Smoky Mountain Sk8way & Family Entertainment Center

Smoky Mountain Sk8way & Family Entertainment Center

Reviews Summary

The reviews show a mix of experiences, with many praising the friendly staff, family-friendly atmosphere, and fun activities like skating and games. Positive highlights include helpful employees, good pricing for some, and a clean facility. However, several complaints mention high costs, extra fees for parents or amenities, and occasional poor customer service, like strict rules or unaddressed harassment. Some found the environment overly stimulating or hot. While many love the rink and return often, others feel it’s overpriced or poorly managed.

About This Listing

Has Arcade Cabinets
Has Food
Good for kids
Has Pool Tables
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 Pool Tables in Arcades

Step up to a pool table and dive into a classic, hands-on game! Expect sturdy tables with smooth felt surfaces, cue sticks, and a set of numbered balls for games like 8-ball or 9-ball. You’ll chalk up, aim, and strike the cue ball to pocket balls with precision, mastering angles and spin. Tables are well-lit, often with vibrant designs, creating a lively atmosphere. Whether playing casually with friends or joining arcade tournaments, pool offers strategic, social fun that’s easy to pick up and endlessly engaging 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 Arcade Cabinets
Has Food
Good for kids
Has Pool Tables
Has Prizes
Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

19025 Great Smoky Mountains Expy

Waynesville, North Carolina 28786

Hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday 7-10PM
Friday 6-10PM
Saturday 1-10PM
Sunday 1-6PM

Customer Reviews

It was very nice inside, it is very expensive, a party room for 15 was 265.00, you get 2 pizzas and 4 pitchers of drinks, a 5.00 game card for each kid, that includes skate rental (kids only) a server and clean up for that price but you only get that for 2 hours. Only one adult per child, more than one cost more. I ordered 2 extra pizzas, a tray of nachos and 2 extra pitchers of drinks so that was 400.00 + with a tip for our server. The kids had a blast though. Made my grandaughters day very special.

Took my kids skating here for the first time. It was a really nice rink on the inside and the atmosphere was really fun. However, I have been to multiple skating rinks as my kids love it and this is by far the most over priced one we have ever been to. They charge the parents just to watch their kids. And they charge extra for the inflatables and games on top of their already over priced admission. Then they were falsely advertising the prices on the concessions. We ordered funnel cake which was advertised

We came here to try our hand at rollerskating. I quickly found out that I am NOT good at it. I kept falling and hurting myself, and one of the workers came over into the rink to convince me to upgrade to the speed skates. Even those could not help me. I busted my butt and decided to stop. I guess it just wasn't for me! The environment and atmosphere was very welcoming and fun, though. Everyone was very nice and wanted to be helpful. They played great music that really fit the vibe. I'm going to try with the

So. Much. FUN! We just had THE BEST time, and I only wish we had found this place sooner (how long has it been here???) before heading back to New Orleans. Haven't been in roller skates since I was like 9, and that's okay! Everyone was suuuuuper nice, especially since I skated like a toddler for the first hour (not quite like getting back on a bike). Funnily enough, I used ski moves and slowly got.....almost acceptable. No one made us feel like a muppet for not being pros, including when I fell flat on my b

My partner and I went there last night and had a total blast! It was my first time there, and I hadn't skated since middle school! Somehow, I rented a pair of skates and was a little wobbly at first, but picked it back up right away! We skated from the time they opened until closing. They have these training walkers made of PVC pipe with caster wheels on the bottom that were really neat and handy for beginners to stay upright! The environment was super casual and friendly, the arcade was cool, and the DJ wa

Definitely would NOT recommend. Owner was incredibly rude to kids, yelling and all. Put on a fake smile to adults when confronted about her behavior and just said it wasn't true instead of apologizing. This woman made our whole experience hell. Not to mention the ridiculous prices and up charging everything. I've seen her comment on here also incredibly rude to customers. Absolutely not professional and very child-like. Please don't waste your time and money to go here. Edit to respond: there were several

I'm not happy with this place, it's a money racket. I've been to many skating rinks and this is the only one I have been charged full price to come in and watch my kids. Also, the advertised price of the concessions are lower than the actual prices, which is illegal, might I add. Also, the portions of the concessions are pitiful compared to how much you're paying for them. Not to mention they charge extra for everything in there. This place just seems money hungry to me. I would skip it if you haven't been

