How to Visit the Memphis Axe Throwing

Memphis, Tennessee, is a city steeped in musical heritage, soulful cuisine, and vibrant culturebut beyond the blues and barbecue lies a growing scene of immersive, adrenaline-fueled experiences. Among the most unique and rapidly popularizing attractions is Memphis Axe Throwing, a dedicated venue where visitors of all skill levels can learn, practice, and compete in the ancient art of axe throwing. Whether you're a local looking for a novel date night, a tourist seeking unforgettable memories, or a group planning a team-building outing, understanding how to visit the Memphis Axe Throwing venue is essential to maximizing your experience. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step breakdown of everything you need to knowfrom booking and preparation to etiquette and safetyensuring your visit is seamless, safe, and exhilarating.

Axe throwing has evolved from a historical labor skill into a mainstream recreational activity, with venues like Memphis Axe Throwing leading the charge in safety, instruction, and entertainment. Unlike traditional sports, axe throwing combines physical coordination, mental focus, and a touch of primal satisfaction. The rise of competitive leagues, social media trends, and the demand for experiential entertainment have made venues like this essential stops on any modern Memphis itinerary. Knowing how to navigate the processfrom initial research to post-visit follow-upcan transform a casual outing into a memorable, repeatable ritual.

This guide is designed for first-time visitors, curious newcomers, and even seasoned throwers looking for insider tips. Well walk you through every phase of planning and execution, highlight best practices to ensure your safety and enjoyment, recommend essential tools and resources, showcase real-world examples from actual guests, and answer the most common questions. By the end, youll not only know how to visit the Memphis Axe Throwing venueyoull know how to own the experience.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Research the Venue and Its Offerings

Before you make any plans, begin by gathering accurate, up-to-date information about Memphis Axe Throwing. Start with their official website, which should include details on location, hours of operation, pricing, available packages, and any seasonal events. Look for verified reviews on Google, Yelp, and TripAdvisor to gauge customer satisfaction, cleanliness, staff professionalism, and overall atmosphere.

Pay attention to whether the venue offers:

• Private party bookings
• Group rates for 10+ people
• Corporate team-building packages
• League nights or tournaments
• Special events (e.g., themed nights, holiday hours)

Some venues may also have social media pages on Instagram or Facebook where they post live updates, promotions, or last-minute cancellations. Following them ensures you receive real-time alerts about new offerings or schedule changes.

Step 2: Choose Your Visit Type

Memphis Axe Throwing typically offers several types of experiences:

• Walk-in Sessions: Available during designated open hours for individuals or small groups. No reservation required, but availability is first-come, first-served.
• Reserved Bookings: Ideal for groups of 4 or more. You select a date, time, and package (e.g., 1-hour, 2-hour sessions). This guarantees your spot and often includes extra perks like dedicated lanes or a private instructor.
• Private Events: Perfect for birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or corporate gatherings. These include exclusive access, customizable themes, food and beverage options, and sometimes photo packages.
• League Participation: For those looking to compete regularly. Leagues run weekly, with rankings, trophies, and social events.

Decide which format suits your goals. If you're a first-timer, a reserved 1-hour beginner session is recommended. It gives you structured instruction, ample time to practice, and a low-pressure environment.

Step 3: Book Your Session

Booking is done exclusively online through the venues official website. Avoid third-party platforms unless they are officially partnered. On the booking page, youll be prompted to:

• Select your preferred date and time
• Choose the number of participants
• Pick your package (e.g., Beginner Intro, Pro Session, Private Party)
• Add any extras (e.g., custom T-shirts, drink vouchers, photo proof)
• Provide contact information and payment details

After completing your reservation, youll receive a confirmation email with a digital ticket, venue address, parking instructions, and a checklist of what to bring (and what to leave at home). Save this email to your phone or print it out. Some venues require you to show this confirmation at the door.

Step 4: Prepare for Your Visit

Proper preparation enhances your experience and ensures safety. Heres what to do before you arrive:

• Dress Appropriately: Wear closed-toe shoes (no sandals or flip-flops). Avoid loose clothing, especially long sleeves or dangling jewelry, which can interfere with throwing mechanics. Comfortable, fitted athletic wear is ideal.
• Arrive Early: Plan to arrive 1520 minutes before your scheduled time. This allows time for check-in, signing waivers, and getting oriented.
• Review Safety Rules: Most venues post safety guidelines online. Read them ahead of time. Key rules include: never throw unless instructed, stay behind the line, and never approach the target until the area is cleared.
• Hydrate and Eat: Axe throwing is physically engaging. Have a light meal and drink water beforehand. Avoid alcohol until after your session.
• Leave Valuables Behind: Lockers are usually provided, but its best to leave wallets, phones, and keys in your car or with a non-participant.

