Up-Down Nashville: The Ultimate Retro Arcade Bar Experience in East Nashville
Written and verified by the Rallyvite editorial team using publicly available data and the business’s official website. Last updated: 04 Dec 2025 20:36
TL;DR: Up-Down Nashville Arcade Night is One of the Best Group Outing Venues near Nashville
Up-Down Nashville is a vibrant 10,000-square-foot arcade bar located at 927 Woodland St in East Nashville that offers a nostalgic yet lively atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends. This retro-themed venue features over 80 arcade games from the 1980s and 1990s, including classic pinball machines, four skee-ball alleys, and Nintendo 64 console gaming, alongside life-size games such as Jenga and Connect Four. All arcade games are operated at just 25 cents per play, making it an affordable and entertaining place to gather. The spacious, pet-friendly rooftop patio adds an exciting outdoor element where guests can relax. The bar serves an extensive selection of craft beers, bottles, and cans, as well as house-made pizza by the slice with unique toppings, crafted with in-house dough and premium quality ingredients. Open late every day (3 PM–3 AM on weekdays and 11 AM–3 AM on weekends), Up-Down Nashville is especially suited for casual meetups, celebrations, and events. Their flexible event hosting options can accommodate intimate groups to large parties with customization for team building, birthday parties, bachelor/bachelorette parties, holiday celebrations, and more. The combination of nostalgic gaming, great food and drinks, ample space, and a lively ambiance makes Up-Down Nashville a top destination for socializing and fun in Nashville.
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What people think of Up-Down Nashville, based on reviews
As of recent, Up-Down Nashville holds a 4.6-star rating based on 924 reviews.
Customer reviews of Up-Down Nashville consistently praise its unique arcade bar experience, emphasizing the exceptional variety and nostalgic appeal of the games that transport guests back to the ’80s and ’90s. Reviewers often highlight the affordability, with all games costing only a quarter to play, making it accessible for groups and individuals seeking casual entertainment. Patrons appreciate the lively atmosphere complemented by a robust selection of craft beers and delicious pizza slices, adding to the overall positive experience. The expansive, pet-friendly rooftop patio also receives favorable mentions as a great spot to unwind while enjoying a game or drink. Positive reviews tend to commend the friendly and accommodating staff, attentive service, and the venue’s versatility in hosting events of various sizes with tailored packages that fit diverse party needs. On the other hand, some negative feedback occasionally notes that during peak hours, the space can get crowded and noisy, which might detract from the experience for those seeking a quieter outing. A few guests have mentioned occasional waits for food or drinks, and some have found parking a bit challenging despite the nearby partnership with a parking lot for event patrons. Overall, the reviews conclude that Up-Down Nashville delivers a memorable and enjoyable arcade bar experience, balancing great entertainment with good food and drinks, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike who want a fun, retro social hangout.
How to reach Up-Down Nashville
927 Woodland St, Nashville, TN 37206, USA
FAQ about Up-Down Nashville, your new favorite meetup place for groups in Nashville, Tennessee
Nestled at 927 Woodland St, this arcade bar offers a unique experience that goes far beyond the typical bar or restaurant. With more than 80 arcade games from the ‘80s and ‘90s, pinball machines, classic skee-ball lanes, and even life-size Jenga and Connect Four, Up-Down Nashville is a playground for adults seeking a break from the ordinary. The venue’s pet-friendly rooftop patio adds a relaxed, open-air vibe, making it perfect for groups who want to enjoy both indoor and outdoor activities. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, planning a team-building event, or simply looking for a fun night out, Up-Down Nashville caters to every type of group. The affordable 25-cent games, extensive craft beer selection, and house-made pizzas with unique toppings ensure that everyone in your group will find something to love. The staff’s commitment to customizing events means your gathering will be tailored to your group’s preferences, whether you want a casual hangout or a full-on private party. With a stellar 4.6 rating from over 900 reviews, Up-Down Nashville has proven time and again that it’s the go-to spot for unforgettable group experiences.
