12 Fun Arcades & Pinball Spots in the Twin Cities for Families
Looking for the best arcades and pinball spots in the Twin Cities for families with kids? Whether your crew is into classic pinball machines, retro arcade games, or new high-tech favorites, plenty of family-friendly arcades and pinball halls across the Twin Cities are ready to entertain. If you’re a newbie, don’t worry!
Each location features friendly staff members waiting to help your family learn something new together. Arcades and pinball spots provide great indoor activities for families and inspire a little friendly competition. From the flashing lights of pinball to the excitement of racking up high scores, these spots offer fun for all ages.
If you’re wondering where to play pinball or challenge kids to a few arcade games in the Twin Cities, we’ve rounded up the top 11 places that deliver excitement for the whole family.
Smash Park, Roseville
Address: 1721 County Rd C West, Roseville, MN 55113
Smash Park in Roseville is an excellent spot for an exciting family night out. It offers a huge range of indoor and outdoor games. The arcade has classic favorites like Skeeball and Hoops Heroes and prize machines to keep everyone entertained. With a massive menu featuring everything from nachos to poutine, there are plenty of food and drink options for all ages. They even have a dedicated kids’ menu.
In addition to the arcade room, there are plenty of other ways to compete together. Inside, you’ll find pickleball, duckpin bowling, and more. Meanwhile, outside, there’s a shuffleboard, corn hole, and giant Jenga. Families will love the relaxed vibe, but be sure to check for 21+ areas and adult-only hours.
With so much to offer, it’s no surprise this is one of the best arcades for kids in the Twin Cities!
Can Can Wonderland, Saint Paul
Address: 755 Prior Ave N Suite #004, St Paul, MN 55104
One of the best places to play pinball in Saint Paul with kids, Can Can Wonderland offers a one-of-a-kind indoor adventure for families. Boasting a “Boardwalk of Amusements,” with vintage arcade games and over 125 pinball machines dating back to the 1920s. For just $10 (per person), your family will enjoy two hours of unlimited arcade play.
Beyond the pinball area, you can step into this whimsical space to play 18 artist-designed mini golf holes that are as much fun to admire as they are to putt through (additional admission fee). When hunger strikes, dive into their eclectic menu featuring artisan pizzas, snacks, and even cereal-infused malts from the soda fountain.
Kids of all ages will delight in this vibrant, family-friendly experience!
Dave & Buster’s, Edina & Maple Grove
Dave & Buster’s in Edina and Maple Grove offers everything you need for a fun family outing under one roof. With an extensive arcade, delicious food, and plenty of room to play, it’s a lively spot for kids and adults. From classic games to modern favorites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Name a classic arcade game, and they probably have it, from Skee Ball to Connect 4 Hoops.
They also feature an extensive menu of delicious options (from appetizers to full entrees and desserts). Plus, they even have a dedicated kids’ menu. So, everyone’s appetite is covered when you’re ready to refuel between rounds. With plenty of games, specials, and two metro locations, Dave & Buster’s makes family fun easy!
No wonder it’s one of the best arcades for kids in the Twin Cities.
Blainbrook Entertainment Center, Blaine
Address: 12000 Central Ave NE, Blaine, MN 55434
Blainbrook Entertainment Center in Blaine is the perfect family-friendly spot for fun and games of all kinds. This lively complex features bowling lanes, a massive arcade with over 40 pinball machines, pool tables, darts, and even virtual reality games. Whether you’re a pinball pro or just love classic arcade action, there’s something for everyone. They even have a pinball league for all ages! The arcade uses convenient game cards, so you can reload and save for future visits.
When you’re done in the arcade, be sure to check out the bowling alley and restaurant. Offering lunch and dinner, the menu features everything from appetizers and pizza to burgers and other handhelds. Finally, they also offer a dedicated kids’ menu for little gamers.
As you can see, it’s easy to spend the whole day playing together here!
Keg & Case: Starcade Classic Arcade & Bad Penny Pinball, Saint Paul
Address: 928 7th St W, St Paul, MN 55102
Keg & Case in Saint Paul is a one-stop shop for families searching for the best arcades and pinball spots in the Twin Cities with kids. Located on the historic grounds of the old Schmidt Brewery, this vibrant market is home to two incredible arcade spots: Starcade Classic Arcade and Bad Penny Pinball.
Starcade boasts Minnesota’s most extensive collection of classic arcade games, with over 275 machines ranging from retro favorites like Pac-Man and Space Invaders to more modern options. Whether you’re reliving your childhood or introducing your kids to the classics, you’ll find hours of free-play fun—no quarters needed.
