Get ready to party like it's 1989, because we're taking a trip back in time - and you won't even have to leave Cleveland! Do you remember the good old days spent in the arcade with a pocket full quarters and a joyful group of friends? Many of us do, and Cleveland was an incredibly fun place to grow up in the 1980s. There's one bar in Cleveland that will take you back to that era with an unforgettable ambiance and old-school cocktails.
Editor's Note: Unfortunately, this location in Cleveland closed its doors in 2021. While this article features photos from its old location, you can enjoy the same vibe we describe at the bar's new location: 1880 W 25th St, Cleveland, OH 44113!
Located just minutes from the heart of Cleveland sits a bar that appears rather mundane from the outside...
16-Bit Bar + Arcade looks like any other bar from the outside, but don't let its casual brick exterior fool you.
...But once you step inside, you'll find yourself reminiscing about the glory days.
16-Bit Bar + Arcade is overflowing with throwbacks to a simpler era. From likenesses of yesteryear's celebrities to drinks named for stars like Carrie Fisher and Hulk Hogan, the modern world will feel far, far away.
It’s the perfect place to meet up with friends or treat yourself to a much-needed day of play.
Imagine gathering a group of coworkers for a friendly (or competitive) game of Donkey Kong. The allure of nostalgia is too irresistible, whether you're going solo or with a big party.
With a selection of more than 40 vintage arcade games, memories of your childhood will flood back to you.
Frogger, Asteroids, Centipede, and even Kiss Pinball are just a few of many games you'll surely recognize. These timeless arcade classics attract today’s young adults too, immersing them in the culture of one of Cleveland's greatest eras.
Nostalgia, it turns out, pairs perfectly with both old-school and modern cocktails.
16-Bit keeps the fun going with unique names assigned to every beverage. Sip on a Bill Nye or indulge in The Dude. You'll surely love the familiar Kevin Bacon beverage, and the fruity Lisa Frank is beloved by all who try it.
The bar's friendly atmosphere will easily make it your new favorite hangout spot in Cleveland.
Brick walls and rich wood accents make this arcade feel familiar and warm, and you'll find yourself feeling welcomed as soon as you set foot in the door.
There's also an outdoor patio dining space to enjoy when the weather is nice, complete with heaters to keep you warm on chilly nights.
16-Bit opens at 4 p.m. on Monday through Friday and at noon on weekends. The bar closes every night at 2:30 a.m., offering you plenty of time to relive the best days of your childhood.
Whether you play for hours or swing by for a quick drink and a few games, this is a great place to spend some much-needed "you time."
Adventure awaits at 16-Bit Bar + Arcade!
16-Bit Bar + Arcade is located at 15012 Detroit Ave. in Lakewood, with other locations in Cincinnati, Columbus, and Dublin as well. We’re lucky to have one nearby and it’s too close to home not to pay it a visit!
For more information, including a full list of the arcade games, a peek at the menu, and details about upcoming special events, visit the 16-Bit Bar + Arcade website here and follow along on Facebook here.
Which old-school arcade game is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
There's something undeniably charming about throwback destinations. If you thought this bar was cool, just wait until you check out this old-school soda fountain in Cleveland.
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