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Benton Parkade

Benton Parkade

Reviews Summary

The reviews show a mix of strong opinions. Many praise the extensive, well-maintained pinball collection, friendly staff, and clean atmosphere, often giving 5-star ratings. Several highlight the shared space with a good restaurant. However, negative reviews criticize the $1 per game pricing, occasional machine malfunctions, lack of staff assistance, and cold temperatures. While some find the cost justified for newer machines, others feel it drives customers away. Maintenance issues and poor service are recurring complaints, but fans appreciate the owner's dedication and the unique nostalgic experience.

About This Listing

Wheelchair Accessible

Who Can Play?

Most arcades welcome all ages (some may have age restrictions for certain games)
Minors may need parent/guardian supervision (policies vary by location)
No gaming experience required - games range from beginner to expert level
Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes recommended for safety
Valid ID may be required for certain attractions or age verification
Groups and parties welcome (advance booking may be required)

*Note: Age restrictions and policies may vary by arcade. Check with your local facility for specifics.*

First-Time Visitors

First-time visitors may need to sign a waiver or register for a game card. Staff are typically available to help explain games and provide tutorials. Some arcades offer newcomer specials or free play sessions to help you get started.

Common Restrictions:

Age-Based Some games may have height or age requirements for safety reasons
Capacity Popular games may have wait times during peak hours

*Note: Policies vary by arcade. Confirm with your local facility.*

What to Bring

Cash or card for tokens/credits (some arcades are cashless)
Valid ID for age verification or membership signup
Phone to capture high scores and memories (check photo policies)

*Note: Payment methods and requirements may differ by arcade.*

Preparing for Your Visit

Check arcade hours and peak times online before visiting
Eat beforehand or check if the arcade has food options
Bring friends for multiplayer games and competitions
Wear comfortable clothes you can move freely in
Avoid bringing valuable items that could be lost or damaged
Check for special events, tournaments, or discount days
Set a budget for games and stick to it
Stay hydrated, especially during long gaming sessions

*Note: Tips may vary by arcade type and location.*

How to Get Started

Most arcades accept walk-ins, but call ahead during busy periods or for large groups. Check for membership deals!

Other Helpful Info

Most visits last 1-3 hours depending on games and group size
Popular games may have longer wait times during weekends and evenings
Many arcades offer unlimited play packages or time-based pricing
Some locations host tournaments and special events regularly
Prize redemption available at many arcades - save your tickets!

*Note: Policies, pricing, and features differ by arcade. Contact your local facility for details.*

Features

Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

1900 Arsenal St

St. Louis, Missouri 63118

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Monday 11AM-10PM
Tuesday 11AM-10PM
Wednesday 11AM-10PM
Thursday 11AM-10PM
Friday 11AM-12AM
Saturday 10AM-12AM
Sunday 10AM-9PM

Customer Reviews

Hands down the best pinball in the city in terms of number of newly released machines. The owner maintains things actively and is very knowledgeable and friendly. Occasionally a couple of machines will be out of service but by the time I come back in a week or two they're working great again. The pizza from the attached bar is also great!

Absolutely not. I'm here on a Friday and the place is empty. Ya wanna know why? $1 games! They have a great selection but they'd have 8x the customers if they charged the standard $.50

(complaining reviews seem so petty) This site is a super clean, family friendly location with tons of animated artwork all over the ceiling and walls, lots of open space between machines, all the machines are well maintained in top working order, classic games are a quarter and pinball is a buck, along with a foosball and pool table. This establishment is cared for and it shows. Lots of pinball, mainly the newer Stern machines (leasing prob), but the older machines are in tip top shape and cared for - see

We were excited when we saw all the games but that excitement went away quickly when we realized all the games were a dollar each. The place was also absolutely freezing. ??. The air was blowing like we were in a walk in refrigerator! Miserable. When two of the machines took our money and didn't let us play, we went to the bar to get money back and were told they did not own the arcade. We did get back one dollar from them though. Where is the staff when someone experiences an issue? Will not be bac

Beautiful selection of pinball machines, $1 per game is just way to high for me. I would have loved to give this place more stars, but when I came in I wasn't greeted by anyone and the entire gaming section was literally empty. I went to the side window to get some change and I stood there for 5 minutes and no one came up so I got $20 worth of quarters went to a machine, put in a coin and it said 1/4 coins - add more?. I was like ?yeah they'll only get this one play out of me? so I paid the $1 to play and l

This pinball arcade was not listed on Google, I'm pleased to fix that! Next door is excellent food and full bar that is also the same business. excellent! Some pinballs need flippers/ ball launch rebuilt/fixed, but the playfields look in great condition. Enjoy and tell them Rob sent ya!

Really well maintained pinball machines! If you love pinball, you owe it to yourself to come here. Also, it shares space with a good restaurant. I played the new Venom pinball here.

Tons of pinball machines! Window service for pizza from the adjoined Piazza Cafe. Most pinball machines are the newer ones that cost $1.

Very cool atmosphere with tons of pinball machines. Very nostalgic!

Because it's pinball.

Incredibly fun. Great location. Nice staff. Wiil return.

Nothing works, not a big fan.

Awesome place! Loved it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s it like visiting an arcade today?

It’s a mix of nostalgia and high-energy fun! Many arcades blend retro classics like Pac-Man and pinball with modern VR games, racing simulators, and rhythm challenges — often with music, lights, and a social vibe.

Is it better to go alone or with friends?

Both can be great! Solo visits let you focus on your favorite games, while going with friends adds competition, teamwork, and laughs. Many people plan arcade meetups as a casual hangout or even date spot.

What should I bring to an arcade?

Usually just yourself and a way to pay (some arcades still use coins, others use cards or apps). If you're competitive, bring your A-game. If you're social, bring friends or meet new ones over multiplayer games.

What’s the best time to visit an arcade?

Weekdays or early afternoons are usually less crowded — perfect for focused play. Evenings and weekends bring the buzz, especially at barcades or venues with DJs, tournaments, or themed nights.

Can I meet new people at arcades?

Absolutely! Arcades attract a mix of casual players and serious gamers. Whether you're jumping into a four-player co-op or chatting between rounds, it's a fun, low-pressure way to connect over shared interests.

Are arcades still just for kids?

Not at all. While many arcades are family-friendly, there are also adult-oriented ones with full bars, 18+ nights, or vintage nostalgia themes. Arcades today cater to everyone — from first-timers to lifelong gamers.

Are there events or tournaments I can join?

Yes! Many arcades host regular competitions, retro nights, cosplay parties, and more. Whether you're into high scores or just want to watch and vibe, events add an extra layer to the experience.

What if I’m not great at arcade games?

No worries — arcades are about having fun, not being perfect. Try a variety of games, ask others for tips, and remember: the vibe is more “let’s play” than “let’s win.”