16-Bit Bar + Arcade
Cleveland
Nestled in a Cleveland suburb, 16-Bit Bar + Arcade is a haven for nostalgia aficionados, celebrating more than just video games. Adorning its walls are murals featuring icons like Mr. Spock, Madonna, and Hulk Hogan, while behind the bar, E.T. and LEGO figures add to the retro charm. Even the cocktails join the homage, with names like Cheech Marin, Carrie Fisher, and Hulk Hogan. Though the 40-plus pinball and arcade games stay indoors, the patio offers a perfect spot to savor a refreshing Slush Puppie on a scorching day.
Logan Arcade
Chicago
If the classic “Logan Hardware” sign catches your eye as you approach the building, you’ve found your way to Logan Arcade. Once inside, the vintage ambiance persists throughout the expansive, multi-room bar, boasting authentic hardwood floors, ornate tin ceilings, and rustic exposed brick walls. Beyond its impressive collection of 30 pinball machines and 47 arcade games, it’s the laid-back vibe of this local haunt that makes it a spot worth lingering in.
Up-Down
Multiple Locations
Even with four spots scattered across the Midwest, Up-Down consistently delivers top-tier fare, libations, and token perks every single day. Each venue boasts a collection of no fewer than 40 vintage arcade games harking back to the ’80s and ’90s, complemented by an extensive craft beer selection featuring up to 60 taps. Their pizzas, available by the slice or as a whole pie, offer a playful twist with toppings ranging from chicken and waffles to mac and cheese, alongside timeless favorites like pepperoni.
Gamers Arcade Bar
Spokane, Washington
Gamers may not be sprawling, but it exudes abundant personality. As you stroll along the sidewalk, a welcoming Pacman statue catches your eye, while the bar’s lights mimic Mario’s iconic mystery blocks. Inside, around 30 arcade games vie for attention alongside air hockey tables. Specialty drinks pay homage to beloved characters such as Yoda and Kirby, complemented by an extensive collection of canned beers. The menu keeps it simple with nostalgic offerings like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, chips, and candy. What could be more reminiscent of childhood gaming delights?
Eighty Two
Los Angeles
Tucked away in a warehouse-style structure adorned with a vibrant, blue, psychedelic mural, Eighty Two boasts a collection of approximately 50 vintage arcade and pinball games. The menu of craft cocktails rotates with the seasons, complemented by a selection of 10 rotating beer taps. Live DJs provide regular entertainment, and satisfying food options, including food trucks, barbecue, or taco stands, are often found in the adjacent parking lot. Pinball enthusiasts can mark their calendars for tournaments typically held on the final Sunday of each month.
Right Around the Corner Arcade Brewery
St. Petersburg, Florida
Right Around the Corner boasts an exterior artfully adorned in the style of a Super Mario Bros. level, making it unmistakable. It serves as a lively gathering spot for a diverse crowd, welcoming kids, gamers, beer enthusiasts, and even furry friends. The brewery crafts its own beers, creatively named after gaming classics such as Ms. Pacman and Crisis Averted. Keep an eye out for the tap handles, cleverly designed to resemble old Gameboys and console controllers.
Headquarters Beercade
Chicago
Headquarters Beercade stands as a unique destination, blending vintage arcade fun with a vibrant bar and restaurant atmosphere across two levels. Its intriguing decor boasts retro TVs adorning the walls and a neon sign with a cautionary message: “Don’t grow up; it’s a trap.” True to its name, the establishment offers a selection of 12 craft beers on tap, constantly rotating, alongside an extensive assortment of canned and bottled options. For a refreshing summer treat, indulge in their alcohol-infused watermelon margarita freeze-pops, a perfect complement after savoring some indulgent deep-fried cheese curds.
Start Bar
St. Louis
Start Bar exudes a nightclub vibe with its contemporary furnishings and stylish lighting fixtures, blurring the line between arcade and club, especially during weekend nights when a DJ sets the mood. Despite its sleek ambiance, the arcade offers a plethora of ’80s cabinet and console games, along with pinball and Skee-ball, ensuring endless entertainment. Treat yourself to a selection of snacks including pizza, tacos, and candy, complemented by shared delights like 64-ounce group margaritas or slushes. And don’t miss out on the indulgent boozy bacon pancake milkshake for a memorable dessert experience.
