Play games like golf and arcade classics at these 10 bars in Charlotte
Being an adult is far from easy — but there are bars here in Charlotte that will make you feel like a kid again, while you have a drink or two.
300 N. College St., #104
Lively can’t even begin to describe this barcade. This place is loaded with classic games such as Mortal Kombat and Donkey Kong, party favorites like air hockey, and a “fully stocked Gamer Bar,” according to the website. Its location is excellent for barhopping as well, with Flight and The Imperial just around the corner. Lucky’s has a ’90s feel to it, complete with mashup music.
VBGB Beer Hall and Garden
920 Hamilton St.
The best way to describe German-inspired VBGB is that it’s basically an adult playground. How many bars in allow you to play beach volleyball? The game selection ranges from giant Connect Four to giant chess to pig pong. The beer hall allows you to sing your best or worst during karaoke. Bonus: The food menu is delicious, with items like fried pickles, pulled chicken sandwiches and tater tots.
Recess
820 Seigle Ave.
This bar has craft beer, cocktails and finger foods, plus hookah and hip-hop music. Because Recess is located on the outskirts of Uptown and rocks with lively music, it’s an excellent pre-gaming spot before a night out. There are plenty of games as well, like HopScotch, cornhole, and Hoop Fever. Entrance fee: $10.
Abari Game Bar
1721 N. Davidson St.
Abari Game Bar has over 30 games that include the classics, such as Mortal Kombat and Pac-Man, shooter games and more. Abari also has Killer Queen, one of only ten in the United States. All you’ll need to have a great time is a bag full of quarters and to pay a one-time membership payment of $1.
The Blind Pig NoDa
453 E. 36th St.
The Blind Pig is a neighborhood bar that’s locally owned and smack dab in the middle of NoDa. On their patio they offer interactive games including a huge Jenga set, Twister and mini golf. Some games inside the bar include pool, beer pong, and skeeball. There’s a membership fee of $1. Also, The Blind Pig is for drinks and play only. Check out nearby restaurants like Boudreaux’s and Crepe Cellar for food.
Queen Park Social
4125 Yancey Road
Want to bowl, sip a drink and indulge in snacks at the same time? Food items range from pork carnitas to burgers, and games range from bowling, to foosball, dart, cornhole, air hockey and Giant Uno. The prices depend on the activities. For example, shuffle board is $15 an hour, and ping pong is $1.
TopGolf
8024 Savoy Corporate Drive
This is by no means a normal sports bar — it’s golf only. Guest can play in a variety of categories, including: TopGolf, the signature game, which allows guests to receive points by hitting their targets; TopScrabble, which allows beginners and experienced golfers to compete on an even playing field; and TopContender, which is for leagues and events. TopGolf is also known for its unique brunch selection, from chicken and waffles to colorful mimosas. The pricing is $25 per hour from 9 a.m. to noon, $35 per hour from noon to 5 p.m., and $45 per hour from 5 p.m. to midnight.
10 Park Lanes
1700 Montford Drive
10 Park Lanes is a fun place to for nightlife. Besides bowling, it also has an arcade, a restaurant and a full-service bar. This bowling alley is quite popular, so expect a wait for services (worth it). The prices for bowling vary based on time of day, starting at $6 per person. 10 Park Lanes also features live DJs on Friday and Saturday evenings
Flying Saucer
9605 N. Tryon St. A
This pub is right next to UNCC so it’s a great place for college students to hang out. Flying Saucer is known for their delicious burgers and huge selection of beers (82 on tap and 120 in bottles). As far as games go, expect pool, chess and darts. Don’t miss trivia on Tuesdays.
Palmer St. Arcade Bar
412 W. Palmer St.
Palmer St. Arcade is truly a hidden gem. Unlike most barcades, most of the games are free except for games like air hockey and skeeball. The membership fee is $1. There’s also a cool juke box and old movies playing in the background, for a nice vintage feel.
This story was originally published September 25, 2018 at 2:00 AM.