For families who bond over controllers instead of campfires, the real world has more gaming experiences than ever. From Super Nintendo World to retro arcades spanning entire warehouse floors, here are the best video game-inspired activities for families.
🎮 1. Super Nintendo World — Universal Studios Japan, Osaka
📍 Address: Universal Studios Japan, 2-1-33 Sakurajima, Konohana-ku, Osaka 554-0031, Japan
The original and largest Super Nintendo World. Strap on a Power-Up Band and collect coins throughout the land — it’s a real-life Mario game. Ride Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge (AR goggle racing), explore Donkey Kong Country (mine cart coaster), and eat Toad’s themed food at Kinopio’s Café.
- Must-do: Mario Kart ride, Donkey Kong mine cart coaster, collect all key coins for the Bowser Jr. boss battle
- Pro tip: Get a timed entry ticket early — the area fills to capacity by midday
👉 Check prices and availability on Expedia
🎮 2. Super Nintendo World — Universal Studios Hollywood, CA
📍 Address: Universal Studios Hollywood, 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
The US version has the core Mario Kart ride and interactive coin-collecting gameplay. Smaller than Osaka (no Donkey Kong expansion yet), but combined with the rest of Universal Hollywood — including the Studio Tour and Jurassic World ride — it makes for an incredible day.
- Must-do: Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, buy a Power-Up Band for the interactive experience
- Coming soon: Donkey Kong Country expansion expected in future years
👉 Check prices and availability on Expedia
🎮 3. National Videogame Museum — Frisco, TX
📍 Address: 8004 Dallas Pkwy, Frisco, TX 75034
A full museum dedicated to gaming history with playable exhibits from every era. From Pong to PlayStation 5, every generation is represented. Kids can play vintage arcade cabinets, try retro consoles, and learn about game design. The museum also hosts gaming tournaments and special events.
- Best for: All ages (younger kids love the hands-on stations)
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Tickets: ~$13 adults, ~$10 kids
👉 Check prices and availability on Expedia
🎮 4. Top Retro Arcades Across the US
Retro arcades have made a massive comeback. These are the best family-friendly ones worth a detour:
Pinballz Arcade — Austin, TX
📍 Address: 8940 Research Blvd, Austin, TX 78758
Three massive locations with 400+ machines including vintage pinball, classic arcade cabinets, and modern VR. Family-friendly during the day.
Galloping Ghost Arcade — Brookfield, IL (Chicago area)
📍 Address: 9415 Ogden Ave, Brookfield, IL 60513
The largest arcade in the US with 900+ games — all set to free play with admission ($20). Every classic you can think of plus deep cuts. No tokens, no quarters, just play.
Ground Kontrol — Portland, OR
📍 Address: 511 NW Couch St, Portland, OR 97209
Two floors of classic arcade and pinball machines in a retro-neon atmosphere. Family-friendly before evening hours.
Barcade — Multiple US Cities
📍 Locations: NYC, LA, Philadelphia, Jersey City, New Haven, Detroit
Classic arcade cabinets from the ’80s and ’90s — all coin-operated originals. Family-friendly during daytime hours in most locations.
🎮 5. teamLab Borderless / teamLab Planets — Tokyo, Japan
📍 teamLab Borderless: Azabudai Hills, 1-2-4 Azabudai, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0041
📍 teamLab Planets: 6-1-16 Toyosu, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0061
While not strictly “gaming,” teamLab’s immersive digital art experiences feel like walking inside a video game. Borderless is a museum without boundaries where art moves between rooms. Planets is a wade-through-water sensory experience. Both are jaw-dropping for all ages and deeply appeal to gamers and tech lovers.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Power-Up Band for Super Nintendo World?
You don’t need one to enter or ride Mario Kart, but you DO need one to collect coins, punch blocks, and complete the Bowser Jr. boss battle. It’s $40 and also works as an amiibo figure. Highly recommended for the full experience.
What is the largest arcade in America?
Galloping Ghost Arcade in Brookfield, Illinois (near Chicago) holds the record with over 900 games, all on free play for a $20 admission fee.
Is teamLab appropriate for young children?
teamLab Planets involves wading through knee-deep water in some rooms (not ideal for very young toddlers). teamLab Borderless is better for families with kids of all ages. Both are stroller-accessible in most areas.