Cobra Arcade Bar
Phoenix
“At Cobra Arcade Bar, our motto is ‘Drink and Game,’ and it’s a philosophy that’s hard to dispute. Situated in both Tucson and Phoenix, this establishment is the ultimate destination for aficionados of classic gaming in Arizona. Here, patrons engage in intense Street Fighter battles against the backdrop of a DJ’s beats. Our cocktail menu boasts inventive names like ‘Garbage Pail Kids’ and ‘Whiskey Business,’ while the ‘Go Juice’ section offers a selection of energy drinks to fuel your gaming sessions well into the night.”
The Circuit Arcade Bar
Richmond, Virginia
In a vast, warehouse-style setting boasting lofty vaulted ceilings, The Circuit houses a collection of more than 80 classic and contemporary games, ranging from beloved classics such as Skee-ball to engaging activities like air hockey and pop-shot. With a self-serve tap wall offering fifty varieties of draft beer, wine, and cider, patrons can indulge in their preferred libations. Food offerings feature ballpark-style treats including pretzels, wings, and tacos, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience to accompany the gaming excitement.
Free Play Arlington
Arlington, Texas
At Free Play, you’ll find a collection of more than 130 classic arcade and pinball games on rotation. Despite the name suggesting otherwise, entry isn’t free; it’ll set you back $12. While you’re there, enjoy pressed sandwiches such as Cubans and caprese panini, along with shareable snacks like hummus and fruit platters. With garage doors lining one wall, when the weather’s pleasant, it’s like playing Mortal Kombat al fresco.
I/O Arcade Bar
Madison, Wisconsin
The motto of I/O Arcade Bar goes like this: “A haven for gamers who love a good drink.” It suits this snug arcade spot nestled in the trendy Willy Street area. With 20 taps pouring various brews, including plenty of local favorites, and creative concoctions like the Fire Flower featuring mango habanero vodka, there’s something for every palate. You’ll find over 30 arcade games along with pinball machines, and cozy lounge sections furnished with couches and tables provide ample room for tabletop gaming sessions.
Players Club
Washington, D.C.
The Players Club may not boast the largest game selection, but it compensates with its chic, ’70s-inspired ambiance, featuring warm tones of brown and orange. Whether you’re enjoying a martini or Manhattan or indulging in some pinball action, you’ll feel right at home. And if hunger strikes, Shake Shack is just a stone’s throw away, ready to deliver directly to your gaming spot. This venue caters exclusively to adults, especially evident in its prize machines stocked with adult novelties.
Coin Haus
La Mesa, California
Avoiding bar queues is a breeze at Coin Haus thanks to their impressive array of 50 self-serve taps for beer and wine. Plus, indulge in complimentary game play until 6 p.m. during their daily happy hour.
Old North Arcade
Columbus, Ohio
At Old North Arcade, not only will you discover the timeless allure of classic arcade games and pinball machines, but you’ll also dive into a world of Skee-ball, foosball, air hockey, and Dance Dance Revolution. Step out onto the expansive patio during summer where you’ll find a lively atmosphere with a projector screen, oversized Jenga, cornhole, and sidewalk Twister. Plus, indulge in complimentary gaming with the purchase of any beverage from their selection of 20 craft taps or inventive cocktails, such as the On Like Donkey Kong featuring root beer, vodka, and creme de banane.
Barcade
Multiple Locations
Barcade proudly asserts itself as the pioneering arcade bar, backed by a registered trademark. Its inaugural establishment debuted in Brooklyn back in 2004, and since then, it has expanded to nine locations nationwide, all brimming with an array of arcade games. Regularly, they join forces with craft breweries to craft exclusive collaboration beers, exclusively accessible at Barcade outlets for a limited duration.
Shorty’s
Seattle
Soon it marks the 25th anniversary of Shorty’s, a cherished hangout blending the charm of a dive bar with the excitement of a pinball arcade. While iconic games like Pac-Man and Millipede adorn its walls, it’s the pinball machines and tournaments that steal the spotlight. For sustenance, the menu keeps it simple with hotdogs, served Chicago style with chili and cheese or adorned with tomatoes, cream cheese, and peppers. When it’s time to kick back and relax, retreat to the Trophy Room, a secluded oasis boasting a full bar to complete your evening.
Cidercade
Dallas
For those who aren’t fans of beer, there’s Cidercade, a haven owned by the Bishop Cider Company. Here, you’ll find their signature fruity ciders like Crack Berry and Blackberry Sub-Lime among the 30 ciders and wines on tap. With over 170 diverse games, especially multiplayer ones, it’s a paradise for gamers. While there’s no kitchen, food trucks frequently make appearances right outside.
