The Zone @ Clemson

The Zone @ Clemson

Reviews Summary

Most reviews praise the venue for its fun activities like axe throwing, football bowling, and cornhole, along with great staff and good food/drinks. Many highlight it as a perfect spot for group outings or parties. However, some criticize poor maintenance, dull equipment, and disorganization, particularly in the axe-throwing area. A few mention issues with service, cleanliness, or overpricing, but the majority rate it highly for its unique entertainment and friendly atmosphere.

About This Listing

Has Retro Games
Has Arcade Cabinets
Has Food
Has Pinball Machines
Good for kids
Has Pool Tables
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.

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.

Features

Has Retro Games
Has Arcade Cabinets
Has Food
Has Pinball Machines
Good for kids
Has Pool Tables
Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

14 Cottage St Suite 4

Middletown, New York 10940

Hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday 5-10PM
Thursday 5PM-12AM
Friday 5PM-12AM
Saturday 5PM-12AM
Sunday Closed

Customer Reviews

We went to The Zone @ Clemson for a friend?s birthday that also feel on an Emo Night and we had such a blast. The bartenders there were so quick and friendly and even the food was really, really good. I don't typically go out to Middletown but it's good to know that there's a place to go to when I'm out there.

Clemson set up an area of The zone for music! Great location and venue! Hope for continued success!

This was so much fun. Throwing a football to knock down bowling pins was a genius idea. The place is cool inside. The only issue is their kitchen couldn't handle the volume of orders, so most of us, 12, couldn't put in an order. To make up for this, they let us bring in pizza from outside. My daughter did get in an order of wings and pierogis. They were both tasty. The bar had an extensive selection of craft brews and your regular beer.

I don't feel like I can properly rate this place. I went here for a concert, which was awesome. However, I did not have any food. Next time, if I return. It was kind of far from home.

It's a fun inexpensive place. We did some Axe throwing and foot ball bowling which was fun. They owner was making some South African meats which he smoked outside and it was excellent. It's a good place to hang out for a few hours.

So went here because Clemson brothers was closed for an event. No mention of it on the website social media or anything but that's another matter. There is a sign sitting right out front saying ?same food and beer as Clemson brothers, same ownership.? We figured why not. Walk in and the place just looks depressing it's run down and you just get an uneasy feeling. Well we go to the bar to get a menu and order only to be told there is a ?special limited menu.? $16 for a basic burger and fries is insane.

What a awesome concept, had such a great time. Good clean fun for the whole family. Really beautiful facility right in the heart of Middletown. This place is a true diamond in the rough, I highly recommend. Got to meet QB-Tom super friendly guy, real gentalman.

Most games are free now but the bar scams you with alcohol $40 for two single drinks. Plus all the equipment is beat up and barley usable

Great space, great beer and food! QB Ball (aka fowling) is way more fun than I expected. I didn't know what it was before I went here and now I'm hooked. It's the perfect activity for hanging out with friends and having drinks. The staff is super friendly as well, especially Nina, the GM.

I've been to QB ball several times over the years, each time it gets better. Most recently We had my sons 14th birthday here, it was a blast! Noel was beyond accommodating and organized and directing a fun filled afternoon for the boys with a football bowling tournament, ace throwing, cornhole, and virgin cocktails! The kids has so much fun and Noel did an amazing job at providing us with an awesome day! My son, his friends, and even all the parents couldn't have asked for a better afternoon! Birthday or a

We were pretty disappointed with our outing today. We wanted to do ax throwing for my birthday with our friends and we all agreed it was not worth the $160 for the group. The axes were dull, the space was in a closet and the bartender looked annoyed when we asked for help when we were the only ones in the entire building? we have done ax throwing before and this was on the expensive side for not a great experience.

Was very excited to try Axe throwing. The Axe court was disgusting. There was leftover food in there as well as drinks. The guy bringing us in the room never bothered to clean up. There was no chalk for scoring, we were told to use our phones. You don't get an Axe you get 2 hatchets which after the first throw the handles cracked. It could have been a better time if the place was organized and maintained. The restrooms were just as disgusting....one was clogged and there was no toilet paper to be found. Won

Awesome friendly staff. Cool, fun experience. If you haven't tried QB BALL you don't know what you're missing. I would have given 5 stars but the food food could use a little improvement (not horrible but not great just ok). I would definitely go again!

