Last Updated: January 1, 2026
From the 45+ pinball machines and pierogi at House of Targ to the 800+ board games at Level One Game Pub, Ottawa’s arcade scene blends nostalgic gaming with craft beer, live music, and spaces where adults can relive childhood joy while discovering new favourites.
The arcade landscape has evolved far beyond the dimly lit rooms of quarters and tokens. Ottawa’s gaming destinations now serve craft cocktails alongside classic cabinets, host live punk shows between pinball tournaments, and offer everything from VR experiences to massive board game libraries. Whether you’re seeking a quick game of Pac-Man, an evening of competitive pinball, or a full night out combining gaming with food and drinks, the capital has your joystick covered.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: House of Targ (Bank Street) is Ottawa’s true classic arcade with 45+ pinball machines and free-play for $12.50. Level One Game Pub offers 800+ board games and 300+ video games. Funhaven provides family-friendly arcade gaming. Room 104 brings arcade bar vibes to ByWard Market. Ottawa Pinball Arcade has the city’s largest pinball collection.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 🕹️ Best Classic Arcade | House of Targ |
| 🎲 Best Board Games | Level One Game Pub |
| 👨👩👧 Best for Families | Funhaven |
| 🍺 Best Arcade Bar | Room 104, House of Targ |
| 🎱 Pinball Destination | Ottawa Pinball Arcade |
| 💰 Free-Play Option | $12.50 at House of Targ |
House of Targ - Ottawa’s True Classic Arcade
House of Targ combines 45+ pinball machines, pierogi, and live music
Address: 1077 Bank Street, Ottawa, ON K1S 3W9 Phone: (613) 680-8274 Website: houseoftarg.com
Hours:
- Thursday to Sunday: 12:00 PM - 2:00 AM
House of Targ stands as Ottawa’s only true classic arcade experience—a destination that understands what made arcades magical and refuses to compromise that vision. With 45+ pinball machines and arcade cabinets lining the walls, plus a menu of famous pierogi, this Bank Street institution delivers gaming, food, and live music under one roof.
The Collection
Pinball Machines (17+):
- John Wick (Stern 2024)
- JAWS (Stern 2024)
- Dungeons & Dragons: The Tyrant’s Eye (Stern 2025)
- The Uncanny X-Men (Stern 2024)
- Godzilla (Stern 2021)
- Halloween (Spooky 2021)
- Venom (Stern 2023)
- Ghostbusters (Stern 2016)
- Jurassic Park (Stern 2019)
- The Mandalorian (Stern 2021)
- Classic titles like The Shadow (Bally 1994)
Classic Arcade Games:
- Pac-Man, Galaga, Donkey Kong
- TMNT (4-player)
- NBA Jam
- Double Dragon
- San Francisco Rush 2049
- Super Chexx Bubble Hockey
- Multicade cabinets with 60+ games each
Pricing
| Option | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Per Game | $0.25-2.00 | Coin machine onsite |
| FREE-Play | $12.50 + tax | Unlimited games |
FREE-Play Schedule:
- Tuesday Arcade: Every Tuesday 5pm-11pm (All Ages)
- Family FREE-Play: Every Sat & Sun 12pm-8pm (All Ages)
- FREE-Play After Dark: Every Sunday 8pm-Midnight (19+)
Beyond Gaming
Famous Pierogi: House of Targ’s kitchen delivers delicious pierogi that fuel gaming sessions. It’s not just arcade food—it’s destination-worthy.
Live Music: The venue hosts rock, punk, indie, and metal shows featuring local and touring bands. Check their schedule for upcoming performances.
Pro Tip: Tuesday Arcade offers free-play at $12.50 and is all-ages, making it perfect for families who want extended gaming without feeding quarters.
Level One Game Pub - Board Game Paradise
Level One offers 800+ board games and 300+ video games
Address: 14 Waller Street, Ottawa, ON K1N 9C4 Phone: (613) 695-7529 Website: levelonegamepub.com
Hours:
- Daily: 2:00 PM - 2:00 AM
Level One Game Pub redefines what a gaming bar can be. With over 800 board games and 300+ video games available, plus pub fare, espresso, and craft beer, it’s a destination where gaming becomes social experience.
The Experience
Massive Game Library: From party games to complex strategy titles, Level One’s collection covers every taste. The selection is so vast it can feel overwhelming—but that’s where Game Gurus come in.
Game Gurus: Staff members called Game Gurus help guests navigate the collection, explaining rules and recommending games based on group size and preferences.
Comfortable Atmosphere: The relaxed, welcoming environment encourages settling in for hours. Tables accommodate everything from quick card games to all-night campaigns.
What’s Available
Board Games: 800+ titles spanning party games, strategy, cooperative, and classics Video Games: 300+ console games across multiple systems Food & Drink: Full pub fare, espresso drinks, extensive beer selection
Booking
Reservations Recommended: Especially for Friday/Saturday nights and large groups. There’s a 3-hour time limit during peak periods to ensure everyone gets table access.
