Best Independent Outings for Tweens and Teens Around Seattle

Games have come a long way, and choices today go way beyond Chutes and Ladders or Monopoly (yawn). And with such variety, there is something for just about everyone, from straightforward card games to games with so many pieces it takes an advanced degree to set it all up, and complex adventure games that can take hours to complete. Check out these stores for plenty of options, plus a variety of in-person gaming events:

• Mox Boarding House, Seattle and Bellevue. Browse for new board games, check out the latest Magic the Gathering cards or come for an epic Dungeons & Dragons adventure. Mox has something for everyone, including a restaurant, where you can sit and chat with your friends over a beer while the kids go all in on a gaming adventure. My kind of place! But be forewarned: Some of the card and gaming events have an entry fee and often run until after 10 p.m.
• Zulu’s Board Game Cafe, Bothell. A community-oriented board-game café for all ages, this venue offers a wide variety of board games, card-game tournaments, and even Dungeons & Dragons for young adventurers! This shop’s packed events calendar can keep your gaming teen busy every night of the week. Again, be sure to read all event details, as some have fees and late ending times.
• Tacoma Games, Tacoma. This is a great game shop, filled with a wide selection of board games, card games, role-playing games and supplies for painting miniatures. This store also hosts weekly Magic the Gathering tournaments and events throughout the month; check the calendar for details. While there is no café located onsite, there are many nearby places to grab a meal or snack.

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