Adventure Park Proposed in Vernon Hills

An Urban Air Adventure Park is being proposed for the space formerly occupied by an Ashley Furniture store in the Marketplace shopping center in Vernon Hills. A proposal to repurpose the former furniture store located at 413 N. Milwaukee Ave. as an indoor adventure park is moving through the Vernon Hills review process.

The 61,612 square foot space was last occupied by Ashley some time ago before moving to a nearby spot. 

The Daily Herald states that the village board approved the concept for more detailed staff review and a public hearing before the advisory planning and zoning commission back in May. Village code requires a special-use permit for amusement/recreational activities.

Wynn-Hoff Air is the contract lessee of the space owned by Mid-America Asset Management. 

Urban Air is a franchise with 153 locations in the U.S. and Canada with 80 under development. Suburban locations include:

 

 - Crystal Lake

 - Naperville

 - Bloomingdale

 - St. Charles

 

The indoor park will feature the following:

 

 - Go-karts

 - Bumper cars

 - Climbing walls

 - Obstacle courses

 - Laser tag

 - Ropes course

 - Trampolines

 

The Urban Air attractions will appeal to 4-15 year olds but will also be suitable for adults. Ticket options would include day passes, memberships and events. Private security in peak operating hours on weekends will be provided.

It is being promoted as a destination for:

 

 - Kid's birthday parties

 - Corporate gatherings

 - Preschool field trips

 - Team-building events

 - Private rentals

 - Other uses

 

Food will also be available such as pizza, fries, chicken tenders, fountain drinks, and bottled beer and wine. The business will employ 130 to 150 full time and part time workers with 30 to 50 working each shift. A village liquor license will be required.