Intrigued at first the novelty of the items here are mostly subpar at best. QB ball was fun and an interesting thing to do. Both challenging and entertaining. Knocking over pins with a football was surprisingly fun. Overall i would give this part of the place 4.5 / 5 stars. Would like to see footballs that were less damaged. They need to be replaced more often. One of the other key things i was looking forward to was corn hole. While the place had all the necessities for the game the quality of these item

I went there with some friends and it was a great time...I've never done the football bowling before, and it was tough! Drinks were great and definitely a good place to spend a few hours

Weird concept until you start playing and then it is a blast. Bring a crowd and have a ball. Food comes from the brewery next door and beer has a nice variety. They also have axe throwing and corn hole. Just go with friends and try it out. Ample parking but the brewery next door does cause overflow.

What a great place! First time here and we all had a blast. Such a different experience than the norm. Big tv's, football on and LOTS to do! Great job guys! Keep up the good work!

Was really fun, had a blast playing football bowling. They didn't have food when I went. Not sure if that is a normal thing or just my poor luck. Might want to bring a snack or eat before hand.

Great place! The food was really good, and the activities were fun. There is football, hatchet throwing, pool, a rage room, and more! Highly recommend this place for a fun night out.

Smelled like sewage in certain parts of the room. They don't use real footballs and they use bowling alley pins for the masses...that equals harder on both ends. Is fun though and the beer selection is decent.

This is a really fun place to have a get together with a group of friends, and plan parties. We had a lot of fun celebrating my friend's birthday here. QB ball is something different, and its a lot of fun.

This is a spectacular place. The activities are so much fun. Football bowling is incredibly addicting. Ari the owner is fantastic. This is something everyone needs to experience!

Lots of fun! First time I had ever held a football so I need a LOT more practice, but it was really great! Friendly, great atmosphere. Can't wait to go back!

So not happy I went for my birthday last night and the service was bad the axe throwing ?? machine didn't work the prices were expensive food was brunt and tasteless drinks ?? over price and water down and was asked to leave at 11:15 when the place closed at 12. Do not Go don't waste your money.

First time playing the game and I absolutely loved it! So easy and fun to play. The staff was awesome and very friendly. So much better than bowling!!!!!

The manager Will was amazing and accommodating to me and my children! He made sure we had everything we needed and was super friendly !

Super fun place! Friendly staff, really fun game, can't go wrong hanging out here and having a good time.

This place is awesome. What a great idea to just go out with your friends or have e a party there. The staff is fantastic.

Went a few weeks ago with friends. Amazing experience with very friendly owners. Nice atmosphere. I highly recommend!

Great atmosphere, food, and beer! Such a fun time. Nina and TJ are the best! Highly recommend them!

Pretty cool place....something different. Very nice beer selection as well. Had a fun time.

The staff treat you and your friends like part of their family. Food and drinks are delicious great entertainment.

Saw thrash bands, nice stage.

So much fun. Great staff! Cherokee was awesome! Definitely going back!

A little bit off the beaten path, this is a awsome place. My wife surprised me with a great afternoon of time together doing the ax throwing.

Great selection of beer. Fun place too go and play games, eat and drink!

Nice concept fun place .... need real footballs desperately.... also could stay open a bit longer would be nice

Good beer, good food, but outside bar closes way too early on a Monday night

Had an amazing time out here with my Boyfriend and family!! 10/10 will recommend to anyone!!

Place is great the workers are very nice and they have fun with the customers and still do their job

Awesome Time... Lots of Fun, Good Workout As Well. Definitely A Must Do Activity!!!

Great service n good food fun activities definitely will be returning

Nice concept, had fun. Desperately need to hire a good bartender that knows what they are doing.

Rage room, hatchet throw, football bowling, cornhole throw, pool, and your favorite drink, there's something for everyone!

Nice place but the cops are waiting outside to pull you over ..i dont go there anymore..

Great beers on tap. Fun to play cornhole in the winter.

Alot of fun ! Always something going on ! DJ dance party ! Go check it out

Had fun good place fair prices can't complain

We go for the cornhole and played QB ball, they also have hatchet throwing

QBs is the best place to ball. Best bartenders ever

Always a good meal and something for everyone.

Fun place and learned a new sport to work my arms.

Not a lot of people and the workers were very social and friendly

Lots of fun. Very friendly

Awesome place and I great time!

Something different. Great times with a group, big or small.

It was alot of fun watching wrestling

Great place, axe throwing was awesome.

Great fun. Go and have fun.

Great place lots of fun!!!

Love this place and the staff.

This place is amazing....

Was ok kind of blahh

(Translated by Google) Various sports and other entertainment such as board games are played. (Original) Se practican varios deportes y otras entretenciones como juegos de mesa

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.

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.