Just across the hall, Bad Penny Pinball features the state’s largest pinball selection, with over 55 machines. The space is brightly lit, with plenty of room to enjoy the games, and offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere compared to traditional arcades. It’s a paradise for pinball enthusiasts, offering endless opportunities to test your flipper skills.
After you’ve had your fill of gaming, explore Keg & Case’s impressive lineup of food and drink vendors. Whether you’re in the mood for artisan pizza or organic ice cream, there’s something for everyone. Families can enjoy a meal, snack, or drink while taking in the lively market atmosphere.
With plenty of parking and nearby eateries, Keg & Case is undoubtedly one of the best places to enjoy a day of arcades and pinball in Saint Paul, Minnesota with kids!
The Burrow, Oakdale & Victoria
Looking for family-friendly arcades in the Twin Cities? The Burrow has two convenience locations in Oakdale and Victoria. Both locations offer tons of family-friendly fun with arcades, pinball, and more. In fact, in Oakdale, you’ll also find sports simulators, laser tag, and a ropes course, making it a great place for active kids. Alternatively, in Victoria, you can also add foosball, Connect 4, and axe-throwing (11+) to your day.
Then, both locations serve up hearty menus featuring family favorites like pizza and burgers. Plus, there is a dedicated kids’ menu for the little ones. Families can enjoy an afternoon or full day filled with games (some of which you can reserve ahead of time). There’s live music, outdoor games for warm weather days, and plenty of seating to relax, eat, and play together.
Note: On Fridays and Saturdays after 8 p.m., the space becomes 21+.
WhirlyBall Twin Cities, Maple Grove
Address: 13644 80th Cir N, Maple Grove, MN 55369
WhirlyBall Twin Cities in Maple Grove offers a unique, action-packed experience perfect for families with tweens and teens (many activities require age or height). Discover billiards, video games, pop-a-shot, and more in the arcade. After delighting in the arcade, climb into large bumper cars and compete in a fast-paced game that blends basketball, hockey, and lacrosse for a thrilling time – WhirlyBall! Laser tag and Escape Rooms are also available to keep the fun going.
Enjoy the wide range of food and drinks after (or in between) your game selection. The menu has all the favorites needed to keep your family fueled while you hang out, play, and watch sports on the big screens. Whether you’re challenging each other in the arcade or mastering WhirlyBall, WhirlyBall Twin Cities delivers non-stop entertainment for everyone in your crew as one of the best arcades for kids in the Twin Cities.
Please note that only the Maple Grove location offers an arcade. The Bloomington location does not have one.
Keep reading to find more Arcades Pinball Spots in the Twin Cities.
Grabbit Arcade, Maplewood
Address: 3001 White Bear Ave, St Paul, MN 55109
Located inside Maplewood Mall (across from the food court, Grabbit Arcade is Minnesota’s first claw machine arcade! Specializing in licensed Japanese anime figures, plushies, and toys, this arcade offers a fun and unique experience for fans of all ages.
As one of the best arcades for kids near Saint Paul, each machine costs just one token per play. Players can also enjoy standard claw games and other exciting challenges. The best part? Grabbit has a prize trade-in wall where you can collect redemption plushies and trade them for bigger, upgraded prizes.
Whether you’re an anime fan or love a good claw machine challenge, this is a must-visit spot in the Twin Cities!
LITT Pinball Bar, Minneapolis
Address: 2021 Hennepin Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55405
LITT Pinball Bar in Minneapolis is a vibrant hangout that combines the thrill of pinball with delicious eats and drinks. This unique spot features over 20 well-maintained pinball machines, rotating in new games and classic favorites to keep the fun alive.
While you play, savor a large menu full of creative hot dogs, smash burgers, and tacos made from scratch. Although there isn’t a dedicated kids’ menu, you’ll find plenty of kid-friendly options like mac and cheese and cheeseburgers.
With a friendly staff of pinball enthusiasts ready to assist, LITT Pinball Bar offers a fantastic atmosphere for family fun or a night out with friends, making it one of the best places to play pinball in Minneapolis with kids.
Note: This space becomes 21+ after 8 p.m. daily.
St. Paul Tap, Saint Paul
Address: 825 Jefferson Ave, St Paul, MN 55102
Looking for a lively sports pub packed with fun for the whole family? Try St. Paul Tap! Discover a world of gaming with over 50 arcade games, pinball machines, and classic bar games like Pool and Jenga. Here, you can play everything from retro favorites like Ms. Pac-Man and Donkey Kong to modern hits like Jurassic Park and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. As one of the best arcades and pinball spots for kids in Saint Paul, there’s something for everyone.
