Level Up at these Arcades & Gaming Bars in Dayton

Sometimes you just need a drink with a side of ghost meat, right? When you want to get out and have some fun with a date, some friends, or just want to focus on improving your high score, check out these local arcade game bars and board game/table top gaming bars in Dayton.

Arcade Game Bars

DK Effect

DK Effect exterior Dayton, Ohio

This bar is across the street from Taqueria Mixteca and next to Gionino’s Pizzeria – so it’s practically the most perfect place for a dinner and arcade date. In fact, you can order Gionino’s on a kiosk inside and they’ll bring it over to you so you don’t have to miss any points on your games. DK Effect has lots of classic arcade games on free play, ski ball, a punching machine, and a whole wall of pinball. The pinball is $1 in quarters to play and there is a convenient change machine available.

Canal Street Arcade & Deli

Canal Street pinball wall Dayton, Ohio

You really can’t go wrong with a stop at Canal Street Arcade & Deli. The sandwiches, the drinks, and the games are all perfect. The arcade games are free play, the pinball costs, the vintage jukebox also costs money (but is so delightful and nostalgic to flip through – worth it). My favorite drink here is the Dayton Mule using Toxic Ginger Beer.

Pinball Garage

Pinball Garage Hamilton Ohio

Located in Hamilton, Pinball Garage is one big 90s celebration offering over 70 pinball machines and arcade games as well as food. Load a card with credits to get started and let the fun begin.

Hole in the Wall

arcade games at Hole in the Wall Dayton

This Oregon District bar is filled with great, nostalgic nods just about everywhere you look – including the bathrooms! Hole in the Wall has a few arcade games available for free play, fun DJ nights, and drink specials.

Board & Table Top Gaming Bars

D20 : A Bar with Characters

D20 bar in Dayton Ohio

D20 has just about every board game you’ve heard of (and some you’ve never heard of) as well as table top games and events celebrating all things gaming. Their bar has lots of local and other interesting craft beers and they have a patio to enjoy your drinks outside.

Star City Brewing Company

Star City is a huge space with several rooms for all kinds of fun, including an upstairs area with ski ball. Most notably, they have a game room stocked with tons of board games and table top games that pair perfectly with a roaring fire in one of their fireplaces, a glass of their beer, and some friends.

Next, I’m writing about all the great indoor entertainment centers in Dayton, so keep an eye out! Suggestions?