Liam SmithAre you a fan of classic arcade games and miss the good old days of gaming? Ottawa has got you covered!
There are 12 amazing arcades in the city that offer a variety of gaming experiences.
Whether you are in the mood for a trip down memory lane or want to try out the latest arcade games, this guide has got you covered.
So get ready to unleash your competitive spirit and challenge your friends to an epic gaming showdown!
1. Funhaven
Website: https://www.funhaven.com/
Address: 1050 Baxter Rd, Ottawa, ON K2C 3P1, Canada
Contact details: +16138284386
Operating hours: 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Funhaven is Ottawa’s ultimate entertainment hub, boasting the most attractions under one roof. It features thrilling rides, classic arcade games, creative play areas like a jungle gym with built-in Ballocity cannons, and even a laser tag arena].
They have a menu with comfort food options, famous fresh-baked pizza, and a self-serve sundae bar. Whether looking for a fun family outing, a hangout with friends, or even a team-building event, Funhaven offers something for everyone.
| Pro tip: Try out their laser tag arena or experience the thrills of their rides. If you’re with younger kids, the jungle gym with Ballocity cannons sounds like a fun way to burn off some energy. |
2. House of Targ
Website: http://www.houseoftarg.com/
Address: 1077 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3W9, Canada
Contact details: +16136808274
Operating hours: Thursday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM
House of Targ combines classic arcade games, live music, and delicious pierogi under one roof. You can play classic arcade games, enjoy live music with rock, punk, and metal genres, and indulge in their famous pierogi menu.
The place has a retro feel, with over 35 pinball and classic arcade games lining the walls. They’re also known for bringing in a great selection of local and touring bands, particularly those in the rock, indie, alternative, and punk scenes.
| Pro tip: Try their pierogi! They are a house specialty and a delicious way to fuel up between games or enjoy a meal with your live music experience. |
3. Nepean Putting Edge
Website: https://www.puttingedge.com/locations/ottawa/
Address: 5 Roydon Pl #1, Nepean, ON K2E 1A3, Canada
Contact details: +16132244887
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Nepean Putting Edge is a glow-in-the-dark mini-golf course that offers a unique and immersive experience you won’t find at your average arcade. It boasts an 18-hole mini-golf course that ditches the traditional miniature golf aesthetic for exciting themes.
Imagine going through a jungle, under the sea, or even outer space – all bathed in the cool glow of black lights. This is a perfect place for a family outing or a night out with friends, regardless of age or skill level.
| Pro tip: Wear shoes so you can walk around quickly as you navigate the course. Consider booking your tee time online beforehand to avoid waiting during peak hours. |
4. The Neighbourhood Pub
Website: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057354493980
Address: 2557 Baseline Rd, Ottawa, ON K2H 7B3, Canada
Contact details: +13439611812
Operating hours: 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM
The Neighbourhood Pub houses the Ottawa Pinball Arcade, a haven for pinball lovers with a collection of restored machines featuring timeless games.
You might also find some classic arcade games alongside the machines. The Neighbourhood Pub integrates the arcade into a pub setting, so you can enjoy drinks and food while playing.
| Pro tip: Play a classic pinball game you loved as a kid (or try a new one) and challenge your friends to a high-score showdown. |
5. Level One Game Pub
Website: https://levelonegamepub.com/
Address: 14 Waller St, Ottawa, ON K1N 9C4, Canada
Contact details: +16136957529
Operating hours: 2:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Level One Game Pub has a massive collection of over 800 board games and 300+ video games. It’s a comfy hangout with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for you and your friends.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the options, their staff, called Game Gurus, are there to help you pick the perfect game. You can also grab a bite to eat or enjoy drinks while you play. They have pub fare, espresso, and a good selection of beers.
| Pro tip: Make a reservation, especially if you’re going with a large group or on a Friday or Saturday night, as they have a limited number of tables and a 3-hour time limit during peak times. |
6. Ottawa Pinball Arcade
Website: https://ottawapinballarcade.ca/
Address: 2559 Baseline Rd, Ottawa, ON K2H 7B3, Canada
Contact details: +16132236108
Operating hours:
- Saturday to Sunday – 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Monday to Friday – 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM
The Ottawa Pinball Arcade boasts the most extensive collection of pinball machines in Ottawa, featuring classic titles like Tales From The Crypt (1991) and other modern games.