I was with my kids and I saw the owner being incredibly rude to some teens. I was there and it seemed like she would rather check bathrooms then insure that the environment is actually safe. My cousin was catcalled a few years ago and I Still seeing comments about it. My kids were also shooed out of the bathroom after only being In there for a few minutes, and not to mention but my daughter told me the stalls weren't closing, and also she said that the stalls were super short and she could see over them (sh

Brought my crying 4-year-old little girl in with a UTI to use the bathroom (which I explained), but I was told we needed to pay to go in for 2 minutes. She wasn't able to hold it so we could get to another business, so we turned back and paid. Can't say the bathroom experience was worth $16 to me, but my daughter says it was clean. I'd be happy to update my review if they're willing to have a quick meeting about how to treat kiddos coming to the door with an emergency like that and make a correction. Somet

We always have a blast every time we have an event here. The staff is great . Helpful and friendly. Although I think if they are going to offer the skate mates...they should let the parents know at the door. So we are not having to go.back and forth to pay again. We went on a Saturday, $8.00 per person. Plus $3.00 for skates plus $5.00 for the skate mates .Once your younger child sees other kids using them they want it to. We had to leave what we were doing,take off skates and go back to the front get a wri

I went in for adult quad skating lessons and I was super pleasantly surprised by how nice the facility was. Extremely kind and helpful staff who go above and beyond. Great for adult learners!

Smoky Mountain sk8way is the absolute best roller skating rink around! My daughter goes every weekend, it's her absolute favorite place to be! The staff there are absolutely amazing! The price is great, they play great music and it's family friendly. The more experienced skaters always take time to help new skaters if they need it, everyone there is super friendly!!! Not only do they have a great rink but they also have a huge fun zone with games and inflatables and they're even putting in putt putt! This i

Terrible money grab all the way around. 2$ for a 6oz cup of soda, no refills either. That's what I get for tipping good. Everything costs a fiver. Not using the bathroom because there's most likely a fee

We had a party for our daughter at the Sk8way. They made it easy to plan and implement, had a schedule for us, and were super nice and helpful. It was a great experience, and we will definitely be back! Thank you!

Did my daughters 11th bday here was the best yet! Our hostess Lisa was on top of our needs seemed like everytime we needed her she was there checking up on us!lovely staff and Super fun! By far the best place I have been at around here for parties. Good pricing as well. Don't forget to tip your hostess!

Seems like a fun place with lots to offer, but it was way overly stimulating, and my daughter had to leave because she couldn't handle the excess noise. Anyone with sensory sensitivities beware!

So much fun! Went to a birthday party. You can skate or play in the fun zone to earn tickets for prizes. Worth the drive from Asheville! We brought in our own decor and cake for the party. The DJ will shout out the birthday person many times to make you feel special! Thinking of my next birthday being there. ??

We didn't skate, but the rink looks great! My son was allowed entry for FREE to the bounce houses as he is 15 months old. They have a bounce house just for toddlers. Great indoor entertainment in Haywood county! The location is a bit further out for us (from Canton), but was perfect for meeting family from Franklin (met in the middle).

Our daughter was able to attend the summer camp here and loved it! They are so kind and incredibly thoughtful with the adventures that they participate in. Throughout the destruction caused by Helene, they have stepped up to help out the community and provide a safe haven for children to go to. All of the staff are amazing!! My daughter went from not being able to go a couple of feet with a walker in place on skates to using one foot on her rollerblades and loves it!! Highly recommend for anyone looking for

I have been coming for a long time and I love it there I love to skate I come every weeked my friend comes every weeked to I love the owner she is nice the workers are nice to.

My son loves Sk8way. I love how you can buy tickets online and just send him the QR code to show at the door.

