It’s hard to imagine now that everybody has a plethora of games within arm’s reach of them on their phones, but it wasn’t so easy back in the day. In fact, kids had to actually travel to their neighborhood arcade to get their fix of Super Mario Bros. These types of places may seem like they are a thing of the past, but that couldn’t be more wrong. In fact, you’ll find a pretty amazing vintage arcade right here in Idaho. This epic arcade palace is home to 150 retro games that are bound to bring out your inner child, so pay it a visit the next time you get that urge for some good ol’ gaming fun.
Please note, Grinkers Grand Palace has permanently closed.
Looking at it from the outside, you'd never expect a treasure trove of 1980s nostalgia to be waiting for you inside. However, that's exactly what you'll get upon stepping through the doors of Grinkers Grand Palace in Eagle, Idaho.
Remember when kids had to ride their bikes to the nearest arcade with a pocket full of quarters in order to get their video game fix? If so, Grinkers will be like a blast from the past for you. This vintage arcade is like something from a different era, and it boasts incredible fun for the whole family.
Upon stepping inside, you'll be overwhelmed with the sight of retro pinball machines and arcade games lined up next to each other. All in all, the 7,500-square-foot space boasts 250 games, many of which are real vintage gems.
Here you'll find iconic games like Donkey Kong, Galaga, Frogger, Pac-Man, Popeye, Mortal Kombat, Rampage, and so much more. There's a game for everyone, no matter what your gaming style is.
It all started when the owner of Grinkers, Steve Barbey, was browsing Craigslist and came across three vintage games for sale: Lunar Lander, Super Poppa, and Battlezone. Barbey decided to purchase them, and soon he started accumulating more and more. He decided to open Grinkers so he could finally have a place to put his expanding collection.
In addition to the massive selection of games, Grinkers also boasts a sizeable sandwich menu, all of which are created with made-from-scratch bread and high quality meat and cheeses. Beer and wine is also available for purchase.
Grinkers represents a bygone era when gaming was a community experience. People would gather around a single game and cheer the player on, anxiously awaiting their own turn. Well, it turns out that the vintage arcade is still alive and kicking. You'll find Grinkers at 228 E Plaza Dr, Eagle, ID 83616.
Have you been to this epic vintage arcade yet? This place looks totally awesome. I think I know where I’ll be spending my weekends from now on! Want more nostalgic places like this one? Check out these 10 Retro Places In Idaho That Will Take You Back In Time.
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