When you think of Carytown, “gaming hub” might not be the first phrase that comes to mind. But between its eclectic mix of shops, cafés, and nightlife spots, Carytown hides some of Richmond’s coolest places to play. Whether you’re chasing that nostalgic arcade glow, testing your reflexes on modern consoles, or just looking for a social night out that’s not another dinner reservation, Carytown delivers.
Here’s your guide to where fun meets friendly competition on the Mile of Style.
1. The Circuit Arcade Bar: Where Nostalgia Meets Nightlife
The Circuit Arcade Bar is Carytown’s ultimate playground for grown-ups. Step inside, and you’re greeted by the glow of neon, the hum of pinball machines, and a playlist that flips between 80s rock and 90s hip-hop.
With over 70 classic arcade games, from Pac-Man and Galaga to Street Fighter II and NBA Jam, it’s impossible not to find an old favorite. The self-serve beer wall offers dozens of rotating taps, and each pour is charged by the ounce, so you can sample local brews while working on your high score.
Pro tip: Go during happy hour (weeknights, 5–7 p.m.) when tokens are discounted and the crowd’s just warming up.
Vibe: Retro, social, energetic
Perfect for: Group hangouts, date nights, or anyone who thinks Donkey Kong still deserves respect.
2. SLINGSHOT Social Game Club: Games, Eats & Competition
Just around the corner from Carytown’s shopping core, SLINGSHOT Social Game Club brings a next-level twist to Richmond nightlife. It’s part arcade, part sports bar, part playground — with full lanes of duckpin bowling, ping-pong, basketball hoops, and even axe throwing for the bold.
Their menu features elevated bar food (think fried pickles and artisan pizzas) alongside creative cocktails. Big-screen TVs keep sports fans happy, while the game floor buzzes with competition.
Whether you’re in it for the scoreboards or just the laughs, Slingshot makes play the main event.
Vibe: Loud, lively, and modern
Perfect for: Team nights, birthdays, or casual competitions with friends
3. Bits & Pixels: A Retro Gamer’s Dream
For the serious gamers and collectors, Bits & Pixels is Carytown’s crown jewel. This locally-owned shop is half store, half nostalgia museum — walls lined with vintage consoles, cartridges, and memorabilia that transport you straight back to the days of Saturday-morning gaming marathons.
Browse everything from Nintendo 64 classics to rare Sega Genesis imports. Bits & Pixels also sells modern titles, accessories, and themed merch — it’s a paradise for anyone who loves gaming culture as much as the games themselves.
Vibe: Nostalgic and geek-chic
Perfect for: Gamers, collectors, or anyone hunting for that elusive Super Smash Bros. cartridge.
4. Galaxy Diner: Retro Eats, Old-School Vibes
Okay, it’s not a dedicated arcade — but Galaxy Diner earns an honorary mention for carrying the spirit of retro gaming in its décor and vibe. This Carytown favorite is decked out in neon and comic-book art, with an atmosphere straight out of a 1980s hangout movie.
Slide into a booth, order the “Cosmic Burger,” and imagine you’re taking a break between arcade rounds. For those who miss that authentic diner-and-joystick combo, Galaxy is the perfect pre- or post-game fuel stop.
Vibe: Vintage diner fun
Perfect for: A casual lunch before hitting the arcade scene
5. Esports & Pop-Up Gaming Events in Carytown
Carytown’s gaming energy doesn’t stop at brick-and-mortar venues. Richmond’s pop-up gaming community hosts frequent events — from Super Smash Bros. tournaments to trivia nights themed around popular games and anime.
Keep an eye on social pages like @rva_arcade, @richmondgamer, and @rvaesports for upcoming events at local bars, bookstores, and cafés. These gatherings highlight just how active Carytown’s gaming crowd really is — proof that RVA’s love of play runs deep.
Conclusion
Carytown isn’t just a place to shop and dine — it’s a place to play. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories at an arcade bar, showing off your aim at an axe lane, or picking up a vintage game to add to your collection, Carytown’s gaming scene proves that Richmond knows how to mix nostalgia and nightlife like nowhere else.
So grab a handful of tokens, round up your friends, and press start — Carytown’s arcade adventure is waiting.