Me and my family go here frequently. I have a great time teaching my children to skate here and also me and my older nephews and niece try to make a Friday or Saturday get-together where we can all have quality family time and fun. Sk8way is family oriented, creating unforgettable memories and brings back my younger days when skating was our weekly getaway. Truly glad and thankful for the staff ,prices and experiences we have every visit ???? ??. Thank you Sk8way God Bless ?? ????. Will post pics next visi

Probably one of the worst places that I've been to that is supposed to be fun for kids. First of all the temperature gauge on the wall said 78?. I'm pretty sure that it was about 85?. It was super crowded. The staff at the front were very rude. The floor in the skating rink is merely pieces of plywood screwed down and painted. That's not the best surface for skating. We might have enjoyed our day if it had not been for the rude staff and the temperature inside. I would definitely not recommend this place.

My friends surprised me with a trip to Waynesville to go skating. We had an excellent time! They were very busy, and did a good job of keeping the entrance line moving, prevent people from skipping the line and inside they have easy to identify areas for all levels of skaters. It's a small rink, but they make it work. Staff was very friendly... plus, when my friends got me a shout-out for my birthday they even said my name right-- that never happens, lol. The only bummer was when I wanted to order a sl

I love coming here on the weekends, the people are great and so friendly. I've been coming here for 8 years and it never gets boring! Jo is the best of the best. 10/10 I recommend.

My son was rowdy at first and owner politely told him to be nice to momma and to behave so he can stay i was so grateful here soul is so kind. it was like growing up when us kids lesoned to all adults i felt so grateful and he was good there today i honestly had time of my life today . cant wait till date night with my boo . and another family day

Workers are amazing and helped my kids learn to skate. Large skating rink and fun game area. I did not try the pizza but it smelled great! The staff interacts with the kids throughout the night playing games while skating! Fun for everyone in the family!

I'm not sure why there are even negative reviews on this rink. Are you people talking about the right one? People complaining about money need to realize that it costs money to keep the rink open and running. There's rent, electricity, water, food, equipment, repairs, etc. I'm sure there are taxes and building fees that we are unaware of. So letting you skate for free doesn't benefit anyone. Quit complaining. :) I have witnessed the transformation of this rink first hand since I've been coming here since t

We had the absolute best time at the sk8way. There's something for the whole family, which is what this place is all about. There's an arcade, multiple bounce houses for all ages, and a mini golf course. My boys (10 & 9) were first time skaters. The staff was kind and helpful getting the right skates, and a skate helper for those who need help staying upright on the rink. After a few laps they were feeling more confident and took off on their own. We will definitely be visiting again.

I love skating here. The owner and staff are amazing!

We enjoyed the day. It was packed but so much fun. Great holiday deal...$10 for skating and bouncy houses from 12-4. We went from 1:30-3:30. Kids enjoyed it.

The owner was very rude. Turned our whole family down because of our service dog and inappropriately was asking questions and saying that she ?knew? what breeds of dogs where service dogs and ours was not one ?.terrible. Reading other reviews it seems this isn't the only time the owner has been rude so if that tells you anything. I DO NOT RECOMMEND! Update to your response: Our service dog had his vest on and you are only allowed to ask 2 questions by federal law and you failed to do so, you decided to tur

This is a community staple! I drive from Asheville to the Sk8way on a regular basis to enjoy a huge variety of events here. They have adult skate night on Thursdays, holiday themed parties, and great private birthday parties! Its very kid friendly space and has inflatables and games if skating just isn't your thing. This is the kind of place that had embedded itself into the community and WNC would not be the same without it.

Great place for a kids party! The older kids loved being able to skate and the little ones enjoyed the inflatables. Just remodeled and looks amazing! Check their website for fun weekly events. Very aware of what is hip and current- our teens love it and it's a safe environment for them to hang out in!

Had a great time! Went on Saturday and it was pretty busy, but to be expected on a rainy Saturday. Everyone had the same idea. ?? Great indoor family friendly place. We really enjoyed it and will be back. I did observe staff explaining rules to the kids and once even myself. I read reviews about them being rude by doing so, but the rules are also posted and they are just verbally communicating them, or informing of them. Nothing rude about that. I actually like knowing that someone will redirect my child or

This place is great. Recent renovations look good. So fun to go skate and adult night on Thursdays is our favorite. If we still had young kids this would be our birthday destination for sure.

Came here for the first time for an adult birthday party. Facility was very clean and the staff was exceptional. It's been 30 years since I last roller skated but I was able to do it again in a few mins. They have rolling hand rails to help get you started.

