Every journey is more fun when you're together. Grab your friends and hit the road in style in the Chevy Trax.
Photo courtesy of Barcade
Arcades across Metro Detroit prove that play is not just for kids. From retro pinball to prize-packed claw machines, these spots range from nostalgic throwbacks to multi-level entertainment complexes. Whether you are planning a casual night out or a weekend adventure, there is no shortage of places to press start.
Barcade
666 Selden Street, Detroit
Barcade pairs a classic arcade lineup with a full bar and kitchen in Midtown. CEO and Co-Founder Paul Kermizian shares, “Barcade is a combination bar and arcade that started in Brooklyn, NY, in 2004. We now have 9 bars in the U.S., including our location in Midtown Detroit, which opened in 2021.” The space features more than 70 vintage arcade games and 16 pinball machines, along with weekly leagues and tournaments for those who take their flipper skills seriously. It operates as a 21+ venue, with a family-friendly day on Sundays from noon to 5 pm. On the menu, you’ll find a range of cocktails, beer, and more, along with shareable plates, handhelds like Birria Grilled Cheese, and Fat Sandwiches.
Best in Games
4095 Carpenter Road, Ypsilanti
Best in Games has multiple locations in Metro Detroit, but its Ypsilanti spot turns a typical arcade visit into a multi-floor experience. On the first floor, beyond rows of arcade games, guests can explore attractions like laser tag, bumper cars, immersive simulators, a drop tower, and courses like the Ninja Warrior and Adventure option. On the second floor, you’ll find pool, mini golf, bowling, and 16 classic arcade games, including pinball and driving games. Going up another level, your group can pick from cornhole, axe and ninja star throwing, karting, curling, and even plate throwing. Each level introduces a different mix of interactive challenges, blending classic gameplay with large-scale entertainment. It’s great for groups who want options all under one roof. On Friday and Saturday evenings, the upper levels turn into an 18+ zone after 6 pm, which makes for great date nights and friendly outings.
Detroit Klaws
758 West Big Beaver Road, Troy
Detroit Klaws brings a modern twist to the claw machine concept. Co-Founder and General Manager Koothy Pian shares, “Detroit Klaws is Metro Detroit’s newest arcade obsession. We are family-owned and proudly rooted right here in Troy.” With more than 30 thoughtfully selected machines, the focus is on fun that feels celebratory and accessible for all ages. The experience centers on playful energy and making sure guests leave with a prize in hand. The wall-to-wall machines range from traditional claw techniques to kinetic stepping machines to provide a variety of fun. Prizes range from plushies to collectables, blind boxes, and giant toys. With an upgrade wall, you can exchange your prizes for something even more exciting.
Gotta Gacha
29200 Dequidre Road, Warren
Gotta Gacha functions as both an arcade and a community hub, welcoming gamers, collectors, and hobbyists. The venue features competitive PC stations, an eSports arena, console lounges, rhythm and racing machines, air hockey, claw machines, and more, alongside areas for tabletop games and trading card meetups. A snack and collectibles market and an in-house café and bar add to the social atmosphere. If you’re a collector, there are community boxes available to show off and sell your items. Gotta Gacha is built to be a third space where guests and gamers can play, trade, and connect.
High Score Ice Cream & Arcade
5020 Rochester Road, Troy
High Score Ice Cream & Arcade mixes sweet treats with retro fun. Guests can order from over 60 flavors of hard-scooped ice cream, creative milkshakes, iced teas, and snackable favorites before heading to a floor filled with pinball machines, claw games, and vintage options. The upbeat setting makes it easy to move between snacking and gameplay. Great for an after-school stop or a weekend afternoon, this family-friendly spot is a treat for all ages. It is a playful stop that blends nostalgia with indulgence.
Offworld Arcade
1420 East Fisher Freeway, Detroit
Offworld Arcade is a pinball gallery in Eastern Market, with entry routed through Tocororo before you step into the arcade space with over 20 options. The game list spans decades, mixing nostalgic favorites with newer releases, and the venue keeps the vibe flexible by welcoming all ages until 8 pm. There’s a full bar and food on-site, with many machines running on quarters, plus free street parking nearby. It is a great pick for anyone who wants a pinball-forward night out in one of Metro Detroit’s most energetic neighborhoods.
Metro Detroit’s arcades can offer more than a quick round of play, creating spaces where friends gather, families compete, and strangers connect over shared high scores. No matter your favorite style of game, there’s one waiting.
This article has been updated to include new information. The original article was published on December 28, 2016.
