Sip, Play, Repeat – Bars with Games You Need to Visit
Where to Find the Best Bar and Games Near Me
Looking for bar and games near me? Here's a quick list of what to look for:
- Arcade Bars - Venues like Barcade® with classic '80s games and craft beer
- Sports Simulators - Places like Topgolf with high-tech golf bays and full bars
- Game-Focused Social Houses - Venues offering bowling, axe throwing, and billiards
- Nostalgic Gaming Pubs - Establishments with pinball, shuffleboard, and darts
- High-Tech Entertainment Centers - Venues like Dave & Buster's with modern arcade games
The quest for the perfect night out combining drinks and entertainment has never been more exciting. Bar and games near me destinations have evolved far beyond the lonely pool table in the corner of your local pub. Today's gaming bars blend craft beverages with everything from retro arcade cabinets to high-tech golf simulators.
These "eat-ertainment" venues have exploded in popularity, creating spaces where friends can compete at shuffleboard while sipping local IPAs or challenge each other to zombie dodgeball after enjoying signature cocktails.
Whether you're planning a date night, team building event, or just looking to break your Pac-Man high score, there's likely a gaming bar within minutes of where you're sitting right now.
"We promise not to bite, unless you ask us nicely..." jokes one venue's website, capturing the playful spirit that makes these establishments so appealing. Many locations welcome all ages until evening hours, then transition to 21+ environments, making them versatile options for different occasions.
From token-operated classics to card-based modern systems, these venues offer various ways to play, compete, and socialize while enjoying food and drinks designed to complement the gaming experience.
Best "bar and games near me" Hotspots
Looking for the ultimate bar and games near me experience in Chicago? You're in luck! Our city offers some of the most exciting gaming-meets-drinking venues that'll turn an ordinary night into something legendary.
The arcade bar scene has absolutely exploded here, with numerous trailblazers leading the pack. Many arcade bars welcome you with 40-75 lovingly maintained classic games and pinball machines. Most of these treasures hail from the 1980s golden age of arcade gaming. What really sets these venues apart is their serious commitment to good drinks – expect around 25-30 rotating American craft beers on tap, including some exclusive brewery collaborations you won't find anywhere else.
If you're craving variety, many entertainment venues deliver entertainment overload under one roof. With over 75 arcade games plus axe throwing, bowling, darts, giant Jenga, shuffleboard, billiards, karaoke, and even Connect 4, these venues truly earn their "social house" title. Many even offer free cornhole – perfect for casual hangouts when you just want to chat and play something low-key with friends.
Many gaming venues represent fantastic options, with a family-friendly vibe until 9pm before changing into an 18+ hotspot for the night owls. These venues typically feature everything from cutting-edge sports simulators to axe throwing zones and arcades packed with both nostalgic classics and the latest gaming innovations – creating spaces where multiple generations can have a blast together.
What makes these spots so special isn't just the games or drinks alone – it's how they create dynamic, interactive environments. Rather than just serving beverages in a static setting, they build spaces where you can actively engage, compete with friends, and create memories while enjoying quality food and drink.
Many gaming bars have accepted technology to improve your experience, offering apps that track everything from tap lists to high scores and upcoming events. Some venues feature loyalty programs that reward frequent players, giving you extra incentive to return and level up your fun.
Why search "bar and games near me" matters
When you're craving entertainment in Chicago, searching specifically for "bar and games near me" makes all the difference in finding your perfect match. This geo-targeted approach helps you find venues within easy walking distance or a quick ride from wherever you happen to be – crucial when you're planning a spontaneous night out and don't want to travel far.
Local search intent becomes especially valuable in a city like Chicago, where each neighborhood has its own distinct personality. What you'll find in Uptown differs dramatically from what you might find elsewhere. By including "near me" in your search, you'll uncover hidden neighborhood gems you might otherwise miss completely.
Voice search has made location-based queries even more common. Many people simply ask their phones, "Where can I find a bar and games near me?" while strolling through their neighborhood or planning from their couch. This conversational approach to searching has transformed how venues optimize their online presence to appear in local results.
When using Google Maps to hunt for gaming bars, try these helpful tips:
- Sort results by rating to find fan favorites
- Check the "Popular times" feature to avoid crowds
- Read recent reviews to ensure games are well-maintained
- Browse photos of the actual game selection to confirm it matches your interests
- Verify operating hours and age policies, which often change throughout the day
Being specific with your search saves precious time and helps you find the perfect spot that aligns with both your gaming wishes and location needs.
