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BHOP Esports | Hawthorn Mall

BHOP Esports | Hawthorn Mall

Reviews Summary

The venue is overwhelmingly praised for its diverse gaming options, spanning retro to modern consoles, rhythm games (especially DDR), and VR experiences. Staff are frequently described as friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. Many highlight the reasonable prices and family-friendly atmosphere, making it ideal for parties or casual visits. A few critiques mention equipment issues (mice, headsets) or pricing concerns, but most reviews emphasize the well-maintained machines and strong community vibe. Negative feedback focuses on occasional technical problems or staff attitudes, though these are rare compared to the enthusiastic endorsements. The space is celebrated as a unique hub for gamers of all levels.

About This Listing

Has Retro Games
Has Fighting Games
Has Tournaments
Has Consoles
Has Food
Good for kids
Has Virtual Reality
Has Rhythm Games
Has Prizes
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.*

What to Expect from Retro Games in Arcades

Step into the glow of retro arcade games and expect a nostalgic rush! Classics like Galaga, Donkey Kong, or Mortal Kombat await, housed in vibrant cabinets with joysticks, buttons, or trackballs. You’ll dodge enemies, chase high scores, or battle opponents in fast-paced, pixel-perfect gameplay. Modern restorations include sharp CRT or LED screens and authentic controls, preserving the 80s/90s vibe. Games are easy to learn but tough to master, offering quick sessions or deep challenges. With leaderboards and arcade crowds cheering, retro games deliver timeless fun in 2025.

Addendum: What to Expect from Rhythm Games in Arcades

Get ready to groove with rhythm games! Expect vibrant machines like Dance Dance Revolution or Pump It Up, featuring touchpads, dance platforms, or instrument controllers. You’ll tap, step, or hit notes in sync with catchy songs, guided by colorful on-screen prompts. Modern setups include LED screens, powerful speakers, and eclectic playlists, from pop to techno. Games range from beginner-friendly to expert-level challenges, rewarding precision and flair. With arcade crowds cheering and online leaderboards, rhythm games offer an electrifying, music-driven experience in 2025.

What to Expect from Virtual Reality in Arcades

Step into virtual reality for a breathtaking adventure! Arcade VR stations boast advanced headsets (like Oculus or HTC Vive), motion controllers, and sometimes full-body tracking or treadmills. You’ll dive into games like Beat Saber or VR shooters, swinging, dodging, or aiming in 360-degree worlds with vivid visuals and immersive sound. Gameplay spans solo quests to multiplayer battles, with intuitive controls for all levels. Arcades offer vibrant, social VR zones, delivering a thrilling, cutting-edge experience in 2025.

How Arcade Prize Games Work

Dive into the excitement of arcade prize games! Expect claw machines, skee-ball, whack-a-mole, or basketball challenges where you test your skills or luck to win tickets or prizes directly. Claw games require precise joystick control to grab toys, while redemption games reward accuracy with tickets to trade for plushies, gadgets, or trinkets at prize counters. Modern setups boast colorful displays and smooth mechanics, blending nostalgia with fresh fun. The thrill of winning and the vibrant arcade vibe make prize games a captivating draw in 2025.

Features

Has Retro Games
Has Fighting Games
Has Tournaments
Has Consoles
Has Food
Good for kids
Has Virtual Reality
Has Rhythm Games
Has Prizes
Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

506 Hawthorn Ctr

Vernon Hills, Illinois 60061

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Monday 2-11PM
Tuesday 2-11PM
Wednesday 2-11PM
Thursday 2-11PM
Friday 11AM-3AM
Saturday 11AM-3AM
Sunday 11AM-11PM

Customer Reviews

I like this place, and I say confidently top1 cyber cafe in Chicago and around 500 miles in USA. Debate me, if you want. Meantime, I would like to ask about monthly pass? Since I am there all day, every day. Can I get some better deal?)

I heard this place had a publicly accessible DDR Extreme cabinet, which is pretty hard to come by in 2024. I stopped by and had a blast. The machine was in really good condition, probably the best I've ever played on; it's obvious the people running this place really care about maintaining their machines and delivering a good player experience.

A fantastic community space with every type of game you can think of from retro to modern. Management is committed to giving you the best experience. Perfect for kid's birthday parties or just spending a couple hours.