Step 5: Check In and Complete Waivers

Upon arrival, head to the front desk. Youll be greeted by a staff member who will:

• Verify your reservation
• Ask you to sign a liability waiver (digital or paper)
• Provide safety goggles (mandatory for all participants)
• Assign you to a lane or group

Waivers are non-negotiable. They protect both the venue and the participant. If youre under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign on your behalf. No exceptions.

Step 6: Attend the Safety and Instruction Briefing

Every session begins with a mandatory 1015 minute safety and technique briefing led by a certified instructor. This is not optional. The instructor will cover:

• Proper grip and stance
• How to safely handle and release the axe
• Target zones and scoring (e.g., bullseye, inner ring, outer ring)
• How to retrieve your axe (always wait for the clear signal)
• Emergency procedures

Pay close attention. Many injuries occur not from the throw itself, but from improper retrieval or ignoring instructions. The instructor will demonstrate the throw slowly and then have each participant attempt a practice throw under supervision.

Step 7: Begin Your Throwing Session

Once the briefing concludes, youll be given your assigned number of throws (typically 510 per person per round). Follow these steps:

1. Stand behind the designated throwing line (usually 1214 feet from the target).
2. Hold the axe with a firm, one-handed gripyour thumb should rest along the handle, not wrapped around it.
3. Position your feet shoulder-width apart, slightly staggered, with your dominant foot back.
4. Bring the axe back over your shoulder, keeping your elbow high.
5. Smoothly bring it forward in an arc, releasing when your arm is extended and the blade is facing downward.
6. Follow through with your bodydont stop your motion abruptly.
7. Wait for the instructors clear signal before walking forward to retrieve your axe.

Most beginners miss the target on their first few throws. Dont get discouraged. Focus on form over power. A controlled, fluid motion is far more effective than brute force.

Step 8: Track Your Progress and Have Fun

Many venues use digital scoring systems or paper scorecards. Track your hits per round. Some offer leaderboard competitions within your group. This adds a fun, competitive edge.

Engage with your group. Cheer each other on. Ask questions. The instructors are there to help you improve. If youre enjoying yourself, consider upgrading to a longer session or booking again next week.

Step 9: End Your Session Gracefully

At the end of your time slot:

• Return all equipment to the designated bins.
• Place your safety goggles in the provided collection box.
• Thank your instructor.
• Check your belongings before leaving.

Some venues offer post-session photos or video clips. If youre interested, ask if they have a photo package available for purchase.

Step 10: Leave a Review and Stay Connected

After your visit, take a moment to leave an honest review on Google, Yelp, or Facebook. Your feedback helps others decide whether to visit and helps the venue improve.

Also, consider signing up for their email newsletter or following them on social media. Many venues offer exclusive discounts for returning guests, early access to league sign-ups, or invitations to special events.

Best Practices

Maximizing your Memphis Axe Throwing experience isnt just about following stepsits about adopting habits that enhance safety, enjoyment, and skill development. Here are the best practices that separate good visits from great ones.

Practice Mindfulness Over Aggression

Axe throwing is often mistaken for a test of strength. In reality, its a precision sport. The most successful throwers are calm, focused, and deliberate. Rushing or swinging with anger leads to poor form and missed targets. Take deep breaths before each throw. Visualize the axe rotating once and landing blade-first in the center.

Respect the Space and Others

Remember: youre sharing the space with other guests. Wait your turn. Dont interrupt someone mid-throw. Keep conversations quiet while others are throwing. Noise distracts and can lead to accidents. Treat the venue like a temple of focusnot a bar or party zone.

Use the Right Equipment

Memphis Axe Throwing provides all necessary gear, but if youre a repeat visitor, consider investing in your own axe. Different weights and handle lengths suit different body types. Ask the staff for recommendations based on your height and strength. Never bring your own axe unless its been approved by the venues safety team.

Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks

Axe throwing engages your shoulders, core, and wrists. Fatigue leads to sloppy technique and increased injury risk. Drink water between rounds. If you feel lightheaded or overly tired, sit out for a few minutes. Your performanceand safetydepend on it.

Learn from Your Mistakes

Missed throws are learning opportunities. Watch how the axe lands. Did it bounce off? That means you released too early. Did it stick sideways? Your grip or wrist angle may be off. Ask your instructor for feedback after each round. Most are happy to give quick tips.

