The desire was simple: Create something to do for young people who live in the Paxton area.
That’s what led Paxton businessman Andy Hudson to create Hudz Family Fun Zone, the arcade-based business that opened in downtown Paxton in late December and has bestowed upon the town a perfect outlet for kids to enjoy quality time in a fun, safe environment.
“A lot of (the impetus) was I own a successful pharmacy in Paxton and this was sort of a way to give back to the community,” said Hudson, proprietor of Hudson Drug and Hallmark Shop. “You go on Facebook and, in a small town like Paxton, you see people saying there is nothing for kids to do. I don’t totally agree but this is something for them to do and a unique idea to have in our community.”
Hudz offers a variety of activities. You can play dozens of video games, the old-school arcade types like Pac-Man, Frogger, Donkey Kong and endless others. There’s pinball, air hockey, skeeball, ping pong, cornhole, a mini-golf course and a new-school video game room where you can bring your own Nintendo/Xbox/PlayStation etc., plug it in and go to work.
There’s also a party room available for rent, a toddlers’ play area, along with a small kitchen area that includes vending, in a space that encompasses more than 5,000 square feet in what was once a compounding pharmacy.
Malcolm Howard, a lifelong video game enthusiast, is the manager of the facility.
“He’s been amazing,” Hudson said. “I thought to myself, you have this idea, which I like, and the business model but you don’t have anyone to run it. It was important to find someone who has time and the knowledge of the games who can relate to people well.”
Howard, a Paxton resident, was the person. He’s a self-described tinkerer who has the fearless nature to get his hands dirty when a game needs to be repaired.
The reception since Hudz opened has been positive. Business has been brisk and groups — such as several area schools and Gibson Area Hospital — have visited for outings. Birthday parties are frequent. Groups can also rent the business for private use during off-hours.
“We’ve got a couple different options for parties, but the most popular is the standard reservation package,” Howard said. “For $200 you get a three-hour time slot during regular business hours with exclusive access to the party room, and you can bring in food.” That package includes unlimited use of the games during that time for 30 people.
For individuals, the regular general admission is $15. That gets you unlimited access to all of the games until the business closes for the day. The best part: You can come and go as you please. Hungry and want to get some lunch? Go eat at Market Street Grill nearby and then come back to play more games.
Ages 6 and under are just $5, as are senior citizens age 55 and up. If you’re an adult who isn’t interested in playing games but just wants to keep an eye on your child, purchase a guardian pass for $5. (And if your child needs a partner for air hockey, no worries. You can play with him or her without being scolded.)
For more information, visit Hudz’ Facebook page.