Best Independent Outings for Tweens and Teens Around Seattle
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Old-school video arcades like the Ice Box provide hours of entertainment. Photo: Kari Hanson
Awesome Arcades
Okay, so technically, arcades mean screen time, but your kids will be out of the house and with their friends, so it hardly counts! Have your kid grab a few friends and head to a real-life arcade for some old-school video game fun. They might scoff at the graphics, but let’s see them try and get their initials in one of those high score slots. Bonus: Arcades have a natural time limit. When you’re out of quarters, you’re out of quarters. Point your teen toward the following arcades next time they complain about being bored.
Ice Box Arcade, Seattle
This great old-school arcade offers video games, pinball machines, a pool table and air hockey (plus a variety of snacks available for purchase). All ages are welcome until 8 p.m., after which it is open to adults only (21 and older) until closing. Have your kids check the arcade’s calendar before heading out; they are sometimes closed for private events and tournaments.
Dorky’s Arcade, Tacoma
Have you ever played an arcade game? Chances are if you have, you’ll find that game among the huge selection (more than 100!) of classic arcade games and pinball machines here. All ages are welcome until 9 p.m., after which it’s adults only (21 and older). Kids coming to Dorky’s Arcade should be at least 7 years old, and kids ages 7–15 must be accompanied by an adult, though kids are welcome to play games on their own (you don’t have to hover). Dorky’s also sells pizza and sandwiches. Check the Facebook page for upcoming events and more info.
Memory Lane Arcade, Everett Mall
A video game arcade in a mall? What could be more of a tween paradise? While this arcade is not as large as the others, it offers plenty of air-conditioned fun. Teens can play some games, then they can head to the food court for lunch. It’s like the 1980s all over again.
Next time your tween or teen complains about being bored, suggest some of these ideas. Or, better yet, just text them the link to this article and let them take the lead in planning their next adventure!
