If bowling or a movie feels too tame, there’s a new entertainment option in town — and it comes in the form of a high-thrill, lumberjack-esque sport.
The New Town Shops on Main has a new tenant, an ax-throwing business Axe Republic, real estate firm Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer announced in a news release Monday.
Nikki Montero, who worked as a school nurse with Williamsburg-James City County Public Schools, plans to open the business in late August at 4919 Courthouse St. It will be to the right of Regal Theater and diagonally across the street from Buffalo Wild Wings, according to the news release.
“I love people and I’m thrilled to be opening the Axe Republic doors on Main Street to bring this fun, challenging and family friendly entertainment venue to Williamsburg,” Montero said in a prepared statement.
Axe Republic will have 12 ax-throwing lanes with a wooden backboard. The goal is to land the ax within a large bullseye painted on the backboard.
It’s not just ax-throwing, however. There will also be food and drinks including hot dogs, snacks, sodas and seltzers. Axe Republic will also sell local beers from Virginia Beer Co., located on Second Street.
There will be custom-made “tree slab” tables and a communal sitting area so guests can eat, drink and watch those throwing axes.
“I first tried Axe Throwing in Virginia Beach for a birthday outing and after making multiple return trips I was hooked on the sport,” Montero said.
Montero has lived “around the world” as a former military wife, and also worked as a stockbroker. She has also been a stay-at-home mom and a school nurse in the local school division, according to the news release.
Axe Republic is open to anyone of any skill set over the age of 14. Minors must be accompanied by an adult parent or guardian.
The 12 lanes can each hold six players, and a session is generally 75 to 120 minutes long. The session includes a 15-minute safety discussion.
“Axeperts” will also be available to help throwers with their techniques and ensure safety protocol is followed.
Walk-ins and reservations are both welcome. Axe Republic will be open 5-9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, Friday 5-10 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sunday noon-6 p.m.
