The Mainland Arcade + Karts

The Mainland Arcade + Karts

Reviews Summary

Most reviews praise the fun activities like go-karts, zip-lining, and arcade games, with many highlighting great family experiences and friendly staff. However, several complaints mention high costs, rude employees, safety issues, and poor management—especially regarding closures, false information, and inadequate responses to accidents. While many rate it 5 stars for enjoyment, others give low ratings due to negative experiences, creating a mixed overall impression.

About This Listing

Has Retro Games
Has Arcade Cabinets
Has Food
Has Pinball Machines
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.*

What to Expect from Pinball Tables in Arcades

Step up to a pinball table and dive into a vibrant, hands-on experience! Modern machines, like those from Stern or Jersey Jack, feature dazzling LCD screens, immersive themes (Star Wars, Stranger Things), and dynamic soundtracks. You’ll use flipper buttons to launch a steel ball, aiming for targets, ramps, and bumpers to rack up points. Each table has unique missions—hit specific targets to unlock bonuses or multiball modes for high-scoring chaos. Expect tactile thrills, flashing lights, and a lively crowd vibe, with tables rewarding skill and quick reflexes. Perfect for casual fun or competitive play, pinball delivers timeless arcade excitement in 2025.

What to Expect from Retro Games in Arcades

Step into the glow of retro arcade games and expect a nostalgic rush! Classics like Galaga, Donkey Kong, or Mortal Kombat await, housed in vibrant cabinets with joysticks, buttons, or trackballs. You’ll dodge enemies, chase high scores, or battle opponents in fast-paced, pixel-perfect gameplay. Modern restorations include sharp CRT or LED screens and authentic controls, preserving the 80s/90s vibe. Games are easy to learn but tough to master, offering quick sessions or deep challenges. With leaderboards and arcade crowds cheering, retro games deliver timeless fun 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 Retro Games
Has Arcade Cabinets
Has Food
Has Pinball Machines
Good for kids
Has Prizes
Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

151 NJ-72

Manahawkin, New Jersey 08050

Hours

Monday 12-10PM
Tuesday 12-10PM
Wednesday 12-10PM
Thursday 12-10PM
Friday 12-10PM
Saturday 10AM-10PM
Sunday 10AM-9PM

Customer Reviews

We searched for go karts on our way from Atlantic City and found this on Google . Reviews looked good and we tried this place . To be frank location wise we didn't feel that it is an adventure park. It was right next to holiday inn ! Lots of parking outside .. Rope adventure was closed :( wish we knew before . We just went to go karts and some time inside the arcade.. everything looked brand new and clean . Go karts was good .. nice and it went fast . 15$ per ride was a little expensive . Wish it was 10

So much fun! There are go-karts, an arcade and the Ziplines obstacle course which was the best! The guides are so awesome! Big ups to them and thank you, my boys and I had a wonderful day! Definitely would go again. There is even a hotel if you choose to stay overnight and the restaurant is top notch!!

Grew up in the area and moved away. We visit in the area to see family. We stayed at the Holiday Inn Express and frequented the Mainland many times. My husband and I stopped in for drinks with friends, and the bartender had the biggest attitude. He clearly wasn't listening to what my friend said that she wanted her drink salty with salt around rim. When she said it again, he acted that it was too much trouble and aggressively tossed the ice in the sink. He was very gruff and quite rude. I could see if the M

We live near by and always have a great experience at The Mainland. Today we tried out the ropes course and go karts, it was so awesome ! Our kids loved it. And they just redid the arcade which is now two stories with a really cool prize room !! It was 100$ for two people for the ropes course (kinda pricey), and 15$ per cart for go karting, which I thought was reasonable. The restaurant has good food and drinks too after you're done with all the fun. They put out corn hole boards and mini jenga near the out

A good nostalgic spot to visit for me, good arcade games for the kids. But being honest and I understand how the game is played, some games just aren't ment to win..played the jbl boom box cut string game.. landed 5 times perfect but didn't cut due to slack adjusted to loose to not allow a cut. Played some claw games and won't 4 times in a row some pok?mon for my 7 yo... if you know how they games are rigged then can have a good time and such if you pick the correct games.

The Mainland Adventure Park was absolutely an adventure! You have 2 hours to do the obstacle course and you can do any of the "trails" or the zip lines more than once! It was totally worth the admission, I went on everything at least twice and did the zip lines even more! The staff were very attentive to where everyone was on the course and even helped out some of the guests on tips and tricks for some of the obstacles. The go karts are still so new that you can't even hear them unless you're sitting in the

My first time on the Go Karts, weather has always been a factor. AWESOME. It's not cheap, but they let you rock for a good 15 minutes. The cars are fast and the track is cool. Can't wait to go back!

My husband and I saw this attraction from route 72 while heading down to Barnegat lighthouse Back in June. We had no idea what it was but were determined to find out. So I looked it up online and planned an entire Weekend vacation around this park. I called in advance to make sure they would be open the weekend we Wanted to go and I even asked if I need it to or was able to make a reservation. No one picked up the phone but i was called back within 48hours. They would be up and running in time for my ea

Fun place for families. The Go Kart waiting area can get really hot in the summer. Recommend bringing cool drinks as there are no vending machines and the water fountain does not work. 2023 update: If management is reading this, please turn on the fans in the go kart waiting area. I asked the staff to turn them on, but they said they are too loud and can't hear each other. That is not a great excuse...

