Guide to the Best Arcades in Texas
When waving a fan at your face just won’t cut it, cool off — and level up — at the coolest arcades and gaming centers across Texas. Each offers icy AC, plenty of button-smashing fun, and enough snacks to defeat the fiercest of hunger pangs.
LVL UP FUN, Texas City
Clocking in at 160,000 square feet, LVL UP FUN (formerly known as Tex Fun and Social) is the largest arcade and entertainment complex in the area. In addition to classic games, the spot offers go-karts, laser tag, and a full-service restaurant.
Cidercade, Multiple Locations
Cidercade operates five locations, but the 25,000-square-foot Arlington spot is the biggest. Gamers will delight in approximately 300 retro and modern arcade games.
Immersive Gamebox, Multiple Locations
Gamers are welcome to immerse themselves in themed adventures that use gamers’ own movements to bring the walls of their Gamebox to life. Experiences include Squid Game, Batman, and Paw Patrol at each of the six Texas locations.
Klaw Time, San Antonio
Remember those claw machines you relentlessly allowed to eat your allowance? Klaw Time understands your fixation, stocking 25 over-the-top claw machines brimming with plushies and prizes. They even allow prize trade-ins and upgrades.
Black Dog Retro Arcade, Arlington
Retro game enthusiasts can relive their childhoods by pounding on the consoles of Ms. Pac-Man, Cuphead, Donkey Kong, Golden Tee, Street Fighter II, and so many more. Wings and pizza are available for fuel, and $10 gets you all-day play — no quarters required.
Malibu Jack’s, North Richland Hills
This family favorite, which is opening in Texas this summer, will be the state’s largest indoor theme park. At 137,000 square feet, the location will harbor a newly constructed, state-of-the-art arcade alongside coasters, go-karts, and laser tag — all indoors.
EVO Entertainment, Southlake
One of the area’s newest entertainment hubs, EVO houses a stellar arcade where games are half price on Wednesdays. In between warping levels, there’s bowling, a ropes course, and movie theaters for more fun.
Arcade UFO, Austin
Austin’s top-tier, Japanese-style game center specializes in imported music and fighting games from Japan and Korea. A hot spot for competitive gaming, the arcade features both buzzworthy and retro titles like Pump It Up XX, Tekken Tag Tournament, and Street Fighter III.
Free Play Arcade, Multiple Locations
At Free Play Arcade, players will find wall-to-wall games — all in peak running condition — available for unlimited play with the price of admission. Can’t beat that. Throw in primo sips and bites to keep the energy reserves filled, and it’s game over … or rather, game on!
Pinballz, Austin & Buda
A massive shrine to the game of pinball, Pinballz has three locations — two in Austin, one in Buda — blending retro gaming with modern attractions (think: virtual reality, laser tag, and bumper cars).
Enjoy some sunshine this summer while staying cool with these water games for all ages.
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