When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Boxcar Bar + Arcade
Why Boxcar Bar + Arcade is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Boxcar Bar + Arcade in downtown Durham uniquely blends a nostalgic gaming atmosphere with a vibrant social bar experience, making it an exceptional hangout spot for friends. With over 70 classic and modern arcade games including pinball, skeeball, air hockey, and free-to-play console systems, it appeals broadly to gamers and casual visitors alike. The full bar offers 24 rotating craft American drafts alongside cocktails, complementing a menu featuring fresh, wood-fired pizzas, salads, and soft pretzels. The spacious venue includes covered patio seating and outdoor games, ideal for relaxed gatherings. Weekends feature live outdoor music, adding to the lively ambiance. Regular events such as free weekly tournaments and daily drink specials create engaging reasons for repeated visits. The welcoming, dog-friendly environment and extended hours — including weekend service from noon to 1 a.m. — further enhance its appeal as the ultimate spot to unwind and connect with friends over games, music, food, and drinks.
Here's what people think of Boxcar Bar + Arcade
As of recent, Boxcar Bar + Arcade holds a 4.5-star rating based on 3928 reviews.
Reviewers overwhelmingly appreciate the lively, casual atmosphere at Boxcar Bar + Arcade, consistently highlighting the extensive selection of arcade games as a major draw that offers both nostalgia and modern entertainment. Positive reviews commonly praise the quality and variety of craft beers on tap and the enjoyable menu, particularly the fresh pizzas, complemented by friendly and attentive staff. The lively weekend live music and well-maintained outdoor patio space contribute to a vibrant setting for socializing. Patrons also value the weekly tournaments and themed events that foster community. On the negative side, some reviewers mention occasional crowding during peak hours, which can affect noise levels and seating availability. A few have noted variable wait times for food and drinks, especially during busy weekend periods, and some found the pricing on certain menu items a bit high. Despite these isolated issues, the overall consensus is strongly favorable, with visitors recommending Boxcar as a top destination for groups seeking a fun, interactive, and relaxed bar experience. The balance of gaming, quality drinks, good food, and social atmosphere makes it a must-visit venue in Durham.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Joellen Reichenbach
Love that our inner child got to play and the adult could enjoy a drink while playing. Great combination. Clean place. Pinball machines all worked, and I love it. Flogger and Ms Pacman were sensitive joy sticks, which the Pacman machine for 4 players (sit down) blue joy stick would not good down. Only machine that didn't work. Again, overall, great experience. Thank you.
Nancy Maldonado
If you enjoy a good time playing games and drinking is a plus. Boxcar is the place with arcade games from the 90s. It is a good place to have a girl's night out, and friends during the day or night, and for couples to have fun activities date night.
Kevin Proulx
Ordered the 12$ liquid marijuana, they now have it on tap. DO NOT BUY this mixed drink. Tastes like a lemonade with no alcohol. Extremely disappointing. The drink is very very clear which is crazy for a drink that should have blue curaçao in it and melon liquor. Save ya money and get literally any other drink on the menu. Used to love this place for the arcade but now this bar just leaves a sad taste in my mouth.
Jennelle Willis
This is literally a gem!. The vibes are very chill, the staff has been amazing and for 20 dollars you can literally play for hours. I drinks are relatively inexpensive especially if you're from areas like the dmv where the drinks are high.if you're looking for something fun to do that's chill and highly entertaining definitely check this spot out. And after 7 it's 21+ so just an all around great time.
Rob Mihelic
So much fun! I love all the retro games and the drink specials! Tons of retro games, food is available, good drink specials every night. Fun place for a date night! Leave the kids at home, this is definitely a Bar arcade. Paid parking across the street, sometimes you can find free street parking after 6pm, but it can be hard. Bathrooms are relatively clean. Games can be kinda pricey, but $10-20 should be enough for a fun night
How to reach Boxcar Bar + Arcade
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Why Boxcar Bar + Arcade may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Boxcar Bar + Arcade with your friends?
