The 10 best arcades in Belfast gave us the ultimate throwback!
Talk about a blast from the past! I grabbed the squad, and we made our way to the top 10 arcades in Belfast, ready to relive the good old days. From classic racing games to pinball machines, we had the best time battling for the highest score.
The energy was insane, and it felt like we were kids again, lost in the game. We couldn’t get enough of the retro vibes, and the competition was fierce, especially when we hit the air hockey tables. Let’s just say, bragging rights were earned that day!
The vibes were unmatched, and the laughs were endless. Between the intense game face-offs and the ridiculous prizes, we were hooked. If you’re looking to dive into some serious nostalgia, keep reading to discover the best arcades in Belfast!
1. W5
– Media credit:/w5belfast/
Location: The Odyssey, 2 Queens Quay, Belfast BT3 9QQ
Contact: +44 028 9066 6630
Ticket Prices
- Adult From £9.50
- Child From £8.00
- Concession From £8.00
- Family 1 Adult & 3 children From £32.00
- Family 2 Adults & 2 children From £33.50
Hours:
- Monday – Sunday 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday Closed
Website
W5 blew us away! It’s like an adventure playground for both kids and adults! The interactive discovery zones had us competing, creating, and learning all at once. My friends and I couldn’t get enough of the VR games; we were totally immersed.
There’s a great mix of hands-on exhibits, which is perfect for group outings. We built stuff, tested our reflexes, and even tried solving some puzzles. It’s seriously impossible to get bored here.
We stumbled upon one of their themed events (think robots and rockets), and it added a whole new layer of excitement. Highly recommend timing your visit with these events, you’ll thank me later!
| Pro tip: If you’re looking for a fun day out, W5 is the place to be. Just make sure to arrive early; there’s so much to explore, and you’ll want every second! |
2. The Arcade Club
– Media credit: /arcadeclubuk/
Location: 5-7 Amelia St, Belfast BT2 7GS
Contact: +44 016 1464 9796
Ticket Prices
- Adult £18.00
- Child £10.00
- Family £46.00
Hours:
- Monday – Wednesday Closed
- Thursday 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Website
Walking into The Arcade Club felt like stepping back in time. My friends and I were immediately hit with nostalgia, surrounded by classics like Pac-Man and Street Fighter. The sound of buttons mashing and 8-bit tunes? Absolute vibes.
We spent hours hopping from one game to another, trash-talking each other (in good fun, of course!) while trying to beat high scores. It’s not just retro games either, there’s a solid mix of modern ones too.
What we loved most was the chill atmosphere. Everyone there is just as into gaming as you, which makes it even more fun. Plus, they have snacks to keep you fueled for the action.
| Pro tip: Go during off-peak hours. You’ll have more time to try everything without waiting for your turn. Trust me, it’s worth it! |
3. Lost City Adventure Belfast
– Media credit: /lostcitybelfast/
Location: Cityside Retail & Leisure Park, 100-150 York St, Belfast BT15 1JH
Contact: +44 028 9099 5118
Ticket Prices
- Adventurers (aged 12 and up) £9
- Explorers (aged 6-11) £7
- Young ‘Uns (aged 5 and under) £4.50
- Family Pass £27
Hours:
- Monday – Wednesday 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday Closed
Lost City Adventure Golf is where mini-golf meets jungle vibes, and it’s such a blast! My crew and I got competitive right away, dodging fake waterfalls and navigating tricky courses. Spoiler alert: I didn’t win, but I had a ton of fun trying.
The atmosphere is electric, with tiki torches, jungle sounds, and even glowing features that make it all feel like an adventure. It’s perfect for snapping pics and showing off your mini-golf skills (or lack thereof).
