When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Cidercade Austin
Why Cidercade Austin is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Cidercade Austin is a uniquely vibrant arcade bar located conveniently at 600 E Riverside Dr, Austin. With over 275 arcade games ranging from classic retro cabinets to modern digital shooters and rhythm games, it offers an exhilarating experience for gamers of all ages and skill levels. This bustling venue blends nostalgia with modern fun, making it an ideal spot for meeting friends to enjoy endless gaming in a lively atmosphere. Beyond the games, Cidercade Austin features a wide selection of craft ciders on tap, complemented by tasty food offerings such as pizza and wings, creating a perfect balance of entertainment and refreshment. The venue has evolved from a simple cider tasting room to a playground-like destination where adults and kids alike can immerse themselves in fun and social activities. Whether planning a casual night out, a corporate team-building event, or celebrating a birthday with private event space, Cidercade Austin can accommodate with flexible rental options. Operating daily from 10 a.m. to midnight, it provides ample time for extended fun with friends and family. The combination of unlimited free play access to numerous arcade games and great craft beverages makes Cidercade Austin a standout destination for anyone looking to combine socializing with active entertainment.
Here's what people think of Cidercade Austin
As of recent, Cidercade Austin holds a 4.3-star rating based on 2138 reviews.
Reviews for Cidercade Austin demonstrate a strong overall appreciation from patrons, reflected in its 4.3-star rating from over 2,100 reviews. Many users praise the expansive selection of arcade games, mentioning the impressive variety that caters to both casual players and serious gamers. Positive reviews frequently highlight the welcoming environment, with guests enjoying the combination of games, craft ciders, and tasty food like pizza and wings. Reviewers also commend the staff for being friendly and helpful, making for an enjoyable visit. Visitors appreciate the venue's accommodating nature for private events, noting it as an excellent spot for birthday parties and corporate gatherings due to its spacious layout and flexible booking. On the downside, some negative reviews mention occasional overcrowding during peak hours and wait times, which can diminish the experience for some guests. A few reviews note that at times certain games may be less responsive or require maintenance, alongside occasional service delays. Despite these issues, the overall sentiment remains positive with many reviewers recommending Cidercade Austin as a fun and dynamic place to unwind and socialize. In conclusion, the user feedback portrays Cidercade Austin as a lively arcade destination with strong entertainment value and convivial atmosphere that effectively balances gaming, drinks, and food for a memorable social outing.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ashley Cheek
What a fun place! $12 all you can play. Nice river view from the outside patio, cocktails and pizza. Our kids had so much fun, wish we got there earlier. At 9pm it's 18 and up!
D T
We love this place! The variety of games is amazing. They are all well maintained. They have more pinball machines than any place and it's some of the best newest machines. There cider and beer is also top notch. Truly one of the best values around for a family. We spend hours here every time and could spend more.
Preston Broadfoot
Love Cidercade and now they finally serve beer! Arcade games are much more fun when you don't have to pay for them (other than the cover charge). The food is good too. The wood-firing makes for good pizza and wings.
Steve Dycus
First time visit. From out of town. Joined my daughter & her young family celebrating a nine year old boy’s birthday. Pretty overwhelming at first taking in the enormous array of arcade games. I made a beeline towards the old-school pinball machines — talk about a college day flashback! This venue had indoor & amazing patio seating (with views of the Colorado River, boardwalk, and Austin skyline. The pizzas were actually pretty dang tasty. Adult beverages are available.
Neal Behymer
Went here with my best friend to enjoy a great night of pizza and old school games. He even showed me quite a few that I was very unfamiliar with but had a good time with nonetheless. It's one of those places that never fails, and I hope it sticks around for a long time because I'm definitely going to be back sooner rather than later. The meat lovers Pizza was absolutely delicious, not something I typically go for but again the weather today cook that stuff in their little kitchen area is top notch.
