The Best Arcade Games to Play in Rocky Mount (2025 Guide)

Whether you grew up chasing high scores or you’re introducing your kids to the fun, there’s nothing quite like a classic arcade day. 

At Rocky Mount Event Center, families can experience both retro favorites and modern gaming excitement at the Game Day Adventure & Arcade—one of eastern North Carolina’s best indoor attractions.

Inside, you’ll find fun around every corner: racing simulators, interactive shooters, claw machines, and basketball hoops, all surrounded by a ropes course and climbing walls

Whether you’re in town for a tournament or just looking for something fun to do this weekend, Game Day offers the perfect mix of competition, nostalgia, and laughs!

Group of friends celebrate a winning moment while playing an arcade racing game

Top Picks at Game Day Adventure & Arcade (2025)

Here’s what visitors love most right now—an exciting blend of nostalgic and modern games, perfect for all ages.

1. Racing Simulators

Hop into the driver’s seat and test your reflexes on high-speed racing games that feature everything from Formula 1 tracks to city street circuits. These interactive games are always favorites among families and make great friendly competitions—especially when played in multiplayer racing mode.

2. Basketball Hoop Challenges

Nothing beats the sound of swishing shot after shot. The arcade basketball stations let kids and adults test their accuracy and speed, simulating the excitement of real-game pressure. It’s also a fun way to warm up before catching a youth basketball tournament on the main court.

3. Co-Op Shooter Games

Grab a friend (or your kids) and team up for interactive shooter adventures. Popular titles feature dinosaurs, zombies, or space creatures—complete with light sabers, vibrating seats, and cinematic sound effects. Perfect for a quick adrenaline rush!

4. Air Hockey & Table Games

Air hockey remains a timeless favorite—fast-paced, competitive, and endlessly replayable. Perfect for sparking a little friendly rivalry and bragging rights between arcade games.

5. Dance & Rhythm Games

Step on the pads and follow the beat! Dance-based games are making a big comeback, combining music and cardio. They’re a hit with older kids and parents who secretly want to show off their moves.

6. Claw Machines & Coin Pushers

These classic redemption games offer that satisfying mix of luck and skill. You’ll find claw machines filled with plush toys, mini prizes, and themed collectibles, plus coin pushers that keep everyone engaged.

7. Ticket Redemption Favorites

Save up your tickets for everything from glow toys and sports gear to candy and stuffed animals. It’s the perfect ending to an afternoon of play!

A close-up of a Pac-Man arcade game joystick

Classic Arcade Games You’ll Recognize

Some games never fade away. Pac-Man, Space Invaders, Donkey Kong, Galaga, and Street Fighter II continue to attract players of every generation. They’re easy to pick up, fun to master, and ideal for introducing younger players to arcade history.

These games bring a touch of nostalgia while teaching a new generation that timing and focus still matter more than fancy graphics.

Fun Fact: According to Intermountain Health, playing video games can actually support problem-solving, coordination, and social skills—especially when enjoyed together as a family.

Two boys playing a ticket redemption game at an arcade

Tips to Win More & Use Your Credits

Want to make the most of your visit? Here’s how to get extra fun out of every credit:

  • Arrive early: The arcade opens Saturdays at 11:00 a.m., giving you more time and fewer crowds.
  • Plan your budget: Arcade play is $1 per credit. Pricing for ages four and under is 50% off.
  • Mix it up: Alternate fast-paced or racing games with classics like air hockey.
  • Save your tickets: Redeem them for smaller prizes or save them up for bigger rewards.
Children celebrate a birthday with a colorful cake and gifts

Birthday Parties & Group Events

Planning a celebration? The arcade’s birthday party rooms make it easy to host unforgettable events without the stress. Party rooms are available for booking with flexible scheduling options.

Kids’ birthday parties at Rocky Mount include attraction playtime, private room access, and food options—with upgrades available if you’d like to customize. Our team handles setup, cleanup, and coordination, allowing parents to focus on the fun.

Plan Your Visit to Rocky Mount

The Game Day Adventure & Arcade is open Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and is located inside the Rocky Mount Event Center, just minutes from downtown restaurants and shops.

Open Hours & Pricing Basics

  • Game Day is open on Saturdays from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm
  • Arcade play costs $1.00 per credit
  • Kids 4 and under enjoy 50% off playtime

Time-Based Packages

Choose a package that fits your schedule and budget. Each package grants full access to the aerial rope course, climbing walls, and soft play area/ballocity (arcade card not included):

Duration

Price

What’s Included

30 minutes

$8.00

Aerial ropes, climbing walls, soft play/Ballocity

1 hour

$10.00

Same attractions, more time to enjoy

1.5 hours

$15.00

Deeper experience across activities

2 hours

$20.00

Maximum playtime within the package 

 

Three smiling female friends enjoying their time together in an arcade

FAQs About Arcade Games at Rocky Mount Event Center

Young children (ages four and under) love the Ballocity soft-play zone, gentle driving/racing games, and claw machines. These easy-to-learn games keep everyone entertained.

Ticket payouts vary, but games with a jackpot or ticket wheels often offer higher rewards. Ask the redemption counter about the current top machines.

Standard playtime packages include access to climbing walls, ropes courses, and the Ballocity area. Arcade game credits are purchased separately unless noted in a birthday or group package.

Game Day Adventure and Arcade is open on Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Absolutely! Birthday party rooms are available, and staff can help customize packages to include playtime, arcade passes, and food options.

Child playing in a colorful ball pit in Rocky Mount, NC

Experience the Fun for Yourself

Whether you’re a longtime gamer or just looking for a rainy-day adventure, Rocky Mount Event Center is the ultimate spot for indoor entertainment. 

Plan your visit today and experience why Rocky Mount is North Carolina’s go-to destination for arcade excitement!