A sprawling warehouse of a fun zone for kids in adult bodies, Two Bit Circus is the Arts District’s premier arcade hangout. The “micro-amusement park” combines virtual reality, escape rooms, motion-sensing carnival-esque attractions, old-school–inspired arcade games and trivia with exactly the kind of food and colorful, sprinkle-flecked drinks we would have designed when we were children. Sip your way through Ring-Pop–garnished cocktails, boozy watermelon lemonade and even the bar’s own house beers as you nosh on pizza, chili cheese fries, sliders and gelato ice cream sandwiches in between rounds of air hockey and pinball. Just load up your playing card with digital tokens and go wild.
Sipping cocktails while toppling high scores is that beautiful utopia where adulthood meets childhood: You can stay out as late as you want, the retro vibes never cease, the beer flows freely and games cost as little as a quarter. We’ve compiled a list of the best adult-friendly arcade bars in the Los Angeles area, the kinds where you can both order a cocktail, some natural wine or a beer and play some Space Invaders. From a trendy Arts District bar to an Echo Park spot that doubles as a restaurant, here’s where to unleash your inner pinball wizard in L.A., all grown up.