Obviously the Amaze Escape team loves the thrill and adventure of trying a new escape room. But what if you can’t even escape your own home to play one? Creating a mini escape room at home is a fantastic way to entertain family and friends while flexing your creativity and problem-solving skills. Whether you’re planning a fun weekend activity or a unique party game, this guide will help you design an unforgettable escape room experience.

Note: You can always buy an at-home escape room kit, but we think it’s more fun to build one from scratch!

Step 1: Choose a Theme

Every great escape room starts with a compelling theme. Do you want your players to solve a mystery in a haunted house, escape from a spy’s secret lair, or uncover buried treasure? Pick a theme that excites you and fits your audience. A strong theme will guide your puzzles and create an immersive experience.

Step 2: Create a Storyline

Once you have your theme, develop a simple storyline. For example, if you’ve chosen a treasure hunt theme, your story might be: “You’re explorers searching for a lost artifact hidden in a cursed temple. Can you find it and escape before the temple collapses?” The story sets the tone and gives players a goal.

Step 3: Design Puzzles and Challenges

Puzzles are the heart of any escape room. Here are some specific examples using household items to get you started:

• Lock and Key: Use a small box with a key lock (maybe a jewelry box?) and hide the key somewhere in the room. For added difficulty, place a clue leading to the key’s location.
• Book Cipher: Select a book and leave a note directing players to find specific words on certain pages. For example, “Page 45, word 3; page 78, word 12.” The collected words can form a clue or code.
• Mirror Message: Write a clue backward on a piece of paper so it can only be read by holding it up to a mirror.
• Jigsaw Puzzle: Create a homemade puzzle by cutting up a printed map or image. Assemble it to reveal a clue.
• Invisible Ink: Use lemon juice to write a clue on paper. Players can reveal it by gently heating the paper over a candle or lamp.
• Combination Lock Code: Use a bike lock or suitcase lock. Hide the combination in a series of clues scattered around the room.
• Math Problem: Use sticky notes or whiteboard markers to create a math problem that, when solved, gives the code to unlock something.

Tailor your puzzles to your theme and make sure they vary in difficulty to keep everyone engaged.

Step 4: Set Up Your Escape Room Space

Transform your chosen room to match your theme. Use props, decorations, and lighting to create the right ambiance. For example, a pirate-themed escape room might include treasure chests, maps, and nautical decor. Don’t forget to remove any items that could distract from the game.

Step 5: Establish Rules and Time Limits

Before the game begins, explain the rules to your players. For example, you might want to clarify whether they can move furniture or whether certain areas are off-limits. Set a time limit to add urgency and excitement. Most home escape rooms work well with a 30- to 60-minute countdown.

Step 6: Test the Experience

Run through your escape room to ensure the puzzles flow logically and there’s enough challenge without being frustrating. If possible, ask a friend or family member to do a trial run and provide feedback.

Step 7: Enjoy the Fun!

When it’s time to play, immerse your players in the story and cheer them on as they solve puzzles and work together. Don’t forget to take photos and celebrate their success!

Bonus Tips for a Successful Escape Room at Home

• Use Technology: Incorporate audio or video clues for an extra layer of complexity.
• Keep It Affordable: Get creative with items you already have at home, like books, boxes, or even kitchen utensils.
• Involve All Ages: Make sure your puzzles are suitable for the age range of your players.

Creating an escape room at home is not only fun but also a memorable way to spend time with loved ones. Whether you’re a seasoned puzzle enthusiast or a beginner, the joy of solving mysteries and working together will leave everyone with lasting memories.