One Before was my first experience in an Escape Room. It far surpassed my expectations. I could not believe how brilliantly and professionally designed the Jewish -themed escape room in Flatbush was.

When we arrived, we were greeted by the friendly owner and creator of One Before, Gamliel Beyderman. The entryway and desk at which he was seated had an old time feel. There were Shpola Zeida – themed paintings hanging all along the hallway.

The concept of the escape room we were using, the Shpola Zeida puzzle, was explained to us. We were given the task to figure out the family tree of Ellis Island immigrants based on clues and hidden information. Once the family tree was solved, with all the name blocks placed in the correct spot, the door opened and we entered the second room-the Room where the Shpola Zeida, well known from the story with the dancing bear, is about to be challenged by the officer. There were additional clues and hints that needed to fall into place in that room as well. Once everything was solved, the door opened and we met success. The aim was to solve all the puzzles within 60 minutes. The puzzles were brilliantly done. I will not give away all the amazing tools used but it definitely surprised us and kept us stimulated. On the one hand, the puzzles and clues were challenging; on the other hand it was possible for some of the younger children in our group to figure out parts of the enigma.

Had we gotten stuck, it wouldn’t have been hopeless. Mr. Beyderman waited outside the room, watching a screen displaying what was going on within, ready with the permitted 4 hints per group, upon request.

This coming Chol Hamoed Pesach, 2019, a second room, the Rashi Room, will debut. I can only imagine how amazing that room will be based on what I’ve experience in the Shpola Zeida Room.

Posted: April 1, 2019

Information, prices and hours posted here are current as of the posted or updated date. It is advisable to call ahead or check online to confirm hours and prices.