By Janelle Davis
Recently, a new indoor adventure was unveiled at Destiny USA, and the imagination behind it may not surprise you.
Joining a host of other attractions at Destiny is Central New York’s first indoor gel Blast arena, Blast CNY.
Jimmy Ginsburg, 11, of Cicero is the visionary behind the action-packed concept.
His motivation, his mother Nicole Ginsburg said, is making memories.
Jimmy and his family are always thinking outside of the box when making their own memories.
“We have always been fortunate to travel,” Nicole said. “We were always on the hunt for places to try something new or experience history, science, or the arts.”
Nicole continued to say that having the ability to spend time together doing something fun, like Blast CNY, to make memories is a powerful motivation.
“Everyone deserves to smile, laugh, and experience true joy,” she said. “There is nothing more precious than time.”
At the age of nine, Jimmy developed the creative idea while attending the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Conference with his mom.
The IAAPA is a trade organization that represents the diverse and ever-changing attractions industry, at least in part this experience helped inspire Jimmy’s vision for Blast CNY.
But, the conference isn’t Jimmy’s only inspiration.
Jimmy only had to look to his own family to see the creative and entrepreneurial spirit at work.
Nicole is the creator and producer of live events locally and nationally.
Her endeavors range from trendy pop-up experiences, immersive theater productions, holiday attractions, live stage shows to interactive entertainment concepts.
Nicole is the creative mind behind projects like the Museum of Intrigue, Intrigue Experiences, Escape The Estate, Painting with a Twist DeWitt, and the renowned Frightmare Farms Haunted SCREAM Park.
All of these influences coalesced and inspired Jimmy to pursue a business opportunity to utilize gel blast in the same manner as foam darts, laser tag, and paintball.
With the help of his twin brother, Owen, and father, Jeremy Ginsburg, they got to work creating a safe space for kids to enjoy themselves. Jeremy assisted in the physical space design and layout. Owen helped with the “game” and scenarios.
The young entrepreneur and his family stay involved in the experience with Jeremy in charge of daily operations and Jimmy and Owen helping wherever they can as their academic schedules allow.
Blast CNY introduces a unique blend of adventure, strategy, and physical activity. It is located on the second floor of Destiny USA in the Canyon Area.
Players can participate in thrilling scenarios such as capture the flag, free-for-all, sudden death matches, and several portal games that players complete for points.
According to Jimmy and his family, Blast CNY is the ultimate destination for family outings, team-building events, and unforgettable birthday parties.
If you would like to check out Blast CNY, walk-ins are welcome, but advanced bookings are recommended.
Make sure to arrive in sneakers and comfortable clothing.
Be prepared for a fitting for your gear and a safety briefing before you’re on your way to high-energy fun.
For more information call Jeremy at 315-751-7279 or email [email protected].
