New York City is not known for its arcades but there is lots to do here. From retro arcade machines to new and virtual reality machines and from bumper carts and laser tag to mini golf and more! 

Table of contents

• Retro arcades
• Virtual reality arcades
• Bumper cars
• Laser tag
• Child friendly arcades
• Arcade bars
• Best arcades
• Fun arcades

Retro arcades

Whether you want to play Donkey Kong or Galaga you can find a machine in New York City if you look. It’s more common to find a bar or restaurant with a few arcade machines than you’ll find large retro arcades. They do exist in New York City but they’re less frequent.

Virtual reality arcades

The future of video games is here and NYC has lots of virtual reality arcades. They might not feel like your traditional arcades. They are usually more modern and polished. What you’ll find the same though is the fun. Virtual reality allows you to feel more immersed in the content of the game. You wear a virtual reality head set and this tricks your brain into thinking you’re really in the game yourself.

Bumper cars

Yes there are still bumpers cars in New York City. While most New Yorkers don’t drive a car you can feel the exhilaration of chasing down a rival and smashing your bumper car into them.

Child friendly arcades

You’ll find lots of child friendly options in New York City when it comes to video games. There are some locations that even have climbing walls and ball pits.

Arcade bars

When you want to leave the kids at home, grab a beer and play video games, NYC has you covered. If you’re looking for a beer and your fill of retro games check out Two Bit’s Retro Arcade in the Lower East Side of Manhattan. Barcade is another option and has multiple locations in Chelsea, the East Village and in Brooklyn.

Best arcades

In terms of classic arcades with tons of games NYC does not have many. If you want to play classic and retro arcade games (including things like skee ball, basketball shooting games, etc.) check out the China Town Family Fun Center. For more modern games and amenities you can check out Dave and Busters in Times Square, Chelsea Piers and Funtopia USA in Queens.

Fun arcades

If you’re will to travel you can find any retro or modern gaming entertainment in New York City. From bumper cars and laser tag to retro games and virtual reality NYC is represented.