Drew Brees opens the Surge Entertainment Center in Metairie, a popular destination for new companies.

Drew Brees – the legendary Super Bowl–winning quarterback turned entrepreneur – has officially opened the doors to the Surge Entertainment Center in Metairie, Louisiana. Nestled at 7000 Veterans Memorial Boulevard, this brand-new facility promises to be a vibrant hub for fun-seekers of all ages, joining the ranks of other Surge locations in Baton Rouge, Bossier City, Lafayette, Mobile, and West Monroe. The grand opening celebration, held on Saturday, May 17, ran from 9 AM to midnight and featured half-price bowling, 50 percent off state-of-the-art sports simulators, and deeply discounted 2-hour attraction cards that offered unlimited access to laser tag, mini golf, inflatable courses, Strike Arena, and arcade games—all under one roof .

From the very beginning, Drew Brees has positioned Surge Entertainment as more than just another family entertainment center—it’s a carefully crafted experience. Surge Entertainment by Drew Brees first broke ground in Shreveport back in 2022, and since then, it has expanded into a multi-state footprint, reflecting the enduring demand for high-quality, all-ages attractions. Before Surge, Brees also explored the burgeoning world of indoor pickleball with Pickle N Pins in Metairie in 2024, co-owned with Darren Balsamo. That venue occupied the former Surge footprint at 6930 Veterans Memorial Boulevard, introducing public courts for padel and underscoring Brees’s commitment to innovative leisure concepts .

The Metairie Surge Entertainment Center stands out for its meticulously designed attractions. Guests can zip around a thrilling two-story go-kart track designed to satisfy both novice drivers and seasoned racers. An expansive arcade houses skill-based and ticket-redemption games ranging from classic skee-ball to the latest virtual-reality simulators. Those seeking a taste of Louisiana culture can tee off on a state-themed mini golf course, complete with Bayou-style landscaping and local iconography. For sports enthusiasts, the immersive sports simulators recreate the rush of a perfect swing in golf, baseball, or football in photorealistic settings. And for those who prefer traditional competition, the modern bowling alley—with its glow-in-the-dark lanes and automated scoring—offers strikingly good fun for families and league bowlers alike .

Beyond these core attractions, Surge Metairie boasts a dedicated laser tag arena where teams can strategize amid neon battlegrounds and inflatable courses that challenge agility and teamwork. Younger visitors gravitate toward the giant inflatable bounce house, while adults can relax in the full-service restaurant and bar, featuring a menu of local favorites and craft beverages. Whether for birthday parties, corporate events, church group outings, or casual weekend gatherings, Surge is engineered for maximum flexibility. Its modular event spaces can be customized with catering, décor, and audiovisual support, making it an ideal venue for celebrations that range from children’s parties to adult social nights .

Drew Brees himself underscored the community focus of Surge Metairie during opening-day remarks. “I’ve seen what the fans have seen,” Brees told reporters when asked about the facility’s role in the local entertainment landscape. “I really wanted to bring a space to Metairie where people of all ages can connect, compete, and make lasting memories.” He went on to praise Jefferson Parish as the perfect setting for Surge’s sixth location, highlighting the area’s strong families, vibrant youth sports culture, and growing appetite for new business ventures. His co-owner and longtime partner, Darren Balsamo, emphasized the company’s mission to “create unforgettable family experiences” and pledged that Surge Metairie would “be a game-changer for the community” .

Economic impact has been a critical consideration in Surge’s expansion strategy. Ahead of the opening, Surge Entertainment hosted local job fairs to staff the Metairie center, recruiting for positions ranging from culinary team members and line cooks to game floor attendants, technicians, and management roles. According to industry listings, Surge Entertainment by Drew Brees currently has over six different roles posted on job platforms, with competitive wages starting at $12–$15 per hour for entry-level positions and salaried opportunities exceeding $50,000 annually for specialized roles such as Director of Accounting and Culinary Manager . By injecting hundreds of jobs into the region, Surge supports local employment and contributes to business activity along Veterans Boulevard and surrounding commercial corridors.

Surge’s emphasis on safety, quality, and community engagement reflects broader trends in the family entertainment center (FEC) industry. As families seek all-in-one destinations that offer diverse attractions under climate-controlled environments, Surge positions itself ahead of smaller, single-activity venues. Moreover, the introduction of novel experiences—such as padel courts at Pickle N Pins and immersive sport simulators at Surge—demonstrates Brees’s willingness to innovate. Analysts note that multi-attraction centers like Surge are poised to capture a significant share of discretionary entertainment spending, especially in suburban markets like Metairie that lack comparable offerings .

Local reaction to the Surge opening has been overwhelmingly positive. Social media posts from residents highlight the excitement and energy at the grand opening event. Photos of glowing bowling lanes, darting go-karts, and packed laser tag sessions underscore the initial success. Neighborhood associations praised the center for revitalizing a major retail strip, and nearby businesses reported increased foot traffic over the weekend. With operating hours stretching into midnight on weekends, Surge Metairie also fills a nightlife niche, attracting young adults and families looking for safe, structured evening entertainment options. This dual appeal—family-friendly by day, entertainment hotspot by night—sets Surge Metairie apart as a versatile community asset .

Looking ahead, Surge Entertainment plans to integrate seasonal events, themed nights, and loyalty programs to maintain momentum. Monthly tournaments in bowling and laser tag, holiday-themed mini golf courses, and special brunch-and-bowl packages are already in development. Surge’s mobile app, available for download, will feature real-time reservation capabilities, digital game cards, and promotional push notifications. By leveraging technology and community partnerships—such as local schools, sports leagues, and nonprofit organizations—Surge Metairie aims to remain a dynamic presence in Jefferson Parish. With Drew Brees at the helm and a proven formula honed over six centers, Surge Entertainment is well-positioned to redefine family and group entertainment in Metairie and beyond .