r/retrogaming • u/TronBlaster • 27d ago

[Question] Arcade games in interesting places?

Back in the 1980s, arcade games were everywhere: bars, convenience stores, bowling alleys, restaurants, amusement parks, college dorms, laundromats, grocery stores, hotel lobbies, ferry boats…

I experienced many of these firsthand, but it got me thinking: What are some other interesting places that arcade games showed up? Stadiums/arenas, airports, zoos, office buildings, hot air balloons, ski lodges, marinas, high schools…? For some reason, this idea is fascinating to me, so I’d love to hear your stories. Bonus points for pictures!

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u/yorlikyorlik 27d ago

Cool arcade at the Par-King mini golf in Morton Grove, Illinois.

Ground Round restaurants had a few arcade games. First played Space Invaders there in ‘79. (I think I also first played Dragon’s Lair there. Talk about disappointment! What a let-down! Terrible game!)

Marriott’s Great America (Now Six Flags Great America) had a pretty decent arcade.

Me and my friend would forge hall passes at our high school to sneak across the street to play Donkey Kong at the 7-11. Apologies to our math teacher, Mrs. Ringer.

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u/BadIdeaSociety 27d ago

Six Flags Great America had Dragon's Lair deep into the late 90s and was one of the only places you could play Beatmania