Stand-out classics list
Every great arcade bar houses legendary cabinet games that defined gaming history. Here are the must-play classics you'll want to hunt down during your Chicago arcade trips:
- Pac-Man - The yellow dot-muncher that became a global phenomenon
- Galaga - The space shooter with those devious tractor beams that still challenges players today
- Ms. Pac-Man - Often considered superior to the original with improved mazes and smarter ghosts
- Donkey Kong - Where Mario (then called Jumpman) made his world debut
- Street Fighter II - The competitive fighting game that had everyone practicing their hadoukens
- Mortal Kombat - Famous for those controversial fatalities and digitized fighters
- NBA Jam - Two-on-two basketball madness with catchphrases like "He's on fire!" and "Boomshakalaka!"
- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles - The beloved four-player beat 'em up that ate quarters by the handful
- The Simpsons Arcade Game - Another fantastic four-player cooperative romp through Springfield
- Tapper - The bartending game where you frantically serve increasingly impatient customers
Most arcade bars maintain these cabinets with loving care, preserving the authentic feel of playing these games exactly as they were intended. Many locations particularly pride themselves on their carefully curated selection, typically featuring 40-75 machines from this golden era.
What makes these classics perfect for bar settings is their pick-up-and-play nature. Even first-timers can learn the basics in seconds, though mastering them might take years. This accessibility creates the perfect social environment where gaming veterans and newcomers can have equally good times side by side.
High-Tech Sports & Simulation Lounges
The world of bar and games near me has evolved far beyond traditional arcade cabinets. Today's high-tech sports and simulation lounges create immersive experiences that blend cutting-edge technology with social drinking environments.
Topgolf stands at the forefront of this revolution with their innovative approach to the driving range concept. Their Brooklyn Center location features over 100 all-weather hitting bays spread across three floors, more than 200 HDTVs throughout the venue, and climate-controlled spaces that let you play year-round regardless of Chicago's sometimes challenging weather. The magic happens with their microchipped balls that automatically track your shots and score your games, creating a seamless tech-improved experience.
"It's Golf. It's Not Golf. It's Topgolf," their tagline perfectly captures these venues' hybrid nature that appeals to both serious golfers looking to improve their swing and casual players just wanting a fun night out with friends.
Sports enthusiasts will feel right at home at Tom's Watch Bar in Minneapolis, offering what they call "the biggest sports party" with over 100 screens providing a 360° immersive viewing experience. With 50+ beers and 100+ specialty cocktails, you can catch every game while enjoying interactive entertainment with friends.
PGA simulators have also found their way into gaming bars, allowing you to play virtual rounds on famous courses around the world. These high-definition systems track your actual swing and ball flight, translating them into the virtual environment with remarkable accuracy—perfect for those days when you want to "play Pebble Beach" without the plane ticket.
Perhaps the most surprising addition to modern gaming bars is axe throwing. Once considered strictly an outdoor activity, indoor axe throwing lanes with proper safety measures have become a staple at venues like Social Latitude. These supervised throwing areas let you channel your inner lumberjack while enjoying drinks between throws.
For the truly adventurous, virtual reality arenas represent the cutting edge of bar gaming. These immersive experiences transport players to different worlds—from zombie survival games to virtual paintball—creating memorable group experiences that simply can't be replicated at home.
Many of these high-tech venues offer promotional days to make the experience more affordable. Look for half-off Tuesdays at Topgolf and similar mid-week specials at other venues that help drive traffic during otherwise slower periods.
How to save on "bar and games near me" outings
A night of games and drinks can add up quickly, but with some strategic planning, you can maximize fun while minimizing costs at bar and games near me venues throughout Chicago.
Happy hour windows offer some of the best values, with many gaming bars extending special pricing beyond just drinks to include game play. Most arcade bars offer $1 off all drinks during weekday happy hours, typically running from opening until 6pm. Some venues even feature a late-night happy hour, with special pricing from midnight until close on weeknights for night owls.
Wednesday seems to be the universal discount day across many gaming venues. Dave & Buster's offers half-price games every Wednesday (excluding VR games and photo booths), many Topgolf locations feature half-off Tuesday or Wednesday specials, and several arcade bars run "Token Wednesday" promotions with discounted play that makes hump day a little more fun.
Rewards programs provide another avenue for savings. Dave & Buster's Power Card rewards program allows frequent players to earn points toward free gameplay and food, while many other venues offer similar loyalty incentives. Barcade® locations use tokens for their arcade games, with each token costing 25¢ and usable at any Barcade® location nationwide—making them a good value if you travel between cities.
