- Attraction: Up-Down Minneapolis
- Location: 3012 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55408
- Industry: Arcade Bar
- Website: https://updownarcadebar.com/minneapolis/
Step through the doors of Up-Down Minneapolis and suddenly you’re transported back to a time when quarters were currency and high scores were everything.
This isn’t just another bar with a few dusty arcade cabinets tucked in the corner – this is a full-blown nostalgic playground where every single game costs just 25 cents to play, making it feel like you’ve stumbled into a time machine set to the golden age of arcades.
Located in the vibrant Lyn-Lake neighborhood of Uptown Minneapolis, Up-Down has been serving up serious nostalgia since 2016. The concept was designed specifically for children of the ’80s and ’90s who want to recapture the pure joy of their youth while enjoying craft cocktails and quality beer.
With over 60 classic arcade games, an impressive selection of pinball machines, and three outdoor patios, this 21+ venue strikes the perfect balance between grown-up sophistication and childlike wonder.
Gaming Paradise & Arcade Highlights
Quarter Gaming Glory: Every single game at Up-Down costs just one token, which equals 25 cents – a pricing structure that feels almost too good to be true in today’s world. You’ll find yourself stretching $20 into hours of entertainment, especially on Thursday nights when they offer double tokens.
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Keep Exploring →Classic Arcade Heaven: The game selection reads like a greatest hits album of arcade history. You can battle through Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, test your reflexes on Galaga, challenge friends to Street Fighter II, or lose yourself in the maze-like world of Pac-Man.
The variety spans from early ’80s classics like Donkey Kong and Frogger to ’90s favorites including NBA Jam and Mortal Kombat 2.
Pinball Paradise: Pinball enthusiasts rave about the quality of machines here, which range from modern Stern and Bally tables to classic Williams titles.
Players consistently mention how well-maintained these machines are – every flipper works perfectly, every moving part is active, and the attention to detail makes each game feel like it’s operating at peak performance.
Skee-Ball & Beyond: Four classic skee-ball alleys greet you right at the entrance, setting the tone for the retro experience ahead.
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Discover MoreYou’ll also discover Nintendo 64 consoles running Mario Kart, life-size Jenga and Connect Four on the outdoor patios, and modern arcade experiences like Killer Queen – a 10-player strategy game that’s become a crowd favorite.
Multiplayer Magic: The four-player Pac-Man Battle game draws groups together for intense competition, while fighting games create impromptu tournaments among strangers. The layout encourages social gaming, making it easy to jump into someone else’s game or challenge new people to your favorite classics.
Atmosphere & Décor
Dimly Lit Gaming Den: The interior maintains that authentic arcade atmosphere with darker lighting that helps the game screens pop while creating an intimate, focused gaming environment. The space feels deliberately nostalgic without being overly themed or gimmicky.
Spacious Layout: Unlike cramped arcade setups, Up-Down provides plenty of room to move between games without constantly bumping into other players. The open floor plan centers around a large bar, creating natural gathering spots while keeping games accessible from all angles.
Outdoor Oasis: Three outdoor patios offer a refreshing change of pace from the indoor gaming action. The recently renovated rooftop features oversized lawn games, firepits for warmth during cooler months, and a more relaxed atmosphere perfect for conversation between gaming sessions.
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Keep Exploring →Adult Playground Vibe: The environment strikes a perfect balance between bar sophistication and arcade fun. You’ll hear the satisfying sounds of pinball machines, the electronic bleeps and bloops of classic games, and the competitive chatter of adults rediscovering their favorite childhood pastimes.
Other Considerations
Exceptional Value: The pricing structure feels almost charitable compared to modern entertainment venues.
Most visitors mention being shocked at how far their money stretches, with $10-20 providing hours of entertainment. Special deals like the “Six Pack And A Pound” package (six beers, 80 tokens, and a fanny pack) offer even more value.
Craft Beer Excellence: The beverage program features over 60 beers on tap, with an impressive rotating selection that includes local Minneapolis breweries alongside regional and national favorites.
The large digital screens displaying the beer list help navigate choices in the dimmer lighting, and the bartenders are known for their knowledge and quick service.
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Discover MorePizza By The Slice: Food options focus on pizza available by the slice or whole pie, with creative flavor combinations that go beyond typical bar fare. While some describe it as messy to eat while gaming, the quality consistently surprises visitors who expect typical bar pizza.
Peak Times & Planning: Weekends can get quite crowded, which serves as testament to the venue’s popularity but may require patience for popular games. Sunday nights offer a more relaxed experience, while Thursday’s double token nights create a perfect value proposition for longer gaming sessions.
Gaming Machine Reliability: With the heavy use these vintage machines receive, occasional breakdowns are inevitable. However, the staff provides prompt token refunds for any malfunctioning games, and the vast selection ensures you’ll always find plenty of working alternatives.
Up-Down Minneapolis
📍 3012 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55408
