Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between renting the whole arcade and just showing up to play?
Private rentals Monday through Friday give you exclusive access for three hours with up to 30 guests for $250 plus tax ($10 per additional guest up to 50 total). Public play on Saturdays means you share the space with other visitors, paying per-person admission for all-day play with no time limit or reservation needed—plus every Saturday admission includes a free slice of pizza and a drink!
Can you bring your own beer or drinks to Old School Arcade Room in Tyler?
BYOB is permitted with no tab fees or corkage charges. On-site snacks, sodas, and water are available for purchase, but customers can bring their own beverages to enjoy during arcade play or lounge time without restrictions.
How much does it cost per person if you go over 30 people for a private party?
The base $250 plus tax rental covers up to 30 guests for three hours. Each additional person over 30 costs $10, with a hard maximum capacity cap of 50 total guests due to space limits.
What arcade games can you actually play at Old School Arcade Room?
The collection includes all-original vintage machines like NES consoles on a grandma's couch setup, pinball machines, air hockey, billiards, and laser disc fighting and racing games. Every machine is authentic retro hardware, not modern reproductions or emulation cabinets.
Why are Saturday nights at Tyler arcades so busy?
Saturday nights draw peak crowds from across East Texas because Saturday is the dedicated public play day each week. Weekday hours Monday through Friday are reserved for private party rentals, making Saturday the primary social gathering time for walk-in arcade visitors.
Do kids pay the same price as adults for arcade admission in Tyler?
Kids 12 and under pay $15 for all-day play instead of the standard $20 adult rate. Kids 3 and under enter free when accompanied by a paying adult. Every Saturday entrance ticket includes a free slice of pizza and a drink!
Can you host a corporate event at Old School Arcade Room during the week?
Private rentals accommodate corporate team-building events Monday through Friday in three-hour blocks. The $250 plus tax rate for up to 30 people ($10 per additional guest up to 50) and BYOB policy make it a flexible, cost-effective option for business groups.
What happens if someone wants to book a party on a Saturday in Tyler?
Private party rentals are scheduled Monday through Friday to preserve Saturdays for walk-in public access. Saturday remains open for general community play, ensuring East Texas arcade fans can visit weekly.
Can you buy vintage arcade machines at Old School Arcade in Tyler?
Vintage arcade machines, collectibles, and treasures are available for purchase next door at our sister shop, with inventory rotating as new acquisitions arrive.
What do people do at Old School Arcade besides playing games?
The retro lounge area with grandma's couch supports socializing, grabbing a drink or snack, and extended hangouts between rounds. Groups use the space for birthday parties, private group events, and casual Saturday gatherings where guests can relax and recharge.
Is there food available at the arcade in Tyler or do you have to bring your own?
Every Saturday entrance includes a free slice of pizza and a drink! Additionally, on-site snacks, sodas, and water stay stocked for purchase, and the BYOB policy allows you to bring your own beverages or outside food!