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Guide to Illinois

Arcades

Made for those who measure a weekend by high scores and the glow of a cathode-ray tube.

Based on 542 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
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Video arcade

Retro arcade offers unlimited play for $16 with classic games like NBA Blitz and Guitar Hero. Cozy, family-friendly vibe keeps energy relaxed and safe. Small party room adds to the welcoming, casual feel.

Unlimited play costs $16 for a full day with no extra charges. The arcade offers a massive selection of retro games, pinball machines, and rare cabinets in great working condition. Popular games include NBA Blitz, Skee Ball, Crazy Taxi, and Guitar Hero.

People are saying

"You'll love the retro arcade games and pinball machines here."

"I loved the variety of fun games, both new and old."

"Planning a party here is super easy with the friendly staff."

Good to know

1

Unlimited play costs $16 for the entire day.

2

Private events can be hosted with food and drinks allowed.

3

The arcade is suitable for all ages, making it family-friendly.

02
Atomic Pinball Arcade image 1

Bright space packed with 150+ pinball machines and classic arcade games offers a lively, nostalgic vibe. Well-maintained machines like Whirlwind and Godzilla ensure fresh gameplay. Food and drinks allowed with storage adds to the casual, welcoming feel.

More than 150 arcade games fill a bright, clean space with a huge pinball selection including classics like Whirlwind and new machines like Godzilla and Iron Maiden. All machines are well maintained, making gameplay feel fresh and authentic.

People are saying

"I had so much fun, and the prices were a great deal."

"I thought these arcades were the best I had ever been to."

"The bathrooms here are super clean."

Good to know

1

The arcade is open until 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

Admission is $20 for four hours of unlimited play.

3

You can bring your own food and drinks, including alcohol for those over 21.

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Headless Horseman Arcade image 1

Spacious arcade offers classic retro games with smooth play on original tube TVs. Unlimited play for $20 creates a nostalgic energy without loud noise. Large party room provides a versatile space for gatherings beyond gaming.

A $20 all-day unlimited play fee grants access to a wide variety of retro arcade games including rare machines like Initial D 8. Every game runs on original tube TVs and restored parts, keeping the experience authentic and the machines well maintained.

People are saying

"The flat rate for all-day retro play felt totally worth it."

"The owner is super cool and friendly, always happy to chat."

"I found the arcades here felt like stepping back in time."

Good to know

1

A $20 all-day pass allows unlimited access to all arcade games.

2

The arcade has a large selection of classic games in great condition.

3

Parking is easy with a large lot available for visitors.

04
Yetee Station Arcade image 1

Retro arcade offers unlimited gameplay for $15 with classic and rare Japanese games. Vibrant murals and lighting create a nostalgic, colorful vibe. Well-maintained pinball and rhythm machines add to the lively, slightly cramped space.

Unlimited gameplay comes with a single $15 fee, covering about 50 freestanding arcade games. The selection includes classic fighting games, a strong lineup of well-maintained pinball machines, and vintage titles like Galaga and Ms. Pacman.

People are saying

"You can play all day at the arcades for just $15."

"It's got a great variety of classic and retro arcade games."

"I loved the awesome selection of retro arcade games here."

Good to know

1

The admission fee is $15 per person, allowing all-day access with re-entry.

2

All games are on free play once you pay the admission fee.

3

You can leave to get lunch and re-enter the same day with your receipt.

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The Game Show image 1
Video arcade

Arcade space shines with pinball and vintage classics for nonstop fun. Family-friendly tables invite meals and drinks, making it perfect for gatherings. Lively energy fuels group parties with unique themes, blending play and social time seamlessly.

Lots of pinball, racing games, and classic games fill the arcade. Air hockey and skee ball add variety to the vintage game selection.

People are saying

"The family game night was so much fun for everyone."

"It's a fun party with tons of free games to play."

"I found the family game night super fun."

Good to know

1

All games are free to play with paid admission.

2

Tables are set up with plastic tablecloths, plates, and silverware included.

3

Cold bottles of water and pop are provided for parties.

06
Galloping Ghost Arcade image 1

Nearly 1,000 arcade cabinets create a nostalgic atmosphere with packed rows and narrow aisles. Unlimited play offers access to rare games like Beavis and Butt-head. Crowds bring an energetic vibe that feels like early arcade days.