One of the best dance game/esport places in the northern Chicago suburbs. Always sure to visit during school breaks. They hold tournaments for both rhythm games AND fighting games/FPSs. A bit hardcore but solid community as well, so don't be afraid to approach and ask about anything.

Best Rhythm Gaming in Chicago! All Nighter Fridays are awesome, and sometimes there's free pizza :)

Been coming here weekly to play their arcade rhythm games since the start of the summer and I absolutely love this place, if they have the games you want I can't recommend it enough. Prices are super affordable, staff are friendly, arcade machines are in great shape. Has a nice chill vibe, you can just come in and get started on the game you want with no interruption. The Overnights are a ton of fun.

Great place, great folks, I come here for the all nighters and there's a lot to do. They got a lot of old school consoles not to mention PCs and other rhythm game cabs. Bit far for where I am but they are one of the few locations with a public ITG dedicab and as far as I know, the only good public SMX cab in Illinois.

My boys and l loved this place. I took them for their birthdays last year and we're all going back this year

Discovered this place pretty recently and I need to say I found the gem. Great atmosphere, staff, tech. Variety of gaming consoles, dancing and music machines. Loved it. Definitely coming again ??

Went in and was greeted by the nice employee. Reasonable rates and gave a rundown on how the place operates. Lot of games to choose from but you can also download games if they don't have it installed. PCs specs are good and they have a ton of different consoles as well. Really cool atmosphere with everyone playing different games all over and being overall friendly. Definitely recommend, they even have dance dance revolution which I will come back and play!

Awesome place. Pay once, play all day or pay by the hour, dance machines, rhythm arcade games, classic and modern consoles, rock band, gaming PCs, cool staff, reasonable prices. This place is amazing.

I'm from out of town and found this place wondering around the mall. This place was a life saver as I was just in the area for two days sitting around doing nothing. Just wish I would have found it sooner. Tons of games for all platforms. Whatever you need you'll find it here. All the latest games too. Staff was also great and helpful. If I'm ever back in the area I'll definitely be coming back here.

Was okay. It was mind-blowing seeing a bonafide ITG machine after so many years, but the thing was just bogged down with so many garbage community simfiles it was almost impossible to find any official content with a full spread of difficulties on it. I really only wanted to play for an hour, but the entry fee for me was $10 no matter what ($15 if I wanted to play the other rhythm games), which felt like such a waste for regular play. I'm saddened that these are where the more obscure music arcade games hav

Staff is so welcoming! They are extremely knowledgeable about all the games and genuinely want everyone to have a good time. Anyone can come and enjoy themselves, no matter your previous gaming experience.

Such a fun gaming environment. Lots of options well maintained and clean. Friendly staff and reasonable prices.

Great variety of games, we came to play in the dance game lounge. Staff was accommodating to my young son and configured a game so he could enjoy it as well. :)

I brought my grade school son and his friends to BHOP for the first time today. They don't have much experience with computer gaming, but the staff was patient and really helpful so that they were set up and gaming in no time. The prices are very reasonable and all the kids had a great time. I highly recommend it!

I absolutely love this place, I first started coming a couple months ago and have been going ever since. I bring my little cousins with me and they always have a great time. They love the PC?s as well as other amazing technology they have available. The staff is great too, they are always very welcoming. Overall an amazing gaming center!!

BHOP has the best public dance game setup that has existed in chicagoland in the last 15 years. 10 dollars (at the time of writing this) for unlimited DDR/PIU/ITG/SMX is incredible.

I cant recommend this haven enough. For anyone who has held a gaming console, yes, even the daddys (and mommys), they have every console and popular game your childhood up to the present. And for those who would like to try games on a well built gaming pc rig, they have it here. Joe is also super friendly. And their rates are more than reasonable. Me and my family just had a blast with the dance dance revolution machine. We will be back.

Me and my friend came here to play some fifa to waste some time and the ps5 was broken and while he was fixing it the timer was still going and we barely got to play the game. Also service was poor

Coolest gaming lounge ever! I'm not a game person, and even I had fun. Guaranteed there is something for everyone. 10/10 recommend. Also, the staff is amazingly friendly and helpful.