If you’re looking for a truly vibrant and entertaining spot to gather your friends for a memorable outing, Boxcar Bar + Arcade is an exceptional choice. This dynamic venue perfectly blends the nostalgic charm of classic arcade games with the lively atmosphere of a modern bar, creating a social hub that caters to both casual fun and spirited competition. Whether your group is composed of arcade veterans reminiscing about the 80s or newcomers eager to try various games, the extensive selection ensures everyone will find something exciting to dive into. Beyond the games, the relaxed yet festive ambiance encourages relaxed conversations and laughter, making it easy to reconnect and bond over shared experiences. Add to this a strong lineup of craft beers, seasonal cocktails, and fresh food offerings like made-to-order pizzas, baked soft pretzels, and fresh salads, and you have an ideal environment for an immersive group outing. With ample seating options including a covered patio complete with outdoor games and live weekend music, Boxcar Bar + Arcade provides multiple layers of fun under one roof, perfect for meetups, celebrations, or simply a joyful night out with friends or family.
What activities are available at Boxcar Bar + Arcade that make it ideal for group meetups?
Boxcar Bar + Arcade is a treasure trove of activity options, particularly designed for people who enjoy a lively, interactive environment. Central to its appeal is the vast array of classic and modern arcade machines—over 70 games including vintage favorites and modern hits. This assortment includes everything from nostalgic arcade cabinets and pinball machines to Skeeball, air hockey, and even free-to-play console systems that invite friendly competition and group challenges. For groups, this means a seamless way to spark engagement, ignite playful rivalries, and create shared memories. The venue also regularly hosts free weekly tournaments, which can be a thrilling collective experience for your meetup. Beyond games, the bar serves 24 rotating craft and American draft beers along with a full cocktail menu, ensuring there’s a perfect drink for everyone in the party. Moreover, the pizza kitchen offers a menu with fresh, made-to-order pizzas, salads, and soft pretzels, providing delicious snacks that can be easily shared among friends, bolstering the social experience. The outdoor covered patio further enhances the space with outdoor games and live music performances on weekends, offering an option for those who prefer mingling in an open-air setting while still enjoying the energetic vibe of Boxcar.
Why is Boxcar Bar + Arcade a perfect venue for group gatherings?
Several features make Boxcar Bar + Arcade an outstanding choice for group gatherings. First, its spacious layout facilitates comfortable mingling and movement, even for larger groups, balancing energetic arcade action with relaxing seating areas. The venue’s atmosphere is friendly and inclusive, welcoming both avid gamers and casual visitors, which helps everyone feel at ease regardless of their level of familiarity with arcade games. The daily drink specials and rotating craft beer taps add an extra layer of affordability and variety, perfect for groups looking to celebrate without breaking the bank. Additionally, the venue is family-friendly during certain hours, allowing meetups that include younger participants with parental supervision, making it flexible to various group compositions. The presence of live music, especially on weekends, creates a festive backdrop that elevates the group experience, whether you’re dancing along or simply enjoying the grooves between games. The venue’s location in downtown Durham and Raleigh’s Warehouse Districts situates it in vibrant urban hubs, ensuring easy accessibility along with nearby entertainment and dining options if you want to extend your meetup before or after your visit.
How do the games and overall setup promote social interaction at Boxcar Bar + Arcade?
The design of Boxcar Bar + Arcade encourages social interaction through its emphasis on interactive and competitive gameplay. Whether it’s teaming up for cooperative challenges or facing off in classics like Skeeball, pinball, or air hockey, the arcade games naturally create moments of shared excitement and friendly rivalry. The variety guarantees that every member of a group can find games that suit their taste and skill level, allowing for dynamic group play and swapping games to keep the energy up. The free-to-play console area is particularly inviting for casual or multiplayer games that people can jump into together, fostering spontaneous social connections. Beyond games alone, the bar and food service areas offer natural spots for conversation and regrouping, blending competitive fun with social relaxation. The outdoor patio with lawn games and space for live music further extends opportunities for interactive enjoyment, offering a mix of quiet conversation areas and lively entertainment zones. This thoughtful layout ensures that groups aren’t confined to one type of interaction but can cycle between gaming, eating, drinking, and socializing comfortably in a single visit.
What makes Boxcar Bar + Arcade stand out compared to other nightlife venues?
