Wanting To Escape Reality For A While?

Chamber Ambassadors were offered a sneak peak at the action – Beyond Reality is a new, immersive entertainment experience unlike any other! “There is no place that offers this amount of interactive virtual reality rides in the midwest," shared founder Brian Megel.

What once began as a single player virtual reality station during past years’ Jingle Bell Holiday quickly gained traction. “The response then was overwhelmingly positive, and the need for a place for virtual reality was clear,” shared Megel. After spending time researching the best products and going to trade shows to see them in person, Megel's vision came to life.

This isn’t your typical VR experience – its interactive, multi-dimension simulations combining 3D visuals with motion, air pressure, water effect, and rides make it seem like you’re actually in the action. Each one truly immerses in reality, with some even turning on their sides and upside down! Riders place VR headsets on, get situated on their vehicle - buckling in if needed - and customize their experience from there. “This is way cooler and so much more interactive than what I was expecting,” laughed Chamber Ambassador, Member Jess, an avid VR rider. “I’ve been to VR experiences in the past, but the immersion of this one sets it apart!”"

The best part? You can customize your experience on each ride, selecting from a variety of rides, tracks, settings, and simulations. There are 14 virtual reality stations to choose from, some even offer multiple riders up to six people. “I was looking for a variety of virtual reality systems that kids, teens, and adults would all enjoy. It was important to offer a diverse selection of rides that could be customizable to each rider,” Megel said.

Visitors won’t just sit back and watch – they’ll lay down on spaceships, ride on motorcycles, be harnessed in rollercoasters, and stand in a world unlike any other. Rides last anywhere from 4-7 minutes in total, and an emergency shut off button is available to automatically slow the ride to a stop, if needed. These interactive rides include a Super Time Machine, VR Space Aircraft, VR Super Armor, Hoverboards and more. If you're a thrill seeker, like a little competition, or are just looking to escape reality for a while, Beyond Reality is just the place for you.

Located inside Hotel Grinnell, just through the Periodic Table entrance, Beyond Reality will soon be open Thursdays through Saturdays from 1-9 PM. To start, reservations will be required and for a flat hourly fee, customers will have access to all virtual reality stations. One headset, infinite worlds, step into a world unlike any other at Beyond Reality.

Chamber Ambassadors L to R:

Monique Shore – PFLAG Grinnell/Poweshiek

Monica St. Angelo – Grinnell Area Arts Council

Haley Breeden – Poweshiek Extension

Hannah Greene – Bayer Crop Science

Jill Harris – Grinnell Education Partnership

Jennifer McAlexander – JM Consulting and Hawkeye Lock & Security

Bri VandeStouwe – Community 1st Credit Union

Donnette Ellis – Grinnell College

Dave Vander Linden – Vander Linden Construction

Sarah Smith – Grinnell College

Evan Petig – The Grinnellian B&B