Great experience and we all had a blast. Very affordable

For starters why do I have to pay full price just to go in and watch my child skate? I have NEVER had to do this at any other skating facility. Second you have to pay for skating and inflatables if your kid only wants to do inflatables. You are only allowed to skate in certain areas if you are just learning, still never experienced this anywhere else. The music selection was awful. My overall experience would be negative stars if I could do that?. Honestly. The kids were begging to leave.

Had my great nephew's birthday party there. It was great. The kids loved it.

We came for a Family Night last night for the Stranger Things Skate Night. We had never been before and we truly enjoyed ourselves. There was a larger than expected turnout but all of the Staff managed it very well! They all were so nice and helpful! Trina even stopped by to chat with us and to make sure we were having a good time. I highly recommend stopping by to check this place out. You will have lots of fun! It's great for young and old.

It's literally a hit or miss at this place. One minute it's fine. Everything?s going great the next minute the staff could be completely rude or the owner of the place can be extremely rude at one point in time when I first started going to skate away my daughter was only five years old. We were at a birthday party that we were invited to. I was low on funds and was not able to purchase a five dollar Walker so one of my friends who was a part of the party that was had given me her walker. The owner walked s

What a fun place! We did a 14th BD party on a Friday evening. Owners were super nice and accommodating. There staff was super helpful, friendly and attentive to us. They really seemed to enjoy working here. The crowd was a bunch of well behaved kids having fun with friends. Highly recommend!

I have come here several times during the past few years and it has always been enjoyable! I have taken several different groups of friends here and they have always enjoyed themselves. The prices are very reasonable (so I don't know why there are so many complaints about that) especially for the amount of time that you get to skate. The staff have always been very kind and friendly to me. It's a great place to take friends and have a good evening! This place comes highly recommended in my books.

The only skating rink that's near by. There's a food court, fun zone, and outdoor putt putt. They have two different skating times. Walkers ($5) for skaters that need some support/help.

I have been roller skating at this location for over 13 years, I use to work for them while in high school. Awesome experience in not just exercise, but a friendly experience as well as a fair one. Welcoming all ages as well as teaching the younger ones how to skate with many other opportunities other than skating to have the full social experience

First time here, I was a little weary and unsure of the layout at first but everyone was really sweet and helped guide the way. I love the guide bars for learning, I love that they have a advanced skater/employee on the actual rink helping, I love that the staff was genuinely sweet, alert and helpful. The staff was really great at helping the kids on and off the rinks, especially when they wiped out. The place is clean.

waste of money. overcrowded no room to move and very unclean. overpriced and will charge for things they aren't supposed to. the food was nasty and they do not allow you to bring your own food or drinks inside. I was reading your responses to the reviews all I can say is stop making excuses for you and your staffs behavior and do something about all of these problems.

We love this place!! Everything is clean, the staff is super nice, the music is great and the owner keeps things in order so that I don't have to worry about my kiddos. Thank you very much!!

Best skating rink in the country! The owner and staff are so friendly, nice, and helpful! The music is amazing! The snack bar has amazing food, y'all gotta go try them fried pickles! The snack bar has amazing specials almost every week! Love that they do speed skaters only songs, bounce skaters only songs, races, and super fun skating games! They also have amazing party rooms for birthday parties, super cool bounce houses, and also like 20+ super fun arcade games! There's no other place I'd rather spend my

This place is the best way to pass the time and exercise! It's my favorite place to go to, usually for 3 or 4 hours at a time, every other weekend maybe, I really don't know why people put bad reviews on here, it's awesome and the staff are the absolute nicest ever! I just bought my own pair of inline skates that match the carpet ??, exited to come back in a few weeks!

We are take a 300 mile trip and plan to hit every rink on the path. Thus is the first one Great place. Friendly staff. Seemed to make sure everyone was happy. A manager on skates was checking with everyone. Only complaint is I had to pay to get in, just to wait for my daughter to skate.

