Back to Directory
Louisville Arcade Expo

Louisville Arcade Expo

Reviews Summary

The event receives mostly positive feedback, with many praising the nostalgic atmosphere, variety of games, and family-friendly fun. High ratings (4-5 stars) dominate, highlighting enjoyable experiences, talented vendors, and annual improvements. However, some criticize overcrowding, maintenance issues (non-working games), and the venue's size or cleanliness. A few negative reviews mention outdated games or poor value for the price. Overall, it’s a beloved event for arcade and pinball enthusiasts, though improvements in space and upkeep could enhance the experience further.

About This Listing

Has Retro Games
Has Fighting Games
Has Tournaments
Has Arcade Cabinets
Has Consoles
Has Food
Has Pinball Machines
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.*

What to Expect from Pinball Tables in Arcades

Step up to a pinball table and dive into a vibrant, hands-on experience! Modern machines, like those from Stern or Jersey Jack, feature dazzling LCD screens, immersive themes (Star Wars, Stranger Things), and dynamic soundtracks. You’ll use flipper buttons to launch a steel ball, aiming for targets, ramps, and bumpers to rack up points. Each table has unique missions—hit specific targets to unlock bonuses or multiball modes for high-scoring chaos. Expect tactile thrills, flashing lights, and a lively crowd vibe, with tables rewarding skill and quick reflexes. Perfect for casual fun or competitive play, pinball delivers timeless arcade excitement in 2025.

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.

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 Arcade Cabinets
Has Consoles
Has Food
Has Pinball Machines
Good for kids
Has Prizes
Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

1776 Plantside Dr

Louisville, Kentucky 40299

Visit Website Get Directions

Customer Reviews

Loved it! Was a great time playing some old school pinball games, Arcade games such as Mortal Kombat 2 & Cruisin USS, hitting up the different booths selling all kinds of merch from a variety of games as well as Anime, and watching the Adult costume contest was hilarious!! Definitely something everyone in and around the Louisville are should go to if you're interested in video games, arcade games, anime, and a lot more!!!

Call this guy. Heath helped me change out the rubbers on this cool Mata hari we went through the whole game and it's working like a champ.

This place will reveal things about you that you did not know about yourself. Let's hit the highlights: They have old video game consoles available to play on CRT TVs. You can have the nostalgic experience of playing an 80s game, on an 80s system, on an 80s TV with an 80s controller in your hand. If they had a way to microwave some Bagel Bites, in a loud Sharp microwave, wrapped in fake woodgrain, you would swear it was 1985. There are lots of classic arcade cabinet video games and everything is availab

I've attended the arcade expo with my 11 year old son for the past 3 years. I'm not sure which one of us has more fun when we go. The games bring back a lot of memories for me and introduce older games to my son he might not ever have ever had the chance to play if it weren't for the expo. If you are an avid video game fan like myself or even just a casual fan I suggest that you check it out. There is a lot of fun to be had by the entire family. From pinball to Atari to Playstation and everything in between

Decent selection of games and pinball, seems to be getting smaller every year yet more crowded. I think it's time this moved. Left due to crowds and cleanliness. About 15% of the games on the main floor were not working.

I meet amazing gamers every year I attend this show. Something for everyone. Freeplay pinballs and arcades, console game tournaments, console games for sale, cosplay contest, charity pinball raffle, trivia contest, vendors selling art and trinkets for your game room, and an IFPA sanctioned pinball tournament. Venue is a bit dated but for me, it just adds to the show's charm.

Went here for the Louisville Con about a week ago. It was fun but really crowded. Alot of cool, talented vendors as well and it was cool seeing all the people dressed up. Honestly, it need to be somewhere a little bigger next year. ??

Seemed smaller this year than last couple of years. But happy to have made the trip from LA.

Lots of games not working but no sign on them you just walk up and try to play only to waste your time. I'm born in the early 90s and most games I didn't have a clue about or know. It's for people born in like 1970 or 1980 maybe. the games are pretty ancient too. Poor quality graphics. Overall maybe worth 10 or 15 a person NOT 30 bucks.

If you love classic and modern arcade video game and pinball this is a great event to go to! We have been going for 10 years as a family and this event just gets better each year. We definitely look forward to going back year after year.

This was one of the best years at LAX. We spent the entire day here on Saturday. There was a really good selection of games and vendors. Can't wait to go next year!

An absolutely stellar show every year! Pinball, arcade, computers, consoles, local game devs, local vendors... It's an annual nostalgia bomb. The Friday night trivia is pretty damned good too ??

I had a great time at this event. I will go back next year. The venue was rough at times but still had a good time.

Awesome time with the kids, or of you want to spend a day or weekend solo playing every game, you grew up playing. Cheap entertainment and everything you need right there to make a day out of it.

Simply stunning, I live next to the convention center in san diego and come to louisville for this. Any simple minded idiots writing sub-par reviews of this should be ignored and sworn off into the void.

Exciting and unbelievably fun time.

Deff worth going to every year shuch a good event bigger and better every time

Amazing have been going the last couple years and will as long i live in ky

Literally no pictures of games or what the place offers. Who ever is in charge of they're web page sure has dropped the ball.??

Best weekend trip I've had in years!

Amazing. Would highly recommend for all ages

Fun games and pinball machines. Bowling Lanes.

Very crowded and rude people

I gotta go sometime.

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 pinball tables still good in this modern age?

Yes, pinball tables in arcades remain a blast. Their hands-on, skill-driven gameplay delivers a thrill digital games can’t match, blending nostalgia with modern flair. Newer tables from Stern and Jersey Jack feature LCD screens and themes like Avengers or Stranger Things, keeping things exciting. Arcades are seeing a pinball resurgence with vibrant scenes and tournaments like IFPA events drawing crowds. Though less common than video games, pinball’s tactile charm and community vibe make it a standout arcade experience in 2025.

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.

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.