Check out Charlottesville’s Decades Arcade

In late April, I stepped back in time at Charlottesville’s Decades Arcade. Located near Meade park and down the street from Beer Run is a building packed with all the pinball and arcade games someone could want. 

Decades Arcade proudly offers over 30 different pinball machines built from the 50s to today. Each machine has its own unique theme ranging from The Simpsons, Star Wars, the Monopoly game, and many other flashy retro themes. My favorite thing about the arcade is that they also offer plenty of eighties to nineties arcade games to choose from. They have some of the most popular and fun to play arcade games, from the Pac-Man games, Mortal Kombat, Galaga, Donkey Kong, and many more. 

There were many different options to choose from, it’s easy to spend a whole day here. Decades Arcade is affordable at $10 per person, kids under four get in free, and guests are able to stay as long as they please. They also offer two-hour private events for $300 and up to 50 people.

To keep customers safe, the arcade only allows 50 people in the building at one time. This can cause a minor waitlist for up to 30 minutes for a group of five, according to their website. When I went there was no wait, but there were customers enjoying the classic games wearing masks and socially distancing. The arcade also provides many hand sanitizer stations and has set up fans throughout the building to keep the air in circulation. 

The Arcade sells water and a variety of Champion beer but only offers snacks from vending machines.

I really enjoyed spending the day at Decades Arcade, and I plan on going back shortly. It is a great place for the family, a first date, or even to check out on your own; you will not be disappointed!