Northern Lights Arcade

Northern Lights Arcade

Reviews Summary

The reviews show mixed feelings about this arcade. Many praise the fun experience for kids and family entertainment, but multiple complaints highlight high costs, misleading ticket systems, and expensive games that drain credits quickly. Some mention technical issues with ticket redemption and feel the value doesn't match the price. A few positive notes commend the staff and enjoyable gameplay, but overall, cost and transparency are major concerns.

About This Listing

Has Arcade Cabinets
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
Good for kids
Has Prizes
Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

100 Great Wolf Dr

Grapevine, Texas 76051

Hours

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

Customer Reviews

TOTAL RIP-OFF If you get the Paw Pass for like $60, you'll have enough credits to play perhaps five games. The credits seem cheap, but the bait and switch is that the games cost something like 15 credits to play, so when you have 60 credits and feel like you're going to be there for hours of fun, you're not. The guy at the counter is up-front about it, too. "Yeah, you'll only be able to play a couple of games with what you get with the Paw Pass. I recommend this deal to get more credits for another $30.

Absolute rip off! The water gun fun game gives out large tickets that say take to the counter to redeem for prize. On the game is a sign that reads ? win prizes here ? with several stuffed animals. When my daughter took her large yellow winning tickets to the counter she was told that the tickets are worth 100 small regular tickets. There are no specific prizes for the large yellow tickets. Very disappointing for children and misleading for adults. After spending $100 for a game card, my daughter left with

Large packages $125 for 600 paw points. Paw points average .20 each. Average games take 10 to 12 paw point per Play.

Great wolf penny pinches you for every activity, (ex:$15 parking, $15-$30 lockers, kids activities to start their wand game it's $17, then to purchase a wand it's $20-$60, then you gotta buy a power character for another $17, $30 pizzas, $14 chicken sandwiches, $10 normal sized soft pretzels, etc..) so when we went to the arcade and saw the cost of credits it seemed cheap. That is until we went over to play. The games take 7-15 wolf paws(credits) to play. So you zoom right thru. Then my son was playing the

There are a lot of great games to choose from and a really fun place for all of the family to be entertained. The system to get the game cards seemed to have some issues and very expensive respective to the number of tickets you can win and the cost of the prizes. A game would say you won 100 tickets but it only gave 98. Then when you scan the tickets in to the system it misses some as well. The arcade is great, but it seems if they just went with the ticket-less systems that most similar places have, i

This place is very expensive?you'll likely spend about $30 per person in just ten minutes. The prizes aren't worth it either.

While we go to Great Wolf Lodge for my kids to enjoy the water park, my husband and I enjoy the opportunity to sneak away at night and play arcade games as a sort of mini date. Of course, we are always spending our winnings on things for our kids. This time we had such an amazing experience. Caitlin, who appeared to be the head of the repair team tonight, did an AMAZING job at training Ethan while also getting everything done and managing the entire arcade with a relatively small staff. New repair person Et

Its a fun little experience for the kiddos. Doesnt really work well for adults as much because the play space is super small. The kids loved trying to make it to the end without setting off the lights. You just have to explain the concept before starting the game because it is timed.

It's more about tickets then arcade games!

Fun but expensive. They close too early.

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.