Big Play ATL Grand Opening is This Thursday — Here’s Why Dunwoody is Buzzing
In this episode of the What’s Up Dunwoody podcast, host Matt Weber talks with Valerie Inglesby about the long-awaited grand opening of Big Play ATL. Learn why this isn’t your average entertainment spot—and why locals are calling it a game-changer for Dunwoody, GA.
Big Play ATL is Finally Here—And It’s Big in Every Way
The buzz around Big Play ATL has been building for months, and now it's official: doors open to the public this Thursday, December 11th at 5 PM. Host Matt Weber sat down with Valerie Inglesby to get the inside scoop on the new entertainment complex that’s taking over 2480 Mount Vernon Road in Dunwoody. If you’ve driven by and thought, “That place looks massive,” you’re right. At 42,000 square feet, Big Play ATL is more like a mini amusement park than your typical game center.
Originally aiming for a summer launch, the team pushed the timeline to make sure every detail was polished. And judging by the reaction from early sneak peeks, it was worth the wait.
Not Just for Kids: This Place is Made for Adults, Too
Let’s be honest—when we hear “arcade,” most of us think of sticky tables and birthday parties. But Big Play ATL is flipping that script. Valerie describes it as a high-end experience that’s just as much for adults as it is for families. Think: upscale Dave & Buster’s meets Dunwoody neighbor bar.
There’s Woody’s Sports Bar anchoring the vibe with five TVs over the bar, a curated wine list, and premium cocktails. The bar flows into a velvet-draped private event space, perfect for everything from company parties to classy birthday dinners. Meanwhile, parents can relax while keeping an eye on kids playing laser tag or arcade games just steps away.
Woody’s isn’t just a spot to grab a quick burger—it’s a real restaurant with a chef-driven menu. Expect smash burgers with house-made sauces, Nashville hot chicken sandwiches, crispy wings, truffle fries, and elevated pub classics that pair perfectly with craft beer or cocktails.
The space blends comfort with sophistication. Velvet green curtains divide the private dining area, warm lighting makes the space feel intimate, and everything about the decor says, “this is more than just kid-friendly—it’s adult-welcoming.”
Every Corner is Packed with Fun
This place was built to impress. Here’s what you’ll find once you walk through those doors:
Bowling: Big Play ATL features 16 modern, glow-in-the-dark Brunswick lanes that offer more than your average bowling night. The setup includes huge projection screens displaying music videos or game-day action, and you can even book lane-side food and beverage service. It’s bowling—but make it Dunwoody fancy.
Laser Tag: Step into a state-of-the-art laser tag arena designed for full-on immersive play. Whether you’re going toe-to-toe with your coworkers or letting the kids battle it out, the neon-lit battlefield brings the adrenaline.
Arcade & ValoArena: The arcade offers everything from nostalgic classics to cutting-edge virtual games. But the standout is ValoArena, a headset-free mixed reality experience where your actual body movements control the game on a massive screen. It’s interactive, hilarious, and surprisingly intense cardio.
Mini Golf: The indoor blacklight mini golf course is 9 holes of glowing, 80s-themed absurdity. It’s silly, social, and perfect for date night or family fun without worrying about the weather.
Private Events: Whether you're throwing a birthday bash or hosting a full-scale corporate outing, Big Play ATL makes it easy. Valerie mentioned they can host everything from small birthday parties to large business events with full catering and custom setups across the bowling lanes, restaurant, and arcade rooms.
Specials That Actually Make It Affordable
They’re not just opening with a bang—they’re making it easy to come back often. Big Play ATL’s weekly specials hit every budget:
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Monday: BOGO entrées
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Tuesday: $2 power hour
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Wednesday: Half-price wine, cocktails, and arcade games
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Thursday: $5 triple threat deals
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Friday: Family night package
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Sunday: Kids eat free
And if you really want VIP treatment, the Player’s Club gives you access to members-only deals, early booking, and surprise perks.
Dunwoody’s New Go-To for Parties and Community Events
Big Play ATL isn’t just a hangout—it’s becoming a true community partner. The team made a splash as a platinum sponsor at the Dunwoody 4th of July Parade, helping bring neighbors together in one of the city’s biggest annual celebrations. And with Valerie Inglesby leading the charge on community connections, this isn’t a business parachuting in from out of town. It’s one that’s plugged in and showing up.
Their event spaces are ideal for:
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Birthday parties for all ages
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Team-building events for local businesses
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Holiday or graduation parties
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Sports team celebrations and fundraisers
And with Kingsley neighborhood just next door, Big Play ATL is poised to become a walkable weekend go-to for families, friends, and after-school fun.
Why Dunwoody Needs This
If you’ve ever tried to plan a night out without leaving the perimeter, you know how limited the options can be. Big Play ATL is answering that call. Whether you’re living in Dunwoody, moving to Dunwoody, or just visiting friends in town, this place checks all the boxes—fun, food, and something for every age.
This is exactly the kind of venue that fills the gap between family-friendly fun and grown-up nights out. It’s where you can grab dinner, let the kids burn energy, watch a game, and never leave the building. It’s what the Dunwoody real estate market has been craving—a place that makes staying in town just as appealing as heading into the city.
As What’s Up Dunwoody podcast host Matt Weber puts it, “This is the kind of spot I’ll come to for college football playoffs—and then bring the kids back the next day for laser tag.”
Call to Action
Doors open Thursday, December 11th at 5 PM, and it’s first come, first served. Want to beat the crowd? Get more info, preview the space, or book your party at bigplayatl.com. Follow @bigplayatl on Instagram for live updates.
Show Notes
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Grand opening is Thursday, December 11th at 5 PM
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Located at 2480 Mount Vernon Rd, Dunwoody, GA 30338
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42,000 sq ft with bowling, laser tag, arcade, mini golf, and restaurant
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Woody’s Sports Bar offers elevated food, wine, cocktails, and game-day vibes
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Player’s Club membership unlocks perks and discounts
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Weekly specials include $2 Tuesdays, Kids Eat Free Sundays, and more
About What’s Up Dunwoody
What’s Up Dunwoody is hosted by REALTOR® Matt Weber, spotlighting local businesses, events, and neighbors across Dunwoody, Georgia. Follow along at whatsupdunwoody.com for new episodes and community updates.
