I went for a family activity to do on my Birthday. The staff was very helpful and amazing. I was throwing bulls after a few tries and guidance and the games were fun, not to mention having my soul torn out and returned to my body with a refreshing can of Liquid Death. I highly recommend this for anyone looking for a great experience with friends and family. I can't wait for leagues to get started. read more

Came here on a Saturday evening and instantly I knew this was a community environment. It Carrie's a chill vibes and it appears that all walks of life come and enjoy themselves here. Huge shout out to Caitlyn (hopefully spelled that correctly) for being such an amazing trainer and teacher. There was a decent amount of people who came through in the one hour we were there and she was phenomenal at helping them all. Upon entering you're required to sign a waiver but not really show your ID and one hour is $23, which I felt was pretty steep but maybe it's due to slow business or the location versus demand. Who knows? Nonetheless, I enjoyed my time here and would be inclined to return and practice my technique or blow off some steam. read more

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This place was a blast! We went in not really knowing what to expect. We were rather concerned that we would get bored throwing hatchets for an hour. Let me just tell you that after 15 minutes you quickly become hooked. Especially once you start playing one of their games and keeping score. The staff is very friendly and explain to you the rules of the place as well as how to throw an ax. Seems rather simple, in theory. In practice, it is much more difficult than you would think. Which is what makes it even more addictive. They have a wonderful beer selection and the environment is very casual and cool. If you are looking for a place to have some kind of team building event or simply something to do out of the ordinary, I would highly recommend hatchet Jack's The process is quite simple. You make a reservation. You show up for your reservation at the time of your reservation. You throw axes. That's it. Really simple. Really fun. read more

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Got arms and common sense?! Then definitely check out Hatchet Jacks for your next night out with the crew. Located next to Fin and Feather, you'll be able to check out this sweet new concept of arcade-esk fun. For about $42 a couple you get an hour of throwing hatchets at a target wood board. Safety is their priority so if you have an idiot in your group.. let them sit this one out. They have a bar where Bud Light and White Claws are about $4.50/piece. Don't go overboard though or you'll lose your throwing privileges, again being an idiot is not permissible. They also have waters (1/2liters) for $3 and you can refill them at their water bottle station across from the bar. Must applaud for that eco friendly addition. The staff is extremely helpful and knowledgeable about all things hatchet. They continue to walk around throughout the various groups giving pointers, encouragement and replacing targets that are truly on their last legs. Ivan was visible throughout our throwing session and you can tell he enjoys his job. That kind of attitude made this place even more enjoyable. A must go when in Iowa City. read more

Hatchet Jack's - Hatchet arena - Team Building Activities Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa

This is a new place unlike any other around so when I heard about it I was excited to see what it is all about. It turned out to be different than what I expected. I expected more of a social gathering place however it is more of an individual or group activity than a sit down social atmosphere. This location is a way to safely have fun with a few lumberjack skills than it is an eatery or drinking establishment. There is a "party" room for group sit downs where I am told you are welcome to bring your own food to enjoy which is nice. There is a bar for beers and a few other alcoholic beverages but not too large (probably a good thing when playing with these hand tools). This place provides various games to make the hatchet throwing experience exciting. However, if hatchets are not your thing there are other activities. There is a sledge hammer game with a few different variations and a few arcade games that can be fun for the whole family. This is surely a place to visit and the prices are reasonable. I would recommend this to anyone willing to try something new. read more

Hatchet Jack's - Third time in 3 weeks - Team Building Activities Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa

Rule #1 and #12 - don't be an idiot. I was slightly concerned when I first went "hatchet throwing" and had never done it before. It is much more safe than one expects. You sign a waiver (a must... after all I've signed a waiver on Ragbrai to shower in a barn, so no big deal), then you meet with an axe expert for the rules, explanation of games (like darts... with a hatchet!), and tips on throwing. Each throwing area has two lanes. My group had 4 in one lane, but I wouldn't go more in one lane just so you can throw more. The two lanes both throw and both go get their axes at the same time, so no one is throwing while someone is retrieving their axe. After a few minutes you get used to looking at the other lane before going and it's no big deal. Don't get discouraged! It's harder than you think. Change how close or how far you are to the board depending on where the axe hits the board. An hour wasn't enough time! It's $20 a person/per hour, which I thought was a little steep if you're also getting a few beers. I'd still go, but $15/person seems more appropriate or maybe a group rate. I'm thinking of Top Golf prices. Great craft beer selection, excellent staff, clean environment, and if you post pictures people are extremely impressed! Try it out! read more

Hatchet Jack's - Team Building Activities Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa

