Pizza Ranch FunZone Arcade

Pizza Ranch FunZone Arcade

Reviews Summary

Pizza Ranch receives mixed but generally positive feedback, with many praising its family-friendly atmosphere, arcade, and fresh food (especially fried chicken and crustless pizza options). Service is often described as friendly and professional, though some staff encounters were negative. The buffet is well-stocked, but food quality varies—some find it mediocre or overpriced. Crowds and noise are common complaints, while cleanliness and unique features like a dish-clearing robot stand out. Most agree kids love the play area and games, though prizes are considered cheap. Ratings skew high (4-5 stars) for enjoyable experiences but drop (1-3 stars) when food or crowding disappoints.

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

201 SE Oralabor Rd

Ankeny, Iowa 50021

Hours

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

Customer Reviews

10/10 dinner experience; This location is excellently managed! The buffet was constantly well stocked, there was a robot bussing tables (shout out Buster!) freeing up live staff, ALL of the arcade games worked, and the prize counter had an attendant waiting who did an awesome job being patient and enthusiastic with our kids. Amazing experience all around!

They now have a robot to collect dishes... kids will love the robot.

I've been to the pizza ranch twice this being my second time. I've never been too impressed by their food. This is equivalent to overpriced Chuck E. Cheese. If you'd like to be crowded into a small eating area with loud background noise, mediocre food, pizza ranch in Ankeny is a place for you. Unbelievable small serving area for the size of building and the amount of people in it. I truly believe Pizza Ranch has industrial human feeding with the least expense down packed.

U n r e a l !!!!! Never been here before... Bery impressive!!!

It's pizza ranch, what's not to like? Arcade was way cooler than expected. Been here a few times and it's always clean with friendly staff.

The service was great. The food was good. Due to our dietary needs my wife and I eat either a crust made from almond flour or a crustless pizza. Pizza Ranch offers a crustless pizza, which is a cheese crust, with sauce and toppings. This is nice when you your diet is Paleo. Because the service was so good I give this Pizza Ranch 4 stars.

My son and his cousin share the same birthday day, so we went out to celebrate together. We live 4 hrs away from each other. Thanks for a great family time, Ranch!

Poor quality pizza and very salty chicken. The carrots and mash potatoes are the same kind from elementary school lunch rooms. The play room that is attached is a distraction from the poor quality of food. The staff was at least professional and they kept the restraunt clean constantly.

Place was super packed. And no seating. But kept letting people in. Food was ok, took a while to get the requested pizza. Came as we were almost done.

My 4th time there. Got one if my usuals. Food is good but could a few more choices, especially vegetables. Kids and I enjoyed the arcade. Will come again.

Pizza ranch is good. The play area is fun. They have a prize area after playing games. Food is good. Service depends whos there

Kids love it, it's pricey and prizes are cheap and don't last long after you walk out the door

Love Pizza Ranch fried chicken and love that they offer crustless pizzas! I only have one suggestion... please bring back the mints!!

Nice clean Pizza Ranch. Lots of hot and fresh selections on the buffet, and more than accommodating for special requests.

Kids always have a great time here and adults can eat something delicious.

Went to a bday party, everywhere just made you feel cramped. Kids had fun some fun playing tho??

We frequent this establishment once a week. Sometimes twice. We even bring extra family with us. Any pizza you want, they will make and bring it to the table.

They were friendly, food was good and we had a blast at the fun zone

Always have a good meal and great time in the arcade with my kids

The workers there are super nice and will help you if u lost a item

Chicken is always fresh hot and delicious!!

Fresh hot food, awesome staff. Place was rather busy.

Kids loved it. Good amount of games for all ages.

Was crowded and busy, but then again, we were there with 10 of us at 5:30pm.

My grand kids love the games and plenty of them

Kids had a blast there better than Chucky cheese by far

Gentleman working there must been having a bad day because he was very rude

best to go early as it gets really loud!

Good food and family place.

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.