This is the first esports venue that I have been to and it is so fun!! BHOP has a variety of games from OG Mario to DDR to VR; you will stay entertained for a long time. Their merchandise is also top-notch. I got a hoodie and wear it everywhere because it is so comfy!

Amazing staff, accommodated my team on a last minute notice. Really pleasant to work with.

Awesome space! Had so much fun trying the VR experience for the first time! Lots of game to choose from and the owner is helpful in teaching them too!

Respectfully, the mice had pretty bad sensors leading to unpleasant experiences during FPS games, the headsets started to hurt ears and head after a period of time. Otherwise place is pretty solid.

Good people good games. Staple in hawthorn mall

Bhop Esports has a great starting foundation for their business and one I am very much looking forward to seeing flourish and grow. My hope with Bhop's start it will keep neighboring businesses to push the best that they can be. I look forward to see the future of the business models of internet cafes as a whole and have confidence that Bhop will bring their hand to the table in full.

worker kept complaining about everything and started plugging random storms and kept acting like we knew nothing?

Place is great, workers not so much. (Except the very tall guy, he was super nice)

Great place to drop your kids off with a few bucks to spend on video games and ramen. This hosts are fantastic.

Friendly staff, lots of gaming options (including CRTs!), community events, and a nice community. Wish I had this in high school! ...Also a nearby Cinnabon.

Really had a good time here and there was no discord mods so that was pretty cool! You go bhop!

Excellent venue filled with a variety of awesome gaming experiences. Highly recommended!

Awesome place. Joe and company run a great place where you feel like you belong.

Great place, great staff, would come again??

Fun and friendly staff - Joe is a great dude

Great place to hang out! Refreshments are served and staff are pretty chill!

Probably the most affordable place to play dance games ($5 for the whole day)

Really dope place! Love the embrace of nerd culture and positive vibes!

My grandson loves to go there and play VR

This place has it all for your gaming needs and ddr for 5$ is solid!

It was so fun prices are cheap and I love it

I LOVE THIS PLACE AMERICA RAHHHHHHHHH

My grandson loved the place

The best place for gaming

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.”

Are retro games in arcades still good in this modern age?

Absolutely, retro games in arcades remain a thrilling draw in 2025! Classics like Pac-Man, Space Invaders, and Street Fighter II offer simple yet addictive gameplay, blending nostalgia with timeless challenge. Modern arcade cabinets often feature crisp displays and restored controls, enhancing the experience. These games thrive on quick reflexes and strategy, with vibrant pixel art and iconic soundtracks that spark joy. Arcades host tournaments and leaderboards, fostering a lively community. While modern games dominate, retro titles provide a unique, accessible thrill that keeps arcades buzzing.

Are rhythm games in arcades still good in this modern age?

Yes, rhythm games in arcades are a vibrant hit in 2025! Titles like Dance Dance Revolution and Beatmania deliver high-energy fun, blending music, movement, and precision. Modern machines boast vivid displays, booming sound systems, and diverse song libraries, from J-pop to EDM. They challenge reflexes and rhythm, with competitive leaderboards and tournaments fostering a lively community. Arcade dance floors are regularly packed, proving rhythm games’ immersive, physical thrill keeps them a standout in today’s gaming scene.

Are virtual reality games in arcades worth playing?

Yes, virtual reality (VR) games in arcades are a top attraction in 2025! Titles like Beat Saber and Half-Life: Alyx deliver immersive thrills with cutting-edge headsets, motion tracking, and responsive controllers. High-resolution displays and spatial audio create heart-pounding experiences, from slashing rhythms to battling zombies. Arcades feature multiplayer VR zones and tournaments, fostering lively communities. VR booths are regularly packed, proving their captivating, next-level gameplay makes them a must-try arcade experience.

Why are arcade prize games so exciting to play?

Arcade prize games are a thrilling highlight in 2025! Claw machines, skee-ball, and ticket-redemption games like basketball offer a rush of skill and chance, with rewards like plushies, toys, or electronics up for grabs. Modern machines feature vibrant lights, digital scoreboards, and responsive controls, amplifying the fun. The lively arcade atmosphere, with cheering crowds and buzzing energy, makes every win feel epic.