Eighty Three Bar Arcade, located at 43 Princess Street in Saint John, is your gateway to the nostalgic world of 1980s and 90s arcade culture. Are you ready to blast from the past with the flip of a joystick? This venue isn't just a place; it's a retro haven for those who hold dear the arcade experiences of their youth. Here, nostalgia is more than a fleeting feeling—it's a vibrant, full-on experience that reconnects you with a cherished era.
Rewind to Rad
A Portal to the Past
Upon entering Eighty Three, you’re immediately transported to a time when arcades were the pinnacle of entertainment. This isn't just any arcade—it's a carefully curated museum of play, featuring legendary games like Pac-Man, Ms. Pac-Man, Frogger, Space Invaders, and Defender. These classic games are the main draw, revered not just for their nostalgia but also for their rarity, making them collector's items as much as they are sources of fun.
More Than Just Games
Eighty Three is more than a place to revisit old games—it's an immersive experience. The arcade pulses with the beats of the 70s, 80s, and 90s, playing continuous music videos that hark back to the days of "Friday night videos." It’s a cultural revival, reminding visitors of a time before smartphones and streaming services, where music videos and arcade games were the highlights of entertainment.
The Experience
Currently, all games are free with the purchase of an alcoholic beverage or a bottomless fountain soda, which suits perfectly with the laid-back, playful atmosphere of the bar. Looking forward, the bar will introduce an admission fee that covers the first drink and unlimited game play—a model that encourages long stays and deep dives into the arcade experience.
When to Visit
Planning your visit? Eighty Three welcomes guests from Thursday to Saturday, opening its doors at 6 PM. On Thursdays, it wraps up at midnight, but on Fridays and Saturdays, the fun extends till 2 AM. It’s closed from Sunday through Wednesday, so it’s best to plan accordingly.
A Unique Addition to Saint John's Nightlife
Eighty Three Bar Arcade stands out in Saint John’s nightlife scene, offering an alternative to the usual bar fare. It's a place where you can enjoy a drink, meet like-minded enthusiasts, and lose yourself in the games that defined a generation. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Eighty Three offers a unique way to enjoy your evenings, filled with nostalgia and fun.
Eighty Three Bar Arcade invites everyone to experience the joy and excitement of the arcade era, proving that some pastimes never go out of style. So, next time you're in Saint John, don't miss the chance to step into this retro arcade and create new memories from the old times.