Then, St. Paul Tap’s extensive menu offers American classics like build-your-own burgers, homemade pizza, and Jucy Lucy’s. Plus, a dedicated kids’ menu for the littles. With locally brewed beers and a dog-friendly patio, this spot is perfect for a day or night out with family or friends.
Note: This space is 21+ after 10 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
Full Tilt Tavern, Bloomington
Address: 8301 Normandale Blvd, Bloomington, MN 55437
One of the newest additions to the Twin Cities, Full Tilt Tavern in Bloomington is a fantastic spot to unwind, reconnect, and have fun with your family. Here, you don’t need to choose between a pinball and an arcade – they have both! Enjoy a massive selection of games like Jurassic Park, Pac-Man, and Big Buck Hunter in the arcade alongside retro favorites like Donkey Kong, Galaga, and Frogger. Then, pinball enthusiasts can get their fix with machines like Medieval Madness, Deadpool, and Godzilla. Whether you’re munching on great food while watching a sports game or diving into arcade classics, everyone will find something to love.
When hunger strikes, Full Tilt has you covered with a massive menu packed with wings, burgers, pizza, tacos, and mac-n-cheese. A dedicated kids’ menu also makes it an excellent spot for family outings. Grab a table and some food, and enjoy the fun, relaxed atmosphere that makes Full Tilt one of the best arcades and pinball spots for kids in the Twin Cities.
Keep reading to find more Arcades Pinball Spots in the Twin Cities.
Nowhere Entertainment, Inver Grove Heights
Address: 5300 S Robert Trail Suite 200, Inver Grove Heights, MN 55077
Nowhere Entertainment in Inver Grove Heights offers a full range of attractions. It is a year-round indoor amusement center offering a variety of attractions for families with kids of all ages. Families can enjoy creatively designed escape rooms, a 13-hole mini-golf course, an arcade filled with diverse games, food & drinks, and seasonal haunted house experiences.
The three escape rooms at Nowhere Entertainment provide immersive adventures, challenging participants to solve puzzles and complete missions within a set time. The glow-in-the-dark mini-golf course features imaginative themes, such as Frankenstein’s Castle and Circus Midway, ensuring a fun experience for both children and adults. The arcade offers a mix of classic and modern games, including pinball, catering to various interests and skill levels.
The center also hosts birthday parties, summer camps, and private events, providing a memorable setting for special occasions. With its commitment to delivering engaging and enjoyable experiences, Nowhere Entertainment is an ideal destination for family outings.
SS Billiards, Hopkins
Address: 732 11th Ave S, Hopkins, MN 55343
The oldest pinball hall in the Twin Cities, SS Billiards in Hopkins has been a go-to spot for fun for over 50 years. This family-friendly arcade features 23 pinball machines, including rare finds like the Godfather Collector Edition (the only one in Minnesota!). Their lineup includes classics like Medieval Madness, Attack From Mars, and Pulp Fiction.
Along with pinball, you can enjoy playing pool on five regulation-sized tables, all available for hourly rental. Unlike many bars that feature games, SS Billiards offers a laid-back environment perfect for wholesome family fun, with well-maintained machines and a welcoming atmosphere.
Located just south of downtown Hopkins, it’s the ideal spot to relax and have fun together. Without question, this is one of the best places for pinball with kids in the Twin Cities!
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Mortimer’s Bar and Restaurant, Minneapolis
Address: 2001 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55405
Mortimer’s Bar and Restaurant in Minneapolis may be a quintessential dive bar, but it’s packed with family-friendly arcade fun. Known for its relaxed vibe, Mort’s offers classic games like Donkey Kong, NBA Jam, and Galaga, alongside a handful of pinball machines. Kids will love racking up high scores on these retro favorites, and parents can join the fun, too.
Mort’s also serves up tasty pub fare, from burgers to pizza, making grabbing a bite between games easy. Stick around for live music, offered several nights a week, and enjoy a casual night out together.
Have Fun Exploring Arcades & Pinball Spots in the Twin Cities with Your Kids!
With so many great options across the metro, the best arcades and pinball spots in the Twin Cities for families offer endless fun for kids of all ages. From retro classics to modern games, these family-friendly arcades and pinball halls in the Twin Cities have something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a place to spend a rainy afternoon or celebrate a special occasion, these places provide the perfect mix of excitement, kid-friendly games, and delicious food. Gather the family and get ready to make some lasting memories at these top places to play arcade games and pinball in Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and beyond!
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
