Decades of Fun, One Destination: Starland Sportsplex & Fun Park
By: Heidi Prisco, Starland Sportsplex & Fun Park
Few places on the South Shore have stood the test of time quite like Starland Sportsplex & Fun Park in Hanover, Massachusetts. Since opening its doors in 1968, Starland has not only endured, but evolved, transforming with each new generation while staying true to its roots as a vibrant hub for family entertainment. More than five decades later, it remains one of the region’s go-to destinations for fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
A Humble Beginning with Big Dreams
When Robert Kilmain founded Starland in the late 1960s, it was a classic New England family entertainment center. Locals fondly remember the bumper boats, batting cages, and driving range, but perhaps nothing was as iconic as the mini golf course, a favorite backdrop for countless first dates and summer outings.
From the start, the mission was clear: to provide a welcoming space for families and friends to come together, play, and create memories. That core value endured even as the park began to shift and grow with the times.
A New Era: The 2013 Transformation
In 2013, Starland took a bold step forward, launching a complete transformation of its 33-acre property into a state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor complex. At the heart of this upgrade was a brand new 100,000+ square foot facility featuring: 2 indoor turf fields; 8 hardwood courts for basketball, futsal, and volleyball; dedicated event and meeting spaces; and a full-service bar, restaurant, and coffee shop.
This expansion allowed Starland to grow from a seasonal park into a year-round destination. While many of the old favorites like the batting cages, mini golf, and arcade remained intact, the new additions added fresh appeal for kids, teens, and adults alike.
Today's Starland: Where Classic Meets Cutting-Edge
Starland today is a dynamic mix of nostalgia and innovation. Classic attractions are joined by high-thrill adventures and modern amenities:
Laser tag, bumper cars, and a revamped go-kart track, perfect for racing your sibling, spouse, or even grandpa in a real-life Mario Kart-style showdown.
The arcade continues to buzz with energy, offering a mix of retro favorites and the latest high-tech games.
Brand new rides for coming soon for Summer 2025 include a frog jump ride for young children, plus a spin coaster and drop tower for thrill-seekers!
Starland has also elevated its food and beverage offerings to match the experience:
The Rec Room Bar & Grill combines classic arcade games, casual eats, and craft cocktails, making it a favorite spot for adults looking to unwind.
A summer beer garden offers seasonal vibes under the sun.
The on-site Fuel Espresso and Bagel Co. partners with Counter Culture Coffee to serve fresh, sustainable brews and locally loved OMG! Bagels. They now feature smoothies and strawberry popping boba drinks.
Still the Heart of the South Shore
What makes Starland truly special isn’t just the attractions; it’s the feeling. Whether you're a parent bringing your child to laser tag for the first time, a teen celebrating a birthday, or a couple reliving a first date on the mini golf course, there’s a sense of timeless joy in every visit.
As Starland approaches its 60th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the power of reinvention rooted in tradition. The rides have gotten faster, the coffee stronger, and the games brighter, but the mission remains the same: fun for all, for generations to come.
So whether you're a lifelong fan or visiting for the first time, one thing’s for sure: Starland is still where the South Shore goes to play.
About Starland Sportsplex & Fun Park:
Escape the ordinary and embark on a journey of endless thrills at Starland, your ultimate destination for fun. With outdoor & indoor adventures like mini golf, go-karts, bumper cars, laser tag, and an arcade that will make your heart race.
Home to Fuel Espresso and Bagel Co. & Rec Room - Bar & Grill. Whether it's your special day, ready to flex your sports skills, or you just wanna let loose, Starland is the spot.
Learn more about Starland Sportsplex & Fun Park here.