“Z-Bop says fun for everyone!” That could have been the motto of Discovery Zone. Discovery Zone was an American chain of family entertainment facilities. It featured games and elaborate indoor mazes. These mazes were designed for young children.
Let’s step back to October 1989. Ronald Matsch, Jim Jorgensen, and Dr. David Schoenstadt founded Discovery Zone. The first location opened in Kansas City, Missouri. Tennis star Billie Jean King was an early supporter.
Discovery Zone grew rapidly. By April 1993, Blockbuster Video invested millions in the company. This bought them a 20% stake. In June 1993, Discovery Zone went public. The stock rose 61% on its first day.
Under CEO Don Flynn, Discovery Zone bought Leaps and Bounds stores from McDonald’s. They also bought franchised stores from Blockbuster Video. This brought the total to nearly 300 stores. Blockbuster then gained majority control.
Viacom planned to cross-market Discovery Zone with Nickelodeon and Paramount Pictures. Discovery Zone also partnered with Saban Entertainment. This brought Mighty Morphin Power Rangers characters to the centers. A new concept called “Metro Zone” was planned. It would have included dining, mini golf and VR games.
Expansion strained the company. Discovery Zone filed for bankruptcy in 1996. They emerged under Wellspring Associates LLC. Wellspring invested in improvements. They added sports areas, laser tag and karaoke stages. Arts and crafts replaced the Quiet Zone.
Discovery Zone re-entered bankruptcy in 1999. They closed many locations. CEC Entertainment, owner of Chuck E. Cheese’s, bought some assets. They tried to accommodate party reschedulings. Ten locations became Chuck E. Cheese’s.
By 2001, Discovery Zone was completely out of business. But its memory lives on for many children of the 90s. Discovery Zone was a place for birthday parties and fun. It was a unique entertainment experience.
Today, we remember Discovery Zone. It was a place where kids could be kids. A new center inspired by Discovery Zone opened in 2020. It is a testament to the chain’s lasting appeal. Discovery Zone may be gone but it is not forgotten.