Area 254: Where E.T. would never want to phone home
Story and photos by BLAIR DUPRE
For anyone looking for a variety of fun opportunities, Area 254 is the perfect one-stop shop where families and friends can enjoy bowling, laser tag, bumper cars, a skating rink and more.
Co-owner Jim Lewis said the idea for the entertainment venue hit a few roadblocks while trying to open in Bryan and then College Station. After not receiving approval from those cities, he decided not to let it deter his goal to create a fun place for families in Texas.
“I was really gung-ho about the idea of building a family entertainment center somewhere, because it’s such a fun business,” he said.
That’s when he turned to Killeen.
Lewis saw a need for a place where both adults and children can have a fun time and, with the city’s help, Area 254 opened in December.
The futuristic/alien theme is very clear throughout with custom made flying saucer-like chandeliers over the dining area, a graphic with singing aliens on the karaoke room windows, and an other-worldly look in the two-story, glow in the dark laser tag arena.
Favorites for visitors are the delicious food choices and tap wall. Those of legal drinking age simple need to obtain a wristband from the staff and they will be able to pour their own beverages and choose from an array of wines and beer. Adding to the futuristic theme, food is delivered by a robot. Yes, a robot.
The arcade features more than 100 games. Some are futuristic in theme, and in fact they are so new that no other arcade in the area has them. One of these games is called “Goats n Ropes” where players pull an actual rope while simultaneously using arrow buttons to help a goat navigate to the top of a mountain.
The bowling center features colorful lights illuminating the seating area and bowling pins, along with a 60-foot-long LED wall that can play music videos, TV shows or display messages like “Happy Birthday.” Visitors can also experience the future of bowling by playing different themed games, including “Angry Birds.”
In the “Angry Birds” game certain pins represent the pigs and bowlers are challenged to knock them down on their first bowl to earn the most points.
Since opening, Lewis said the outpour from the community both in patronage and in employment opportunities has been wonderful.
“We’re super happy to provide so many jobs in the community,” he said. “We’ve been extremely happy with the workforce in Killeen.”
The passion Lewis has for Area 254 has been, and continues to be, poured into every corner of the facility as he avidly looks to make improvements and grow.
“The most rewarding thing is seeing families come and play together,” he concluded. “When you see parents and their kids laughing and having a good time together, that’s pretty gratifying. You know that you’re making a difference.”
Area 254
Address: 901 S. Fort Hood St., Killeen
Phone: 254-213-2660
Website: www.area254.fun
Socials: facebook.com/area254fun
instagram.com/area254fun