I split wood in my neighborhood and it was a damn good time. I'd give in a 4.5 star, but that's not possible, so let me tell you why they're a five. So first off, the staff. The GM, Greg, is so friendly and helpful. And every 'axpert' I've had the pleasure of learning from has been present but not suffocating? Plus, like, they really know their stuff? Step up a step and I'll get it on the board? Yeah sure... oh wait. You were right. And let's not forget that throwing sharp stuff is fun. Who knew?! Such a stress reliever. I hosted an event here a few months ago and everyone loved it. Male or female. Old or young. Athletic or not at all. It definitely took many out of their comfort zone-- but by the end, all thirty of them had got it to stick at least once. Everyone left with a smile! Recently, I had my dad's 60th birthday party here on a Saturday night. We got our waivers signed with no problems, even with it being a full house. Learned from a knowledgable axpert-- and ended up playing some heated games. No complaints and fun was had by all. I feel like an adult beverage has to be had when tossing hatchets. Their beer selection is LEGIT. Big Grove?! Don't mind if I do. I came in, asking for a specific beer knowing it had JUST been released via can the week prior-- holy cow?! They had it. Pricing is ok, as well. Location, location, location. I kind of like that it isn't downtown. It's convenient, there is ACTUALLY parking and while college kids for sure are there-- you get a mix of locals partaking. My only knock is... it is KIND of expensive. I get it, and I'd pay it. Just wouldn't frequent here on the regular. That being said, if you have a larger group-- the party room seems like a good deal and fabulous option! Last, there is no food. But you can bring it in, or have it delivered. Which I am a-ok with, especially with a large group for team building or something! Come throw sharp things at wood, get semi good at it and leave on a high at Hatchet Jack's! read more

Hatchet Jack's - Tossing - Team Building Activities Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa

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Axe throwing is very fun when done right. We came without a reservation during the winter break so we were the only people in there. We were disappointed with the lanes we were given (we were the only people there and only one other small group came while we were there). The target (a bullseye with a series of bigger circles around it) was unaligned. This was just kind of like "whyyy"?? The rest of the store had aligned targets. The guy showed everyone how to throw and left. We never really saw him again. For a while we played and then heard super loud drilling for a while. I know he was probably replacing targets but it was really loud and echoing so we barely talked to each other during this time due to the noise. I think there are better axe throwing places else where but it is a fun activity overall. read more

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We visited as part of a Yelp event and had a blast. It's a super laidback and lively environment. I was slightly nervous, but after a few throws I sorta got the hang of it. My dad and fiancé were naturals. The staff was around for light coaching, if needed. There are plenty of throwing lanes to accommodate a decent crowd. With our group, I think we used all but 2 lanes and had 2-5 people on each. When your arms need a break, they've got a few smaller scale games and a nice local beer selection. Definitely recommend for date night, bachelor/ette parties, group outings and team building. read more

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We had a great time meeting up with friends from the north, went back from the holidays. They actually opened since we were a decent sized group, when they were closed. I'm so glad we didn't rule it out completely and happened to call them. They answered several of my questions and everything went smoothly, we all had a great time. It's nice they let us bring in some snacks or food since they don't serve it, & even though I am gluten-free, I found one of my favorite siders ever and everyone seem to be happy with the beer choices! read more

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Place was amazing. My wife and I went for our wedding anniversary. We booked online to make sure we had a spot. Place is nice and the staff were super friendly. Our instructor gave us a quick guide on how to throw and within 10 minutes we had it down. Beer selection was really good and I was impressed with it. Recommend for couples or group activity!!! read more

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My wife and I had so much fun here! The employee who was working the night we visited (I think his name was Jake) was super helpful - he gave us a quick tutorial on the various ways to throw the axes, and came by to provide tips when we were struggling to get the axes to stick. They also have a great selection of canned beer. We'll definitely go back! read more

To be truthful, when I heard this place was opening, I wasn't sure it was a good idea. But after visiting it was one of the yesterday afternoons I've had in a long time. It's more difficult than it sounds, but one you get started, you're hooked. The hour we spent flew by. The Staff couldn't have been friendlier or more helpful. Great selection of beers. I cantvwaitvto go again! read more

Well this place couldn't be more fun. As long as you follow rule #1: don't be an idiot, you're guaranteed to have a great time. They give great instruction, have a safe environment, and lots of game options for you to play. What an awesome addition to the Iowa City area. Already planning a trip back here with a group of friends! read more

Hatchet Jack's - Team Building Activities Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa

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Four of us walked in on Saturday night and the guy said it's a 45 min wait and he got my last name and made a " reservation". We came back 45 min later and a group of drunks were standing at the counter and took forever to sign waivers and pay. By the time they are done it's 10 minutes later after our reservation. We walked to the counter and the guy said well it's 15 minutes after your reservation and I gave it away. What ? We were in the line and you saw us waiting and you gave the spot to the group that just walked in without reservation ? What kind of customer service is that? Not going back again. read more

This spot was fun. I think everyone should try it once. The staff was very helpful. But wow be prepared for the chiropractor in the morning. I think i threw out at hip in my old age ;) read more

My girlfriend took me on a date here. This is not her type of thing, she was just trying it out for me, but we both had an absolute blast!!! Every employee in the building made sure our experience was top notch! Thanks a lot we will definitely be back! read more

Hatchet Jack's - Team Building Activities Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa

7 min late on my reservation because of traffic and that guy gave my spot to another group and offered me another one an hour later. Like really? Have you ever done business? Is that how you treat customer when starting a business? Super lame experience, not even going to try this place again, customer happiness doesn't matter, just money apparently. He said it's too late while I was just there in the entrance waiting that he treats other customer. What a joke. What a frustrating and disappointing experience. Wouldn't recommend to anyone. read more

