A Review of Medieval Times in Lawrenceville, Georgia

Discover Mills Mall

Lawrenceville, GA

From the moment you walk through the castle gates at Medieval Times you really feel as though you have taken a step back in time. This is mostly thanks to the staff that does a great job of getting into character and adopting old English accents, albeit with varying degrees of success.

If you want to take in the full atmosphere then I suggest you get there early (it's actually recommended you arrive 90 minutes prior to performance). There are a whole host of characters roaming the interior and tons of photo opportunities that the kids will love. When you arrive you are given a colored crown and flag which corresponds with the knight you will be cheering for. You'll find yourself high-fiving other members of your team and booing members of the other knights team (which is very much encouraged).

There is a gift shop and bar in the lobby area, but a quick word of warning here; you may want to avoid the bar or be prepared to pay astronomical prices for alcohol. We bought a beer, a glass of wine and 2 sodas, albeit in fancy memorial glasses, and had to take out a second mortgage to cover the cost.

The show itself is excellent with horse displays, jousting tournaments, and knights battling with all too real looking weapons. Sparks fly from the swords and the hoof beats thunder in the enclosed arena. It really is quite spectacular at times. There is a story interwoven through the show with the knights battling for a place in the heart of the princess who sits with the king, high above the proceedings. It's very easy to get caught up in everything whilst cheering for your knight.

The food is also great. You are given a large bowl of soup (the bowl has a handle as there are no utensils supplied, another way to make you feel like you have been transported back in time), a heart meal of chicken, ribs and a potato, a pastry dessert and a beverage. It's real messy fun as you dig in with your hands.

The tickets may seem a tad steep at $47.95 for adults and $35.95 for kids but I really felt that we got our moneys worth, except for our trip to the bar. There is an option to upgrade your tickets which gets you a spot closer to the action, a program and a DVD but I would recommend the basic seats as there isn't a bad one in the place. A great family night out that is a treat for both kids and adults alike.