Unlimited play on a vast collection of unique arcade cabinets and pinball machines comes with a single daily fee. The arcade hosts rare games like the Beavis and Butt-head machine, which cannot be found elsewhere.

People are saying

"It's like a basement full of old-school arcade games from the 80s and 90s."

"It's a blast here and totally Kid Friendly for everyone."

"I paid $25 for unlimited play, and it was money well spent."

Good to know

1

Admission is $25 per person for unlimited play on all arcade games.

2

You can play all day with a single admission fee.

3

Keep your receipt to re-enter after leaving for food.

07
Chicago Billiard Cafe (and pinball lounge) image 1

Pool hall features well-maintained pool tables and a strong lineup of pinball machines including Stern models. Music sets a laid-back punk rock vibe while an upstairs art gallery adds cultural flair. Bar area keeps the energy lively and welcoming.

A solid collection of pinball machines includes newer Stern models and well-maintained classics. The spot also offers great pool tables alongside a lively bar area.

People are saying

"The pinball machines here are great and always in tip-top shape."

"The staff here are super friendly and attentive."

"The bar is open and they've made fantastic improvements."

Good to know

1

The venue's BYOD feature allows you to bring your own drinks.

2

There is plenty of street parking available nearby.

3

The drinks and food are reasonably priced and tasty.

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Panic Escape Room Games image 1
Escape room center

Escape room center features immersive themed rooms with challenging puzzles and creative layouts. Arcade offers classic games for all ages, blending fun and nostalgia in a lively setting.

Classic games fill the Arcade room, offering a blast from the past experience. The setup suits all ages and includes a cool arcade set that adds to the fun.

People are saying

"The escape room experience was so much fun and challenging."

"The game masters here are so engaging and helpful during Escape Rooms."

"The arcade room was so much fun and a blast from the past."

Good to know

1

The escape room features multiple themed rooms, including 'Lost Arcade' and 'Arkham Asylum'.

2

Reservations are recommended to secure your preferred time slot.

3

Expect a mix of puzzles that cater to different skill levels.

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Elston Electric image 1
Video arcade

Multi-use space in a restored Salt Shed offers classic arcade games and a sunken bar with loud music for an energetic vibe. Spacious layout with outdoor seating and shops makes it perfect for groups and families. Great spot for pinball lovers and live shows.

A restored Salt Shed building houses a multi-use space with a bar, music venue, and an arcade featuring a well-maintained redemption arcade and a great selection of pinball and video machines like Gauntlet Legends.

People are saying

"It's a cool bar to take a break from the game room."

"I found the arcade had a great selection of new and old games."

"It's so kid friendly, the games kept my son excited."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but check social media for event closures.

2

A single game of pinball costs 5 credits, which can be loaded onto a reusable card.

3

The venue is popular for pre-gaming before concerts at the nearby Salt Shed.

10
The Great Escape Room Chicago image 1

Escape rooms blend immersive themes like colosseum and arcade settings with puzzles that fit the vibe. Arcade rooms bring a throwback vibe with games that challenge even experts. Players enjoy interactive clues and fun waiting areas with board games.

Arcade rooms offer a super fun, throwback vibe with challenging games that test even experienced players. The arcade theme keeps the experience lively and engaging throughout.

People are saying

"The escape rooms here are challenging and a lot of fun."

"The game masters here are so helpful with hints for the escape rooms."

"August and the staff made the Arcades extra good."

Good to know

1

Poker Night at the Presidents Bunker is a popular escape room experience.

2

They offer a $25 deal for an additional ticket after your first escape room.

3

Expect a fun atmosphere perfect for birthday celebrations and corporate events.

11
Ignite Arcade image 1
Video arcade

Two large rooms packed with retro classics and new arcade games create a lively, playful space. Walls show iconic artwork from games and movies, adding vibrant energy. Free ping pong and a themed cocktail lounge offer fun beyond gaming.

Gaming options include retro classics and the latest releases, appealing to all ages. The atmosphere feels vibrant and playful, with a strong pop culture vibe.

People are saying

"The staff here is so helpful and patient with party planning."

"The staff here is so nice and patient with kids."

"You can play tons of fun arcade games here."

Good to know

1

Ignite Arcade offers birthday party packages with unlimited game plays and pizza.

2

Free parking is available on the side of the building.

3

Group events can be hosted in themed rooms like Rock Band.

