BOLD CHOICE: PINSTACK PLANO
Located just north of Dallas proper, PINSTACK PLANO is a thrilling combination of arcade games, bowling lanes and laser tag arenas. Each birthday package includes private event space, a dedicated host, pizza and soft drinks—and you can easily customize your order to add cake, snacks or extra game credits. Kids will love the variety of arcade cabinets, from classic skee-ball to the latest VR shooters. Parents get free Wi-Fi, comfortable lounge seating and even table service, so you can relax while the birthday crew plays on.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FAVORITE: JOYSTIC JUNCTION
Tucked inside Grapevine Mills Mall, JOYSTIC JUNCTION boasts an expansive arcade floor plus bumper cars and a mini roller coaster. Their birthday bundles begin at ten guests and include all-you-can-play game cards, an assigned party host and reserved seating. You’ll also find photo ops with giant animatronic characters that make for great social media moments. The staff specializes in keeping young gamers organized—from handing out wristbands to coordinating round-the-room high scores.
GAMER HAVEN: RAVE MOTION
If your birthday star is into high-speed excitement, RAVE MOTION in North Dallas offers competitive go-karts alongside a retro-modern arcade. Their party rooms are equipped with big-screen TVs so you can stream live leaderboard action or play console tournaments. Packages cover track time, unlimited arcade play and a snack bar credit. The neon-drenched interiors create a nightclub vibe that’s still family-safe. Remember to book early on weekends, since RAVE MOTION is famous for hosting epic sugar-fueled birthday bashes.
RETRO PARADISE: PRESS START ARCADE
For a nostalgia-filled celebration, PRESS START ARCADE in Richardson is a 1980s-inspired wonderland. Two hours of unlimited play on vintage machines like Pac-Man, Donkey Kong and pinball legends are included in their birthday package. Your group gets a private room with retro-themed décor, plus cake-cutting services and souvenir tokens. Friendly staff members can guide younger players through tricky levels or set up a multi-player showdown. It’s perfect for families who want to share their gaming childhood with the next generation.
TIPS FOR A SMOOTH PARTY
- Book at least three weeks in advance to secure your preferred date and time.
- Check if the venue offers vegetarian, gluten-free or allergy-friendly snack options.
- Ask about any age or height restrictions, especially for attractions like go-karts or bumper cars.
- Confirm their COVID-19 policies regarding group sizes, masks and sanitation stations.
Dallas is full of high-energy spots where birthdays come alive in a rainbow of flashing lights and thrilling sounds. Pick your style—modern multi-activity center, mall-based arcade fantasy or retro pixel palace—and prepare for a day of laughter, competition and unforgettable memories.