How to reach Cidercade Austin
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Why Cidercade Austin may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Cidercade Austin with your friends? Because it offers an unbeatable combination of fun, nostalgia, great food and drinks, and a vibrant social atmosphere all under one roof. If you’re looking for a place that instantly transforms any gathering into a lively, memorable experience, this is it. Cidercade Austin brings together over 150 arcade games that run on a single admission price, meaning no fumbling for coins or reloading game cards — just pure, unlimited gaming fun. This makes it effortless for everyone in your group, from hardcore gamers to casual players, to dive in and enjoy themselves without hassle. Beyond the games, its scenic location along the river with an outdoor patio offers stunning views, especially at sunset, creating a relaxed vibe perfect for socializing before or after your game battles. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a team-building event, or just hanging out on a weekend, the lively environment combined with delicious food and locally brewed ciders creates the ideal spot to rally friends and family for hours of shared fun and laughter.
What activities can you enjoy at Cidercade Austin? The centerpiece is undoubtedly the vast selection of arcade games — over 150 classics and modern favorites available on unlimited free play after paying a fixed admission fee of $10-$12 per day (or $15 for monthly unlimited access). The gaming repertoire spans retro cabinets, skee-ball, basketball hoops, air hockey tables, physical Pong, and rhythm dance games, ensuring there’s something to suit every interest and skill level. As you compete or cooperate with friends, the variety keeps the excitement fresh and inclusive. Besides gaming, the venue boasts a full-service bar offering locally crafted hard ciders — the namesake specialty — and a selection of beers and sodas. Food-wise, they serve 12-inch artisan thin-crust pizzas baked in a stone hearth oven, smoked wings, and fresh salads, providing satisfying options to fuel your fun. The outdoor patio overlooking the river allows groups to take breaks, enjoy drinks or snacks, and soak in beautiful views of the Austin skyline, including watching the famous bats at dusk. Whether it's playful competition or relaxed social bonding, Cidercade Austin's mix of activities provides an ideal group-friendly environment.
Why is Cidercade Austin a perfect meetup venue for group celebrations or casual hangouts? First, the unlimited free play model means groups can focus on having fun rather than worrying about game costs or logistics; everyone can jump on any game they want at any time. This freedom to roam and try everything eliminates usual arcade frustrations and promotes spontaneous, shared experiences. Secondly, the space design caters to groups of all sizes: there are private party zones for more intimate gatherings and options to rent out the entire arcade for bigger meetups or corporate events. This flexibility ensures your group feels comfortable and exclusive if desired. The family-friendly daytime hours let parents bring their kids too, while the 18+ policy after 9pm guarantees a mature vibe for adult get-togethers. The food and drink menu complements the gaming perfectly, serving crowd-pleasers that keep everyone energized without having to leave the building. Lastly, the inviting ambiance with its lively crowd, good music, and picturesque river views makes it a natural social hub in Austin with an energetic yet relaxed atmosphere ideal for bonding and creating lasting memories with friends and family.
What kinds of games can you expect, and how do they enhance the group experience? Cidercade Austin’s game selection is impressively diverse, balancing nostalgia with fresh gameplay. Classic arcade staples like Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and Centipede bring back fond memories for many adults, aiding in a shared connection over retro gaming culture. Modern games add variety and challenge, including rhythm dance-offs and physical games that get players moving beyond just button-mashing. Table games like skee-ball and air hockey turn friendly competition into lively tournaments, while basketball hoops allow for bragging rights at a distance. The inclusion of unique physical Pong and other lesser-seen arcade variations keeps the excitement high and conversations flowing. Having so many game types together means your group can split up and try different activities, then regroup and share their experiences, fostering interaction. The pay-once model encourages players to take their time mastering games or trying new challenges without financial pressure, making it a welcoming place for casual players and competitive gamers alike.
How accessible and convenient is Cidercade Austin for your group? Located on East Riverside Drive, Cidercade Austin is easy to get to from many parts of the city, and its downtown adjacency provides a vibrant backdrop for an outing or special event. The venue operates daily from 10 a.m. to midnight, providing ample time to fit into various schedules, whether a midday family meetup or a late-night hangout with friends. Tickets can be purchased in advance online, allowing you to skip lines and treat your group like VIPs, which adds convenience for larger parties or busy days. The no-coin, no-card system means your group doesn’t need to juggle change or arcade tokens, simplifying logistics and speeding up gameplay. Ample seating, a spacious layout, and well-maintained facilities ensure comfort during longer visits. For those hosting events, the option to book private areas or the whole arcade guarantees exclusivity and control over your meetup. All these factors make organizing a group visit straightforward, stress-free, and enjoyable from start to finish.