I enjoy going here my first time it was a very enjoyable experience although it's hard to get on and off of the rink as a semi-experienced skater. I wanted to ask why it was set up with the more experienced skaters on the outside making everyone even newer skaters fight their way to the inner part or middle part, and the circle isn't quiet enough space for newer skaters who's older to learn, my thoughts would be to section one of the sides where a wall is available to help and put experienced skaters and bo

At first it was fun. I cannot skate I don't know how and this was my first time im 16 years old. I had to buy a walker thing and it was my only support other than my friend. I fell down and a worker confronted me and said ?if you can't skate get off the rink? i realize i am older but there were little kids doing what i was doing. A few minutes later they took my walker and said I wasn't allowed to use it anymore. I ended up getting off the rink and giving up. The OWNER came up to me and was very rude about

Wonderful, family friendly place! It was our first time, and we had a blast! The staff did fun skate contests and were very involved. The reason for 4 stars is the environment was hot and we were covered in sweat, and there weren't enough pool sticks for the tables they had. Jumpy houses were fun, but dated and the rock climb is designed for about 8 and under, and that wasn't told to us until the kids were playing on it. Other than that, a great place to take the kiddos!

Fun and addicting! The staff is super helpful and friendly and it's always a good time. Update: The nicest staff you will ever meet! They have so many options and they give back to the community as well, offering their after school, summer camp, and even skate lessons! There is even a brand new mini golf course!! You got to check this place out!

From the moment we walked in we knew we were in for an awesome time. We were greeted with excitement, introduced to who was helping us for our birthday party and walked in to see a legitimate skating rink. The lights, the music, the games, the bouncy house, the staff - everything was excellent and well taken care of. We had a blast. Best birthday ever and will definitely be coming back. Thanks!

great for a night out with just family.. Would not recommend for a party it WAS way to crowded because it's open skate for the public to not just the birthday parties GOING ON NOT JUST ONE BUT four to five at a time it was insane it was so packed we could barely move around my daughter was very disappointed cause one game alone limbo took almost 30mins bc there where so many people there and for hour and a half party not worth THE PRICE.. but other then that very nice and clean

I have mild epilepsy and I should have known better than to go in there but I didn't think it would be quite so intense with the lights and the flashing in every corner of the building. The female owner is also a little bit intense for me. I'm not real fond of the price of a birthday party either.

The interior of the place is super cool. However, the people inside, not so much. Staff lets skaters get away with any sort of physical or verbal harassment. There were guests cat calling young women and tripping people. But the way they knew all of the chants that were said by the employees, I'm assuming they were regulars. My biggest issue was with one regular in particular who kept touching younger girls. He would grab them by the waste and move them out of the way. I later overheard an older male staff

We went for our first time last week and were really excited to sign the kids up for the summer camp until we got there and she wouldn't allow me to bring in my water! She said that I might put medication in it and someone else could drink out of it which is a safety concern ?? I asked for clarification, explained that I need water because my medication causes dry mouth, and she said I can buy her water or use the water fountain ?? This was so bizarre to me and I would never trust or leave my kids around so

Had my sons birthday party here. I forgot the time I scheduled and called repeatedly to confirm, when she did finally respond to a ?google message? she was rude and told me to look for my confirmation email. When we arrived for the party it was overcrowded. The staff and owner was rude to my guests. And at one point accused one of my guests of using foul language towards her staff. The pizza served for the party was disgusting frozen pizza. Over priced!!

My Grandson absolutely loves this place. Really likes the staff that keeps everyone safe and happy! My Grandson has been coming here for like 3-4 months now. Never been skating before. Started when he was 5. Just turned 6. Started out with a thing they call a skate mate. Which was a great convenience builder. He used the skate mate for probably his first 6 or 7 visits. Told me he didn't need it anymore. Never looked back. Wanted his own skates. So we got him his own. He comes here at least 1 time a week. So

Have not attended but think this would be a good place to visit and ?people watch? while everyone is having fun - especially the little tykes! As a retired middle and sr high school teacher, I am writing to support the owner with whom I greatly empathize. From the reviews she makes every effort to operate her facility with professionalism providing a responsible and respectful - and fun - atmosphere for everyone. Sounds like she is dedicated to being always alert so that she and her patrons all have a gr

I can't begin to complement Trina enough on her kindness. She is an excellent employee and so sweet! We will definitely be back to see her again soon. Thank you again Mrs. awesome for being so great. We had such a good time!

