Blast Zone opens North Idaho’s first indoor Nerf arena in Kootenai

Blast Zone will mark its grand opening Saturday, Oct. 3, with free arena battles, giveaways and tours at its Kootenai location. The new indoor venue aims to give Sandpoint-area families a year-round place for active play, birthday parties and coach-led Nerf battles.

Why it matters: - Blast Zone adds a new year-round indoor recreation option for North Idaho families. - The arena is designed to keep kids active during long winters when outdoor play is harder. - The venue also expands local options for birthdays, group events and family entertainment.

What happened: - Blast Zone will hold a Grand Opening Open House on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. - The arena is located at 31827 Highway 200, Suite 3, in Kootenai. - Blast Zone is North Idaho’s first indoor Nerf battle arena. - The venue offers coach-led Nerf battles and private birthday party packages. - The arena uses UV blacklight illumination for a glow-in-the-dark play environment.

The details: - Free arena battles will run every 30 minutes, at the top and bottom of each hour, throughout the open house. - All participants will receive premium blasters, protective eyewear and ammo. - Visitors can tour the battlefield and party zone during the event. - Attendees can enter a giveaway for a free Nerf birthday party or one of two free battles. - Winners will be announced Monday. - Guests who book a future event during Saturday’s open house will receive $20 off their booking. - After the open house, Blast Zone will accept private battle and birthday bookings seven days a week. - Session availability and event bookings are available at more information. - Blast Zone’s social media handle is @blastzonesandpoint.

Between the lines: - The business is leaning into a wider trend toward low-barrier, active-play family entertainment. - Owner and head coach Will Bennett said the goal is to give Sandpoint families a place where physical activity, sportsmanship and strategy come together. - Bennett said the venue was built to help kids and adults step away from screens, burn energy and build confidence through team play. - Kootenai Mayor David Sundquist said the venue is a welcome addition to the local business community and a positive option for youth recreation.

What's next: - Blast Zone will focus on private battles, birthday bookings and recurring family events after the opening weekend. - The company is positioning the arena as a year-round indoor option for local families and groups. - More booking information is available at the company’s website.