Once we wrapped up our game, we couldn’t resist hitting the prize machines. It’s the best way to end your visit, especially when you win something cool.If you’re looking for a mix of competition and laughs, you’ve got to check this place out.
| Pro tip: Book your slot in advance if you’re planning to visit on the weekend. It gets busy, and you’ll want to maximize your time for all the fun! That way, you can avoid long waits and dive straight into the action as soon as you arrive. |
4. Hollywood Bowl Belfast
– Media credit:/hollywoodbowluk/
Location: The Odyssey, 2 Queens Quay, Belfast BT3 9QQ
Contact: +44 844 406 0611
Ticket Prices
- Adult £ 7.30
- Child £ 6.50
- Family £ 25.08
Hours:
- Monday – Thursday 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday – Sunday 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Bowling and arcades? Count us in! Hollywood Bowl Belfast had us splitting strikes and spares with plenty of laughs in between. But honestly, the arcade section stole the show for us.
There’s everything from racing games to claw machines. And yes, we all got way too into the competitions. Winning a plushie from the claw machine was definitely a highlight.
The vibes are unbeatable, with music and lights keeping the energy up. And don’t get me started on the food options, bowling and snacking go hand in hand! The selection of tasty treats and drinks kept us fueled and made the experience even more enjoyable.
| Pro tip: Bundle a game of bowling with some arcade fun for a full day out. It’s a win-win no matter how you roll. The variety of activities keeps everyone entertained, making it the perfect way to spend time with friends or family. |
5. Base Arcade at Banana Block
– Media credit: /bananablockni/
Location: PortView Trade Centre, 310 Newtownards Rd, Belfast BT4 1HE
Contact: [email protected]
Ticket Prices
- Adult £ 20.00
- Child £ 8.00
Hours:
- Sunday – Thursday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday – Sunday 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Monday – Tuesday Closed
Banana Block is known for its artsy vibe, but the Base Arcade tucked inside is a hidden gem. It’s not your typical gaming spot. It’s creative, quirky, and full of surprises. The atmosphere really sets it apart from other arcades, with every corner sparking curiosity.
My friends and I loved the mix of unique arcade games that felt like a blend of art and gaming. There’s a playful energy to the place, and it’s perfect if you’re looking for something different.
After gaming, we explored the rest of Banana Block. Between the art installations and food stalls, there’s so much to see and do. We found ourselves lingering, enjoying the vibrant scene and the eclectic mix of culture and entertainment.
| Pro tip: Make time to wander around the whole venue, it’s a feast for the senses and an all-around great day out. The lively atmosphere, sights, sounds, and smells make it a unique experience you won’t want to miss. |
6. Reboot Gaming Hub
– Media credit:/rebootcafequb/
Location: 92 Lisburn Rd, Belfast BT9 6AF
Contact: +44 28 9097 1695
Ticket Price
- Adult £ 10.00
Hours:
- Monday – Sunday 12:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Reboot Gaming Hub is the perfect spot to kick back and play your favorite games with friends. Whether it’s consoles or PCs, they’ve got you covered with all the latest titles. The variety of systems available made it easy for everyone to jump into their game of choice.
We spent hours here battling it out in multiplayer games. The cozy setup made it feel like a living room with way better tech and snacks. The comfortable environment allowed us to focus on the games and enjoy some quality downtime together.
The staff are super friendly and always happy to help. They even gave us tips for leveling up in some games we were struggling with. Their knowledge of the games really enhanced the experience, making it feel more like a community.
| Pro tip: Pair your gaming with one of their combo snack deals! It’s a gamer’s paradise you’ll want to keep coming back to. The variety of snacks keeps you fueled and adds to the excitement of the games. |
7. Airtastic Entertainment Centres
– Media credit: /airtasticni/
Location: 38 Mill Rd, Belfast, Newtownabbey BT36 7BE
Contact: +44 330 174 2933
Ticket Price
- Adult £ 10.00
Hours:
- Monday – Thursday 1:00 PM – 9.30 PM
- Friday 1:00 PM – 10.30 PM
- Saturday 10.30 AM – 10.30 PM
- Sunday 11.00 AM – 9.30 PM
Airtastic is a go-to for all-around fun, combining bowling, arcade games, and even mini-golf. My squad and I tackled all three and laughed our way through the day. Each activity brought its own excitement, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon.
