When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Headquarters Beercade
Why Headquarters Beercade is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Headquarters Beercade in Chicago offers a unique and lively environment perfect for meeting up with friends. This arcade bar combines the nostalgia of classic arcade and pinball games with a curated selection of craft beers and innovative signature cocktails. Located in the vibrant River North neighborhood, Headquarters Beercade is open every day of the year, giving visitors ample opportunity to gather and enjoy a laid-back, fun atmosphere. The venue appeals to a wide range of guests, from nostalgic arcade enthusiasts to those simply looking for a casual spot to unwind with friends over drinks and entertainment. Free play on an extensive collection of arcade games is offered with the purchase of a drink, encouraging social interactions and friendly competition. In addition to drinks and games, Headquarters Beercade provides a menu of classic bar food which complements the overall experience. The combination of great games, quality beverages, and a welcoming ambiance makes Headquarters Beercade a standout place for group outings, date nights, or casual hangouts in Chicago.
Here's what people think of Headquarters Beercade
As of recent, Headquarters Beercade holds a 4.5-star rating based on 3937 reviews.
Customer reviews generally praise Headquarters Beercade for its exceptional selection of classic arcade and pinball games that offer free play with a drink purchase, creating an accessible and fun environment. Many reviews highlight the nostalgic value and the joyful atmosphere that encourages group interaction and entertainment. Positive reviews frequently mention the great variety and quality of craft beers and cocktails, alongside the casual vibe that makes the bar a favorite hangout spot for locals and visitors alike. Additionally, the affordable and plentiful arcade options add to the appeal for diverse age groups and interests. On the other hand, some negative reviews point out that while the game selection and drinks are excellent, the food quality is average bar fare and the service can sometimes be inconsistent or lackluster. A few patrons have commented on the occasional rudeness of staff or slower service during busy times, suggesting room for improvement in customer service. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment remains strongly positive, with many visitors valuing the unique combination of entertainment and drinks. The reviews reflect that Headquarters Beercade is best enjoyed as a social gaming bar rather than a fine dining experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jacqui
A very fun bar with an arcade. They have pinball machines and old arcade games from my younger days. You order your drinks/cocktails from the bar area. I had a blast here and would definitely go back. Its a fun atmosphere and we went early enough that it wasn't too busy yet
Robbie Cannings
This is hands-down my favourite place to visit in Chicago. The selection of games was extensive, the staff were extremely friendly and the vibe was so much fun. I've met a few new people here on various nights, it is quite conducive for getting to know people. Note - many people are there to just enjoy the experience by themselves, but I met so many folks who were keen to play 2 player games throughout the evening. Special shout out to all those people getting their cars towed at 11 pm. I often stayed until closing. Will absolutely be back next time I visit
pivolopez
What a cool spot in downtown - parking could be troublesome as it's street level, but found a good spot nearby ($15 for 3 hours). Drinks were really well made, and the food was high quality and not too pricey considering you are downtown. Lots of classics mixed with newer allowed for all types of fun. Everything was freeplay except for darts and basketball, but totally worth it. Not sure if that is always the case. Noted there are trivia nights and events occasionally as well. We'll worth the visit if you are into "Bar-cades".
Jennifer Rodriguez
The food was great! My favorite was the truffle fries. The tofu baos were tasty but could’ve used a sauce for extra flavor. The elote fritters were our least favorite. They offer a varied menu, and I can’t wait to come back and try more dishes. Most of the games are free to play, and there’s a wide variety to choose from. It’s a fun spot to hang out with friends or family, and they also offer table service.
Jiyeon Portnoy
I love this bar so much even though it was my first try. I love arcade bars and this place has so many fun arcade machines including modern games like street fighters! It was such a fun and great atmosphere. I really enjoyed the time that I spent there. I wish they had their bar in New York too. It is amazing!
How to reach Headquarters Beercade
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Why Headquarters Beercade may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Headquarters Beercade with your friends?
When it comes to hanging out with friends or family in a lively, entertaining environment, Headquarters Beercade stands out as one of the premier destinations in Chicago. This massive arcade bar offers a refreshing alternative to the usual bar scene by combining a vibrant selection of vintage arcade and pinball games with an outstanding variety of craft beers. With a spacious layout spanning two floors and a capacity of over 700 people, there’s plenty of room for large groups to gather comfortably. Whether your group is made up of casual game players or serious arcade enthusiasts, Headquarters Beercade offers a welcoming atmosphere where nostalgia meets fun. The energy is high, but the experience remains relaxed—perfect for those who want to socialize, compete, and unwind at the same time. What really makes this spot unbeatable for meetups is that the games are mostly free to play as long as you buy a drink, giving you hours of entertainment without breaking the bank. Combine that with delicious food options available from their full menu and weekend brunch menu, and you have a well-rounded destination for your next gathering.
What activities can you enjoy at Headquarters Beercade?
Headquarters Beercade offers a vast array of activities that cater specifically to groups looking for fun and interaction. The centerpiece is their collection of over 65 vintage arcade and pinball machines, featuring titles that span several decades including the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, and 00s. These range from classic pinball machines and skee ball to arcade staples like Pac-Man and others, providing something for every gaming taste. Most of these games are free to play with a drink purchase, making it easy to jump between games and try different challenges with your friends. Beyond gaming, the venue has multiple bars spread across two floors, including a sultry lounge in the basement, allowing group members to relax with a drink in hand while watching or participating in games. Their beer selection is exceptional—with over 28 rotating drafts and 40 canned craft beers, beer lovers will be delighted by the variety and quality. Additionally, Headquarters Beercade serves a full menu offering solid bar fare, and they even have a weekend brunch menu, making it an ideal spot for meetups at any time of day, whether afternoon or late night.
