Don't throw away your shot — West Des Moines-based Smash Park is adding ax-throwing

Smash Park is adding to its lineup with a new activity: ax-throwing.

The West Des Moines-based entertainment center chain said the addition comes as ax-throwing surges in popularity.

The new activity also will be featured at upcoming new locations in Omaha and the Twin Cities.

“It’s a unique experience that we think will broaden our appeal to a wide range of guests,” said Smash Park CEO Monty Lockyear. “Our ax-throwing offering is a fun group activity that’s really engaging and different not to mention a great stress reliever.”

Smash Park is adding a new ax-throwing experience to its original West Des Moines location. The company describes it as an "arcade-like" experience that features a traditional bullseye and a total of 10 games.
Smash Park is adding a new ax-throwing experience to its original West Des Moines location. The company describes it as an "arcade-like" experience that features a traditional bullseye and a total of 10 games.

Smash Park's ax-throwing will use an interactive system to provide what it calls "an arcade-like experience." The system will offer a traditional bullseye and a total of 10 different games using automatic sensors for scoring. Players can also create profiles for repeat playing.

The activity costs $25 per person to rent an ax-throwing lane for an hour. All participants must be at least 14 years of age to play. The price includes a personal guide known as an “axepert” who will train participants on proper throwing techniques and offer tips for throwers.

Ax-throwing is also available for parties and corporate events and Smash Park plans to host ax-throwing leagues.

Smash Park boasts locations in West Des Moines, Pella, the Twin Cities suburb Roseville, and La Vista, Nebraska which is just outside of Omaha. The lanes will be open Monday through Friday starting at 4 p.m., and all-day on Saturday and Sunday.

Jay Stahl is an entertainment reporter at The Des Moines Register. Follow him on Instagram or reach out at jstahl@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa entertainment chain Smash Park adds axe-throwing at all locations