The go cart racing is a lot of fun. Small kids can ride in 2 person cart and bigger kids can ride in a single. They are battery run and they have complete control from the pit area so they are very safe

I thought the park was paradise, then my fun was hijacked by the go-kart gatekeeper - a 15yr old girl on a power trip controlling the speed of everyone?s karts eliminating any type of fun competition.Her crankiness was spreading to her staff and ruining the vibe for everyone.She needs to reminded to leave your luggage at the door and a smile goes along way. Fun can be contagious if you let it.

Had a great time on Go Carts and in arcade..3 adults and 1 12yr old...can't wait to go back and watch the child do the ropes course

Only visited the arcade. It has improved since I went last year with more games, but many of the new games could not be used saying "Coming Soon" on the card reader. The new prize room also had a sign saying "Coming Soon".

The guy was rude and there website was false and there coworker was sleeping Also they didn't let my girls and on top of that they offered the girls nothing after the inconvenience

The arcade is cool, and the ropes climbing course is fun. The go karts are slow and electric, which leaves the driver a bit cold at the end. Plus it is all very expensive. Most of the video games are about $2 per play, and the go karts are $15 per ride. We dropped about $300 for the 2 hour visit. Also, beware the site hours are not correct, and they seem to change them on a whim. The hours on the day we went didn't match the door or the website.. go figure.

Awful customer service after we explained that the go kart was not working properly and kept stopping on the track. Safety is the least of their concerns, as they allowed riders to play bummer karts on the track.

We had a very dangerous experience here a few days ago. After a few minutes the go karts seemed to stall?most of them at least. We sat without power for a bit and eventually staff came by to manually move the karts back into the entrance area. The problem was not all go karts were stalled. A girl drove her go kart at full speed directly in the back of the go kart with my young son and father. They were at a full stop and didn't see her coming. They both said it scared them and hurt. My son slammed his arm a

The arcade was very nice, clean, no one was really in there when we went so it was nice to basically have the place to ourselves. There were plenty of games to choose from but the only con was it was VERY expensive. After dinner we took our 4 year old son to the arcade and we ended up spending $100 in about 20-25 minutes for 2 people to play maybe 5 video games, skeeball, and 1 game of air hockey. Of course he wanted to stay later but we couldn't afford it. Also, there were no tickets or prize at the end s

I did not experience the rope/zip line course. My wife did and she said it was cool. It took a LONGGGG time for her to do it (having a two and 8 year old to entertain while she did it was extremely trying, to say the least). I rode the go carts before she did the course and was really disappointed. They're electric go carts. They clearly invested a lot into them, the track and the infrastructure for them but I wouldn't ride them again. They can and most likely will remotely shut them all off while you're ri

I have really been looking forward to trying this place out. Finally was able to go today. Google and their website both said they were open. I tried to book tickets online but was unable to do so. When I called their automated answering system says all the information you need is on their website, no way to get through to an actual person. So I went in to try to talk to someone. Door to the adventure center was open with a big green open sign in the lobby area. Waited around and no one came. Watched the pe

On their website go-karts are listed as ?walk-in? only. I walked in and got in line to race. I was told after sitting in line for 10 minutes that I ?had to register?. The the line to register was another 5 minutes. And then I get back in line to race and was told that there were no more slots available for me. I'm sure the racing is fun but make sure you plan your visit ahead of time. The employees at the register and check-in were not very helpful in facilitating new racers.

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the go karts. Felt like a kid again walking through the arcade and waiting in line to ride 5 laps on the decent size track. Fairly affordable and definitely worth the money. There is also a outdoor adventure course that was closed when we went. Overall a great family experience.

Brought my daughters and their two cousins here (ages10-15) and they had a blast. Fun for adults too, however, there's an area to hang out and order food/drinks while the kids play which was nice. There are fire pits on the landing as well as other games like giant connect four, giant Jenga and cornhole. Food was really really good! Staff was knowledgeable, friendly and we felt very safe. Definitely coming back!

3 of the 4 times we have come here to ride go carts they have been closed! After the first time we called ahead to make sure they were open but they were closed when we showed up 30 minutes later. Today we came back for my daughters birthday and they aren't using the double carts so she can't ride. The one time we actually got to ride them over the summer they stopped the race about 6 times and cut it 2 laps short, probably because it was taking so long. It's a nice little track but I'm tired of the kids ge

This evening went to mainland for dinner and arcade. Last time we had a small problem with the arcade being open. They made it all good tonight. Billy gave us a free pass to play unlimited games. Thank you for your generosity and kindness. Also food was awesome as always. Happy holidays to everyone N

