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Cosmo Joes Arcade

Cosmo Joes Arcade

Reviews Summary

The reviews present a mixed consensus. Many praise the friendly staff, late hours, and occasional big wins, with several mentioning free food and a welcoming atmosphere. However, negative reviews highlight tight machines, poor service, and feeling ripped off, with some criticizing cleanliness and inconsistent payouts. While some visitors enjoy the experience and return often, others vow never to return due to dissatisfaction. The overall sentiment leans positive but is tempered by notable complaints.

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

5505 Manatee Ave W

Bradenton, Florida 34209

Get Directions

Hours

Monday Open 24 hours
Tuesday Open 24 hours
Wednesday Open 24 hours
Thursday Open 24 hours
Friday Open 24 hours
Saturday Open 24 hours
Sunday Open 24 hours

Customer Reviews

What a great room! Happened to win some, but even if we didn't that's gambling and the room is great! Jennifer & her dog were such a warm & kind presence!

I love the Sam, Angie and Isaac they are awesome! I win a good amount at this location also they are open 24/7!!!

Fun place! People working there are very pleasant and others playing are also there to have fun (for the most part)!

We love going to Cosmo's after work.. usually between 12 and 2am. A great place to unwind and win! Always smiling faces and great laughs. Cole and Lisa, Xavier, Warren, Loretta and Loretta Jr. LOL.Sorry about that Jr. We never asked your name!! ???? Thank you all for being YOU!! ?

Depending on who is working. Every employee is pretty good and does their job. One dark-haired female usually nowhere to be found when you are ready to leave and cash out.

This is the best place to go to when you want to do the penny slots that actually pay you your money on the spot. I've already won several thousand dollars are. And I had a friend of mine that one over $40,000 in there are the payouts are good the staff is friendly I just like going to this place I won't go anywhere else

Fantastic games and big wins a plenty!!! Nice little hideaway from the daily grind.

Well, I'm not about throwing money away. It was clean, lit well for what it was, free (old because I went really late) food and coffee. I just didn't get the whole situation. Insert money for basically a slot machine that you hit a button and pray you hit more than you bet. The buttons aren't well lit for you to choose what you want to bet so I basically could only see the "max bet" button and burned through my $20 in less than 3 minutes. I put aside $100 when I walked in, but after sitting down an

If you want to win DO NOT GO HERE. I play at 5 or 6 different arcades, yes sometimes you loose and sometimes you win. This place I have NEVER won ANYTHING. The machines are way too tight. I wouldn't recommend unless you are extremely rich and want to throw your money away.

This is the only Arcade opened late and/or all night. They do shut down at 5:30 a.m. to do paperwork. Re-open at 8 a.m., they say give them an hour but it usually is 8. But while waiting you can take a walk or drive to Duncun donuts in the same parking lot. They open at 5:30 a.m. It is an okay place pending on what night and whom is working. Cause sometimes the.people can be rude and/or the employees. It is a hit or miss kinda-of Arcade on the machines paying out. Though that is why they call it gambling.

My husband and I Went to this gambling Place for the 4th time this evening. This time we were warned by a lady who claimed to work there. The only food we were allowed to eat was spaghetti that was pre plated and cold There was a nice buffet set up with hot food that only her friends were allowed to have. Help themselves! We have spent a considerable amount of money HERE! To be treated so rudely was unacceptable! We will not go back! The music was LOUD so loud that the man could not hear my husband yell cas

Love this place.. it's my home away from home lol I'm always there? have had some pretty good wins here.. no complaints

Their positive reviews are fake. They are run by a bunch of low-budget scam artist. Do not waste your money going there. You will either get ripped off or get ripped off. There is no in-between. Take your money elsewhere

Great place , slot are hot ...fun time out ..they offer free snacks and beverages have pizza or chicken 5 or 6 night and for lunch they usually have subs ...for anyone playing the slots ...the owners Cole and Lisa very nice people ..stop in ..

Not cool!! We tried several times to cash out, the chic would not cash us out. Terrible service.. been here several times, never been treated like this!! Done!!

Cosmo took my money.... Bc thats his. Business and. Business is good. So if you feel like throwing your money away just give it to me and I'll put it to good use and buy somthn worth while

Have hit 500+ numerous times, #1 on my arcade list. Ask at counter for a soda or bottled water, sometimes pizza and other food for the customers. Friendly atmosphere.

Great atmosphere, friendly staff, but the air conditioning is not quite working. Will definitely go again.

I enjoy the late hours here. The air was broken the last time I was there and the machines kick out alot of heat but I still enjoy myself.

great place open late and the new promos are the best can't wait to be back winning Everytime I go favorite spot in Bradenton by far!!!!

Great people... Dont always win but they serve breakfast..lunch and dinner.. They serve drinks no alcohol thou

This place is getting very tacky. Nowhere near as clean and hospitable it was when it first opened up. I miss the very pleasant ladies that use to work there.

It was ok very dark staff wasn't very helpful nor did he seem like he wanted to be there. Playing on his phone was more important.

Great promos... Great accomodations...free beverages,snacks,and breakfast-lunch-dinner servered ... Best of all ... Win,winner,and winning...it is all good ??..

Very professional and friendly,great place to play!!! Day after day after day Awesomeness.

Absolutely enjoy coming here not always a win but we you hit you hit

Machines really tight .. Feed bills in.....might win a dollar:( Was much more fun a few years ago. Today....last time for me!!

Great atmosphere with big payouts

I won quite a bit of money and enjoyed free food..

Great fun! Friendly staff, fresh coffee ??

Its okay i used to win more often when not so many people go. But now it always seems so busy. Maybe cause half the seating ???

Great staff, they make you feel at home

Win all the tim e love how it's open late

Good service great place keep up the good work

Friendly helpful staff Left with way more than I spent!!!!!

Great place to lose money lol

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.”