App-only coupons have become increasingly common as venues try to drive downloads of their mobile applications. These exclusive offers often include free gameplay with food purchase or buy-one-get-one game card deals. The Tom's Watch Bar fan club, for instance, offers a $1 pint or cocktail benefit on your next visit just for signing up.
Some insider tips for maximizing value include arriving early on weekends to avoid cover charges that some venues implement during peak hours, looking for combo deals that bundle food, drinks, and gameplay at a discount, and following your favorite venues on social media where flash deals are often announced. Consider visiting during off-peak hours (weekday afternoons/evenings) when wait times for popular games are shorter and you can get more play time for your money.
With a bit of planning, you can enjoy Chicago's vibrant gaming bar scene without breaking the bank—leaving more in your budget for your next night out from your convenient home base at The Winnie.
Social Hubs for Parties & Corporate Events
Gaming bars have become the ultimate celebration spots in Chicago, offering everything you need for memorable gatherings all under one roof. No more juggling separate venues for entertainment, food, and drinks!
These bar and games near me hotspots shine when it comes to hosting private events. Many venues offer dedicated rooms where your group can enjoy exclusive service and customized gaming experiences. Dave & Buster's stands out with their comprehensive event planning services – their team helps personalize every detail of your gathering, and their Book Now Birthday Parties system makes reservations a breeze.
Birthday celebrations are particularly popular at these venues, with packages custom to different age groups and budgets. Dogwood Social House offers thoughtfully designed options – kids' packages include generous game points, teen packages feature dedicated party hosts, and adult packages emphasize quality food and beverage selections.
Corporate team-building has found its perfect match in gaming bars, where friendly competition naturally builds camaraderie in a relaxed atmosphere. Topgolf's clever tagline "Make Your Event More Eventful" captures their focus on creating memorable corporate experiences with flexible spaces and customizable catering.
Most venues simplify the payment process for group events with prepaid game cards or token systems. This approach gives hosts better control over spending while allowing guests to top up if they want to keep playing beyond what's included in the package.
Be sure to check age restrictions when planning your event – policies vary widely between venues. While Social Latitude welcomes all ages until 9pm, others maintain strict 21+ requirements throughout. This is especially important for mixed-age gatherings like family celebrations.
Parking can be a headache for Chicago events, but residents of The Winnie Apartments by Flats® enjoy a unique advantage – many gaming bars in Uptown are just a short walk away, completely eliminating parking worries! For more options, check out More info about sports bars Uptown.
When booking your next gathering, remember these helpful tips:
- Book early, especially for weekend dates
- Confirm your final headcount to ensure adequate space
- Discuss any dietary restrictions when selecting food packages
- Ask about AV capabilities if presentations are part of your plan
- Inquire about minimum spend requirements, which often replace flat rental fees
For Winnie residents, these venues offer the perfect balance – the convenience of hosting friends without turning your apartment upside down, combined with all the excitement of a night out while still being just steps from home.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Game-Bar Night
Finding the ideal bar and games near me venue for your specific outing isn't just about location—it's about matching the vibe to your group and occasion. When planning your next game-bar trip in Chicago, keep these practical considerations in mind.
Age policies vary widely across gaming bars, so always check before bringing along younger friends or family members. Many venues like Dogwood Social House welcome all ages until around 9pm, making them perfect for early evening family outings. After these watershed hours, the atmosphere shifts as most places transition to 21+ environments with more adult-oriented fun. If you're planning to bring teens or kids, a quick phone call to verify policies can save you from awkward turnaway situations.
Food options have come a long way from basic bar snacks. Modern gaming venues now proudly offer extensive vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free menus to accommodate everyone in your group. Many places are surprisingly accommodating—don't hesitate to ask about specific dietary needs when making reservations, as kitchen staff are often happy to customize offerings for your party.
The beverage scene at gaming bars has seriously upped its game too. Gone are the days of just domestic drafts—today's venues feature impressive craft cocktail programs that complement the gaming experience. Places like Tom's Watch Bar boast over 100 specialty cocktails alongside extensive beer selections, while Barcade® locations often feature clever signature drinks named after classic video games (the Pac-Man Punch might just become your new favorite).
Savvy gamers know to take advantage of loyalty perks. Most venues now offer downloadable apps that track your visits, gameplay, and rewards. The free Barcade® mobile app, for example, provides real-time tap lists, upcoming events, and even tracks high scores across all their locations. These digital perks make repeat visits more rewarding and help you plan the perfect night out.
