If you have arcade-lovin’ kids, but want to teach them a thing or two about arcade games from back in the day (sorry Chuck E. Cheese), then Underground Retrocade is PERFECT! I’ve always heard great things about this spot and couldn’t wait to check it out ourselves.
Disclosure: A huge thank you to Explore Elgin Area for partnering up with us to help showcase all the family fun things to do in the area.
Getting started at Underground Retrocade
Located in downtown West Dundee, you’ll find a parking lot located behind the building. When you enter, there are a few rules the owner goes through (no drinks and adults need to stay with kids in the pinball machine room.) Safety is paramount as temperatures are taken and hands are required to be sanitized before entering. My 6 year old shorty was given a step stool for easy access to the games. Admission to the arcade is good for the whole day so you can come and go. (Plenty of places to check out in Downtown!)
Retro games galore
An outing at Underground Retrocade includes two floors of fun! All the classics were present – Frogger, Pac-Man, and of course my absolute fav, Galaga. The second floor held more of the fighting games like Mortal Kombat and Street Fighter.
Skeeball fun
My 6-year-old and I immediately gravitated towards the Skeeball machines!
Pinball Fun
The pinball room was one of our favorite areas! There is a nice mix of old pinball machines and newer machines. Remember, adults need to accompany children in this room.
Final thoughts about Underground Retrocade
Leaving Underground Retrocade was hard (especially when you essentially have unlimited lives. You can keep going…and going…) An outing at Underground Retrocade is definitely fun for the family! I highly recommend it. And it would also be a fun idea for a date night!
Nitty Gritty
Website: https://undergroundretrocade.com/
Address: 121 W Main St, West Dundee, IL 60118
Cost: $15 per person
While You’re Here
- Get out in nature and explore Raceway Woods, a former race track, or a quick hike through Library Springs then nature play at the adjoining Wahoo Woods.
- A few doors down get delicious wood-fired pizza at Woodfire Pizza. If you order online, they have an amazing family deal for 3 pizzas and a tray of salad for $39.
- Have a sweet tooth? Around the Corner Candy is a must! The best part is that it’s totally affordable too! They have dollar bags and many items are under a buck.
- Dessert is best at Van’s Custard! Psst. their burgers are phenomenal as well!