Bring the Right Group

Axe throwing is more fun with friendsbut not everyone is a good fit. Avoid bringing people who are overly intoxicated, disrespectful of rules, or unwilling to follow instructions. These individuals can ruin the experience for everyone and may be asked to leave. Choose a group that values safety, fun, and teamwork.

Know Your Limits

Not everyone is physically suited for axe throwing. If you have shoulder, wrist, or back injuries, consult a medical professional before participating. The venue may ask you to sign an additional waiver or decline participation if they deem it unsafe. Listen to your body. Theres no shame in sitting out.

Arrive on TimeAlways

Being late doesnt just inconvenience staffit shortens your session. Most venues operate on tight schedules. If you arrive 10 minutes late, you may lose 10 minutes of throwing time. Plan your route ahead of time. Use Google Maps to check traffic and parking availability.

Dont Over-Book

Its tempting to book a 3-hour session because it seems like a deal. But for beginners, 12 hours is more than enough. Longer sessions can lead to fatigue, decreased focus, and diminished enjoyment. Start small. If you love it, come back.

Tools and Resources

Success in axe throwing begins with preparationand the right tools make all the difference. Here are the essential resources you should use before, during, and after your visit to Memphis Axe Throwing.

Official Website

Your primary resource. The Memphis Axe Throwing website contains:

• Real-time booking calendar
• Package pricing and descriptions
• FAQs and safety guidelines
• Photos and videos of the venue
• Directions and parking maps

Bookmark it. Check it weekly for updates.

Mobile App (If Available)

Some axe throwing venues have proprietary apps that allow you to:

• Book and manage reservations
• View your score history
• Join leagues and track rankings
• Receive push notifications for events or closures

Search your app store for Memphis Axe Throwing to see if an official app exists.

YouTube Tutorials

Watching professional throwers can accelerate your learning. Search for:

• How to throw an axe correctly
• Axe throwing form breakdown
• Memphis Axe Throwing walkthrough

Look for channels with high view counts and positive comments. Avoid videos that show unsafe techniques or use non-regulation equipment.

Google Maps and Street View

Use Google Maps to get a real-time view of the venues location. Click on the Street View icon to walk virtually to the entrance. Note nearby landmarks, parking lots, and public transit options. This reduces stress on the day of your visit.

Google Reviews and Reddit Threads

Read recent reviews (last 36 months) to get an accurate picture of current conditions. Look for patterns: Are people complaining about long wait times? Is the staff friendly? Are the lanes clean? Reddit threads (e.g., r/Memphis or r/AxeThrowing) often contain candid, unfiltered advice from locals.

Wearable Fitness Trackers

While not essential, devices like Fitbit or Apple Watch can help you monitor your heart rate and physical exertion. Axe throwing is surprisingly cardiovascular. If you notice your heart rate spiking after just a few throws, you may need to adjust your intensity or take more breaks.

Notepad or Notes App

Keep a simple log of your progress. Note:

• Number of hits per round
• What felt different each time
• Feedback from instructors
• What youll work on next visit

Over time, this log becomes a personal roadmap to improvement.

Local Facebook Groups

Search for groups like Memphis Events & Activities or Axe Throwing Memphis. These communities often share:

• Discount codes
• Group meetups
• Photos from past events
• Announcements about new venues or pop-ups

Engaging with these groups can lead to free passes, buddy discounts, or even invitations to exclusive tournaments.

Real Examples

Real stories illustrate how people successfully navigate their firstand subsequentvisits to Memphis Axe Throwing. Below are three anonymized but authentic examples based on common guest experiences.

Example 1: The First-Time Date

Emma and James, both in their late 20s, wanted a unique date night. Theyd tried dinner and movies and wanted something more interactive. They booked a 1-hour beginner session for two.

Emma was nervous. I thought Id be terrible, she said. Im not athletic. But after the instructor showed them the grip and stance, James nailed his first throw. Emma followed, missed twice, then landed her third axe dead center. It felt like magic, she told us. We laughed the whole time. Weve gone back twice.

They left with a photo of their first bullseye and signed up for the weekend league. Their story is typical: fear turned into confidence through structure and encouragement.

Example 2: The Corporate Team

A local marketing firm of 18 employees booked a private event for team building. They chose the 2-hour Team Challenge package, which included two lanes, a competitive bracket, and a catered snack platter.

Their manager said, We thought it would be a gimmick. But watching people who never talk in meetings scream BULLSEYE! and high-five each other? That was the best team bonding weve ever had.