Ive been coming here since this place opened, I am a Local Resident, today June , 4 th 2022 .. I was told I cant pay for two Races at one time which Ive always done, Also there is a Wedding party down here and they are all Drinking Alcohol and Im very disappointed that Management and Employees would allow them to Drive under the influence of Alcohol, you can clearly smell the Alcohol and see most of the Wedding party are Drunk, I have nothing against them having a good time , although there should be Rules

I was here with my friend today for the aerial ropes course. Everything was fine up until the end when we exited from the green ramp. Her foot got stuck in a mesh gap, causing her to trip and fall. She immediately started bleeding profusely, and had to put her leg up on the metal benches in the harness/equipment room. It was so bad, that there was a pool of blood on the bench when she got up - no exaggeration. My friend later had to go to the emergency room to get X-rays and 8 stitches. The staff did not se

Different and fun!! Kind of pricey for the course, but the go-carts were a decent rate. The staff were very sweet & helpful to my daughters and I, so that made it well worth it.

This place and the staff are great! I was disappointed when we pulled in because I thought it was small, but it's very deceiving. There was a ton to do! Even though our reservation time was at capacity, it didn't feel crowded and I never waited in a line. I was so scared and trying to fake it for the benefit of my (much braver) son. The staff was very patient, supportive and encouraging. It was a great time!

The Mainland Adventure Park is a gun place if you want exhilarating ripe courses to climb, but the phone number listed on Google is the wrong phone number. The correct phone number is on their Facebook page and there was nothing on their website about signing two different waivers, one which needs you to create an account if you have any guests with you, but they also want you to make an account when you book an appointment online for the high ropes course. Also, there is no clear management. Please fix yo

Small but well kept. The staff were great at wipingdown the games with disinfectant.

HORRIBLE EXPERIENCE! Hurt my knee so bad while exiting the course that it ended up in stitches. The staff, especially the manager, Daniel Mercurio, were extremely unhelpful. They were delayed in their response and seemed very unprepared for that type of situation. There was another person in the room who was just standing there and did not identify himself. We later found out that it was the manager. Thankfully, someone in my party took charge of the situation and was able to make sure nothing got worse. Th

Pretty fun place they have a restaurant hotel and arcade.The only thing I'm not sure but there were two little kids in one go kart not sure if that was safe I thought it was supposed to be one adult and one child but what can you expect when all the workers are kids themselves.Overall nice clean place

Really nice people especially the hotel check in people give them all raises because they r amazing. Especially the ones that r their at 3 am. Thank u again. Hopefully u went out for the beer, when u got out

Your answer to teen (and kid) fun on LBI with a twist. Go carts super fun and my boys loved the obstacle course. Entire staff fruendly, helpful and fun. Manager LeAnna beyond accommodating. Great vibe, I would highly recommend!

The most amazing adventure park in LBI. Go karts. Huge ropes course with multiple levels for kids of all ages and adults with a giant zipline at the end I mean this is the biggest zipline it goes across the parking lot and back This place is just cool man it also has an arcade and a fun little patio and a really great little restaurants and food and everything you need to get drinks and enjoy yourself it's like a platform so you can just chill and watch like the ropes course and the go-karts and just enjoy

Went here for my birthday with kids and grandkids and we had a great time! Perfect environment for everyone! Then we had dinner afterwards. A very memorable evening!

Just a great arcade Games are also downstairs next to go kart line Clean and bright

Drove here, only to find out the Aerial Course has been closed for over a week because of FAILED SAFETY TEST. It would have been nice to see the website updated with ?temporary closed?.

Advanced and state of the art experience in the arcade, go-cart and zip line vibe...a must see.

Great environment with plenty to do for kids, and adults can relax or partake with their kids. Fire pits, outdoor bar, go karts skyline adventures, and a small arcade. Will return in the spring

Good food. Good beer selection. Great arcade and adventure area. Great place to relax. Excellent atmosphere.

Nice place food was good I like the go karts. The only thing that I didn't like is when they opened up the garage doors then the flies came in and I had to swat them away from my food.

The kids and I had a blast here!! The go karts are awesome and the ropes course was challenging and fun A+++

They only let you drive the go carts for 7 minutes . What a joke . The go carts only go five miles an hour !!! Way overpriced place . If you want to drive go carts go to Speed Raceway

So fun 10/10 recommend

Went for the go karts and it was fun. The grounds are beautiful. Nice outdoor covered seating

Can't even call the place, goes to voice-mail and can't leave a message, looks cool and want to try but you know... can't :(

frankly it's the best damn go carts america has

What a fun night out and highly recommend coming here our server Chris outside was outstanding and fun and did a great job was attentive and courteous.

Fun place for the kids and you don't have to go on the island

Great place to bring the kids for go carting, zip lining, and arcade

Bit pricey. Kids enjoyed their time and staff, if not crowded, is helpful.

Great games and race car track

Fun go karts and kids liked the ropes course.

Long wait for the carts but we'll worth it.

Great fun for our grandson!

Go carts are so much fun!

Costly! Fun but expensive

Fun place the kids loved it.

Venue was not open when we there.

Love this place always have fun

Rude staff and manager.

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 pinball tables still good in this modern age?

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.

Are retro games in arcades still good in this modern age?

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.

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.