GAME ON: Boston’s Best Adult Arcades:
Who says arcades are just for kids? In Boston, the glow of neon lights and the thrill of button-smashing have found a new home—this time with craft cocktails, DJs, and plenty of grown-up energy. Whether you’re looking for a quirky date night, a night out with friends, or just a dose of nostalgia, here are the hottest spots to press “start.”
VERSUS (Downtown Boston)
Boston’s first true arcade bar, VERSUS mixes retro favorites like Pac-Man and pinball with modern consoles and a lively nightlife vibe. Grab a creative cocktail, and suddenly you’re back in the ‘80s—minus the curfew.
Roxy’s Arcade (Cambridge)
Equal parts arcade and cocktail lounge, Roxy’s keeps the energy high with trivia, DJ nights, and nostalgia-inducing games. It’s 21+ only, so expect good vibes, good drinks, and no kiddie tokens.
F1 Arcade Boston (Seaport)
For a racing rush, nothing beats this slick Formula 1–themed spot. With immersive simulators, stylish cocktails, and upscale food, it feels like stepping into a Grand Prix party—right in the Seaport.
PLAY Boston (Downtown, near TD Garden)
Part sports bar, part arcade, PLAY brings modern redemption-style games together with big screens and a buzzy nightlife atmosphere. Perfect for pre- or post-game fun when you’re near the Garden.
Lucky Strike Fenway (Fenway)
Bowling lanes, billiards, air hockey, and a sprawling arcade—Lucky Strike is like a grown-up playground. Bonus: arcade games are half-price on Wednesdays, so midweek just got a lot more fun.
Free Play (Worcester & Taunton)
Want the pure arcade experience? Free Play is a mecca for gamers, offering unlimited classic games for a flat fee. With a full bar and endless pinball machines, it’s worth the drive beyond Boston.
Level 99 (Natick Mall)
This 48,000-square-foot giant is more than an arcade—it’s a mix of escape-room puzzles, obstacle courses, and arcade fun. Think team challenges, immersive games, and a whole lot of bragging rights.
Space Zero (Braintree)
A mash-up of arcade machines, trampolines, and obstacle courses, Space Zero is quirky, high-energy, and refreshingly different from the typical bar arcade.