The Best Video Game Arcades for Kids in Houston

1. Palace Social - Bellaire

Why we love it: It’s a chic arcade lounge with a family twist.
This upscale hangout offers high-end food, bowling, and a big arcade area that’s great for teens and tweens. It’s more relaxed and classy than your average arcade, and ideal for older kids or cool arcade birthday parties in Houston. Read our review for inside info on all the extra features of Palace Social.

2. Kemah Boardwalk Arcade - Kemah

Why we love it: Games, rides, and views of the bay.
This classic kid-friendly arcade is located right on the waterfront boardwalk on the second level and surrounded by rides for all ages and carnival food. It’s perfect for toddlers through teens, and you can host your arcade birthday party at Galaxy Adventures Party Room with pizza, tokens, and ride wristbands included. You're also surrounded by all our other favorite activities on Kemah Boardwalk.

3. Speedy’s Fast Track - Northwest Houston

Why we love it: The arcade + go-kart combo means there's double the fun!
With arcade games, go-karts, laser tag, and mini golf, Speedy’s is an action-packed favorite for ages 6+. You can bring in outside food or order pizza nearby. Birthday packages are flexible and super popular with energetic kids. Speedy's is one of several places for kids to go-kart in Houston.

4. Ready Go Amusement Arcade - Bellaire

Why we love it: It’s a colorful new arcade packed with claw machines.
This Chinatown spot is filled with prize games, VR machines, and racing games, and it’s welcoming for all ages. No kitchen, but you’re steps away from some of Houston’s best Asian eats. Ideal for ages 4+ and one of a growing number of claw-machine arcades in Houston. 

5. Cidercade - Downtown

Why we love it: Unlimited games for one low price!
Pay once, play all day - no tokens or swiping needed. With over 275 games, it's perfect for kids 8+ and teens. They serve artisan pizza and sodas and also host arcade birthday parties. Parents will appreciate the grown-up vibe, but note that kids under 16 must be with an adult - and after 9 p.m., it's strictly 18 and up. After you've had arcade fun, check out some of the other activities for kids in Downtown Houston.

6. The Game Preserve - Webster and The Woodlands

Why we love it: It’s a retro-arcade lover’s dream come true.
Day passes and monthly memberships are available for this 1980s-style, independently-owned arcade. Although there is no food on-site, both locations are close to family-friendly restaurants. It’s ideal for ages 6+ and casual birthday hangouts. Both locations are easy to combine with other activities as the Webster location is right next to Houston Space Center (read about our favorite things there) and there are many activities for kids in The Woodlands.

7. Dave & Buster’s - West Houston, Friendswood, and The Woodlands

Why we love it: It’s a restaurant and giant arcade in one!
Looking for a Houston arcade with food and a fun vibe for parents? This national favorite video game arcade has a huge mix of games, sports simulators, and prize games - plus a full menu and drink options for adults. Great for tweens and teens, with birthday party packages that include food, game cards, and private party space.

8. Main Event - Various Locations

Why we love it: So many activities under one roof.
Arcade games, laser tag, bowling, and more - all in a massive Houston entertainment center. Kids of all ages will find something to do here, and their arcade birthday party packages include activities of your choice, a kid’s meal and soft drink, a fun card, and a party host. Try their pizza or sliders after some gameplay!

9. Okashi Japanese Arcade - Pearland

Why we love it: Japanese imports, rhythm games, and fun snacks.
This small and independently owned arcade features Japanese-style claw machines, racing games, and rhythm games. Best for kids 8+, and great for anime-loving teens. There’s no hot food, but you can snack on imported treats like Pocky and Ramune soda.

10. Round1 Bowling & Amusement - Humble

Why we love it: A crane game lover’s paradise.
This massive arcade in Humble is full of classic arcade fun, claw machines, and Japanese game cabinets. Located inside Deerbrook Mall, there are tons of food options just steps away. Great for kids of all ages, especially prize-hungry ones. Another location is expected to open in Willowbrook Mall.

11.  Chuck E. Cheese - Various Locations

Why we love it: It’s still the king of little kid arcades.
With age-appropriate games, play structures, and all the pizza you can handle, Chuck E. Cheese is perfect for toddlers and early elementary kids. Their birthday party packages make your kid's special day easy, with lots of options for food, play time, and goodie bags.

12.  GameTime - Northwest Houston

Why we love it: It’s got everything from arcade games to rock climbing.
Previously known as iT’Z Family Food & Fun, this indoor fun zone includes a big arcade, bowling, bumper cars, and even rock climbing. Their buffet and sports bar dining area make it easy to feed the crew after playing. Ideal for ages 4-12, with birthday packages that bundle food and activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are all arcades in Houston kid‑friendly?

Our recommendations are kid-friendly, but some arcades double as bars or 18+ lounges and only allow children during set family hours. Always check ahead before heading out.

Q: Can I host a birthday party at these arcades?

Yes! Many spots like Chuck E. Cheese, Dave & Buster’s, Kemah Boardwalk, Palace Social, Speedy’s, and the Game Preserve offer birthday party packages.

Q: Do these arcades serve food?

Most larger arcades offer food - either a full restaurant (like Dave & Buster’s or Palace Social) or snack-style options. Some allow outside food, especially for parties, but always double-check the rules.

Q: What’s the best arcade for toddlers?

Chuck E. Cheese is a long-time winner for toddlers, with simple games and calm spaces. Kemah Boardwalk is another great option - lots of easy games with big-button fun and other surrounding attractions.

Q: Which arcade is best for older kids and teens?

Check out Cidercade, Dave & Buster’s, Main Event, and Speedy’s for teens and tweens. These arcades offer more variety, bigger prizes, and fast-paced games that keep older kids engaged. Trend-setting and anime-loving kids will love the newer Japanese-style arcades like Ready Go, Okashi, and Round1.

Q: How can I avoid tears when it’s time to leave the arcade?

Arcades can be magical but hard to walk away from, especially for younger kids. Set expectations early by letting kids know in advance how long you'll stay, giving them a game credit or money limit before playing, and planning something fun afterward (like ice cream or a park stop) so the outing ends on a high note.