5 Best Arcades in Vancouver

We all know that after a long day, playing our favorite games can be the perfect way to unwind. Sure, booting up a PC or console is fun, but there’s something uniquely awesome about arcade games.

We’ve spent considerable time exploring Vancouver’s local arcades, and we’re excited to share our top picks with you!

Criteria for the Best Arcades

For us gamers, variety and quality are key when it comes to arcades. We also look for clean, immersive environments. Here’s how we evaluated these arcades:

• Game Selection: A variety of classic arcade games, modern video games, pinball machines, and unique titles.
• Machine Maintenance: Overall condition of the arcade machines.
• Facilities: Cleanliness and atmosphere, including lighting, music, and decor.
• Customer Service: Friendliness of staff and the presence of loyalty programs.

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1. The Adventure Zone

Website: theadventurezone.ca
Address: 1496 Cartwright St #230, Vancouver, BC V6H 3Y5, Canada
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10am to 6pm

Ratings

• Game Selection: ★★★★★
• Machine Maintenance: ★★★★☆
• Facilities: ★★★★★
• Cleanliness: ★★★★★
• Atmosphere: ★★★★★
• Customer Service: ★★★★☆
• Staff Friendliness: ★★★★★
• Loyalty Programs: ★★★★☆

A vibrant, multi-level playground straight out of a Dr. Seuss book. The Adventure Zone offers a variety of arcade games like Whack a Frog, Air Hockey, and Giant Fishing Game, along with classic 90s titles. The machines are well-maintained, and the space is open and welcoming.

Pros: Arcade games for all ages, lively atmosphere

Cons: No loyalty program

Customer Reviews: “It’s a very fun place with arcades for all ages and it is really clean at the same time with really kind customers like me.” – Nami G.

“Absolutely is a great place for kids while traveling on Granville Island! So much fun for the games, especially the adventure zone.” – Jasmine C.

2. The Den – Arcade + Drinkery

Website: thedenvancouver.com
Address: 1348 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6E 1C5, Canada
Operating Hours: Monday to Thursday: 4pm to 1am, Friday and Saturday: 4pm to 2am, Sunday: 4pm to 11pm

Ratings

• Game Selection: ★★★★☆
• Machine Maintenance: ★★★★★
• Facilities: ★★★★★
• Cleanliness: ★★★★★
• Atmosphere: ★★★★★
• Customer Service: ★★★★☆
• Staff Friendliness: ★★★★★
• Loyalty Programs: ★★★★☆

The Den offers a nostalgic 80s experience with jukebox music, pinball machines, and themed cocktails. Retro gaming systems like Sega, PS2, and Nintendo 64 are available, making it a great spot for those who love vintage games.

Pros: Retro gaming systems available, no corkage fee for outside food

Cons: Ages 18+ only

Customer Reviews: “It’s exactly how it describes itself on their website. Atmosphere is chill. Small but comforting game bar.” – Kris M.
“Nice little place to go have a drink and also play pinball. There are many different yet old-school cool arcade games there to enjoy.” – Jay N.

3. High Score

Address: 307 W Hastings St 2nd Floor, Vancouver, BC V6B 1H6, Canada
Operating Hours: Wednesday to Sunday: 5pm to 12am

Ratings

• Game Selection: ★★★★★
• Machine Maintenance: ★★★★★
• Facilities: ★★★★☆
• Cleanliness: ★★★★☆
• Atmosphere: ★★★★★
• Customer Service: ★★★★☆
• Staff Friendliness: ★★★★☆
• Loyalty Programs: ★★★★★

A retro haven on Hastings Street filled with pinball games, vintage consoles, and even classic candies. High Score provides a nostalgic getaway with a friendly, basement hangout vibe.

Pros: Wide selection of vintage consoles and games, has a dab bar inside

Cons: Could improve indoor ventilation

Customer Reviews: “Friendly chill atmosphere with classic games & a cute sense of humour about their piano. We had a great time hanging out!” – Alli B.
“I go almost every second day every staff is helpful. Everyone that works there at this point I look at like a friend. It’s like being at a friend’s basement playing games.” – Daniel D.

4. Glitch Retro Arcade Bar

Website: glitchvancouver.com
Address: 2287 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC V6K 2E4, Canada
Operating Hours: Monday to Thursday: 4pm to 1am, Friday and Saturday: 4pm to 2am, Sunday: 4pm to 12am

Ratings

• Game Selection: ★★★★★
• Machine Maintenance: ★★★★☆
• Facilities: ★★★★★
• Cleanliness: ★★★★★
• Atmosphere: ★★★★★
• Customer Service: ★★★★☆
• Staff Friendliness: ★★★★★
• Loyalty Programs: ★★★★☆

A fun spot for playing arcade games and enjoying creative comfort foods like 8-bit wings and smash burgers. The Glitch Retro Arcade Bar offers a cool, retro throwback ambiance with plenty of consoles and arcade machines.

Pros: Wide selection of arcade machines and gaming consoles, serves classic comfort foods

Cons: Some complaints about food quality

Customer Reviews:“Had a wonderful experience here playing arcade games and the drinks were fantastic.” – Ronnie H.
“Fun times and a really cool retro throwback ambiance. Fun games and a nice place to host an informal social or hang out with friends.” – Kyna N.

5. Vancouver Street Battle

Address: 4211 No. 3 Rd, Richmond, BC V6X 2C3, Canada
Operating Hours: Saturday: 1pm to 11pm, Sunday: 12pm to 7pm

Ratings

• Game Selection: ★★★★☆
• Machine Maintenance: ★★★★★
• Facilities: ★★★★☆
• Cleanliness: ★★★★★
• Atmosphere: ★★★★☆
• Customer Service: ★★★★★
• Staff Friendliness: ★★★★★
• Loyalty Programs: ★★★★★

Vancouver Street Battle is known for its weekly tournaments for arcade fighting games like Street Fighter and Super Smash Bros. The close-knit, competitive atmosphere creates an electric vibe that’s perfect for avid gamers.

Pros: Holds arcade tournaments, plenty of gaming setups

Cons: Only holds tournaments weekly

Customer Reviews: “People are incredibly nice, the venue is super cool and for a VR arcade which VSB shares the venue, I’d say the rate is reasonable for a party.” – Iam S.
“Great community, friendly staff, and lots of setups for games. I used to frequently come to tournaments here and they have been fun!” – Koli