*Note: Age restrictions and policies may vary by arcade. Check with your local facility for specifics.*
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.
*Note: Policies vary by arcade. Confirm with your local facility.*
*Note: Payment methods and requirements may differ by arcade.*
*Note: Tips may vary by arcade type and location.*
*Note: Policies, pricing, and features differ by arcade. Contact your local facility for details.*
1137 4th St
San Rafael, California 94901
This place was super cool. Good drinks, great system, friendly owner. Great aesthetics, good music, and even their bathroom was clean and modern. Sip bevs and play games. I saw there was a Tron machine that was out of order which was a shame because I'm a huge fan. We were under the impression that there wasn't any food here, but sure enough there was 2 food menus. We ordered the garlic parmesan fries and split it between the 3 of us and thank goodness because there was a ton. Haha. They were hot and SUPER
We're so glad we found Pixels Arcade Bar what an awesome hidden gem! From the moment we walked in, the vibe was fun, laid-back, and welcoming. The staff was one of the true highlights of the night genuinely friendly, super helpful, and clearly passionate about creating a great experience for everyone who walks through the door. They made us feel like regulars right away, and that personal touch really stood out. The bar itself is clean, well-designed, and has an impressive selection of beers to choose from
Very cool arcade for those of us who love pinball and retro stand-up arcade games. Met a group of friends here and stayed for several hours. Very cool concept. ?? the pizza we ordered was from StateRoom across the street, it was really good thin crust [Italian style] pizza that arrived in less than 15 min. You pay 10$ or 15$ and play as much as you like. The pinball games in the front of the store are a little extra, the pinball in the middle of the arcade are not extra. I liked the pinball arcade.
Pixels offers a fun, nostalgic arcade experience with a great selection of games and a very friendly and welcoming staff. It's perfect for parties or casual hangouts :D
Nice spot! The self pour bar was good and pizza from across the street was delicious. Great selection of old school games and the multi cabinet at the end had ~700 titles. Had a blast!
Cool idea, just with limited options. I love the unlimited gameplay and the pour your own beer dynamic where you pay by the oz. That said, ultimately I found they had much less diversity in options relative to a lot of places in SF. There's pinball, old times arcade games (eg pacman, donkey Kong) and then not much in else. Would be cool to see it in a larger space where you aren't bumping into folks even though there are only 8-10 individuals there.
Stumbled across this place when looking for things to do in San Rafael. This place is a gem and brought me back to my childhood days. We had so much fun and for one evening, I felt like a kid again. Would definitely visit again!??
Freshly opened as of late March 2024. A great space with a well-curated selection of pinball and classic arcade machines, and a great vibe. Fantastic addition to downtown San Rafael!
Awesome little place. Pac-man, Galaga, Terminator, PS4's, Basketball and much MUCH more! Didn't get to experience it all sadly cuz I was busy. Owner gave me a military discount too, which is rare. Fly high!
easily one of the best adult micro brew arcades in the bay area. Burger time and donkey Kong is going to crush you.
If you are a kid at heart or have some kids this is a great place to hang out and relax. They even have beer! Clean bathroom and fun decor, lots of retro games.
Had a great time tonight! This is a really fun addition to downtown. My only wish is for more food options for delivery and more basketballs for the NBA Hoop game. Will definitely be back.
What a fun place to bring buddies or have a corporate event. Everyone gets a wristband and can pour your own beer while you play unlimited video, pinball, board and console games Bring a date or meet one here.
Celebrating my Birthday at Pixels was a blast! The mix of vintage and cutting-edge games catered to everyone's tastes, creating an electrifying atmosphere. The staff were stars, ensuring the event ran without a hitch. It was a night filled with joy, laughter, and a dash of nostalgia, making for a truly memorable birthday. If you're looking for a place to host a party that's both fun and unique, this arcade is a winning choice.
Awesome waves of nostalgia upon entry. Great games and great atmosphere. I'll be going back soon.
I have been to a lot of retro arcades, and this one really stands out. Not only are his games in top shape (mostly original games) he provides a nostalgic atmosphere with retro 80s tables, stickers, a Star Wars wall that says "A long time ago in a childhood far far away". ...He really wants to tug at our nostalgic strings and he did a very good job. They sell single beers and snacks. They even have a board game table. I am so happy I live 3 blocks away from here. I will be returning often to play.
Great assortment of arcade games and craft beer. No need for quarters. The games themselves are free; instead, you pay an admission fee, which is pretty reasonably priced. It varies depending on when you go there, starting at $7 at opening time to $12 from 6pm to closing. The only downside is that it's not a very large space, so it can feel a little cramped when it's really busy.
Pixels is the perfect place to be a big kid. Experience all your favorites like you remember. Selection is amazing and you can tell the owner is deeply invested and cares. I would give more stars if I could!
Fun place and cool games. Staff was awesome.
Fun gaming atmosphere! With helpful food options. :)
A great opening day. Definitely worth going to see
Great beverage selection and enjoy some of the best classic arcade/pinball machines around! Best place to get your gaming nostalgia fix.
Very nostalgic games? loved the pinball machines great for friends and meeting new people. Good location
Super friendly staff, fantastic selection of games, great pricing. I will certainly be back!
This is a great place. More of this needed in Marin...cool places to chill!
This place is just opening but we had a great time!
So much fun, this is a great addition to the community
Fun, cheap, will go back.
21 and up! Good luck!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.