When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Retro Game Bar
Why Retro Game Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Retro Game Bar offers a unique and immersive entertainment experience that perfectly blends nostalgia with a social atmosphere, making it an outstanding place to meet up with friends. Featuring over 1000 classic video games from the 1970s, 80s, and 90s, all presented on original consoles, it provides guests with authentic gameplay that transports them back to the golden era of arcade gaming. The extensive collection spans multiple generations of gamers, ensuring there is something fun and familiar for everyone. This large selection creates a dynamic environment where friends can challenge each other, reminisce, and bond over shared gaming passions. Beyond the games, Retro Game Bar nurtures a welcoming ambiance designed specifically for social gatherings, offering a full bar with carefully curated craft beers and cocktails to complement the gaming experience. Its vibrant yet cozy atmosphere makes it ideal for casual hangouts, parties, and celebrations. The venue’s well-thought-out layout encourages interaction and engagement among guests, fostering both friendly competition and communal enjoyment. In addition, regular special events and themed nights provide fresh excitement and reasons to return. Overall, Retro Game Bar is more than just an arcade; it’s a cultural hotspot that revives the joy of classic gaming while providing a perfect social space for friends to unwind and connect.
Here's what people think of Retro Game Bar
As of recent, Retro Game Bar holds a 4.8-star rating based on 430 reviews.
User reviews for Retro Game Bar consistently highlight the exceptional quality and variety of the classic games offered, with many praising the authenticity of playing on original consoles. Visitors appreciate the nostalgic journey the bar offers, noting how it appeals to both longtime gamers and newcomers intrigued by retro culture. The friendly and knowledgeable staff receive frequent commendations for enhancing the overall experience through their enthusiasm and helpfulness. Positive reviews often mention the vibrant atmosphere, the well-maintained machines, and the thoughtfully curated drink menu, which includes a variety of craft beers and creative cocktails that pair well with the gaming vibe. Many users find it to be an ideal spot for socializing, celebrating birthdays, or just relaxing with friends while enjoying their favorite classic games. On the other hand, some negative feedback focuses on occasional crowdedness during peak hours, which can make accessing popular machines challenging and create noise levels that might not suit everyone. A few users have noted that seating can sometimes be limited, and waits for certain games may be long. However, these critiques are generally balanced by the overall positive impressions of the venue’s quality and ambiance. In conclusion, the overwhelming majority of reviews attest to Retro Game Bar’s success in delivering a memorable and fun nostalgic gaming experience coupled with excellent social and beverage offerings, making it a highly recommended destination for retro game enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Taylor Frederick
Wow what a neat concept and awesome place! You pay a flat rate per person to pkay any games for the whole night, and then can pay for food & drinks if you like. My mom and I had an absolute blast; she got to show me all these old games she would play as a kid, including Toejam & Earl. We absolutely loved getting to pick from so many consoles and games, moving between tables and couches. The staff were so helpful and I love that they set it up for you (so make sure to tip!) I will definitely be going again and I've been recommending it to everyone! The food wasn't bad either; very hearty and good meal for your money.
Jakob Chiasson
I visited Portland for the first time and found this gem of a place! The vibe is excellent, the food is excellent, the drinks are excellent, the staff is excellent, and the game selections are excellent. If you want to play video games with your friends, this is the spot to do it! They have every console you could think of, and all of the hit games for each of the consoles! Definitely a great place for a first date, or for hanging out with your friends! They keep everything clean and offer sanitized wipes for controllers. They also have a private room with every console as well as rock band/guitar hero!
Lana N
We really enjoy the cool vibes, tasty/affordable food, and well maintained gaming systems/diverse games. It’s a great date night spot or casual friends-hangout place. The service has always been friendly and willing to help with system setup and game recommendations. Good for small or very large groups. Also there are cocktails, mocktails, beer, wine, cider, and soft drinks.
