9/10 Difficulty
Step aboard an old clipper ship in Watertown, NY, for a 60-minute treasure hunt inspired by eccentric billionaire John Buckingham. Test your wits and teamwork as you search for the hidden fortune.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Moderate physical movement required to climb, bend, and search through the ship’s nooks—suitable for most reasonably fit individuals.
Wildlife
History
Watertown grew as a key shipbuilding and transportation hub along the Black River in the 19th century, lending maritime authenticity to the Pirate Ship setting.
Conservation
The Pirate Ship operators support local heritage preservation and encourage visitors to minimize waste and respect the historic vessel’s condition.
The Escape Works
9/10 Difficulty
The Escape Works in Watertown, New York operates a mixed entertainment venue focused on immersive escape room adventures and axe throwing. The company offers six distinct experiences: Axe Throwing with digital scoring and interactive games; Bank Heist, an hour-long vault puzzle at Valley Isle Bank; CSI, a crime-solving investigation centered on a family patriarch's murder; Family Fortune, a multi-generational mystery; Safe Zone, a post-apocalyptic survival scenario set in an abandoned military hospital; and Pirate Ship, a 60-minute treasure hunt aboard an old clipper ship tied to an eccentric billionaire's legend.
Each experience emphasizes teamwork, puzzle-solving, and immersive set design. Bank Heist explicitly challenges participants to search the bank manager's office for hidden clues and tools to open a difficult vault. Axe Throwing combines traditional throwing with state-of-the-art digital scoring that tracks performance and enables evolving game modes. Safe Zone places teams in a narrative about finding shelter and supplies amid a zombie threat, while CSI asks players to reconstruct crime scenes under time pressure.
The Escape Works serves a broad audience, welcoming families, friends, corporate groups, and hobbyists seeking collaborative entertainment. Booking options and availability vary by experience and time; the venue's location in Watertown makes it accessible to residents and visitors in the region. Safety protocols apply to physically active experiences such as axe throwing. The Escape Works maintains a focus on immersive storytelling, hands-on puzzles, and technology-enhanced gameplay to deliver engaging, team-oriented entertainment. Online reservation and group booking information is available on the venue's official site today now.
Location
Watertown, NY
Convenient regional destination
Experiences
6 Unique Games
Escape rooms and axe throwing
Notable Duration
60 min (Bank Heist)
Bank Heist runs one hour
Group Play
Team-based Challenges
Designed for collaborative teams
Choose a game, gather a team, and experience escape rooms and axe throwing with technology-driven gameplay—secure a time that fits the group.
Arrive Early to Brief Your Crew
Give your team time to review the rules and strategize before the clock starts ticking for the best chance at finding Buckingham’s billions.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be moving throughout the ship's decks and compartments, so choose shoes with good grip and support.
Stay Hydrated
Though indoors, the excitement might raise your energy levels—bring a water bottle for before and after the hunt.
Follow All Safety Guidelines
Respect the ship’s structure and listen closely to safety instructions to ensure a fun, incident-free experience.
Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Provides good traction and support for exploring the ship’s decks and compartments.
Light Backpack or Bag
Useful to carry water and small personal items without restricting movement.
Layered Clothing
Keep comfortable indoors with adaptable layers in case of varying temperatures.
all
Phone with Flashlight App
Helpful for illuminating darker corners during the treasure hunt.