(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — Chuck E. Cheese is back, and it’s nothing like you remember. With trampolines, obstacle courses, and a subscription program, the brand has reinvented itself for today’s families. As the iconic entertainment chain bounces back after years of challenges, many of us can’t help but wonder: Could this new version of Chuck E. Cheese bring the magic back to Simi?
Chuck E. Cheese, once synonymous with animatronic bands and birthday parties, has transformed into a modern hub of family entertainment. Gone are the days of SkyTubes and ball pits. Instead, the company has invested over $300 million to create “Adventure Zones,” featuring kid-sized trampolines, Ninja Run obstacle courses, and massive JumboTron screens. These attractions are designed for active play, catering to kids under 12 while keeping parents engaged.
“Kids today expect more,” said Dave McKillips, CEO of CEC Entertainment. “They want to run, jump, and explore, so we’ve created spaces where families can bond through movement and fun.”
Chuck E. Cheese has also reimagined its classic elements. Scratch-made pizzas and an updated menu aim to keep parents coming back, while a tiered subscription program starting at $7.99 per month offers unlimited visits, game discounts, and other perks.
The changes come after Chuck E. Cheese faced its biggest challenge yet. The company filed for bankruptcy in 2020, struggling to survive during the pandemic. But in just four years, the brand has staged an impressive recovery, with over 400 updated locations nationwide and plans for global expansion. In 2024 alone, nearly 400,000 families subscribed to its membership program, proving that its new model is resonating.
“Our focus has been on creating an experience that combines the nostalgia of Chuck E. Cheese with the excitement families want today,” McKillips said. “We’ve done away with the animatronics and physical tickets, but the heart of Chuck E. Cheese—family fun—is stronger than ever.”
For many in Simi Valley, Chuck E. Cheese isn’t just a brand—it’s a memory. The Tierra Rejada Road location, which operated from 1980 to 2008, was a cornerstone of the community, hosting birthday parties and weekend outings for nearly 30 years. The thought of a Chuck E. Cheese revival stirs a bit of nostalgia for those who grew up with the iconic arcade games and animatronic band.
But the brand’s transformation isn’t just about the past. It’s about redefining what family entertainment means for the future. Chuck E. Cheese’s new approach reflects how families’ expectations have changed, emphasizing safe, active, and tech-forward experiences that fit modern lifestyles.
Beyond its updated locations, Chuck E. Cheese is expanding its reach through partnerships, licensing deals, and even plans for a feature film. Its YouTube channel and streaming music keep its beloved mascot in the spotlight, ensuring that Chuck E. Cheese remains a household name.
Whether or not Simi Valley will see a new location is uncertain, but the brand’s successful comeback suggests it’s only a matter of time before many more communities are reintroduced to the magic. For the sake of all that is awesome and 80’s, we’ll keep our fingers crossed. In the meantime, families can experience the new Adventure Zones at dozens of locations across Southern California.