Alanna Risse
Super fun bar full of video game consoles and some arcade-style games. You pick out your game from a locked case, tell a bartender, and they get it for you, plus controllers, and get the game running for you. They ask you not to touch the consoles. They can be slow to get to you depending on how busy it is. We were completely forgotten once. The arcade games are home models and are very light weight so they wiggle around a lot. There’s a back patio for smokers (and those that don’t mind smoke) and I believe it’s heated. They serve alcohol, beer and cider, but not a robust selection. We didn’t eat any food but it’s got cute names and looks tasty. There are couches and tables to choose from. Lots of old consoles too; multiple console choices per table. All in all a really fun place!
Chance
Super quiet on a Wednesday night. They had a large selection of consoles, games, and stations. Staff was friendly and I would love to return again. Only had an order of their fries so I'm not sure what the food is like. Hope to find out next time. :)
How to reach Retro Game Bar
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Why Retro Game Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Retro Game Bar with your friends?
Retro Game Bar stands out as an exceptional place to gather with your friends because it offers a unique blend of nostalgic gaming, craft cocktails, and a vibrant social atmosphere, all under one cozy roof. Imagine stepping into a space that instantly transports you back to the golden era of video games, where you can relive childhood memories or discover classic titles you may have missed. The bar cultivates a welcoming and fun environment where groups can bond over shared interests in retro gaming, skillful gameplay, and delicious drinks. This isn’t just a bar; it’s a nostalgic playground designed for connection, laughter, and friendly competition. With a stellar rating of 4.8 from over 430 reviews, the consistently positive feedback highlights how well the staff cater to their guests and how the combination of tasty food, inventive drinks, and endless gaming options makes every meetup feel special and memorable. Whether you seek a casual night out or an epic game night showdown, Retro Game Bar provides the perfect setting for friends and family to rally together and create lasting memories.
What activities does Retro Game Bar offer that make it perfect for group meetups?
At Retro Game Bar, a variety of engaging activities make it an ideal gathering spot for groups. Foremost is their extensive collection of over 1,000 vintage video games spanning original consoles from the 1970s through the 1990s. The games are presented on authentic hardware enhanced with HD RetroVision cables to deliver vivid, high-quality visuals — recreating the experience just as you remembered. From classic arcade favorites to beloved home console games, guests can freely enjoy titles on platforms such as the NES, Sega Genesis, PlayStation, and more. This broad library ensures there’s something for everyone regardless of gaming preference or skill level. Beyond gaming, the venue also features board and table games, allowing groups to mix up the fun and challenge each other away from the screens. To complement the play, Retro Game Bar boasts a thoughtfully curated menu of inventive drinks—some inspired by video game characters—and surprisingly noteworthy food options including vegan dishes. This combination of gaming, socializing, themed cocktails, and good eats forms a dynamic atmosphere tailored for groups to engage, compete, and relax together in a friendly, welcoming space.
Why is Retro Game Bar’s atmosphere ideal for groups?
The atmosphere at Retro Game Bar is a major draw for meetups because it strikes a delicate balance between nostalgic charm and lively social energy. The decor and layout evoke the warm familiarity of a friend’s game room filled with classic consoles and retro memorabilia, which immediately sparks conversation and camaraderie. Unlike louder club venues, Retro Game Bar offers a cozy yet vibrant setting that encourages interaction rather than isolation—bartenders are not only skilled but also exceptionally friendly and engaging, fostering an inclusive community vibe. The lighting and seating arrangements are designed for groups to comfortably gather, whether at booths or around communal tables, making it easy to share games, food, and drinks. The bar supports a diverse crowd and even offers a transgender-safe, LGBTQ+ friendly environment, further enhancing its appeal as a safe, welcoming place for all kinds of groups. Live performances and occasional karaoke events add an extra layer of entertainment that groups can enjoy together. All these elements combine to create an environment that not only celebrates retro culture but also the joy of social connection, perfect for spending quality time with friends and family.
What food and drink options elevate the experience for groups?
