By: Michael Sewell

Just a few years ago trampoline parks were popular and crowded with kids every weekend; these same trampoline parks are non-existent, and nobody seems to talk about it anymore.

Unfortunately, this is not the only form of entertainment dying. This poses an interesting question: can these types of entertainment venues be saved? Movie theaters, bowling alleys and arcades join the list of typically fun places that just do not seem to be as popular in 2021. Of course, COVID-19 must be mentioned which no doubt has affected these venues, but they were hurting anyways.

Streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu have hampered theaters as most people prefer to watch new movies at the comfort of their own home. With new gaming systems such as the PS5 and Xbox coming around every few years, arcades have been put to the wayside. Bowling alleys do not seem to have a direct competitor, but they too have seen a decline in popularity over the years.

Once the majority of people are vaccinated, a resurgence is possible for these places as they all should be able to provide safe and quality entertainment after such a long closure. Many movies were held off releasing due to COVID-19 and should all be coming soon. Theaters such as AMC and Cinemark should be popular again once open, as people do miss the experience of going to the theatre.

Arcade combos such as Round 1 provide great entertainment for hours along with so many things to do. Places such as Round 1 are new and exciting and can appeal to all age groups as they even include 18 and over, gaming only after 10 p.m. No matter the age, fun is aplenty in places like these and they should strive once back open.

One final fun activity that seems to be gaining popularity is escape rooms. These have begun to rise over the last few years as more people experience them and witness the thrill that they bring. New escape rooms are popping up all over, as owners and creative minds present their ideas. Searching on Yelp or Google can show just how many different genres and types of escape rooms can be experienced in not only Los Angeles, but in the entire Southern California region. Horror, kid friendly or mystery are just a few of the styles that can be found in different kinds of rooms.

Escape rooms bring hope for entertainment venues to not only stay around and prosper, but for future ideas that may not have even been created yet. Fun places are crucial in this world and can be the best places around as they provide great quality entertainment and can build family or friend relationships as well as romantic ones.

Bonding over fun is one of the simplest and best joys that one can experience.

The Revival of Fun