They host events like Family Funday Sundays, which offer unlimited play, perfect for a fun family outing. The Pinball Arcade is located within The Neighborhood Pub, so you can enjoy a full menu and drinks while playing.
| Pro tip: Wednesdays are the best days for budget-minded players to visit. They offer unlimited play for $15 from 5 PM onwards. |
7. Room 104
Website: https://room104ottawa.com/
Address: 104 Clarence St., Ottawa, ON K1N 5P6, Canada
Contact details: +16132205684
Operating hours: Wednesday to Sunday – 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM
Room 104 is an arcade bar in Ottawa’s Byward Market, known for its nightlife scene. The decor, with pop culture references, chandeliers, comfy seating, and colorful wall art, takes you back to the golden age of arcades.
You can play classic arcade games like Pac-Man and Street Fighter while enjoying drinks and food from their open bar. With over 500 square feet, it can comfortably hold up to 130 people, making it ideal for group outings.
| Pro tip: Gather your friends and challenge them to a classic air hockey or rail shooter game while enjoying retro vibes. |
8. VRAdventures.ZONE
Website: https://www.vradventures.zone/
Address: 1642 Merivale Rd Unit 300, Nepean, ON K2G 4A1, Canada
Contact details: +16134173601
Operating hours: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
VR Adventures.ZONE is notable because it’s Ottawa’s only virtual reality gaming venue. They focus on activities that can be done with friends, family, or even co-workers.
You can battle zombies together, explore the ocean, or even visit a museum virtually—all in an immersive environment. The site offers a mix of arcade-style VR games, free-roam VR experiences, escape rooms, and multiplayer games.
| Pro tip: Try one of their VR escape rooms or multiplayer games if you’re going with a group. It’s a great way to work together and have a fun, shared experience. |
9. Lasermaxx Ottawa
Website: https://lasermaxxcanada.com/
Address: 1800 St. Laurent Blvd, Ottawa, ON K1G 1A2, Canada
Contact details: +16135264000
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
LaserMaxx Ottawa is known for its exciting laser tag experience. Their multi-level fog-filled arena creates a thrilling and immersive atmosphere for laser tag battles.
With their state-of-the-art equipment, you can expect reliable laser tag vests and guns for a smooth gaming experience. Try different game modes like capture the flag or team deathmatch to keep things interesting.
| Pro tip: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for running around a multi-level arena. |
10. Minotaure
Website: https://minotaure.ca/
Address: 3 Rue Kent, Gatineau, QC J8X 3J8, Canada
Contact details: +18196006466
Operating hours: 3:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Minotaure is a hip bar with a lively atmosphere that combines arcade games, craft beers, and live music shows. This venue offers a more sophisticated ambiance where you can unwind with a craft beer while enjoying classic or modern arcade games.
It caters to a more mature crowd seeking a dose of nostalgia or friendly competition alongside refreshing drinks. It’s the perfect spot for a night out with friends, where laughter mingles with the sounds of classic arcade tunes and friendly competition.
| Pro tip: It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the games and the lively atmosphere, especially with craft beers on hand. Remember to pace yourself with the drinks to ensure your gaming skills stay sharp and you can fully enjoy the experience. |
11. Zero Latency Ottawa
Website: https://zerolatencyottawa.ca/
Address: 2723 Lancaster Rd Unit 107, Ottawa, ON K1B 0B1, Canada
Contact details: +16139498802
Operating hours: Wednesday to Sunday – 1:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Zero Latency Ottawa offers free-roam virtual reality experiences. It provides freedom of movement where you can dodge virtual bullets, run through alien landscapes, and completely immerse yourself in action without any wires getting in your way.
Zero Latency is perfect for groups, allowing you and your friends to team up or compete in epic VR missions. Imagine coordinating a daring heist or strategizing your escape from a zombie horde with your squad.
| Pro tip: Move freely, dodge obstacles, duck for cover, and feel the thrill of the action. The more you engage with the virtual environment, the more fun you’ll have. |
12. Mulligans Golf Bar
Website: http://www.mulligansgolfbar.com/
Address: 201 Queen St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5C9, Canada
Contact details: +16134226333
Operating hours: 11:30 AM to 2:00 AM
Mulligans Golf Bar is a gastropub with high-tech golf simulators. They combine delicious food, handcrafted drinks, and the opportunity to practice your swing in a fun and social setting.
Mulligans offers state-of-the-art golf simulators that allow you to play a round on virtual courses worldwide. Plus, the climate-controlled environment ensures a comfortable experience throughout your game.
| Pro tip: To guarantee your tee time, be sure to book your simulator bay in advance to book a bay]. This way, you can avoid disappointment and ensure a fun-filled outing with your friends. |