What does the food and drink offering add to the overall experience? Cidercade Austin doesn’t just excel at gaming; its culinary and beverage offerings perfectly complement a social day or night out. Their menu, centered on 12-inch artisan thin-crust pizzas crafted in a rotary stone hearth oven, provides a delicious, shareable meal option tailor-made for groups. The smoked wings, fresh salads, and sides offer variety so everyone can find something that suits their tastes and dietary preferences. Paired with the food is their extensive bar selection, most notably their house-made hard ciders available on tap, fitting the venue’s branding and offering a local flavor. Beyond cider, they also serve craft beers and sodas catering to different preferences and ages. This one-stop-shop for entertainment, food, and drinks means groups don’t have to move elsewhere, preserving energy and focus on enjoying each other’s company. The ability to relax with a good pizza and beverage after rounds of intense gaming sessions or during downtime on the scenic patio enhances the communal vibe and makes the outing feel complete.
How does Cidercade Austin cater to different types of groups and events? The versatility of the space is a major draw for diverse groups looking to gather in Austin. Families enjoy daytime visits when the arcade is family-friendly, making it a great place for kids’ birthday parties since parents actually want to attend thanks to the engaging environment. For adults, especially after 9 p.m., the arcade shifts to an 18+ crowd, perfect for bachelorette parties, corporate team-building outings, or casual friend reunions seeking a mature, energetic atmosphere. The venue offers private party areas for smaller groups and the ability to rent out the entire arcade, so it can support intimate celebrations or large-scale events. Its mix of interactive activities suits different tastes and promotes group bonding through friendly competition, collaboration, or casual fun. Event planners appreciate the all-in-one nature of the venue — gaming, food, drinks, and seating — simplifying logistics and elevating the event quality. For any group occasion from casual meetups to formal celebrations, Cidercade Austin adapts seamlessly to the vibe you want to create.
What makes the vibe and atmosphere at Cidercade Austin unique and special? The blend of retro charm and modern hospitality creates a warm yet thrilling environment few venues can match. The nostalgic arcade games evoke memories and stories that naturally spark conversations and laughter among groups. Coupled with the live, buzzing energy of players competing or cheering each other on, the vibe is electric but never overwhelming. The design incorporates playful, colorful elements that keep the mood lighthearted and fun. Add to that the outdoor patio overlooking the river — a serene, scenic space to catch your breath, relax with a drink, and enjoy the Austin skyline or bat flights at dusk — and you have a calming counterpoint to the arcade’s excitement. The welcoming staff and community feel foster inclusivity and make newcomers and regulars alike feel at home. Whether it’s a loud victory cheer or quiet moments sipping cider outside, the atmosphere fits a variety of moods and group dynamics, setting the stage for great social experiences.
Why is Cidercade Austin highly rated by visitors? Guests consistently praise the value-for-money setup where a single admission unlocks unlimited access to diverse, high-quality games that cater to all ages and skill levels. Reviewers often highlight the smooth experience of no-coin, no-card gameplay that frees players from typical arcade frustrations. The food and drinks receive notable applause, especially the fresh, delicious pizzas and tasty local ciders, which many describe as a surprising culinary plus in an arcade setting. The friendly, attentive staff and the well-maintained, clean environment also garner positive mentions. Its location with a beautiful riverside view and inviting patio earns extra points from visitors who appreciate the ambiance. Repeat visitors often say it’s a perfect spot for both casual hangouts and celebrations, reflecting the venue’s ability to accommodate various needs successfully. Overall, the 4.3-star rating from over 2,100 reviews reflects a consistent track record of delivering fun, quality, and memorable experiences that make guests want to return again and again.
In sum, Cidercade Austin stands out as a top-tier destination for groups looking to unite around good games, food, drinks, and atmosphere. Its appeal lies in its ability to be all things to all people: a nostalgic arcade for gaming enthusiasts, a lively hangout for social groups, a family-friendly party spot by day, and an adult playground by night. The affordable all-you-can-play pricing model, diverse games, quality food and beverages, beautiful setting, and versatile space options combine to create a winning formula. Whether planning a casual meetup, a birthday celebration, a corporate outing, or just endless hours of friendship-fueled fun, rallying at Cidercade Austin promises an energetic, relaxed, and unforgettable experience for every member of your party.