Eat, Drink & VR

Virtual reality, or VR, is an immersive technology that has caught the attention of kids and adults alike. REM5 Virtual Reality Laboratory is located in St. Louis Park and offers a unique space for people to enjoy VR technology individually or with a group. With over 6,000 square feet of industrial-modern space, REM5 has plenty of seating, and in-house food and beverage choices, providing guests with a place to hang out and escape from the real world. There is often an assumption that VR is intended for kids, when in fact adults equally enjoy the experience, offering a great cross-generational activity for the whole family.

Since day one at REM5, safety, cleanliness, and hygiene has always been a top priority, and as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, they have added additional steps to their normal cleaning procedures. They have increased the frequency of disinfecting all VR equipment and all surfaces, increased access to hand sanitizer, and more. They also require all employees and guests to wear masks at all times. They remain diligent with the guidance of health officials to maintain a space that is as safe as possible for their guests.

In 2017, REM5 set out with a mission to provide high-end, state-of-the-art virtual reality technology to people of all ages and experience levels. Serving over 10,000 guests per year, they provide thrilling games that get you moving, along with seated experiences that take you around the world.

Their delicious food and drink menu includes snacks, shareables (like old fashioned waffle fries) and flatbread pizzas, with a gluten-free crust option. REM5 also has a rotating selection of primarily local alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to choose from, depending on the season.

It all starts with a specialized headset. The HTC Vive Pro is the top headset on the market that has adjustable straps to fit comfortably on your head. The headset is placed over your eyes (with plenty of room to spare for those who wear glasses) using breathable fabrics and foam to block out light without adding extra weight. It also has its own built-in audio system for an ideal virtual experience.

Their PODS are designated spaces available to rent that include seating, an area for using the headset, plus a TV so others can cheer along with you as you play. This is a great option for groups of up to 5 people, whether it’s just to get together or celebrate a special occasion.  

Since its inception, REM5 continues to prioritize giving back to the community. Some key programs include enhancing K-12 education, social equity initiatives and providing emotional intelligence education and training to enterprises to help better the local community. For example, REM5 focuses on engaging learning experiences with their Youth Innovation Lab PLUS program. This program offers immersive education through VR at home with multiple classes and content, ranging from the impact of climate change in Greenland to a re-creation of the Apollo 11 mission to space, right from your couch.

In addition, all proceeds from snack purchases made at their Laboratory are donated to REM5’s quarterly Sensory Friendly Events, which provide a comfortable space for neurologically diverse individuals and their families and caregivers to explore VR.

AAA members receive 20% off their total purchase, including VR time, non-alcoholic beverages, food, and apparel. Visit AAA.com/Discounts to learn more.