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Ottumwa Old School Arcade

Ottumwa Old School Arcade

Reviews Summary

Most reviews praise the arcade for its nostalgic atmosphere, friendly staff, and great value, with many highlighting the variety of classic games and family-friendly environment. The $10-$12 all-day wristband is frequently mentioned as a major plus. However, some criticize the maintenance of machines, noting broken or out-of-order games, while others dislike the location or owner's attitude. Despite a few low ratings, the overwhelming sentiment is positive, with many calling it a fun, affordable, and unique experience.

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

1100 N Quincy Ave

Ottumwa, Iowa 52501

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday Closed
Friday 3-6PM
Saturday 11AM-6PM
Sunday Closed

Customer Reviews

This place takes me back to the 90s as a child! Everything from the classic arcade games to the corner that is decorated to look like a 90's living room, complete with wooden looking wall paneling, N64 on the coffee table, console tv and to top it all off, classic knit afghan on the back of the tacky looking couch!!! From ski ball to air hockey, pinball to Tekken 3, you'll take a step back while taking a step forward! And all of this fun and excitement for a very reasonable day price! The staff are great, t

Such a fun place! Lots of old school games. Skee-Ball and air hockey and super affordable!!

Great place to revisit the vintage style arcade. Staff was wonderful and the prices are good. (highly recommend the supreme combo) I bring my nephews here almost every weekend to game it up and play laser tag. Support local business

I got to visit this amazing place yesterday. One of the best looking arcades I've seen. The lighting is just right and they have some quality games in there (Pinball and Arcade cabinets). I can't wait to go back when I have more time! Arcades are my heaven on earth.

Amazing place to relive old times in the arcade. Only better because you don't need a pocket full of quarters. They also have miniature golf and laser tag. I noticed on this trip, they can host birthday parties as well. Love coming here.

We love playing games here anyway, but we just had a birthday party here and it was great! The kids loved having all the games on free play, and they were having so much fun they didn't even want to stop for cake! I love the family atmosphere and I know Old School Pinball and Arcade strives for that. You're doing an excellent job!

Had a good time here. Family friendly environment. Was greeted warmly. Its pay for admission with games set to free to play, so don't bother with quarters or tokens. Lots of racing games, old school games, a handful of shooters, beat 'em ups, and pinball. Great supplemental games including air-hockey, giant Jenga, and a N64 setup for 4 players. Only negatives are that a few games weren't in order and the selection of fighters were lacking with only Tekken 3 that I noticed.

Love this place. Ottumwa had been needing something like this for a long time. I mean this is the video game capital of the world. I've seen so many parents bring their kids in and stay most of the day hanging out spending time with the family. Family friendly environment and the staff is great. If you haven't ever been here you should totally check it out. Awesome time for everyone.

Totally love it here! Last time I was here with my friends I got the high score on fix it Felix jr which was totally rad. Everyone is nice here and they have a great selection of games! Unlike most places, if you tell the people at the front a game is broken, they'll try to fix it immediately!

Outstanding place to hang out and meet people! $10 to play all day. Old school to new school there is stuff for everyone to enjoy! Whether your game is pac man, guitar hero, or just fancy a game of air hockey, you definetly need to go get your game on! Snacks and drinks for sale as well!

My girls and I love coming here. Was a big relief that Ottumwa needed for kids to have a place to get out of the house and enjoy socializing. While having fun and laughs. The staff is amazing and we will be back often.

Probably one of the worst "arcades" ive been too the owner is super rude its literally in a abandoned mall. Small suggestion maybe smile and be polite

Had a great time with family!! Thank you Terry and staff.

This place is so much fun!! It only costs $12 to get in for the entire day, and all of the games are free! It was a big hit of nostalgia on me, and it's definitely going to be a place I visit again!!!

Love the game selection. Would give 5 stars but location is terrible.

Great place to take the kids for fun cheap entertainment. All staff are fun and friendly when you come in. Best part they will tell you what their favorite game is they like to play.

Many out of order machines or broken things ,shifter doesn't work on 2 of the 3 racing machines I tried. Three broken pinball machines. You all need to put some money in your machines instead of expanding.

They are a great place to go great atmosphere the owner is very nice and respectful I love going there and I'm hoping they're doing something special on December 31st which is today because it's my birthday

For $10 it is a great place to spend time playing old school games. Place gives you a wristband to play the whole day for that price, which is very reasonable.

Came in for Pinball. All games but 3 of them were down for maintenance. The playable pins were not level at all. The other games in there were poorly maintained and alot of them were not working either.

?? Amazing!!! At first sight I was breathless. A little piece of heaven from my youth!!! I'm so grateful a Vintage arcade still remains! My hats off to this Establishment!!!

Had a great time! Something fun to do in Ottumwa and prices are reasonable. Highly recommended!

Very clean and has quite a variety of games, fun for the whole family!

It's a fun place to hang out if you like video game from back in the day

Awesome place! So many great games!

Fun place to kill a couple of hours.

Kids had a great time as well as my wife and I.

Decent selection of games. Was a little warm in there.

Grate arcade. Im glade my kids could experience the game i grew up playing.

Very few fighting games, no ddr. Had guitar hero.

Very friendly staff and great equipment - thanks

Wristbands for arcade. Other games inside.

It has all the game that you could want

Absolutely Fabulous !!!!

Its always a time warp.

Everything was broke down

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.”