ANTIOCH — Many fond memories for generations of Antioch youth were centered around Golf N Games, and after five years of being vacant and unused, the former youth entertainment center with batting cages and a miniature golf course has reopened with a revamped look and new owners.
KangaZoom opened a few weeks ago and now houses six batting cages, 36 holes of mini-golf, two birthday party rooms, a toddler play area, an obstacle course jumpy, Dora jumpy, slide jumpy, wrecking ball jumpy, video games and a snack bar.
“We have had a great response from parents,” said owner Jesse Rivas. “We wanted to provide physical play in a safe environment.”
Rivas owns the chain with co-owners Marcus Jefferson and Toreano Norris. They are open every day from noon to 8 p.m. at 501 Auto Center Drive in Antioch.
KangaZoom also has a location in Tracy and its indoor activities are geared toward children up to age 12. The Antioch location also has the outdoor activities, which are more appealing to tweens and teens.
Since the business site was out of operation for a handful of years, Rivas said they had to complete many renovations especially to the interior of the building. Not all of the batting cages are fully operational yet, but there are fastball and softball cages available.
According to Rivas, they wanted to include a soft play area and craft tables for toddlers upstairs. They also installed a few arcade games that are also meant for smaller children.
“It is a great place to let the kids burn off some energy,” said the father of three.
KangaZoom’s grand opening is scheduled for Sept. 16-18. The snack bar is also up and running and serves popcorn, nachos, cotton candy, pizza, corn dogs, chicken tenders, hot dogs and beverages.
Birthday party packages range from $259 to $499 and include usage of various on-site amenities. They are currently offering discounts on birthday parties and special usage rates from noon to 4 p.m. and for toddlers.
According to Rivas, they are hoping to offer after school programs there for local students. On a recent weekday afternoon, Sam Grillo and Rebecca Stadlbauer were playing a round of mini-golf.
“It’s cool,” Stadlbauer said. “They need more activities like this here in Antioch.”
IF YOU GO
What: KangaZoom
Where: 501 Auto Center Drive, Antioch
When: Open daily from noon to 8 p.m.
Info: 925-776-4386; www.kangazoom-antioch.com.