Why is Headquarters Beercade perfect for group meetups?
The venue’s layout and atmosphere have been carefully designed to accommodate groups ranging from small friend circles to large private events. The two floors combine for around 14,000 square feet of space, providing spaciousness without feeling crowded. This openness allows groups to move freely between gaming areas, bars, and seating zones, promoting interaction and socializing. The ample seating options, including high top tables and bar stools situated near the arcade machines, are conducive to lingering conversations as well as lively competitions. Many guests praise the friendly and attentive bartenders and staff, who help enhance the overall experience by keeping the atmosphere upbeat and comfortable. Headquarters Beercade also accepts reservations and is available for private events, making it a flawless choice for birthdays, corporate outings, or casual reunions. Accessibility is another plus—located in Chicago’s trendy River North neighborhood, it’s just minutes from downtown and easily reachable via public transportation, which is convenient for groups traveling together.
How does the food and drink enhance the experience at Headquarters Beercade?
One of the reasons Headquarters Beercade is so popular among groups is its excellent combination of food and drink offerings that complement the gaming environment. The bar features an impressive lineup of over 28 rotating beer drafts and around 40 canned craft beers, tailored to satisfy craft beer aficionados and casual drinkers alike. The vast beer selection includes local favorites and unique finds, so there’s always a new taste to try. Alongside the drinks, the venue serves a full food menu featuring classic bar fare that appeals to a wide audience—think nachos, burgers, and other shareable plates perfect for snacking during game breaks. Their weekend brunch menu adds variety for daytime gatherings, making it a versatile choice for meetups at any time. While the food is described as standard bar fare rather than gourmet, it is satisfying and helps keep energy levels high during long sessions of gaming and socializing. This balance of hearty food and a stellar drink list plays a big role in making Headquarters Beercade an outstanding destination for group events.
What kind of atmosphere can you expect at Headquarters Beercade?
The atmosphere at Headquarters Beercade is a dynamic blend of nostalgic charm and modern nightlife energy. The venue’s extensive collection of vintage arcade games immediately evokes a sense of childhood and retro fun, creating an engaging environment where guests can both reminisce and make new memories. The layout encourages mingling, with open spaces and scattered seating that invite conversations and friendly rivalries. The basement lounge provides a sultry, more intimate vibe for groups looking to take a break from the games or enjoy a quieter chat with a cocktail. Given that the bar is open daily and late into the night, the energy can range from relaxed afternoons to lively evening crowds. Patrons frequently mention the welcoming staff and inclusive vibe, which make it easy for newcomers and regulars to feel at home. Whether you’re aiming for a playful competition or a chill catch-up session, Headquarters Beercade’s atmosphere adapts seamlessly to the mood of your group.
What logistics make Headquarters Beercade convenient and accessible for group visits?
Located at 213 W. Institute Place in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, Headquarters Beercade benefits from a prime urban setting that’s easy for most city dwellers and visitors to reach. It’s approximately 1.9 miles from Navy Pier and just a short distance from downtown Chicago, making it convenient whether you’re coming by car, rideshare, or public transit. The venue accommodates major payment methods including Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express, and offers public Wi-Fi, which can be helpful for planning meetups or staying connected while you play. Hours of operation extend from 4 PM to 2 AM every day, with openings year-round, so the venue fits a variety of schedules including after-work hangouts or late-night celebrations. For larger groups or special occasions, private event space is available, and reservations are accepted, which helps ensure your gathering runs smoothly without crowding concerns. The venue is also ADA compliant, making it accessible to guests with mobility needs.
How have guests reviewed their experiences at Headquarters Beercade?
With a strong rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on nearly 4,000 reviews, Headquarters Beercade clearly resonates with patrons who enjoy social gaming and craft beers. Guests frequently highlight the impressive array of vintage arcade and pinball games as a top attraction, noting the nostalgic and fun appeal of games from multiple decades. The fact that most games are free to play with a drink purchase is often praised as a great value and a unique selling point. Reviewers also appreciate the wide-ranging beer selection, describing it as one of the best in Chicago for craft beer lovers. Some critiques mention that the food is typical bar fare and not the primary draw, and while service experiences vary, the general sentiment is positive with attentive bartenders and staff. Importantly, many note that the venue is perfect for groups, ideal for casual hangouts or celebrations where entertainment and socializing can happen simultaneously. This strong track record of positive reviews positions Headquarters Beercade as a reliable choice for those seeking a vibrant and engaging meetup spot.
What special features or events make Headquarters Beercade stand out?
Headquarters Beercade doesn't just offer a static entertainment experience; it’s known for frequent events and a dynamic beer selection that keeps regular visitors coming back. Their beer drafts rotate often, meaning the beer menu is always fresh and exciting. Special events such as firkin festivals and themed parties add to the appeal, creating occasions where groups can rally around more than just games and drinks. The venue’s two-floor layout includes a special sultry lounge in the basement, providing variety in ambiance within the same visit. The fact that all this is available 365 days a year, seven days a week, shows a commitment to accessibility and convenience for guests of all types. Whether you want to host a private party or just drop in for a casual game night with friends, Headquarters Beercade adapts to your needs while delivering a fun, nostalgic, and engaging atmosphere that few other venues offer.
In summary, Headquarters Beercade offers a unique, fun-filled environment where friends and family can rally around vintage arcade games, craft beer, and good food, all while enjoying a spacious, lively, and inclusive atmosphere. Its mix of amenities, excellent location, and commitment to creating memorable group experiences make it an exceptional choice for any meetup.