When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Emporium Arcade Bar
Why Emporium Arcade Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Emporium Arcade Bar stands out as Chicago's original arcade bar and live events venue, making it an exceptional spot to gather with friends for entertainment and socializing. Featuring the city's largest collection of games, patrons can enjoy classic arcade titles alongside pool tables, pinball machines, foosball, air hockey, and more, catering to all types of game enthusiasts. The vibrant ambiance is perfectly complemented by an expertly curated beverage menu, offering craft beers, innovative cocktails, and an extensive whiskey selection. Emporium also hosts diverse live events including music shows, DJs, and game tournaments, ensuring there's something engaging for every visit. Its multiple locations foster a welcoming environment ideal for celebrating birthdays, casual meetups, or even larger group outings, such as company parties. This combination of nostalgic gaming, quality drinks, and dynamic events creates a lively atmosphere that makes Emporium Arcade Bar a top choice for social hangouts in Chicago.
Here's what people think of Emporium Arcade Bar
As of recent, Emporium Arcade Bar holds a 4.4-star rating based on 2341 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise Emporium Arcade Bar for its eclectic and extensive selection of arcade games and its inviting atmosphere. Many guests highlight the nostalgic experience of playing classic and modern arcade games while enjoying quality craft beers and cocktails. Positive reviews frequently mention the friendly and knowledgeable staff, the vibrant live music events, and the well-maintained gaming equipment that amplifies the fun and social vibe. The venue is also appreciated for its suitability for group events and celebrations, where guests find ample space and a lively environment. On the downside, some negative feedback points to occasional crowding during peak hours, which can impact the availability of games and seating. A few reviewers also note that the noise level can be high due to live events and the bustling crowd, potentially detracting from quieter conversations. Despite these minor issues, most visitors consider the overall experience highly enjoyable. In summary, Emporium Arcade Bar successfully combines nostalgia, social interaction, and entertainment, making it a beloved destination for locals and visitors seeking a unique and fun outing in Chicago.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jessica Hagberg
Long story short Dude with stash was a complete ass to my friend she asked for a cocktail called berry Jane which contains whiskey, starwberry pure, and lemon juice. They had it made this cocktail apperantly pre made in a Malibu bottle. Which my friend is extremely allergic to! We tried confirming with him but dude got upset with us asking and walked away. Extremely rude and dude needs better customer service. He gives this place bad vibes.
A Red Dragon
A darkened Barcade with little gold coins as currency, my favorite. 50cp to play a game, extensive drink menu has everything you need. It's mostly pinball/pool/foosball/air hockey, which is fine, but go to a different one if you want classic arcade games. And I ran through 4 pinball cabinets before I found a working one lmao
Isabella C
I came here to drop a gift to my friend for her birthday with no intention of drinking or even staying long, unfortunately I was denied at the door without my ID. Can’t give it a positive rating if I didn’t have a pleasant experience Edit: once I re-arrived with my ID, I went inside for approx. 20 mins to deliver my gift to my friend and then left. The young guy who barley looks 21 himself with the hat, cigarette, and dish towel hanging out his pocket said “oh I’m just doing my job because my boss was here, but next time I’ll remember you”…..so next time you’re not gonna “do your job” and let me in without ID?
Ty Hamilton
Nice hangout spot. Decent bar. They have a taco truck but i didn’t try it. There was a pop up shop when I went which was cool. The music was alternative which I’m not a fan of, a mix/more variety would’ve been nice. Overall a good amount of games. You could spend about 3 hours here and have a good time with friends.
Rosie Jocelyn
I’ve been coming here for awhile and usually get the slushies cause they’re so good! But when I went last night I decided I wanted to try something different so I was in search of a cider , after a while of looking the bartender (short white dude) asked what we wanted so I asked what ciders he has because I could not find it on the menu (it turns out it is at the very top of the menu in the back but it’s just hard to see cause the menus are paper and the water bled through the paper & words so obviously it’s not visible) he proceeds to say “we have so many look at the menu” and walks away with an attitude. Literally disregarded me and my friend when I was about to ask where on the menu??? I’ve been in the industry for years and that’s just not okay, regardless of how busy it is at least guide me because that made me instantly think , oh I shouldn’t tip him (I always tip everywhere I go)
How to reach Emporium Arcade Bar
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Why Emporium Arcade Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Emporium Arcade Bar with your friends? Emporium Arcade Bar in Chicago stands out as an exceptional venue for gathering your friends or family because it blends nostalgia, entertainment, and social engagement in a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're looking to relive classic arcade game glory days or enjoy an evening filled with diverse activities, this bar offers a unique setting that goes beyond the typical hangout spot. Its reputation as Chicago’s original arcade bar with a 4.4-star rating from over 2,300 reviews reflects widespread appreciation for its vibe, game selection, and hospitality. Here, the experience is about more than just grabbing drinks; it’s about sparking camaraderie and creating memorable moments. The venue’s combination of a thoughtfully curated craft beer and cocktail menu, alongside a vast collection of games, ensures that every visit can be as fun and engaging as a mini celebration. For anyone seeking a place to host a birthday, a casual meetup, or even a company party, Emporium Arcade Bar delivers the ideal mix of nostalgia, fun, and vibrant energy, making it a prime choice for group outings.
