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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Chicago

Arcades

The hum of machines and the glow of screens offer a way to lose track of time for a few hours.

Based on 419 Opinions
+416
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Updated April 2026
01
Chicago Billiard Cafe (and pinball lounge) image 1
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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.

02
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.

03
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.

04
Infunite Claw Machine Entertainment image 1

Bright space with colorful lights creates a fun, family-friendly vibe. Modern arcade features wheelchair accessible ramp and clean layout. Claw machines offer a wide variety of figurines and keychains as prizes.

A modern and clean arcade packed with claw machines offering a great selection of prizes like figurines, keychains, and magnets. The space is smaller than expected but has a wheelchair accessible ramp leading to the entrance.

People are saying

"I won so many prizes playing these fun claw machine activities!"

"This place is so kid friendly; my kids won prizes and had a blast!"

"The claw machine arcades have tons of plush prizes."

Good to know

1

The arcade is family-friendly and suitable for all ages.

2

They don’t accept American Express cards for tokens.

3

The pricing for plushies is reasonable, with some items costing as low as $2.

05
Emporium Arcade Bar image 1

Large bar with classic arcade games and pinball machines offers a lively yet chill vibe. Picnic-style tables and cute lighting create a cozy space. Good music and a decent dance floor keep energy up while guests enjoy billiards and skee ball.

A two-story arcade offers about 20 arcade games and 10 pinball machines, all in great working order. Games include billiards, arcade basketball, skee ball, foosball, and a Photo Booth, creating a fun and interactive atmosphere.

People are saying

"It's a fun spot to hang out with friends and play some arcades."

"They have a great selection of craft beers."

"It's a cool spot with a great, lively atmosphere."

Good to know

1

You can bring your own food because they do not serve food.

2

Getting in is free, unless attending the Rage party, which costs $10.

3

Everyone is carded at the door, so have your ID ready.

06
Kings Dining & Entertainment image 1

Large space blends bowling lanes with arcade games and private rooms. Atmosphere is laid-back and fun, perfect for families and groups. Renovations add a fresh vibe, making it lively yet comfortable for all ages.

Arcade games offer a fun mix alongside bowling and pool tables. Facilities suit all ages, making it a lively spot for multi-generational groups.

People are saying

"It's a fun spot for a casual night out with great bowling."

"It's a fantastic place for a kid-friendly birthday party."

"The staff here make the Arcades experience so special and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers a buy 1 get 2 deal for bowling.

2

The King Pin private event room accommodates up to 30 people.

3

Parking validation is available but does not cover the full amount.

07
Claw it image 1
Recreation center

Bright space with colorful claw machines offers a lively arcade experience. Clean layout includes photo backdrops and a rest area with baskets for prizes. Free parking and fair gameplay make it great for families and friends.

Variety of games offers a diverse arcade experience. The atmosphere feels super fun and engaging.

People are saying

"It's so fun winning prizes here with friends and family."

"The owners are so friendly and give everyone a toy."

"The arcade staff are so kind and helpful with the games."

Good to know

1

Each game costs 2-6 tokens, which can add up quickly.

2

The store offers free parking, making it easy to visit.

3

The prizes are cute and of high quality.

08
ClimbZone Chicago image 1
Amusement center

Indoor amusement center features creative climbing walls and laser tag for active fun. Arcade offers a decent variety of games that kids enjoy. Spacious layout keeps atmosphere clean and calm, perfect for families seeking varied play options.

Arcade games offer a decent variety alongside laser tag and bumper cars. Kids find the arcade engaging and fun.

People are saying

"It's a great place for kids to run around and have fun."

"This place is a blast for parties, especially the laser tag."

"The arcades here are a blast for kids of all ages."

Good to know

1

The admission includes access to all the attractions.

2

Birthday party packages are available but can be expensive.

3

Kids can enjoy school day off camps during breaks.

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