Life at Lamy’s: RAKS Escape Room in Downtown Sedalia

Step into the world of RAKS Escape Room, where adventure awaits around every corner. Founded by Rod, Austin, Kim, and Sophia, RAKS is more than just an escape room—it’s a family affair. Rod, a seasoned physical therapist professional originally from the Philippines, has dedicated 21 years of his life to Bothwell Regional Health Center. Meanwhile, Kim, his beloved wife of 17 years and an esteemed nurse, has been an integral part of Bothwell Hospital since 1999, bringing her expertise and warmth to the team. The couple’s children, Austin (15) and Sophia (12) are currently students of Sacred Heart School.

The journey to RAKS began eight years ago during a fateful birthday celebration for Rod’s brother-in-law. Amidst the festivities, the family stumbled upon an escape room, sparking a newfound passion for immersive entertainment. Rod, initially skeptical, found himself captivated by the intricate puzzles and thrilling challenges. It was an experience that left an indelible mark, planting the seed for what would later become RAKS Escape Room.

Fast forward to September 2018, and RAKS Escape Room officially opened its doors, offering a unique blend of excitement and camaraderie. With Rod’s knack for tinkering with tools and gadgets and Kim’s nursing prowess, the duo embarked on a journey to create an immersive experience like no other. From designing elaborate puzzles to crafting captivating storylines, every aspect of RAKS is infused with passion and creativity.

But why downtown, you may wonder? For Rod, the allure of the historic “Main Street” vibe was irresistible. Downtown Sedalia offered the perfect backdrop for their escape room venture. From lively parades and car shows to enchanting outdoor concerts and festivals, downtown Sedalia pulses with energy and excitement, drawing visitors from near and far. In Rod’s own words, “Walt Disney had to recreate the Main Street that he grew up in on all the Magic Kingdoms that he built. We, on the other hand, already have in our downtown the real deal… the shops, the restaurants, the cafés, the shows and other entertainment. It’s cool when you think of it that way.” Cool, indeed.

It was during the Scott Joplin festival in June of 2015 that Rod stumbled upon their future escape room location. As he strolled past the iconic Wilkens Music store, a small “for sale” sign caught his eye at the optometry clinic, igniting a spark of inspiration. The rest, as they say, is history. Rod and his family embarked on a new chapter, bringing their vision to life in the heart of downtown Sedalia.

Of course, no journey is without its challenges. Some may lament the lack of parking downtown, but Rod tends to see it as a positive “Sometimes when I walk, I will find shops, products, entertainment/shows that I didn’t even know we have in our downtown area. I would’ve missed those if parking was always available.”

When it comes to dining, the family enjoys good food. From savory delights to sweet treats, downtown Sedalia’s eateries offer a diverse array of culinary delights, each with its unique charm. And when it’s time for a special occasion or date night, Lamy’s is their go-to spot, where Rod can’t resist indulging in the mouthwatering fried chicken plate. We hear ya, Rod. We hear ya.

As for libations, Rod prefers to keep it simple—a refreshing soda or an occasional beer is more than enough to quench his thirst. But when it comes to music, his taste is impeccable. His prized vinyl find at Josey’s Records? The Cream LP featuring the timeless “Sunshine of Your Love.”

With RAKS Escape Room and downtown Sedalia as their playground, Rod and his family continue to craft unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors alike, leaving a lasting impression on all who dare to embark on their thrilling adventures. If you’re wondering about that next date night, birthday party, or even a fun couples shower location, consider RAKS Escape Room!