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Family Fun Zone image 1
Amusement center

Huge roller rink offers roller skating and lively arcade games with classic tokens. Dim lighting keeps sensory overload low while music suits all ages. Kids enjoy fun activities and families gather for events in this energetic space.

Arcade games award a decent amount of tickets and use classic physical Tokens and Tickets, which is rare now. The arcade includes games like T-rex slaying and complements roller skate and blade rentals.

People are saying

"I had a blast with these fun activities and made great family memories."

"The food here is good and affordable."

"The staff here is so helpful and enthusiastic at the Arcades."

Good to know

1

Family Fun Zone offers weekly and daily specials on prices and food.

2

Skate rentals are reasonably priced, making it affordable for families.

3

The rink is clean and feels safe for children to skate.

13
Joliet Town & Country Lanes image 1

Bright lanes create a family-friendly atmosphere with an old school vibe. An arcade full of games offers fun for kids and adults alike. Perfect for casual bowlers and serious players, it hosts children's parties and company events.

An arcade room full of games offers fun for kids and families. It includes prizes and supports children's parties and company events.

People are saying

"It's a fun place for all ages and experience levels."

"The staff here is super friendly and always ready to help with bowling."

"The staff here makes the Arcades feel like a hometown favorite."

Good to know

1

The bowling prices are affordable, making it perfect for a family outing.

2

Booking a party online is easy and stress-free.

3

The lanes are clean and well maintained.

14
Underground Retrocade image 1

Two floors offer a large collection of classic arcade games and eight pinball machines. Dim lighting and a retro jukebox create a vintage vibe enjoyed by families and enthusiasts. Unlimited play costs $20, making it a relaxed spot for nostalgic fun.

Unlimited play costs $20 per person for a large collection of original arcade games from the 80s and beyond. The arcade features at least eight pinball machines and rare working classics like the Carn-Evil shooting game from Midway.

People are saying

"It's got two floors packed with vintage arcades and classic games."

"This place is so Kid Friendly, the arcade games are a blast!"

"It's a good spot for a fun date night."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee is $20 for unlimited access to arcade games.

2

Pinball machines require separate tokens and are not included in the admission fee.

3

You can come and go freely with a wristband after paying the entrance fee.

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Gurnee Mills Mall image 1
Shopping mall

Z-shaped layout creates a spacious mall with diverse stores and family fun. Huge arcade offers wide game variety and fits well with ice rink and escape room. Seating and massage chairs provide rest spots amid lively, energetic days and quiet evenings.

A huge arcade offers a wide range of games with reasonable prices and some that are pricier but considered worth it. It fits well with other family activities like the ice rink and escape room, making it a solid spot for group fun.

People are saying

"This mall is huge and has a wide variety of stores."

"I found tons of amazing food choices here."

"I saw the mall has a huge arcade."

Good to know

1

Gurnee Mills Mall has a wide variety of stores catering to different age groups.

2

The mall is known for its cleanliness and well-maintained facilities.

3

Unique food spots are available throughout Gurnee Mills Mall.

16
Lazer X Laser Tag image 1
Laser tag center

Two-level arena offers light, accurate gear for laser tag and a small arcade with reasonably priced games. Staff stays attentive and helpful. Venue is clean and family-friendly, perfect for parties and groups.

Laser tag gear feels lighter and more accurate than other places. The arcade offers reasonably priced games with points that last. Staff stays attentive and helpful throughout the experience.

People are saying

"The staff really made our party feel special and ran everything smoothly."

"The laser tag here is a blast with awesome gear and a well-designed arena."

"The pizza here is fantastic for parties."

Good to know

1

The laser tag costs $8 per person for a 20-minute game.

2

Private events are available and worth the price for the experience.

3

The package includes two laser tag games and arcade credits for $25.

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GAME OVER image 1
Bar & grill

Three-level venue blends 90s arcade vibe with modern neon decor and over 100 free games. Creative cocktails and frozen slushies fuel the lively atmosphere. Perfect for groups and families seeking fun and celebration.

The arcade offers a huge variety of games with almost all machines working, including modern games and pinball tables. It has a clean, 90s vibe and enough games to keep anyone busy for hours.

People are saying

"This place is so fun for kids, they'll want to come back."

"I thought the food here was great."

"It's cool with tons of old and new arcade games."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, they offer a 16-inch thin crust pizza with one topping for $5.

2

All games are currently free to play.

3

They accommodate private parties and events.

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