Go inside: “Action bar” named Coliseum V now open near Bojangles’ Coliseum — features archery tag and 22 virtual reality booths

“This took me two and half years to put together and make come to life,” owner Phil McHugh told me.

It’s unique (some would say crazy), and I totally believe him.

The open warehouse-style space is divided into three main areas: bar/lounge, action field and virtual reality bays. Separating the action field and virtual reality area you’ll find a refurbished double-decker bus with Paris-style cafe seating on both levels where you can sip self-pour cocktails while watching participants. “The action field is a theater,” said McHugh.

Coliseum V is a brand new concept (with a lot going on), so expect a few hiccups during the first month of operation. “Guests will only truly understand all of the fun and excitement when experiencing Coliseum V in person,” explained McHugh.

Hours are 4-11 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. Saturday and 1-7 p.m. on Sunday (closed Monday and Tuesday). 

Bar/Lounge: They’ve got 72 Hoppin’-style self-pour taps (on a 45 foot long wall) with pre-mixed cocktails, beer, wine, champagne and non-alcoholic beverages. Yes, unlike Hoppin’ and Pour, Coliseum V has cocktails — which means Coliseum V will have a membership program to meet alcohol laws (like Dot Dot Dot). It will not serve food, but expect food trucks in its giant parking lot.

Action field: On the 4,000-square-foot “action field” with green astroturf, you can play laser tag and archery tag, a combat-style game that combines dodgeball and archery. No, I’m not joking. Groups will be divided into two teams (up to a total of 24 players). For archery tag, each player will be given a helmet and archery bow that shoots arrows with soft dodgeball-like tips. You’ll eventually be able to book online and field time will run $12.95 for a half hour.

Virtual reality booths: There are 22, 10-by-10 virtual reality booths. Coliseum V isn’t messing around and has invested about $250,000 in the virtual reality system, provided by Ctrl V. Guests have 100 games to choose from, and they can all play in the same game, which is cool. You’ll eventually be able to book online, and it’ll run $25/hr. “It’s the largest virtual reality setup in North America,” explained Phil.

The exact address is 2801 E. Independence Blvd. (across the highway from Bojangles’ Coliseum).

OK, here’s a quick look around. I know, it’s pretty nuts.