The 2026 Maine Arcade Directory: Find an Exciting One Near You
From classic pinball to modern video games, this is your complete guide to arcades in Maine.
This is Maine’s most detailed directory of arcades, updated for 2026. We provide the essential planning information you can’t find in one place, including key game types, food and drink menus, age policies, and parking details for locations statewide.
Table of Contents
- Our Recent Arcade Visits
- Comparison of Maine Arcade Reviews
- All the Details You Need in One Place
- How to Find the Perfect Maine Arcade
- Browse Arcades in Maine
- Map of Maine Arcades
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Maine Arcades
Our Recent Arcade Visits
It is our goal to visit and review as many arcades in Maine as possible. We try the games, check out the food, and take in the atmosphere, so you can know what to expect. Its a tough job, but someone’s got to do it!
There is a huge selection of claw machines at Round1 Arcade in South Portland.
Comparison of Maine Arcade Reviews
| Arcade Name | Location | Currency Type | Prize Counter? | Best Feature / Unique Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dragon’s Lair | Bangor Mall | Quarters | Yes | Good prices: with great pinball and game selection. |
| Family Time Dine and Play | Auburn Mall | Reloadable Card | Yes | Indoor Play: Massive “Crazy Maze” play gym and laser tag arena. |
| Smitty’s GameLAB | Topsham Mall | Reloadable Card | Yes | The Prize Wall: Stunning 3-wall prize display and full-service bar. |
| Orono Arcade | Downtown Orono | Tokens | No | Nostalgia: 1-token retro game wall and blacklight mini-golf. |
| Round1 Arcade | Maine Mall | Reloadable Card | Yes | Claw Machines: Hundreds of cranes and the famous 99¢ ice cream. |
All the Details You Need in One Place
- Clear Pricing Models: We break down how you pay to play. See whether it’s Pay-Per-Play (quarters/tokens), a flat-rate Admission Fee for free play, or a modern Reloadable Card system.
- Know the Game Types: Our listings highlight the main attractions, giving you a more detailed picture of what type of games are available at each location.
- Find Your Vibe: Each listing clarifies who it’s Good For, whether it’s All Ages/Family-Friendly like Family Time Dine and Play in Auburn or a strict Adult-Focused, 21+ Barcade like Arcadia in Portland.
- Food & Drink Intel: See what’s on the menu, from snack bars with pizza and pretzels to full-service restaurants and bars serving local Maine craft beer.
- Verified & Updated Details: Every listing on this page has been verified by our team. We confirm details to ensure you have the most accurate information possible, and we visit locations around the state frequently (and post about our experiences!).
How to Find the Perfect Maine Arcade
- Browse the Map: Browse the listings or jump directly to the map to see what’s nearby.
- Filter by Vibe: Find the right spot whether you’re planning a family outing or a night out with friends.
- Review the Logistics: Quickly location, game types, and food options to choose the best arcade for your trip.
- Click to View Details: Each listing includes a direct website link, phone number, and map link for easy planning.
Browse Arcades in Maine
Map of Maine Arcades
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Maine Arcades
Do I need to bring quarters?
While some smaller, retro arcades in Maine may still use quarters or tokens (like Orono Arcade) many now use a reloadable card system. We always recommend checking the arcade’s website or being prepared with a credit or debit card.
Are there arcades in Maine just for adults?
Yes. There are a few “barcades” in Maine, such as Arcadia and BreakRoom 248. These venues are strictly 21+, combining classic arcade games with a full bar serving craft beer and cocktails. We provide the location’s info to help you find these spots easily.
What’s the difference between a “classic” and a “redemption” arcade?
A “classic” or “retro” arcade focuses on the experience of playing the game itself, featuring original video game cabinets like Ms. Pac-Man or Street Fighter. A “redemption” arcade features games of skill or chance that award tickets, which can then be exchanged for prizes, or claw machines with the prizes dispensed automatically after winning. Many locations feature a mix of both types of games. Check out this article for a full breakdown of the different types of arcade games you may encounter.
What is the average cost for an hour of arcade gaming?
The cost varies greatly by location and payment model. For pay-per-play, a casual player might spend $10-$15 in an hour, with single games costing about $1 – $2 per play. For locations with unlimited play passes, you can expect to pay between $15-$25 for a multi-hour or all-day pass, which often provides the best value. Arcades with reloadable cards (such as Round1 Bowling and Arcade) will typically offer free bonus credits if you load more money on to the card at once.
Can I bring in outside food or a birthday cake?
Most arcades and family entertainment centers in Maine have a strict “no outside food or beverage” policy, especially if they have an on-site snack bar or restaurant. However, almost all of them make an exception for a birthday cake or cupcakes only if you have officially booked a birthday party package or rented a private room. If you are just walking in with a group, expect to buy your snacks on-site.
Do the tickets or points on my reloadable card expire?
Usually, no. One of the biggest benefits of the shift from paper tickets to reloadable plastic cards is that your hard-earned redemption points are saved digitally. For most major arcades in Maine, the points and leftover cash value on your card will not expire, meaning you can save them up over multiple visits for that top-tier prize. Just don’t lose the card!
