonate. It's atmospheric, story-driven, and built around a mystery that feels genuinely unresolved. Up to 8 players can book this room for a fully private session — no staff present, no interruptions, just your group and whatever Larry left behind.
And if your group wants to go deeper into the Crooked Cottage universe — Constance Merriweather's full story unfolds in Crabtree Manor. The two rooms exist in the same world. The connections are there for those paying attention.
Book the House in the WoodsAll Five Rooms
The House in the Woods is our recommendation for Marion groups, but all five rooms are available for private booking. Each tells a different story in the same historic building.
House in the Woods
Larry Simcox was last seen here. A paranormal investigation set in an isolated cabin where something went very wrong. Atmospheric, tense, and deeply unsettling.
Up to 8 players
View roomCrabtree Manor
Constance Merriweather's domain. A Victorian murder mystery with a real full-size casket and a century of buried secrets. The companion piece to the House in the Woods.
Up to 12 players
View roomJoyce's Dollhouse
A paranormal investigation built around real unexplained hauntings. A real name — Joyce Babcock — was found sealed inside the wall during renovation.
Up to 6 players
View roomMayan Temple
Ancient ruins, hidden chambers, and a race against a curse. Adventure-forward and great for groups who want challenge without the horror.
Up to 6 players
View roomWizarding University
Opening July 2026. A magical academy experience unlike anything else in central Ohio.
Up to 6 players — booking opens soon
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.
Corporate rate: $34.40 per person (20% off). Groups of 25+ receive an additional 15% off at $29.24 per person.
Gift cards available. Learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Crooked Cottage from Marion?
About 30 minutes south via US-23. It's a straightforward drive with free parking directly at the building when you arrive in downtown Delaware.
Which room should Marion groups book?
We recommend the House in the Woods for most Marion groups — it's atmospheric, story-driven, and holds up to 8 players. If your group wants a bigger space or a Victorian mystery angle, Crabtree Manor accommodates up to 12 and exists in the same story universe.
Are bookings private?
Yes — every booking is completely private. Your group gets the entire room with no strangers sharing your session.
Do you accept walk-ins?
Online booking required. We do not accept walk-ins. Book in advance at the link above to reserve your time slot.
Can we book multiple rooms for a larger group?
Yes — we can accommodate up to 38 players across all five rooms simultaneously. Reach out before booking and we'll help coordinate the best setup for your group.
Is there anything else to do in Delaware after our session?
Downtown Delaware has solid independent dining options worth exploring. Raven's Cauldron — our partner curiosity and crystal shop in the same building — is also worth a visit before or after your session.