Best For: Groups wanting variety beyond arcade games, board game enthusiasts, and those who appreciate a relaxed gaming atmosphere.
Funhaven - Family Entertainment Hub
Funhaven offers the most attractions under one roof in Ottawa
Address: 1050 Baxter Road, Ottawa, ON K2C 3P1 Phone: (613) 828-4386 Website: funhaven.com
Hours:
- Daily: 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM (hours vary)
Funhaven bills itself as Ottawa’s ultimate entertainment hub—and delivers on that promise with the most attractions under one roof. While the arcade is just one component, it’s substantial and complements the facility’s rides, laser tag, and play areas.
Arcade Offerings
Retro Games: Classic cabinets that trigger nostalgia Modern Games: Latest releases and redemption games VR Experiences: Virtual reality gaming Racing Games: Sit-down racing simulators Carnival Classics: Skee-ball, basketball, and ticket games
Beyond the Arcade
Laser Tag Arena: Multi-level combat zone Jungle Gym: Play structure with Ballocity cannons Rides: Age-appropriate thrill rides Mini Golf: Indoor course Escape Rooms: Puzzle challenges
Food & Events
Fresh-baked pizza, comfort food menu, and self-serve sundae bar keep energy levels up. Birthday parties and corporate events receive dedicated hosting.
For more about Funhaven, see our indoor playground Ottawa guide.
Ottawa Pinball Arcade - Largest Collection
Ottawa Pinball Arcade boasts the city’s largest pinball collection
Address: 2559 Baseline Road, Ottawa, ON K2H 7B3 Phone: (613) 223-6108 Website: ottawapinballarcade.ca
Hours:
- Saturday & Sunday: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Monday to Friday: 2:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Located within The Neighbourhood Pub, Ottawa Pinball Arcade houses the city’s most extensive collection of pinball machines. From vintage classics to modern releases, pinball enthusiasts find machines they remember and others they’ve never seen.
The Collection
The arcade features both classic titles like Tales From The Crypt (1991) and modern releases. Machines are regularly maintained and rotated to keep the experience fresh.
Special Programming
Family Funday Sundays: Unlimited play packages make weekend visits affordable for families Wednesday Deal: Unlimited play for $15 from 5pm onwards—the best budget option
The Pub Connection
Since Ottawa Pinball Arcade operates within The Neighbourhood Pub, you can enjoy a full food and drink menu while playing. Grab a beer between games or make a meal of it.
Best For: Pinball purists who want variety and quality machines in a casual pub atmosphere.
Room 104 - ByWard Market Arcade Bar
Room 104 brings arcade bar culture to Ottawa’s ByWard Market
Address: 104 Clarence Street, Ottawa, ON K1N 5P6 Phone: (613) 220-5684 Website: room104ottawa.com
Hours:
- Wednesday to Sunday: 9:00 PM - 2:00 AM
Room 104 brings the arcade bar concept to Ottawa’s ByWard Market, combining classic gaming with nightlife energy. The decor—chandeliers, pop culture references, and colourful wall art—creates an atmosphere that celebrates gaming’s golden age.
What to Expect
Classic Arcade Games: Pac-Man, Street Fighter, and other cabinet favourites Air Hockey: Competitive showdowns with friends Rail Shooters: Light gun games for nostalgic action Drinks & Food: Full bar service while you play
The Vibe
Room 104 operates as a nightlife venue first, which means later hours, cocktail-focused service, and an adult atmosphere. The 500+ square feet accommodate up to 130 people, making it suitable for group outings and private events.
Best For: Night owls who want gaming with their cocktails in a ByWard Market setting.
For more ByWard Market nightlife, see our ByWard Market complete guide.
VR Adventures Zone - Virtual Reality Gaming
VR Adventures Zone offers Ottawa’s only dedicated VR gaming venue
Address: 1642 Merivale Road, Unit 300, Nepean, ON K2G 4A1 Phone: (613) 417-3601 Website: vradventures.zone
Hours:
- Daily: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
For gaming that goes beyond traditional arcades, VR Adventures Zone delivers Ottawa’s only dedicated virtual reality gaming venue. Whether battling zombies with friends, exploring underwater worlds, or escaping virtual rooms, the immersive technology creates experiences impossible on traditional screens.