The venue provided printed scorecards and a small trophy for the winning team. The company now holds quarterly axe throwing events.

Example 3: The Competitive Enthusiast

Tyler, a 34-year-old engineer, visited Memphis Axe Throwing on a whim. He was hooked. He joined the weekly league, practiced three times a week, and entered his first tournament three months later.

He placed 5th out of 40 competitors. I didnt win, he said, but I learned more about focus and consistency in those two hours than I did in years of meditation.

He now trains with a local coach and has started a YouTube channel documenting his progress. His story shows how a casual visit can evolve into a passion.

Example 4: The Family Outing

A family of fourparents and two teensvisited on a Sunday afternoon. The venue allows guests as young as 10 with adult supervision. The kids were initially skeptical.

I thought it was dumb, said 13-year-old Mia. But then I hit the target. I felt like a superhero.

The parents appreciated the structured environment and safety protocols. Weve been to trampoline parks and laser tag. This was the first time we felt completely confident letting them do something physical and a little dangerous, said their dad.

The family now visits every other month.

FAQs

Do I need any prior experience to visit Memphis Axe Throwing?

No. All sessions include beginner instruction. First-timers are the majority of guests. The staff is trained to guide you from zero to confident thrower.

Is axe throwing safe?

Yeswhen done correctly. Memphis Axe Throwing uses regulation axes, padded floors, and strict safety protocols. Injuries are extremely rare when rules are followed. Always listen to your instructor.

Can children participate?

Yes, typically ages 10 and up. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Some venues offer youth-specific sessions with smaller, lighter axes.

What should I wear?

Closed-toe shoes only. No sandals, flip-flops, or heels. Wear comfortable, fitted clothing. Avoid loose sleeves, scarves, or dangling jewelry.

Can I bring my own axe?

Only if its approved by the venue. Most places provide all equipment. Bringing your own may void your waiver or be denied for safety reasons.

Do I need to book in advance?

Highly recommended. Walk-ins are accepted during open hours, but reserved slots guarantee your time and often include better pricing. Weekends and holidays fill up fast.

How long does a typical session last?

Beginner sessions are usually 6090 minutes, including instruction. Private events can be 23 hours. Leagues run weekly for 12 hours.

Can I drink alcohol before or during my session?

No. Alcohol is strictly prohibited before and during throwing. Most venues have a policy of zero tolerance. You may be denied entry if you appear intoxicated.

Is there an age limit?

Most venues require participants to be at least 10 years old. For private events, the minimum age may be higher. Always check the venues policy.

What if Im not good at it?

Thats okay. Nobody is born good at axe throwing. Its a skill built through repetition. Even if you miss every throw, youll still have fun. The goal is participation, not perfection.

Can I host a birthday party there?

Yes. Most venues offer customizable birthday packages with themed decorations, food options, photo backdrops, and private lanes.

Do they offer gift cards?

Yes. Gift cards are available for purchase online and make excellent presents for thrill-seekers, gamers, or anyone who loves unique experiences.

Is there parking available?

Yes. Most venues offer free on-site parking. Some have valet or nearby public lots. Check the website for specifics.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?

Generally no. Most venues offer snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, and sometimes local craft beer or cocktails. Outside food and drinks are not permitted unless for medical reasons.

How much does it cost?

Prices vary by package. A single beginner session typically ranges from $25$40 per person. Group rates and private events start at $20$30 per person with minimums. Check the website for current pricing.

Conclusion

Visiting Memphis Axe Throwing is more than just an activityits an experience that blends physical challenge, mental focus, and social connection in a way few other attractions can match. Whether youre stepping into the venue for the first time or returning as a seasoned thrower, the process is designed to be accessible, safe, and deeply rewarding.

By following the step-by-step guide, you eliminate guesswork and anxiety. By adopting best practices, you elevate your performance and respect the space. By leveraging the right tools and learning from real examples, you transform a simple outing into a meaningful ritual.

The beauty of axe throwing lies in its simplicity: one tool, one target, one moment of perfect execution. Its primal. Its satisfying. And its accessible to anyone willing to try.

So dont wait for the perfect time. Book your session. Show up early. Listen to the instructor. Embrace the misses. Celebrate the hits. And when you leave, you wont just remember the axe you threwyoull remember the confidence you gained, the laughter you shared, and the unexpected joy of mastering something entirely new.

Memphis Axe Throwing isnt just a venue. Its a gateway to a new kind of funone thats raw, real, and unforgettable. Visit it. Own it. Come back again.