The arcade section has a little bit of everything! Racing, shooting, and even those ticket machines we couldn’t resist. Let’s just say we left with way more prizes than expected. The variety of games kept us entertained for hours and brought out our competitive side.
What stood out was how family-friendly it is. There’s something for everyone, from toddlers to adults, so it’s a great place for group outings. It’s the kind of spot where everyone can join in on the fun, no matter their age or skill level.
| Pro tip: Make sure to try their food court, too! It’s surprisingly good for an arcade spot and keeps you energized for more fun. With a range of delicious options, you won’t leave hungry! |
8. Active Reality
– Media credit: /activereality
Location: Leisure Centre, 100 Shankill Rd, Belfast BT13 2BD
Contact: +44 333 339 1881
Ticket Price
- Adult £ 20.00
Hours:
- Monday – Friday 3:00 PM – 7.30 PM
- Saturday – Sunday 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Active Reality is your ticket to the future of gaming with its immersive VR experiences. It’s like stepping into another world, and trust me, it’s mind-blowing. The cutting-edge technology made every moment feel so real, I almost forgot I was wearing a headset.
We tried a mix of solo and group VR games, from sci-fi adventures to team challenges. The graphics and realism are next level. You’ll forget you’re in Belfast. The adrenaline rush of battling aliens or solving puzzles with friends made it even more thrilling.
Whether you’re a VR newbie or a pro, this place is a must-visit for an unforgettable experience. The staff were incredibly helpful, guiding us through every step and ensuring we had a blast.
| Pro tip: Booking ahead is key, especially on weekends. It’s a popular spot, and you’ll want to secure your session to avoid missing out. A little planning ensures you get the best experience without the wait. |
9. Funstation Belfast
– Media credit:/funstation_uk/
Location: 2 Queens Quay, Belfast BT3 9QQ
Contact: +44 333 339 1881
Ticket Price
- 4 Tokens £ 1.00
- 80 Tokens £ 15.00
- 140 Tokens £ 25.00
- 140 Tokens £ 25.00
Hours:
- Sunday – Thursday 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday – Saturday 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Website
Funstation is exactly what it sounds like! Loads of fun packed into one arcade. We loaded up on tokens and went all out, from skee-ball to air hockey. The non-stop action and variety of games made it impossible to get bored.
What makes this place unique are the themed games. My friends and I tried a GoT-themed arcade game that was so good, it felt like being part of the show. The attention to detail in the storyline and graphics made it an unforgettable experience.
If you’re a fan of collecting tickets, this is the spot for you. We cashed ours in for a mix of quirky and useful prizes, which made it all the more satisfying. The variety of rewards kept things exciting, and we couldn’t wait to see what we’d get next.
| Pro tip: Combine your visit with the nearby attractions for a full day of entertainment. You’ll be glad you did! From local sights to fun activities, there’s plenty to explore around the area. |
10. Glengormley Sportsbowl Arcade
– Media credit: /carrick_youth/
Location:3-9 Glenwell Rd, Glengormley, Newtownabbey BT36 7RF
Contact: +44 028 9084 8323
Price
- 1 Token £ 1.00
Hours:
- Monday – Friday 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
We wrapped up our arcade adventures at Glengormley Sportsbowl, and it was the perfect cherry on top! This place has such a welcoming vibe, you can roll strikes at the bowling lanes or dominate arcade games, there’s something for everyone.
The arcade section is packed with classic and modern games. My friends and I went head-to-head in air hockey (I’ll never hear the end of that loss) and cheered each other on at the racing simulators. It’s simple, straightforward fun that leaves you smiling.
What sets this spot apart is its relaxed atmosphere. It’s ideal for families, friends, or even casual solo visits. The nearby café made it even better with snacks and coffee breaks between games.
| Pro tip: Pack a picnic and enjoy it in the park nearby after your visit. It’s a great way to wind down after all the excitement! The peaceful surroundings make for the perfect way to relax and reflect on your fun day. |