Urban Axes: A Must Do Experience in Philadelphia

This weekend I had the opportunity to visit Urban Axes in Philadelphia. Located just north of Center City, in what otherwise would be considered a somewhat “sketchy” neighborhood, Urban Axes can be found in an old abandoned warehouse, with little to no markings on the outside.

More than likely you’ll drive around the block a few times before you see it, but once you do, you’ll inevitably see the marked door to head inside.

There’s a check-in desk once you open the door, staffed by two young people hastily checking IDs an a table made out of plywood. You have to be over 21 to enter, and there’s an extensive waver to fill out on iPads, essentially signing your life away if you happen to hurt yourself or others.

Okay, now on to the fun part. Once the the check in formalities are finished, you receive a coach that stays with your group for the remainder of your time inside. The coach is there to guide you through the process, and ensure you stay safe while still having a fun time. Now, you’re probably wondering what the heck Urban Axes even is…and there’s sort of a reason I haven’t told you to this point. 🙂

Urban Axes is an indoor ax throwing arena…yes, seriously. Your coach will bring you off to a marked “arena” where you’ll be briefed on the rules of the road, and how to properly hold, and subsequently throw your axe. You’re aiming for several planks of wood on the wall, and depending on where your ax lands, you earn 1, 3, 5 or 7 points.

After a few practice throws, you begin to understand the technique, and even venture on to try one handed throws, since the first several tries are mandated to be two-handed. If you’re with a group, your coach will organize you into a tournament amongst yourselves with the player earning the most points being declared the winner.

This was a ton of fun. I can’t think of many places, outside of an old Boy Scout camp, where throwing axes is an organized event. What makes it even funnier is that Urban Axes allows, and honestly encourages, you to bring your own alcohol. So, you’re throwing axes at a target, while most players have had a few drinks in their system, which is a hilarious site to be seen. I’m not exactly sure of what this place’s insurance policy is, but I can’t imagine it is cheap.

If you’re in town for a fun weekend, I highly recommend checking out Urban Axes…it was a ton of fun.