Up-Down Nashville is a haven for anyone who loves arcade games, classic consoles, and interactive group activities. The venue boasts over 80 arcade games from the ‘80s and ‘90s, including timeless favorites like Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and Street Fighter. These games are rotated regularly, so there’s always something new to try, keeping the experience fresh for repeat visitors. In addition to arcade classics, you’ll find pinball machines that offer a nostalgic challenge for both beginners and seasoned players. For those who prefer console gaming, Up-Down Nashville features Nintendo 64 games on a giant projector screen, as well as rotating selections from Nintendo, Super Nintendo, and Sega consoles. This setup allows groups to gather around and enjoy multiplayer games together, fostering a sense of camaraderie and friendly competition. The venue also includes four classic skee-ball alleys, which are perfect for group challenges and lighthearted fun. Life-size Jenga and Connect Four add a physical, interactive element to the experience, encouraging teamwork and laughter. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or just looking for a casual way to unwind, Up-Down Nashville’s diverse lineup of activities ensures there’s something for everyone in your group.
Up-Down Nashville stands out as an ideal spot for group meetups because it offers a dynamic environment that caters to a wide range of interests and group sizes. The venue’s layout is designed to accommodate everything from intimate gatherings to large parties, with options to reserve a table, book a semi-private area, or even rent out the entire building for up to 300 people. This flexibility means you can tailor your event to fit the vibe you’re going for, whether it’s a relaxed hangout or a high-energy celebration. The staff is known for their attentiveness and willingness to customize events, ensuring that every detail is taken care of so you can focus on enjoying time with your friends. The pet-friendly rooftop patio is a standout feature, providing a relaxed space where groups can mingle, play games, and enjoy the outdoors. The affordable 25-cent games make it easy for everyone to participate without breaking the bank, while the extensive drink menu and house-made pizzas with unique toppings ensure that all tastes are satisfied. Whether you’re planning a birthday party, a team-building event, or a casual night out, Up-Down Nashville’s combination of fun activities, flexible event options, and welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect choice for any group meetup.
Up-Down Nashville’s food and drink offerings are a major highlight, adding to the overall appeal of the venue for group gatherings. The drink menu features an extensive selection of craft beers, as well as a wide variety of bottles and cans, catering to both beer enthusiasts and those who prefer other beverages. The bar also offers cocktails and non-alcoholic options, ensuring that everyone in your group can find something to enjoy. When it comes to food, Up-Down Nashville is known for its house-made pizzas, which are made from scratch with exceptional ingredients. The menu includes classic pizzas as well as adventurous options like Jalepeño Popper and Bacon Mac and Cheese, allowing groups to mix and match flavors to suit their preferences. For events, the staff works with you to create the perfect combination of pizzas, ensuring that your group is well-fed and satisfied. The pizzas are served hot out of the oven, adding a touch of freshness and warmth to your gathering. Whether you’re snacking between games or making a meal out of your visit, Up-Down Nashville’s food and drink options are designed to enhance the overall experience and keep your group happy and energized.
Up-Down Nashville is renowned for its ability to accommodate a wide range of events, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. The venue offers several event packages, including semi-private tables, early open bookings, and full building rentals, allowing you to choose the option that best fits your group’s needs. For smaller gatherings, a semi-private table provides a dedicated space for your group to enjoy games and food without the hassle of a full reservation. Early open bookings are perfect for team-building events or office parties, giving your group exclusive access to the bar during the afternoon. For larger celebrations, renting out the entire building ensures that your event is truly unique and memorable. The staff works closely with event organizers to customize every detail, from game selection to food and drink options, ensuring that your event runs smoothly and meets your expectations. Whether you’re planning a birthday party, a bachelorette celebration, or a corporate event, Up-Down Nashville’s flexible event options and attentive staff make it easy to create a one-of-a-kind experience for your group.
The atmosphere at Up-Down Nashville is a key factor in its popularity as a group meetup spot. The venue’s blend of retro arcade games, modern amenities, and a welcoming, inclusive vibe creates a space that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. The pet-friendly rooftop patio adds a relaxed, open-air element, making it easy for groups to unwind and enjoy the outdoors. The venue’s commitment to rotating its game lineup ensures that there’s always something new to discover, keeping the experience fresh and exciting for regular visitors. The affordable 25-cent games and extensive drink menu make it accessible for groups of all budgets, while the house-made pizzas with unique toppings add a touch of culinary creativity. The staff’s friendly and attentive service further enhances the overall atmosphere, making everyone feel welcome and valued. Whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor, Up-Down Nashville’s unique atmosphere ensures that every group meetup is a memorable and enjoyable experience.