Boxcar Bar + Arcade stands out from other nightlife venues primarily because it combines the classic pleasure of arcade gaming with a modern bar experience in a way that few other places do. Its extensive game collection is a significant draw, providing nostalgic trips to the past alongside cutting-edge gaming options, making it a unique cultural experience rather than just a standard bar. Its focus on quality craft beers, daily specials, and a well-crafted food menu means patrons enjoy more than just beverages—they have a culinary experience that complements the entertainment. The venue's active role in community engagement through weekly tournaments and live music events further establishes it as a cultural hub, inviting regular visits rather than one-off drinks. Moreover, its welcoming stance on families during earlier hours and pet-friendly policies show an inclusive charm that broadens its appeal. Its downtown urban locations in Durham and Raleigh’s Warehouse Districts contribute to vibrant local scenes, making it not just a place to visit but a part of the city’s social fabric. These combined elements make Boxcar Bar + Arcade a destination where fun, nostalgia, and social connection intersect, setting it apart from typical pubs or arcades.
How accessible and convenient is Boxcar Bar + Arcade for groups?
Boxcar Bar + Arcade benefits from prime locations in both Durham and Raleigh, situated in downtown and historic Warehouse Districts, respectively, which are well-known for their vibrant nightlife and easy accessibility. This central positioning makes it convenient for groups to reach by a variety of transportation methods—whether by car, rideshare, or public transit—reducing hassle and allowing for flexible meetup planning. The venues offer hours that cater to both early evening and late-night crowds, including weekend openings starting as early as noon and staying open until 1 or 2 a.m., perfect for long social outings. With ample indoor and outdoor seating, including covered patios, the spaces can accommodate groups of varying sizes comfortably. The option for family-friendly hours during weekdays and dog-friendly policies broaden accessibility for diverse group types. Additionally, with frequent promotions and drink specials, the venue is adaptable to different budgets. All these factors combine to make Boxcar Bar + Arcade a highly convenient and inviting spot for groups intending to enjoy hours of entertainment and socializing with minimal logistical concerns.
Why is the food and drink menu at Boxcar Bar + Arcade suitable for a group experience?
Boxcar Bar + Arcade’s food and drink offerings are thoughtfully curated to complement a social, interactive environment. The menu highlights fresh, made-to-order pizzas crafted to share easily, ensuring everyone in the group can enjoy a satisfying meal without disrupting the flow of fun. Alongside pizzas, offerings like fresh salads and soft pretzels provide lighter snack options for variety and dietary preferences, which is ideal when hosting diverse groups. The full bar boasts 24 rotating craft and American draft beers along with a comprehensive cocktail menu, accommodating different tastes and preferences within your group. The daily drink specials encourage cost-effective indulgence, especially attractive for larger parties who want multiple rounds. The seamless service, combined with the option to eat at the bar, at tables, or outside on the covered patio, means that groups can stay engaged with their activities without lengthy interruptions. Altogether, the food and drink selection enhances the convivial atmosphere, making it easy to fuel up and toast as you enjoy games and social time.
How does Boxcar Bar + Arcade maintain a vibrant yet comfortable environment?
Boxcar Bar + Arcade strikes a well-crafted balance between high-energy fun and a welcoming atmosphere that isn’t overwhelming. The venue’s ample space layout reduces crowding, ensuring that even on busy nights your group won’t feel cramped or rushed. The thoughtful arrangement of arcade machines, group seating, bar, and outdoor areas fosters natural transitions between active play and relaxed socializing. Live music on weekends adds a cultural and auditory backdrop that enhances mood without overpowering conversation, while the covered patio offers a retreat for those seeking fresh air or a quieter moment. Staff are known for being friendly and attentive, maintaining smooth service that keeps the experience enjoyable and stress-free. The well-defined daily drink specials and events create rhythms that appeal to both regulars and newcomers, making every visit feel fresh and worth anticipating. This dedication to atmosphere ensures that Boxcar Bar + Arcade remains a top-tier destination for groups seeking fun, memorable nights together.
With its diverse game selection, crafted food and drinks, vibrant ambiance, and accommodating spaces, Boxcar Bar + Arcade offers an unparalleled meetup experience that combines nostalgia, fun, and social connection in a way few other venues can match. Whether gathering with longtime friends or celebrating with family, it’s a place where every visit promises laughter, excitement, and shared memories that last well beyond the final game.