I've been to Hatchet Jack's multiple times now with friends and family. I highly recommend this establishment for many reasons. This is a great and unique activity, whether or not you're good at throwing hatchets you will absolutely have a fantastic time. This is a fun place to take your friends and/or family. This is also an excellent place for businesses to use for team building. The owners and staff are hands down the nicest, friendliest, most helpful people you will ever meet. Once you get checked in you'll have an opportunity to stop at the bar to select your drink (non-alcoholic options as well beer or wine) then you'll meet your axpert who will direct you to your lane. The axperts at Hatchet Jack's are spot on so be sure you listen to their advice! They will help you change your throw or stance to help you perfect your skills. Along with simply throwing you can also partake in various games outlined on a guideline sheet that accompanies each lane. Everyone I've taken to experience Hatchet Jack's has had an amazing time and has gone back for more. This is the perfect place for having a great time whether you need to blow off some steam, chill with some friends, have a party, or work on teambuilding skills. read more

What a great concept - hatchet throwing while enjoying beers! It was definitely hard, but once you get your form down it is quite fun and entertaining! I would definitely do this as a date night with some friends again sometime! read more

I'm always on the hunt for fun indoor activities for the six months that it's miserable outside in Iowa City, so I'm feeling extra lucky that I got to check this place out as part of a Yelp event today! The interior is surprisingly cute -- think red and black plaid -- and very well-organized, with a lounge/bar area and rows of hatchet-throwing areas. I was kind of intimated, especially when I heard the first *thwack* of hatchet hitting wood, but once I got into it, I understood what the hype was about! Even the smallest in our group were able to throw the hatchets with ease, although it took awhile to figure out the best angles/throwing techniques. The staff members were always around to give tips on throwing techniques, which I thought was nice for us first-timers. They've set it up to be a safe activity that works well for groups, especially if you start keeping score by playing a more...intense version of darts. The bar has a nice variety of beverages, and I loved seeing the local beers! You can also bring food into the business, so it's totally feasible to turn this into a party (think bachelorette, birthday, etc.)! It's $20 per person per hour, so if you bring in some food and order some beers to share with friends, you can have an awesome night with minimal effort or expense! read more

This was aXtually unbelievably fun. Good selection of beer and great staff. Throwing axes and hammerschlaugin!

Hatchet Jack's owner is awesome and I highly recommend this establishment. I dropped by during my trip to Chicago.

Had a great time throwing! Drinks were decent price. But we paid for an entire hour and our time online even said 8:30-9:30, we got there a bit early. and they started us about 5 minutes early, there was groups finishing up, and it looked like we were going to be placed alone in our lane. She showed us how to throw, then immediately put the only other people next to us even though several rows were open. Then she stopped us throwing while "training" the people next to us, 40 minutes after leaving us to actually throw, they cut us off before our hour. She offered for us to pay money for longer although we still had time, and they continued to let the people next to us throw although we had gotten there the same time. read more

Went here for the first time on Saturday! It was a blast! Not something I would have normally done, but it was raining and we were visiting my son at the college, so thought he and my husband would like this. Turns out they loved it and so did I! Great prices, great patient, pleasant staff, and I will go back! Who knew throwing a hatchet could be fun? read more

First time here had an absolute blast. Unfortunately won't be back at all because GREG was a complete asshole. Holy shit. 8 minutes late and gave us hell for it. Eat shit. You won't have to worry. Not coming back. read more

I arranged a work holiday party at Hatchet Jack's. We had 21 people attend, 16 throwers, and 7 veterans (they have a hero discount!!). If you're concerned about the cost- trust me, it's worth it. Also, you may not think an hour is very long, but it's the perfect amount of time. Every single participant is still talking about how much fun they had a week later after the event. All staff members were extremely helpful and so easy to work with via email when I was arranging the event. Lastly, I was quite nervous about the safety of this- I'm happy to say I was proven wrong. The staff is very present and not once did I feel like an ax was going to come back at me- my coworkers all felt the same as well. I can't wait to go back with family over the holidays! read more

I love Hatchet Jack's! This is a great place for team building. You might start the night being a little scared of the hatchets, but within a few throws anyone can get the hang of it. I've had a lot of fun both times I have come here, and I am hoping that this becomes the "thing to do" whenever I am in town for work. The folks who work there are super helpful and will help coach you on your throwing techniques. Ask to see their trick shots! read more

I honestly was roped into going to this activity during a school function while attending a conference in town. I'm not what you would call a traditional student, this activity was set up by the kids. Bottom line this was an absolute blast. I would definitely recommend trying it if you ever even thought about it or get a chance to go. Hatchet Jack's was awesome all the employees were very helpful to those just learning, they also seemed to have a sense of humor about it. If at any point they wanted to give up on those challenged with making an axe stick in the board, it never showed they were so amazing! I had a lot of fun, I only wish they had this around when I was younger- though I could only imagine it would have taken a week to play a game of "cricket" where as dart leagues were fun this is a whole other level of fun! Thank you to the staff that help make it an amazing night for the DMACC crew that came out to give you a laugh or two! Amazing! read more