Understanding the payment system before you arrive helps avoid confusion and budget surprises. Gaming bars typically use one of three models:
- Token-based systems where you purchase physical tokens (typically 25¢ each) for arcade games
- Card-based systems like Dave & Buster's rechargeable power cards loaded with credits
- Hourly rates for venues like Topgolf that charge by the bay rental time rather than per game
Safety matters, especially for activities like axe throwing or VR experiences. Most venues require brief training sessions before you can participate in these higher-risk activities. While these safety protocols might add a few minutes to your visit, they ensure everyone has fun without unnecessary risks—so plan your schedule accordingly.
For residents of The Winnie Apartments by Flats® in Uptown Chicago, these gaming destinations offer a unique perk—many are just a short walk away from your front door. This walkability means spontaneous game nights with friends don't require transportation planning or designated drivers. It's one of the many lifestyle advantages of our central location that residents appreciate most about living at The Winnie.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bars With Games
What types of games can I expect?
The gaming landscape at bar and games near me venues has absolutely exploded in recent years! Gone are the days when a lonely pool table in the corner constituted a "game bar." Today's venues offer incredible variety to suit every taste and skill level.
Arcade enthusiasts will feel right at home at places like Barcade®, where you'll find 40-75 lovingly maintained cabinets from the golden age of gaming. These venues typically feature a nostalgic mix of '80s classics alongside a rotating selection of pinball machines that appeal to both casual players and dedicated high-score chasers.
Traditional bar games still hold their own in this new entertainment landscape. Many venues like Dogwood Social House proudly offer billiards, darts, and shuffleboard tables alongside newer options. There's something timelessly satisfying about the click of pool balls or the thunk of a well-thrown dart that keeps these classics in demand.
Boutique bowling has made a remarkable comeback, reimagined for the modern bar scene. Instead of cavernous alleys with dozens of lanes, today's gaming bars often feature just 4-8 premium lanes with comfortable seating, touchscreen scoring, and full food and drink service delivered right to your lane.
For those who love to take the spotlight, private karaoke rooms have become increasingly popular additions to gaming bars. These soundproofed spaces let you belt out your favorite tunes with friends without the anxiety of performing for strangers – perfect for celebrating special occasions or just letting loose after a long week.
The tech revolution has transformed traditional sports into immersive experiences too. Topgolf's climate-controlled bays with microchipped balls and digital scoring systems have reinvented how we think about driving ranges, making them year-round social destinations regardless of weather or golfing ability.
Perhaps the most surprising addition to the modern gaming bar is axe throwing. What once seemed like a purely outdoor activity has found a home in urban entertainment venues, with trained staff ensuring everyone stays safe while having a blast hurling axes at wooden targets.
At the cutting edge, virtual reality experiences now feature in some forward-thinking venues, offering multi-player trips that transport you to different worlds while you enjoy drinks between sessions.
The real magic happens when venues combine several of these categories under one roof, creating entertainment hubs where you can try your hand at everything from classic Street Fighter II to axe throwing in a single evening.
Do I need a reservation or can I walk in?
Navigating the reservation policies at bar and games near me venues can be a bit tricky, but knowing what to expect will save you from disappointment on your night out.
Most arcade-focused bars operate primarily on a first-come, first-served basis for general admission. You can typically stroll into places like Barcade® without a reservation and start playing right away – though weekend evenings tell a different story. The golden rule: arriving before 8pm on Fridays and Saturdays usually means avoiding the worst of the crowds.
Activity-specific venues like Topgolf strongly encourage advance booking, especially during prime times. While they'll accommodate walk-ins when possible, showing up without a reservation on Saturday night might mean a multi-hour wait for a bay. Their user-friendly online reservation system makes securing your spot a breeze, saving you from that awkward standing-around-waiting-for-a-text scenario.
For specialized activities like axe throwing, consider reservations practically mandatory. These activities require dedicated lanes and staff supervision, limiting capacity significantly. Trying to walk in for axe throwing on a busy night is a bit like hoping to get a table at the hottest restaurant in town without a reservation – technically possible but not a great strategy.
Private events and parties almost always require booking ahead. Most venues have streamlined this process with online forms or dedicated event planners who can customize packages to your needs. Dave & Buster's offers a particularly comprehensive online booking system that walks you through every aspect of planning your event.