Park&Rec
St. Petersburg, Florida
Breaking away from the retro decor movement, Park&Rec boasts a contemporary atmosphere adorned with industrial chic accents and ambient blue lighting beneath the bar. In addition to classic arcade games, pinball, and air hockey, the spacious patio offers an array of activities, including cornhole, oversized beer pong, and outdoor Connect 4. Don’t miss out on the daily Kwik-E-Mart slurpee, perfectly complemented by a mouthwatering buffalo chicken pizza.
Quarterworld Arcade
Portland, Oregon
At Quarterworld, you’ll find a unique feature that sets it apart from any other arcade bar: Tessi, the musical Tesla coil, lighting up Tuesdays and Sundays with electrifying performances. With nearly 100 arcade and pinball games to choose from, it’s a gamer’s paradise, and families are welcome until 8 p.m. Plus, gather your crew for one of our famous $25 party punch bowls, designed to keep the fun flowing for three or more. And when hunger strikes, our menu has you covered with burgers, pizza, salads, and sandwiches to please gamers of all ages.
The 1Up Arcade Bar
Denver
Due to the resounding success of its inaugural site, 1Up has expanded to two more spots within the Denver vicinity. Situated along Colfax Avenue, one of these establishments boasts the city’s most extensive array of pinball games, totaling an impressive 42 machines, alongside a repertoire of over 90 arcade games. While both additional locales feature food service, one notable item on the menu is the indulgent donut burger. Moreover, patrons can indulge in nostalgia with a selection of 40-ounce beverages, including classics like Boones Farm and Olde English, reminiscent of college drinking days.
Spacebar Arcade
Boise, Idaho
The atmosphere at Spacebar is reminiscent of hanging out in the basement of your coolest friend from 6th grade. In addition to the arcade and pinball machines, there are console games neatly arranged on a coffee table, a wide array of board games to choose from, and you might even find a stash of crayons behind the bar. Although your friends back then probably didn’t offer you Idaho and West Coast beers to keep you refreshed.
Player 1
Orlando, Florida
Escape the chaos of amusement parks overrun by noisy children by venturing to Player 1, a haven where minors are barred after 6 p.m. With a selection of thirty-six beers, alongside 18 ciders and 10 meads for those with different tastes, there’s something for everyone. Retro arcade games abound, but it’s the console games that steal the spotlight. Challenge your friends on one of the expansive TVs mounted on the wall while enjoying a drink at the bar.
Ground Kontrol
Portland, Oregon
Ground Kontrol boasts a collection of more than 100 timeless arcade games and 40 pinball machines. Its expansive size is the result of merging two distinct locations into a singular haven of nostalgia. The food menu caters to various dietary preferences, offering options that can be made vegan or gluten-free. From three varieties of nachos to hot dogs and a delectable grilled peanut butter and jelly sandwich served with potato chips, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Draftcade
Kansas City, Missouri
Draftcade stands out as a premier destination among arcade bars, boasting a collection of over 75 vintage arcade games alongside Skee-ball, consoles, board games, and a towering Jenga set. With an extensive selection of 60 beers on tap, a tempting cocktail menu featuring sweet libations, and a diverse food menu, including smoked delights like brats, pulled pork, and chicken wings, it’s a haven for both gaming enthusiasts and food lovers alike. And let’s not forget the irresistible allure of deep-fried Twinkies!
Boxcar Bar + Arcade
Raleigh, North Carolina
For aficionados of console gaming, Boxcar is the ultimate destination. With a staggering selection of over 175 console games, including 70 vintage and modern cabinet machines and pinballs, it’s a gamer’s paradise. Additionally, the bar boasts 24 taps featuring an array of American craft brews, complemented by a rotating seasonal cocktail menu. With daily drink specials, Boxcar offers a haven for relaxation and entertainment, whether you’re in the mood for gaming or simply unwinding.
Button Mash
Los Angeles
People flock to Button Mash primarily for its delectable food offerings, with the arcade games serving as a delightful diversion while awaiting a table. The menu, infused with playful pan-Asian inspiration, features tantalizing options like Korean fried cauliflower and shiitake mash burgers. Even esteemed critic Jonathan Gold lauded the establishment’s “almost shockingly good” wine selection and praised its noodle dishes post-arcade showdowns.
