Published: September 28, 2006 11:32 pm         

A quest for fun

No matter how old you are, you are never too old to climb the castle of your dreams.

Adventure Quest, the outdoor science park alongside Leonardo’s Discovery Warehouse, turns 10 years old on Saturday. The three-story castle was designed and built by kids of all ages for kid in all of us.

“The big thing is you use your imagination,” said marketing coordinator Kayte Anton. She said children (and some adults) learn while they play.

The original premise of Adventure Quest was to draw participants into a quest through the wooden playground, in search of seven stamps. Some clues are in plain sight, others are more challenging to find.

Adventure Quest was built in 1996 thanks to 12,000 volunteers, all of whom have been invited to return for the 10th anniversary party.

“The Adventure Quest anniversary celebration is our way of thanking the community for their continued effort to support every aspect of this amazing facility,” said executive director Julie Baird.

Among the guests slated to speak at the party are Cheryl Swanson, the first executive director of Leonardo’s, and Joel Champlin, building coordinator for Adventure Quest. Past and present volunteers will be recognized. Games for the day are gunny sack races, bobbing for apples, a water balloon toss and musical chairs.

“This is a great chance to share, remember, create more memories and just have fun in this incredible park,” Anton said.

— Ruth Ann Replogle



Adventure Quest’s 10th anniversary party is 10 a.m. to noon Saturday at 200 E. Maple. Admission is free. Leonardo’s Discovery Warehouse will be open until 5 p.m. Call 233-2787.