During peak hours (typically 7pm-11pm on Fridays and Saturdays), wait times at popular venues can stretch to 2+ hours. Many places now offer virtual waiting lists through their apps, allowing you to grab dinner nearby while waiting for your turn rather than standing in a physical line.
When making online reservations, be prepared to secure your spot with a credit card, though most venues don't charge cancellation fees with reasonable notice (usually 24-48 hours). Some places even let you pre-purchase game cards or tokens when reserving, letting you bypass at least one line upon arrival.
For lucky residents of The Winnie Apartments by Flats®, proximity to many of these venues offers a distinct advantage – you can easily check wait times in person before committing, giving you flexibility that visitors from outside the neighborhood simply don't have.
How much do games typically cost?
Understanding the pricing at bar and games near me venues helps you plan your entertainment budget and avoid any surprise expenses. While specific prices vary, most gaming bars use one of several common payment systems that are worth understanding before you go.
Token-based systems remain the classic approach at traditional arcade bars. At Barcade® locations, tokens cost 25¢ each, with most games requiring 1-2 tokens per play. There's something satisfyingly tangible about having a pocketful of tokens, and any leftovers can be used on future visits to any Barcade® venue – a nice touch for frequent visitors.
Power Card systems have become the standard at larger entertainment centers. These rechargeable cards function like debit cards for games, with various packages available when you load them up. The smart strategy here is looking for bonus chips when purchasing larger packages – these often create significantly better value for your dollar if you're planning an extended gaming session.
Hourly rates apply at venues like Topgolf, where you're essentially renting a space rather than paying per game. These rates typically follow a tiered structure based on time of day, with morning hours offering the best value and evening prime time commanding premium prices. The upside? Each bay accommodates up to six players, making this potentially quite economical when split among friends.
Combo deals consistently offer the best bang for your buck, bundling food, drinks, and gameplay into packages that cost less than purchasing each component separately. These packages typically include some combination of appetizers, entrees, beverages, and game credits at a fixed price that represents savings over à la carte ordering.
Special promotions can dramatically reduce your costs if you're flexible with timing. Half-price game days are particularly common, with many venues offering these deals on otherwise slower weekdays. Dave & Buster's half-price Wednesday promotion (excluding VR games and photo booths) has become particularly popular for budget-conscious gamers.
For premium activities like axe throwing or VR experiences, pricing typically works on a per-person, per-hour model, with discounts often available for larger groups or longer bookings. These activities generally represent the higher end of gaming bar pricing but offer unique experiences that justify the premium for many patrons.
When planning your budget for a night out, remember to account for:
- Game costs (which vary widely by venue and system)
- Food and drinks (generally comparable to standard bar pricing)
- Possible cover charges during peak hours at some venues
- Gratuities for servers and activity hosts
With some strategic planning around promotions and combo deals, residents of The Winnie can enjoy these nearby entertainment options without breaking the bank – just one more perk of living in the heart of Uptown's vibrant scene.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect bar and games near me spot in Chicago has never been more exciting. From nostalgic arcade bars with classic cabinets to cutting-edge venues with VR experiences and axe throwing lanes, the city offers an incredible variety of options for every taste and occasion.
For residents of The Winnie Apartments by Flats®, these entertainment destinations are literally steps away. Our Uptown Chicago location puts you within easy walking distance of some of the city's most vibrant gaming bars – a perk that can't be overstated. After a night of friendly competition and craft cocktails, you can simply stroll home to your modern studio or one-bedroom apartment without worrying about transportation, parking, or designated drivers.
The gaming bar scene reflects how nightlife has evolved beyond just "grabbing drinks." Today's venues create immersive, Instagram-worthy experiences that combine quality food and creative beverages with activities that get people laughing, competing, and connecting. Whether you're challenging friends to a Pac-Man showdown or perfecting your swing in a climate-controlled Topgolf bay, these spaces foster memories that standard nights out simply can't match.
Chicago's unpredictable weather makes these indoor entertainment hubs particularly valuable year-round. When summer heat waves or winter snowstorms hit, you'll appreciate having so many climate-controlled options nearby where you can stay comfortable while having a blast.
Living at The Winnie puts you at the center of it all – whether you're hosting out-of-town visitors, planning team outings with coworkers, or simply looking for something different on a Friday night. The combination of competitive play, social interaction, and quality refreshments creates experiences that last far longer than conventional nights out.
We encourage you to explore these unique venues and find your personal favorites. And remember – when you call The Winnie home, the best of Chicago's entertainment scene isn't just nearby; it's practically your extended living room.