Experiences Available
Arcade-Style VR Games: Quick, accessible VR experiences Free-Roam VR: Walk around in virtual environments VR Escape Rooms: Puzzle-solving in virtual space Multiplayer Games: Cooperative and competitive VR experiences
Best For
- Groups seeking unique shared experiences
- Team building events
- Those curious about VR technology
- Gamers wanting something beyond traditional gaming
Comparing Ottawa Arcades
Ottawa offers arcades for every preference and age group
By Experience Type
| Experience | Best Choice |
|---|---|
| Classic Pinball | House of Targ, Ottawa Pinball Arcade |
| Retro Arcade | House of Targ |
| Board Games | Level One Game Pub |
| Family Gaming | Funhaven |
| Nightlife Arcade | Room 104 |
| Virtual Reality | VR Adventures Zone |
By Age Group
| Audience | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Families with Kids | Funhaven, House of Targ (weekend free-play) |
| Teens | Funhaven, House of Targ |
| Adults (19+) | House of Targ, Room 104, Level One |
| All Ages | House of Targ (daytime), Ottawa Pinball Arcade |
By Budget
| Budget | Venue | Expected Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Free-Play Value | House of Targ | $12.50 unlimited |
| Per-Game | Any venue | $0.25-2.00/game |
| Board Games | Level One | Free with purchase |
| Premium Experience | VR Adventures Zone | $25-45/session |
Tips for Ottawa Arcade Visits
A few tips maximize your arcade experience
Before You Go
Check Hours: Many venues have limited operating days (House of Targ is Thu-Sun only) Bring Cash: Some machines still require coins despite card options elsewhere Make Reservations: Level One gets busy on weekends—book your table
Getting the Most Value
Free-Play Sessions: House of Targ’s $12.50 unlimited play beats feeding quarters for extended visits Wednesday Pinball: Ottawa Pinball Arcade offers $15 unlimited from 5pm Game Sharing: At Level One, one table can play dozens of games over an evening
For Groups
Large Groups: Room 104 can accommodate 130 people for private events Team Building: VR Adventures Zone specializes in group experiences Family Outings: Funhaven’s variety ensures everyone finds something engaging
FAQ
What’s the best arcade in Ottawa for pinball?
House of Targ offers 17+ pinball machines with the newest releases (John Wick, JAWS, D&D). Ottawa Pinball Arcade at The Neighbourhood Pub has the city’s largest overall pinball collection with both classic and modern machines.
Are there arcades in Ottawa that serve alcohol?
Yes. House of Targ, Level One Game Pub, Room 104, and Ottawa Pinball Arcade (within The Neighbourhood Pub) all serve alcohol. Each combines gaming with full bar service.
Where can I play classic arcade games in Ottawa?
House of Targ offers the most authentic classic arcade experience with games like Pac-Man, Galaga, Donkey Kong, TMNT, and NBA Jam alongside their pinball collection.
Is House of Targ family-friendly?
Yes—during specific times. Family FREE-Play runs Saturday and Sunday 12pm-8pm (all ages welcome). Tuesday Arcade (5pm-11pm) is also all-ages. Sunday after 8pm is 19+ only.
How much does free-play cost at Ottawa arcades?
House of Targ offers unlimited free-play for $12.50. Ottawa Pinball Arcade has $15 unlimited play on Wednesdays from 5pm. These options provide better value than per-game pricing for extended visits.
Where can families go for arcade games in Ottawa?
Funhaven provides the most family-friendly experience with arcade games plus laser tag, rides, and play areas. House of Targ welcomes families during weekend daytime free-play hours.
What’s Level One Game Pub like?
Level One offers 800+ board games and 300+ video games in a relaxed pub atmosphere. Staff (Game Gurus) help select games and explain rules. Great for groups who want variety beyond traditional arcade cabinets.
Is there VR gaming in Ottawa?
VR Adventures Zone on Merivale Road is Ottawa’s dedicated VR gaming venue, offering arcade-style VR, free-roam experiences, VR escape rooms, and multiplayer games.
Do Ottawa arcades host events?
Yes. Room 104 accommodates private events for up to 130 people. Funhaven hosts birthday parties and corporate events. House of Targ features live music shows alongside gaming.
What food is available at Ottawa arcades?
House of Targ is famous for pierogi. Level One offers full pub fare. Funhaven has pizza and comfort food. Most arcade bars provide snacks and full menus.
Final Thoughts
Ottawa’s arcade scene offers something for every type of gamer. House of Targ delivers the authentic classic arcade experience with pinball, retro cabinets, and pierogi—plus free-play options that make extended visits affordable. Level One Game Pub expands the definition of gaming with hundreds of board and video games in a social setting.
For families, Funhaven’s variety ensures everyone stays entertained. For night owls, Room 104 brings arcade energy to ByWard Market nightlife. And for pinball purists, Ottawa Pinball Arcade’s collection satisfies the most dedicated flipper fans.
The quarter-eating arcades of childhood have evolved into destinations where gaming, food, drinks, and community converge. Grab some tokens (or pay for free-play) and rediscover why arcades never really went away—they just got better.
Sources: Das Lokal Ottawa, Best in Ottawa, House of Targ, Level One Game Pub, Yelp Ottawa reviews.
