iSmash Launches High-Energy Entertainment in Greater Phoenix with Opening in Glendale

West Valley Welcomes Debut of Interactive Rage Room and Splatter Paint Destination

January 05, 2026 // Franchising.com // PHOENIX — iSmash, the fast-growing interactive entertainment brand known for its adrenaline-pumping Rage Rooms, colorful Splatter Paint and adventurous Axe Throwing experiences, is opening its doors January 10 in Glendale, marking the brand’s first location in Greater Phoenix and a significant milestone in its expansion across the Southwest.

Located at Bell Tower Village (4925 W. Bell Rd.) in Phoenix’s West Valley Glendale community, iSmash is an entertainment hub designed to deliver high-energy experiences for families, groups and thrill-seekers throughout Maricopa County. Surrounded by complementary attractions such as Incredible Escape Rooms, the venue is part of a growing destination offering action-packed entertainment and retail options in one convenient location.

The new iSmash Glendale features four themed Rage Rooms, two Splatter Paint rooms, and four Axe Throwing lanes. Guests can choose from a variety of Smash, Paint, and Axe Throwing packages for individuals and groups. Party experiences for birthdays, corporate team-building events and private celebrations are also available.

Longtime area residents with deep ties to the community, Rusty and Beth Harrison are the local husband-and-wife franchisees behind iSmash Glendale. Rusty recently retired from the Phoenix Police Department after more than 20 years in law enforcement, while Beth brings two decades of experience in banking, along with a strong operational background. Together, the Harrisons are opening iSmash to create a safe, stress-relieving and exhilarating destination for their community, while also exploring future opportunities to expand the experience into wellness-oriented offerings. As part of that vision, they are actively looking into providing clinically supported therapeutic use cases centered on stress relief and mental health needs.

“There’s nothing like this in the market right now,” said Rusty Harrison. “People are looking for ways to do something active and memorable with friends, family or coworkers. iSmash gives the community a place to celebrate and release energy in a way that’s both safe and exciting, and we’re proud to bring that experience to Glendale.”

iSmash Glendale is one of the largest iSmash locations to date. With the additional space, the Harrisons are planning to introduce unique features, including long-distance throwing lanes that allow guests to hurl objects from afar, as well as a laser matrix experience designed to simulate a thrilling, secret-agent-style challenge.

“Greater Phoenix represents a major step in our growth strategy, and Glendale is the right place to plant our flag,” said Steven Shortino, founder and CEO of iSmash. “Rusty and Beth bring enthusiasm, operational strength and a deep understanding of their market. This opening sets a new benchmark for what an iSmash location can be and shows how the brand continues to evolve as we enter larger, more dynamic regions.”

Looking ahead, the Harrisons see Glendale as the launch point for broader growth in the Phoenix metro area, with a long-term vision centered on community engagement and repeat guests. iSmash stands apart in the entertainment category as the only franchised rage room concept operating nationwide, offering a differentiated experience that blends physical activity, creativity and controlled stress relief. Since launching in 2018, the brand has continued to scale its footprint and refine its model, with approximately 40 new locations expected to open across the country in 2026.

Like all iSmash venues, the Glendale location provides all safety equipment and materials needed for each activity. Special Smash Packages allow guests to take on stress using their own Smash Boxes. Age minimums begin at three years old for Splatter Paint, eight years old for Rage Rooms, and 13 years and up for Axe Throwing.

For more information on iSmash and to book sessions in Glendale, visit https://ismashusa.com/locations/az-glendale/. The location is currently offering 10 percent off first bookings and a chance to win a year of free Rage Room Smashing. Name and email address are required to enter on the location’s website.

About iSmash

Founded in 2018 by Steven Shortino, iSmash began as a bold idea in Rochester, New York, inspired by a viral video and driven by a passion for creating unique, cathartic experiences. Originally coined “Smash Therapy,” Shortino pivoted to the recognizable, iSmash name and launched the first location to immediate success. The brand offers a dynamic mix of immersive experiences—including Rage Rooms, black light Splatter Painting, and Axe Throwing—designed to meet growing consumer demand for activities that prioritize experiences over possessions.

With several years of operational success behind it, iSmash has developed a proven business model known for low start-up costs, high gross margins, and strong unit economics. Franchisees benefit from a robust support system that includes a 40-hour training program, daily operational assistance, access to a national supply chain, and integrated marketing through the brand’s in-house digital agency. As the largest and most recognized Rage Room concept in the country, iSmash offers entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to tap into a high-growth segment with the backing of a trusted brand.

For more details on iSmash and to purchase a Package, visit https://ismashusa.com/. To learn more about the iSmash franchise opportunity, visit https://ismashfranchise.com/.

SOURCE iSmash

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