The activities and establishment were wonderful! The staff could use some training on how to properly and politely educate and enforce the rules and policies. We did not let this ruin our time however it does discourage me from recommending. Dear owner, since I am new at leaving reviews and unaware on how to reply to your comment, I will reply here. I am very big on respect. I do believe there is a a right and wrong way to handle any and every situation. My only intent for this review was to inform the pub

Small, wonky floor and overpriced everything Edit: floor is still small and it shouldn't cost $50 for 2 kids to come skate. $8 to skate, yeah,and then you have to pay just to get in the door, skate or not. Our family of 4 ended up being ~$50 for just our 2 kids to go skate

We had my son's birthday party here, way over priced for the amount of time they allow, then the manager was rude about us not being told ahead of time that there was such a short time limit. Finally one of the mothers of our guests was physically assaulted by another customer while attending the party at which time the manager continuously tried to blame her and even made her leave!!!! We will not be returning as well as our guests have all made comments about not returning after seeing how they handled so

Awesome family environment, staff was so pleasant and kind, prices were not bad either ??

Wanted to try this place out and stopped by yesterday. Wasn't sure of the hours but the ?Open? sign was on and door was wide open. My boyfriend and I were rudely welcomed by a woman who only said ?we're closed for private lessons, we open at 1? we had a couple questions but she was not friendly or welcoming. I know for a fact it was literally 12:55 (not 12:34, I guess that was another couple she ran out) ? 5 minutes before they technically ?opened? (but still had their open sign on?) Needless to say, we le

Staff was very friendly and helpful with my 2 kids. We are visiting from Orlando and have never been to a skating rink before they needed the helpful skating assistance contraption, the one staff member really did his best to tell her how to use the skates but then decided to use the trainer skates instead so that she would feel more comfortable. It really helped give her confidence for the rest of the time then. Place was clean and the kids had a fun time, we were the last ones to leave. Thanks for a fun a

I felt extremely uncomfortable the whole time I was there. As soon as me and my friends walked in we were dress coded because it was family night. I will admit I was wearing a pretty revealing shirt but Im a full figure girl and my friends just had on tank tops. While I do understand that and was unaware it was family night (I had never heard of this place, I was just tagging along with friends) they way it was handled was very embarrassing and shameful. The owner/manager addressed us at a very high volume

The kids had a pretty good time. I could tell that we were the outsiders in the small town. I think everyone else knew each other. The girls at the party were typical 12 year olds. They were a little loud and excited. Right before we cut the cake, we were asked not to smear it all over the walls?!?! Who does that? I guess some kids do. I was shocked that the $230 package for 15 kids only comes with 2 of the smallest pizzas I think I've ever seen. So we had to buy 4 more at $10 a piece. Then my 17 year old

We just picked up skating again after MANY decades of not skating. Part of my reason for giving it a go was Smoky Mtn Sk8Way. We had our daughter's 13th birthday party there so I decided to throw some skates on just to see if I could still do it. I had some reservations, but JoLynn, Trina, and Dave were all so enthusiastic and supportive that there was no way I could fail! That was in the middle of December and since then we have been going 2-3 times a week. We're hooked! All that is to say that while this

Great indoor, family-friendly, fun option for the area. It's got a roller rink, a few bouncy houses and an arcade area. Our kids love it, but if your child is easily overwhelmed this might not be the place. It can get loud, there are lots of flashing lights, and there's a lot going on most of the time. Otherwise a highly recommended option, especially on a day where the weather isn't great!

I just wanna say that even though I'm just a teen that this place is amazing and perfect for family time and making friends and also just overall having a great time. Defiantly coming back one day if I ever get the chance. The staff is also amazing and very nice and reasonable with their rules and procedures. I though don't see why there is so many negative ratings and negative reviews when this is an awesome place with wonderful staff. Thanks again Sk8way Staff and owner for a great time.

