It’s no ax-ident that axe throwing in DC has surged in popularity these last few years. It’s a thrilling and novel experience for participants that seek stress relief activities and unconventional forms of entertainment. Whether you prefer trying it out on your own or with a group of friends or colleagues, this exciting activity is perfect for those who have an axe to grind.
For Debbie Downers that think throwing axes and hatchets around is too dangerous to handle, axe throwing venues implement strict rules and protocols that are axe-ually safe. Enough with the axe puns! Here’s our list of the best places to go axe throwing in and around DC.
1. Kick Axe throwing
After its triumphant success in NYC and Philly, Kick Axe has come to DC for a one-of-a-kind and relaxing experience. Sessions start with a 10-15 minute lesson on all things axe throwing and then, where you will find out the proper posture and how to aim and hit the target.
This cabin-like bar feels like a lumberjack designed a sports bar and it is great for grabbing a beer and a bite and watching your friends throw axes at a wooden board for 60-90 minutes. Kick Axe is located on the first floor of its sister venue, Throw Social, a beautiful bar, restaurant and event space that has a 1960s Palm Beach vibe.
📍 1401 Okie St NE STE 101, Washington, DC 20002
2. Experience Kraken
Unleash your inner kraken at this next DC space that is full of surprises. With a fully stocked bar, your axe throwing adventure is sure to reach new heights at Experience Kraken. There are two locations in DC in Penn Quarter and Bryant Street, the latter being bigger.
When you’ve had enough axe throwing for a day, there are a host of other experiences and themed events organized every week. From private lessons to learn how to skate and Silver Skate sessions for 55 and older skating pros, rage rooms where you can basically just break stuff to decompress to playing pickleball with your friends, the fun doesn’t have to stop.
📍 840 E Street NW, Washington, DC 20004 and 514 Rhode Island Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002
3. Bad Axe Throwing
This place really makes you feel like a “bad axe”, hence the name. Bad Axe Throwing has over 40 locations in Canada and the US and is popular for hosting big groups of people, from bachelorette and birthday parties to team bonding events and Pro World Axe Throwing Leagues. For those of you that still haven’t mastered the experience, with the help of the talented axperts/hosts, you can learn some extra tips and tricks in no time.
📍 2419 Evarts St NE Unit C, Washington, DC 20018
4. Axes and O’s
Axes and O’s started as a fun alternative to the local entertainment scene in Sterling, Virginia. The focus on this establishment is indeed fun, as it combines axe throwing with thrilling arcade games. They specialize in private events so you would have to book in advance to enjoy the space’s facilities.
Only a 40 minute drive from Downtown DC, with its diverse food offerings and refreshing beverages it is certainly worth the drive. Keep in mind that besides Sundays when there’s a 14+ policy, only adults are allowed.
📍 21680 Ridgetop Cir Suite 125, Sterling, VA 20166
5. Southern Maryland Axe
This next axe throwing spot is a locally-owned and family-operated premier venue in Waldorf, MD. Each lane has an interactive game, such as trying to hit Zombies, competing with your friends in the axe version of Tic-Tac-Toe, playing with your coworkers in a game of Line-Up-Four, or even hosting your wedding party with Duck Hunters. Although reservations are recommended to ensure you have a lane, walk-ins are also welcome.
📍 70 Industrial Park Dr #1C, Waldorf, MD 20602
6. Bella Vita Farm
Another popular spot for Washingtonians and Brookevillians alike is Bella Vita Farm. Now, this family owned and operated place is located 20 miles from the city center. So if you’re planning to spend the weekend in Maryland, you should definitely hit up Bella Vita Farm.
It is actually a 103-acre farm packed with fresh produce in the aquaponics greenhouse, 500 hens and incredibly lush gardens. Bella Vita is a welcome respite from the busy capital that combined with its axe throwing lanes can really help you to de-stress and recharge.
📍 4901 Brookeville Rd, Brookeville, MD 20833
7. Chill Axes
This place is perfect for groups of friends or smaller sized teams for team buildings because each lane accommodates up to six throwers. Take part in some friendly competition and see who has the best aim out of your group. You can even bring your own supporters who aren’t interested in the activity for a small fee.
If you want things extra classy on your axe throwing endeavors, there’s a VIP lounge with a private seating area, exclusive snacks and VIP axes. Although it’s technically located just off of Route 3 and Davidsonville Road in Maryland, it’s only a 30 minute drive from DC.
📍 2101 Concord Blvd Suite G, Crofton, MD 21114