What activities can you enjoy at Emporium Arcade Bar, and why is it perfect for group meetups? Emporium Arcade Bar’s offering of activities is impressively wide-ranging, suited for groups that seek interactive fun as part of their social experience. The venue boasts the largest collection of arcade games in Chicago, including classic arcade cabinets, pinball machines, pool tables, foosball, and air hockey. This variety caters to diverse tastes and skill levels, ensuring that everyone in your group finds a game they enjoy. Playing together or competing in friendly tournaments naturally encourages bonding and laughter, key components of great group meetups. Beyond gaming, Emporium is also a live events venue, featuring DJs, live music shows, and game tournaments that keep the energy dynamic and entertaining. Its layout and atmosphere promote mingling and social interaction, with plenty of space and tables available to accommodate groups of varying sizes—whether it’s a small gathering of friends or a large company party. Furthermore, the staff supports group events by offering discounted token packages, making it affordable and straightforward to enjoy numerous games without constant worry about costs. This combination of fun, accessibility, and vibrant social energy makes Emporium Arcade Bar an outstanding choice for a memorable group outing.
What makes the bar’s drink selection a great complement to the gaming experience? The beverage program at Emporium Arcade Bar is thoughtfully designed to complement its gaming and social atmosphere. The bar prides itself on a carefully curated selection of craft beers, bringing to the table some of the choicest brews that beer aficionados can appreciate. For those who prefer cocktails, there is an innovative cocktail menu featuring creative concoctions tailored to match the vibe of the venue. The availability of a huge whiskey list provides further variety for groups with more refined tastes. This diverse drink portfolio ensures everyone in your group can find a favorite drink to sip on while enjoying their games, creating a richer overall experience. The bar's commitment to quality and variety in its beverage offerings elevates what might otherwise be just an arcade visit into a full-fledged social night out. Its capacity to cater to different palates ensures it appeals to a broad audience, from casual drinkers to craft beer enthusiasts.
Why is Emporium Arcade Bar suited for special occasions and company parties? Emporium Arcade Bar’s design and service model make it an exemplary location for hosting significant social events such as birthdays, celebrations, and corporate gatherings. The venue offers flexible party solutions including private table reservations and the option to bring in outside food, which helps groups customize their experience according to their needs. The staff is experienced in facilitating large-scale events and ensures that party logistics, from seating to game access, run smoothly. Its diverse entertainment options naturally foster a celebratory mood, with live shows and DJs adding a festive soundtrack to any gathering. The large space and energetic atmosphere accommodate the noise and interaction typical in group parties without feeling cramped. Moreover, with discounted token packages for games, parties can be both fun and budget-conscious. The ability to combine gaming, drinking, and live entertainment provides a multifaceted experience that is hard to find elsewhere, making Emporium a sought-after spot for memorable gatherings.
How do the three Chicago locations enhance the overall Emporium Arcade Bar experience? Emporium Arcade Bar operates three distinct locations in Chicago—Wicker Park, Fulton Market, and Logan Square—each offering a slightly different ambiance but maintaining the overarching theme of fun and community. This geographic variety means groups can choose a site that best suits their convenience and style. Whether you want a hip, artsy vibe, or a bustling urban environment near premier dining options, one of these venues fits the bill. All locations share the same extensive collection of games, curated beverage menus, and live entertainment schedules, guaranteeing a consistent experience. Conveniently, tokens are transferable among the sites, so guests who frequent more than one can easily keep playing without hassle. The ability to access multiple venues adds flexibility for repeat visitors and groups looking to explore different parts of the city, enriching the social and entertainment value of Emporium Arcade Bar. This network of locations also means the brand can cater to different crowds and occasions, from casual meetups to highly organized events. Through variety and consistency, Emporium’s multiple locations help establish it as a cornerstone of Chicago’s social arcade scene.
What are the practical considerations for hosting groups at Emporium Arcade Bar? Emporium Arcade Bar is well-prepared to handle group dynamics with thoughtful policies that promote a smooth experience. Groups are permitted to bring outside food and have it delivered, which offers flexibility for gatherings that want personalized menus or catering. However, there is an emphasis on responsibility—groups must keep their area clean and are encouraged to coordinate food cleanup. For safety, unattended food can be disposed of by staff, and items like plates or silverware are not provided by the venue, requiring groups to plan accordingly. Outside beverages are not allowed, except for alcohol purchased on site. Token use, the currency for playing games, is straightforward: one token equals 25 cents, and discounted group packages are available upon inquiry, providing an economic benefit for large gatherings. There is no token buyback, so groups can manage usage to maximize their experience efficiently. These practical rules ensure the venue runs smoothly and that all groups enjoy uninterrupted, high-quality fun in a clean, well-organized environment.
In summary, Emporium Arcade Bar is more than a nostalgic arcade; it’s a bustling event venue and social hub ideal for group meetups. Its blend of interactive entertainment, live music, craft drinks, and adaptable event support creates an all-in-one destination that invites laughter, competition, and celebration. With multiple Chicago locations and a welcoming atmosphere, it offers reliable options for anyone seeking a distinctive place to rally friends or family for memorable occasions.