Looking for the best arcades in Dallas for your next family outing?
Whether you’ve got toddlers, teens, or a mix of both, Dallas is full of spots where kids can burn energy, and you can relax knowing they’re having fun. From classic arcade cabinets to high-tech racing simulators, these venues offer games for every age and interest.
Keep reading for a guide to the best arcades in Dallas that your kids will want to visit again and again.
Celebration Station
Celebration Station in Mesquite is a family favorite for a reason. The arcade has a mix of old-school favorites like Skee-Ball and pinball, plus plenty of newer games that use touch screens and motion sensors.
This location is ideal if you have kids of different ages. Little ones can enjoy the kiddie rides while older kids go straight for the racing games or ticket redemption machines. Everything is under one roof and clean, which makes it easier to supervise multiple children.
Beyond the arcade, there’s also mini golf, go-karts, batting cages, and bumper boats. It’s easy to spend the entire afternoon here. Food options are also kid-friendly, with pizza, burgers, and plenty of snacks.
Celebration Station often runs specials for school holidays or group rates, so check their calendar before you go. It’s one of the best arcades in Dallas if you’re looking for all-day family fun!
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Freeplay Arcade
Freeplay Arcade is a great option if you have older kids or teens who appreciate retro games from the ’80s and ’90s.
This spot is all about nostalgia, with more than 100 authentic arcade cabinets and pinball machines all set to free play. From Galaga and Donkey Kong to Mortal Kombat and Street Fighter, this is where your kids can experience the games you probably grew up with.
They have locations in Arlington, Dallas, Denton, Richardson, and Ft. Worth. These arcades charge a flat entry fee, and every game inside is set to free play. That means no tokens, no reloadable cards, and no constant asks for more money.
The vibe is a little more grown-up in the evenings, so daytime visits are best for families. Teens especially enjoy the freedom to roam between games. For retro-loving kids or parents, Freeplay Arcade easily stands out as one of the best arcades in Dallas for authentic, throwback fun.
They also host themed nights and tournaments.
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Nickelrama
Nickelrama is a hidden gem for families looking to stretch their budgets without cutting back on fun.
With two locations in Garland, this arcade runs on real nickels instead of dollar-loaded game cards. That makes it easy to monitor spending while still giving your kids plenty of chances to play.
There is, however, a small admission fee of $5.95. Children under 3 are free. Most games cost between one and four nickels. Families are encouraged to bring their own snacks and drinks, which is rare for arcades.
Machines range from classics like Deal or No Deal and claw games to newer driving simulators and ticket redemption favorites.
The staff keeps the space clean and the machines in good working order, which parents will appreciate. Kids love racking up tickets to trade for prizes, and the prize counters here are well-stocked with items for all ages.
Nickelrama consistently ranks among the best arcades in Dallas for affordability and family-friendly fun.
Activate Games
Activate Games in Plano, located in North Dallas, offers a completely different kind of arcade experience.
Instead of traditional cabinets and tokens, this venue features high-tech, interactive game rooms that blend physical activity with digital challenges. Think of it as a real-life video game where your family becomes the players.
Each room has different missions that test speed, memory, coordination, and teamwork. It’s ideal for older kids, tweens, and teens who want more action than button-mashing. You book by the hour, and one wristband gives access to all game rooms.
Sessions are structured but flexible, so your family can pick games based on interests and energy level!
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Nickel Mania
Nickel Mania is another top pick for budget-conscious families in the Dallas area. It’s been family-owned and operated since 1996. Located in Carrollton, this arcade charges a small entry fee ($4.49) and uses actual nickels to play games, just like Nickelrama.
That makes it easy to keep track of spending while still giving kids a wide range of games to explore. The arcade features everything from classic video games to ticket redemption machines, driving games, and air hockey.
Most games cost just a few nickels, so your kids can play for hours without burning through cash. The atmosphere is clean and well-lit, and there are plenty of options for younger children as well as older ones.
Staff are friendly and helpful if machines need attention or you need prize help.
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Main Event
When you want more than just an arcade, Main Event is a go-to destination. With locations throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area, it combines arcade games with bowling, laser tag, gravity ropes, and even virtual reality.
The arcade section is packed with over 100 games, including racing simulators, multiplayer shooting games, claw machines, and ticket redemption favorites.
Everything runs on a reloadable card, making it easy for kids to manage their own playtime.
Food options are also family-friendly, with a full menu that includes burgers, pizza, and shareable appetizers. If you’re planning a party or need a spot for a school break outing, Main Event often has package deals that include food, game credits, and activities. With so much to offer in one location, Main Event easily ranks among the best arcades in Dallas for all-ages entertainment.
Andretti Indoor Karting & Games
Andretti Indoor Karting & Games in The Colony and Fort Worth is a full-scale entertainment center that’s perfect for kids of all ages. While it’s known for high-speed go-kart racing, the arcade alone makes it worth the trip.
The space is packed with cutting-edge games, including VR experiences, interactive simulators, and plenty of ticket redemption machines. It’s a clean, modern setup with wide walkways and clear visibility, which makes supervising multiple kids easier.
Game credits are loaded onto a card, and balance tracking is simple, even for younger children. Parents will also find lounge areas, full-service dining, and even a coffee shop on-site.
Bishop Cidercade
Bishop Cidercade in Dallas’ Design District blends two things parents and kids can both appreciate: fun arcade games and a relaxed atmosphere.
The name “Cidercade” comes from its roots as a cider taproom run by Bishop Cider Co., where arcade games were added to liven up the space. They became such a hit that the venue expanded into a full-scale arcade.
For a flat $12 admission, you get unlimited play on nearly 200 games, including Skee-Ball, pinball, driving games, rhythm games, and more. Everything is set to free play, so no coins or swipe cards needed.
Kids under 5 get in free, and those under 16 must be with a parent.
Food isn’t sold inside, but you can bring your own or grab something from nearby food trucks. While the venue serves hard cider and beer, there are also plenty of soft drinks. Bishop Cidercade is one of the best arcades in Dallas for value and variety.
Want to save even more on family fun in DFW? Check out the Pogo Pass and use our exclusive discount.
Where to Start Your Dallas Arcade Journey
With so many cool arcades in Dallas, which should you try first?
If your kids are into nonstop activity with fewer breaks between games, Main Event might be a better fit than quieter, retro-style arcades like Freeplay.
If your kids enjoy prize games and you prefer to set a spending cap, Nickelrama could be a better fit than arcades with swipe cards and open play.
If your kids want the freedom to bounce between different kinds of attractions beyond arcade games, Andretti might be a better fit than smaller, game-only spots like Nickel Mania.
If your kids like moving around and solving challenges as a team, Activate may be a better fit than traditional arcades focused on screens and buttons.