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Fun Zone Arcade & Game Room

Fun Zone Arcade & Game Room

Reviews Summary

The arcade receives mixed reviews, with many praising its friendly staff, clean environment, and fun games, especially for families. Positive experiences highlight nostalgic charm, helpful employees, and enjoyable party spaces. However, criticisms focus on high prices, limited game selection, and occasional poor management, like abrupt closures or unaccommodating staff. Some visitors feel recent changes, like digital-only systems and raised costs, detract from the experience. While many love the location and atmosphere, others find it outdated or overpriced.

About This Listing

Has Arcade Cabinets
Has Food
Good for kids
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.*

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 Arcade Cabinets
Has Food
Good for kids
Has Prizes
Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

709 Edgewater Pl

Newport Beach, California 92661

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

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

Customer Reviews

I would have given this 5 STARS a few years ago because we love visiting the Balboa Fun Zone Arcade in Newport Beach-it's been one of our favorite spots for years. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the prices used to be reasonable until recently. The staff, especially Beckham & Elliot, they are super nice and helpful- they went out of their way to address our concerns and made us feel heard. However, I'm disappointed that the arcade recently raised prices, eliminating all quarter machines and is now requires

Wonderful Experience! We recently hosted our girls' youth basketball team's Christmas party here in their brand-new event space, and it was an absolute hit! The space is modern, beautifully decorated, and perfectly suited for a large group. It gave us plenty of room for our team to gather, celebrate, and enjoy some fun together outside of the court. The Balboa Arcade team was incredibly accommodating and made sure every detail was taken care of. The kids had a blast playing arcade games, while the adults

Balboa Fun Zone Arcade is an amazing attraction to visit. There is a great selection of arcade games to play for all ages. I would highly suggest coming here for all families and friends alike. It is located in the center of Balboa Fun Zone. Thank you, and God bless Balboa Fun Zone Arcade!

Stopped by with my wife after lunch . It is a small center, but the staff were delightful and very helpful when we ran into issues with the photo booth (I believe Lisa and Cathy). Overall and enjoyable experience, which reminds me of why I love our hometown institutions.

Fun private party for a corporate event. Great venue.

Great place to visit with your kiddos! Had a great time and scored a nice shy guy from Nintendo ?? very inexpensive and had a great time ... Some games do not give you tickets but they allow you to have a good time special if you are competitive or like to play in teams ?? love the little doggy that was so welcoming and very well behaved ???? such a treat to see such a calm dog around kids and welcome you at the door as he soaks up a little bit of sun.

We were visiting the LA area from Canada with our toddler, and we stopped at this arcade while in Newport Beach. The employee was very good with our son and went above and beyond to make it a fun experience for him.

Alot of cool games, the arcade is very clean with modern fun games All the games were working very smoothly Extra + It's near all the ice cream shops The prizes were very cool aswell , The staff here is extremely friendly , will definitely be comming back here

My family has been going to this place for years. Every year, we were so excited to go to the fun zone arcade and win a bunch of tickets for less than $10. Today we went in and they completely redid the whole place. Everything was digital only now and the games were twice as expensive as before. I spent $10 and only played 4 games that lasted 30 seconds each. I played 1 game that awards tickets and only won 5, which wasn't enough to buy anything. The only good part was that the staff were super nice and gav

We decided to visit Balboa and this was such a fun place. The game attendant was super cool and helped my boys out. It was clean and updated, since I've visited years ago. We will return. Such a fun and friendly place. ??

This is such a quaint and fun arcade. The staff is always super happy, friendly, and helpful. Thanks everyone for keeping my childhood memories alive and allowing me to recreate them with my kiddos. Great job!!!??

Great experience! Fun clean and friendly! Owner/management went well above expectations when my 6yo wasn't using his card properly and scanning without playing. Thanks for a great clean place to stop in!

Fun Zone Arcade Management, I am writing to express my deep disappointment and frustration regarding an incident that occurred at your arcade on [date]. My purpose in writing this complaint is to highlight the urgent need for your staff to receive proper training in professional conduct and understanding children with special needs, particularly those with autism. Today, we visited your establishment with my non-verbal son, who has autism. We were excited to spend quality time together and enjoy the arcad

My daughter attended a bday party here and had a blast. Amazing customer service, location and experience. Thank you

Stopped in to visit. Honestly for the price, you're better off visiting other places. Games are limited and pricey. For $20 I got to play four arcade games only.

Lots of sanitizer available for customers to use, employees were constantly cleaning areas and were very friendly

So much fun! My husband and I went here as a final date night for our long weekend trip here. Loved the old school skee ball machines, Zoltar and getting a pressed penny. Also love the Ferris wheel. Cute way to end the trip.

I was at the arcade on Thanksgiving day. The arcade attendant told us the arcade would be closing in five minutes. We played the Big Bass Wheel arcade game about 5 more times and eventually won the 1000 ticket jackpot, all before the five minutes were up. However, the tickets were taking a while to come out. We asked the arcade worker to wait to shut off the machines because the tickets were still coming out. He just shrugged and turned off all the machines. Then, when we told him again that the tickets wer

my children felt super intimidated and mistreated by a young man who works there and his girlfriend. They had a face of few friends, they even looked like they were drugged, and they had a very bitter behavior! I think they shouldn't work in a children's place.

Average $25/ 8 (3.25% c card fee) games, it was OK, but limited.

Lods love it but pricey

Pretty good place for younger kids. Some of the snacks sold around here are really good. Beach is around the corner.

Fun arcade in a great spot, 5 minute walk from the beach with a great view.

Looks Very old,not worth the visit. They have to bring some new play machines,way behind?. Feels like 80?s

People friendly. A very nice place to visit.

We enjoy the boat company. They are the best!

Nice games for little kids to play. 6 yrs old, also for dad.

Closed. Empty space no games etc remain.

Don't bother trying the chance games. Not authentic to skill at all.

Favorite destination for our family right now.

Nice and clean alots of fun games

Super cool really fun !

730 pm on a Friday. Not open

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.”

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.