Game Haven gives board game fans a place in Waunakee
Waunakee's only board game store opened its doors earlier this month.
Game Haven, at 229 S. Century Ave., is owner Kevin Thornberg's childhood come to life. The shop sells board games like Warhammer, role play games like Dungeons & Dragons, puzzles, card games, Legos, plush toys and used board games on consignment.
Game Haven also hosts "Bring Your Own Board Game" nights and other events to promote new products, Thornberg said.
"I have been playing Dungeons & Dragons since I was 10," he said.
Prices range from $5 to $140, Thornberg said. Game Haven includes 900 square feet of retail space and another 900 square feet for events. It has seven employees.
Thornberg said he wanted to give community members a space where they can let go.
"Sometimes life is tough and work is stressful and school gives you tests and friends don't always have time to get together," he said.
It's apparent that many in Waunakee and the surrounding Madison area want that escape — when Game Haven held its grand opening Sept. 7, roughly 700 people came. People were lined up out the door "shoulder to shoulder" to see what all the hubbub was about, Thornberg said.
Game Haven plans to partner with local schools to host board game and Dungeons & Dragons club events.
"Sometimes life is tough and work is stressful and school gives you tests and friends don't always have time to get together."
Kevin Thornberg
