West Dundee hoverboard park to only offer private events

After a recent change in ownership, a hoverboard amusement center in West Dundee is shifting its focus from public entertainment to solely offering private events.

HoverPark, which opened last December, previously operated as its own entity while renting a 15,000-square-foot space in LifeZone 360 at 999 W. Main St. The sports complex has since acquired the hoverboard operations after high overhead costs led to financial trouble for HoverPark owners, General Manager Brian Wright said.

HoverPark, the brainchild of local entrepreneurs Brad Garlin and Mike Tatge, allows visitors to try out high-quality hoverboards and race them through various obstacle courses, ramps and open-hover areas. Novice riders start out with harnesses to prevent them from falling.

The business was open to the public throughout the week and often saw large crowds on weekends, Wright said. But operators found the concept to be most popular for private birthday parties and corporate team-building events.

"That was something LifeZone wanted to keep moving forward with," he said. "It's definitely not a lack of interest. It's how do you best present that concept in a way that not only (offers) a great guest experience but is also profitable?"

Sunday was the last day HoverPark was open to the public, Wright said. A post on HoverPark's Facebook page last week said the business would continue offering private events through Nov. 16, but LifeZone operators have since decided to extend that date indefinitely, Wright said.

By absorbing HoverPark operations, LifeZone is now able to cross-promote entertainment options and maximize resources for hosting private events, Wright said. The company also has the flexibility to rearrange the HoverPark space and create individualized hoverboard areas based on the party size and demographic.

"Families and businesses really enjoy the hoverboard concept because it's a unique alternative for birthday parties and team-building events," Wright said. "A lot of the activities offered at LifeZone can integrate with that party experience."

Private events can be booked by emailing booking@hoverpark.com or calling (224) 236-4687.