Best Arcade and Game Bars in Minneapolis–St. Paul: Where to Play in 2025
Whether it is the Minnesota cold that drives you indoors or the urge to feel like a kid again, the Twin Cities offers bars where you can eat, drink, and get your game on. Rain or shine, these spots promise hours of competitive fun through pinball, skee-ball, bocce, and bowling.
The Twin Cities has stellar bars where you can sip craft brews, snack well, and challenge your crew to everything from skee-ball to pinball. Here are a few favorites.
Can Can Wonderland
This art-filled bar and mini golf course off University Avenue in St. Paul is a go-to for groups.
Sip local beer from Urban Growler, Dangerous Man, Elm Creek Brewing, and more as you putt through 18 imaginative, artist-designed holes like Grandma’s Living Room, Music Mountain, and Tundra Twister.
Beyond golf, retro pinball machines and themed cocktails keep the fun rolling.
Do not miss the Instagram-famous donut boat: cotton candy over mini donuts with sprinkles. Family-friendly by day; 21+ most evenings. Check hours.
Up-Down Minneapolis
With 60+ beers on tap and a wall of 80s and 90s arcade hits like Donkey Kong, Ms. Pac-Man, Space Invaders, and TMNT, Up-Down is arcade heaven.
Most games run at 25 cents, and slices are budget-friendly. Watch for weekday token specials. Expect a lively crowd, especially on weekends. Challenge friends to Skee-Ball, Duck Hunt, or multiplayer Mario Kart.
Punch Bowl Social
In the West End of St. Louis Park, this big, buzzy spot bundles bowling, karaoke rooms, table games, and an arcade with a full bar and kitchen. Order shareable punch bowls and playful takes on bar food. Reserve lanes or a room for weekends and birthdays.
The Fair on 4
At Mall of America, race multi-level electric go-karts, try axe throwing, and fuel up with hearty snacks and cocktails. Book kart times ahead on weekends. Ask about height, age, and 21+ hours before you go.
LITT Pinball Bar
Over two dozen rotating machines range from The Addams Family and Attack From Mars to Batman 66 and Elvira. Great for quick games or league nights. Grab a smash burger, Cubano, or a loaded dog, and pair it with a local beer or a playful cocktail like the Slap Save.
Pat’s Tap
Ten skee-ball lanes, local beer, and comfort food favorites. Order the mac and cheese, a rice bowl, or weekend brunch if available. Leagues and specials change; check the calendar before you roll.
The Twin Cities’ lineup of gaming bars proves you are never too old for a bit of friendly competition. Round up your crew and play the night away.