My 9 year old daughter asked me for a sip of her slushy. She had been holding on to the wall because she had never been skating before. I took the slushy to her, not thinking much of it, when a staff member pushing around a trash can takes her drink out of her hand and places it on the table. He told her if she wanted to drink her slushy she had to sit at the table. I was upset because someone going around the tables picking up trash and pushing the trash can around, I don't believe, was not the most sanita

Attended a kids birthday party in September and was honestly impressed. The rink was clean, well kept, as was the party area and arcade/game area. From my experience, there were a few things that could have been improved: 1) the staff did not communicate to the family that outside food could not be brought in. I know this is pretty standard wherever you go (due to liability) 2) Pizza and drinks weren't ready when they called the kids off the rink to begin the party. It took about 20 minutes to get pizza to

The building was WAY OVERCROWDED and everything was WAY OVERPRICED. There were to many people inside, hardly had room to move. My biggest disappointment is the food the was nasty and they do not allow you to bring your own food or drink inside. My daughter and son got a terrible case of Rotavirus, someone there was handling food with unwashed hands after using the bathroom #2. That is revolting. In response to the owner: I debated whether to respond or not as it seemed unreasonable to do so with a person t

My friends and I were so excited to go here but as soon as we walked in we were greeted with the worst looks and attitudes. I couldn't even ask a question before the front desk lady jumping down my throat saying I can't wear my outfit. I did not back talk or anything. Also we drove 50 minutes to come here and the website said nothing about dress code??. So frustrating ruined our night and they wanted us to pay for a 10 dollar shirt to cover up so we could come in. Not family friendly, workers are creeps, pl

Great place for all ages and plenty of things to do

First-time skating in 4 years. I'm 69. I've noticed that I'm a bit slower and shaky now. Good rink. I've been in over 40 of them so I guess I qualify as an expert. Floor was small to moderate in size. And a bit bumpy. Or maybe I should say there were some noticeable dips in the floor. Music was great and the DJ, owner maybe, knew the good stuff to play. I survived tonight maybe I'll try it again before I turn 70!

I went the other night, and as a brand new skater was very disappointed in the establishment. While skating I was cat called and knocked over, and other members of my party were grabbed and touched by other patrons. When employees were alerted, they did not take any immediate action. I am frustrated with the experience because if even a few rules were put into place, or patrons were managed and watched a little better, the experience would have been much more fun - unfortunately I was worried about my own s

My group and I were very excited to go staking, but when we got there, we were almost immediately pushed, and tripped. Kids had their headphones in, were on their phones, and weren't paying attention to their surroundings. There were boys catcalling younger girls, and touching them without their consent. Two members in my party were also touched by another patron, which then had everyone in my group on edge. The employees were unwilling to help my group, and paid very little attention to the skaters. Safety

The manager or owner was horribly mean since the moment we arrived. I was there celebrating my birthday and ended up leaving early because the manager was so rude. She body shamed me (a full figured woman) for showing a small amount of cleavage with my shirt which had a jacket over top. She made me feel so uncomfortable that I left immediately. Unprofessional unaccommodating and completely backwards and way behind the times. We live in America where women should be allowed to wear what we want and not shame

We met up with friends we havent seen in a while and thought this would be fun for our kiddos. It was a decent size rink. The kids enjoyed skating. My complaint is that even though we werent skating, my husband and I had to pay admission and even then had to pay extra for our kiddos to use the bounce houses. If your kiddos enjoy skating im sure they would love it.

Some of the staff is friendly, and others not so much. Some of the men who supervise the play area are quite rude to the children playing on the equipment. The place would be much more enjoyable if the kids were allowed to climb on the climbing structure, and bounce on the bounce house. If you are so concerned about kids getting hurt on your play structures, than either get rid of it, or make parents sign a waiver. Making little kids leave in tears is not a good way to generate return business.

I absolutely loved this skating rink and so glad to have one semi close. The rink is super clean and the staff is great. The only problem I had that its almost not big enough and small children are on the rink making it hard to skate. Almost wish they had a small rink for beginners. They do however have an adult night which is nice.

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 pool tables in arcades still good in this modern age?

Yes, pool tables in arcades remain a fantastic draw in 2025! Games like 8-ball or 9-ball offer tactile, skill-based fun that blends strategy and precision. Modern tables feature smooth felt, responsive cues, and vibrant designs, enhancing the classic experience. Arcades foster a social vibe with casual matches or competitive tournaments, appealing to all skill levels. Unlike digital games, pool’s physicality—lining up shots, feeling the cue’s weight—keeps it timeless.

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.