Playing games at the arcade is a quintessential part of being a kid – no matter where you grew up. In the Hudson Valley, arcades remain alive and well, and the fun even extends into adulthood with unique destinations that cater to older crowds with vintage games and cocktails. From winning prizes to playing video games to reminiscing about childhood, these Hudson Valley arcades are fun for locals of all ages.
Apex Entertainment
Albany
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“Escape from the ordinary” at Albany’s Apex Entertainment. With bumper cars, bowling, escape rooms, laser tag, pool tables, sports simulators, and, of course, an arcade, the Capital Region destination is perfect for family game night or private parties and corporate events.
The Castle Fun Center
Chester
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This Orange County fun center pretty much has it all, from indoor activities to outdoor fun depending on the season. For the ultimate arcade experience, head inside to play classic games like high-speed car chases, virtual reality, Skee ball, claw machines, basketball, and much more. Once you’re done at the arcade, you might want to try axe throwing, rock climbing, laser tag, roller skating, and roller coasters, or head to the onsite restaurant for a meal and some drinks.
Franklin Alley Social Club
Troy
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Geared towards an older (i.e. adult) demographic, Franklin Alley Social Club is your new favorite spot to drink, eat, sing, and play. The Troy hotspot has shuffleboard, Bocce, board games, and a stocked arcade that features games like Ms. Pacman, Dig Dug, Galaga, and other classics at just $0.25 per play.
Happy Valley Arcade Bar
Beacon
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Another must-visit arcade bar in the Hudson Valley, Happy Valley has a seriously stacked collection of vintage arcade games. Play Asteroids, Donkey Kong, Frogger, Mortal Kombat II, Space Invaders, and pretty much anything else you can think of as you sip on local draft beers and themed cocktails like Sex on the Koopa Troopa Beach and Rummy in My Tummy.
K1 Speed
Mount Kisco
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With two locations in the Hudson Valley, K1 Speed’s Mount Kisco destination has an arcade in addition to its usual go-kart racing. After hitting the race track, head to bowling, the Ninja Course, or the arcade that features over 100 of the industry’s top games in a 6,000-square-foot space.
Round1 USA
Middletown
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A bowling and arcade destination in Middletown, Round1 USA is perfect for parties, weekend fun, or pretty much any other occasion. The fun center includes karaoke, billiards, a kids’ play zone, bowling, trampolines, ping pong, and an arcade with cool prizes – not to mention the bar and restaurant for refueling.
The Vinyl Room
Beacon
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Unlike any other arcade in the Hudson Valley, The Vinyl Room is a combination record shop/restaurant/arcade. Stop in to browse over 2,500 records ranging from jazz to rap, grab a cocktail, and hop on the joysticks in the arcade where nine vintage machines await at a quarter per play.
Wood’n Wheel Family Fun Center
Ulster Park
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Ulster County’s ultimate family fun hotspot, Wood’n Wheel has been letting the good times roll (literally at the roller rink) for 50 years. Roller skate, take the bumper cars for a spin, play laser tag, and win as many games as you can in the arcade to redeem prizes and merchandise.
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