The food and drink offerings at Retro Game Bar significantly enhance the group meetup experience by providing delicious sustenance and creative cocktail choices that suit a wide range of tastes. The kitchen serves surprisingly good bar food that complements the gaming vibe, including crowd-pleasers like flavorful spring rolls and unique vegan options such as Japanese curry and seitan rice bowls, accommodating diverse dietary preferences. This means that even plant-based or health-conscious guests can partake fully without compromise. On the beverage side, the bar specializes in craft cocktails cleverly themed around video game characters—each mixed with skill to deliver strong, tasty drinks that add to the fun and immersive atmosphere. Signature cocktails like “FIREFLOWER,” “Bowser’s Breath,” and “PS3” are favorites among regulars and newcomers alike. The staff’s ability to customize and recommend drinks based on individual preferences ensures everyone in a group finds something enjoyable. This careful curation of food and drinks not only fuels extended play sessions but also contributes to the overall festive and relaxed vibe, making diners and drinkers feel right at home and energized for hours of entertainment.
How does Retro Game Bar cater to private events and large gatherings?
Retro Game Bar understands the needs of groups looking for a more exclusive or structured meetup, which is why it offers private event spaces and flexible arrangements suited for birthdays, corporate outings, or casual celebrations. The venue can accommodate varied group sizes, providing an intimate area where friends or family can enjoy uninterrupted gaming and socializing. These private spaces come equipped with a curated selection of classic consoles and games, ensuring guests can indulge in their favorites without waiting. The bar staff are proactive and friendly, often working with event organizers to tailor menus, drink selections, and entertainment to fit the occasion and guest preferences. Moreover, the venue operates extensive opening hours that include all-ages periods on weekends, making it accessible for families and younger attendees during daytime, while weekday evenings cater exclusively to 21+, providing a versatile environment for different types of gatherings. The availability of amenities such as free and ample parking, plus a trendy yet cozy atmosphere, further simplifies logistics and enhances convenience. All these features make Retro Game Bar an excellent choice for anyone wanting a memorable, hassle-free meetup with friends or loved ones.
What makes Retro Game Bar stand out among other gaming or nightlife venues?
Retro Game Bar’s distinctive combination of authentic retro gaming, exceptional hospitality, and creative beverage service sets it apart in the crowded landscape of nightlife and entertainment venues. Unlike typical bars or arcades, it integrates the nostalgia of vintage video games with modern touches like HD cable enhancements and a curated library spanning nearly four decades of gaming history. This dedication to authenticity appeals to both older gamers longing for the classics and younger audiences curious about gaming culture’s roots. Additionally, the staff’s enthusiasm and genuine engagement with guests contribute to an unparalleled atmosphere of warmth and inclusivity. The venue’s consistent high rating of 4.8 out of 5, backed by hundreds of glowing reviews, reflects broad customer satisfaction regarding everything from drink quality to game variety to the friendliness of the environment. Furthermore, Retro Game Bar’s ability to offer themed cocktails and vegan-friendly food choices demonstrates attention to detail and thoughtfulness toward diverse customer needs. In all, it’s not just a place to drink or play games—it’s a community hub where retro culture thrives and friendships grow, making it distinctly memorable in the social scene.
How accessible and convenient is Retro Game Bar for groups?
Accessibility and convenience are key attributes that make Retro Game Bar an excellent choice for group outings. The location provides plenty of free parking, making it easy for attendees who drive to reach the venue without hassle or stress over parking availability. It accepts credit cards for smooth transactions, which is important for groups sharing bills or splitting payments. The bar operates daily during evening hours, accommodating after-work or weekend get-togethers, and opens to all ages on weekend daytime hours, offering flexible scheduling options depending on your group’s needs. Additionally, the staff speaks English, removing potential communication barriers especially for tourists or international groups, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and well-served. The venue’s LGBTQ+ and transgender-safe policies further guarantee that all guests are welcome and respected. Whether planning a casual night or a special event, Retro Game Bar’s combination of logistical ease and inclusive policies ensures that groups can focus on having fun without worrying about external inconveniences.
In summary, Retro Game Bar is a top-tier destination for anyone seeking a unique, fun-filled, and inclusive space to meet up with friends or family. Its blend of authentic retro video games, impressive drink and food offerings, friendly staff, and supportive community vibe create the perfect backdrop for memorable social experiences. From casual hangouts to private celebrations, this bar offers everything needed to rally your friends, relive cherished gaming memories, and enjoy quality time together.