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The Retro Room

4.8
·181 reviews·Key West, United States

Step into a nostalgic paradise at The Retro Room, Key West's ultimate 80s-themed bar with arcade games and a huge beer selection.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weeknights

Fewer crowds, more chill vibes

CrowdLow
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The Retro Room - Image 1

The Retro Room

Best Time

Weeknights

Fewer crowds, more chill vibes

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into a nostalgic paradise at The Retro Room, Key West's ultimate 80s-themed bar with arcade games and a huge beer selection.

4.8
(181 reviews)

"This place will bring you back to your childhood. Great beer, great staff, and great times."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Embrace the Vibe

It's not just a bar, it's an experience! Come ready to play games and soak in the nostalgia.

🍻 Huge Drink Selection

With over 20 beers on tap, wine, and sake, there's something for everyone.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Retro Arcade Machines

Retro Arcade Machines

Main Bar Area

Relive your childhood with classic arcade games. Pure, unadulterated fun!

Extensive Beer & Drink Menu

Extensive Beer & Drink Menu

Bar

Over 20 beers on tap, plus wine and sake. Happy hour deals are a steal!

Pop Culture Decor

Pop Culture Decor

Throughout the Bar

Walls adorned with 80s comics and memorabilia. A feast for the eyes!

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Nostalgia

Step into a time capsule at The Retro Room, where 80s comics and cassette tapes set the vibe. It's a chill spot, not a party scene, perfect for unwinding with games and good drinks.

Small Space, Big Fun

This cozy Key West gem is packed with retro arcade games and board games. It gets lively, so expect a friendly crowd and a fun, social atmosphere. Food is limited, focus on the drinks and games!

Best Times

When
Weeknights
Why
Fewer crowds, more chill vibes
Crowd
Low
When
Happy Hour
Why
Great deals on drinks
Crowd
Medium
When
Before 8 PM
Why
Kid-friendly hours
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#keywest #floridakeys #travel #retro #paradise #islandlife #flkeys #thefloridakeysrealtor #keywestrealestate #keywestrealestateagent #waterfrontproperty #keywesttravel #realtoroftiktok #realtor #keywestlife #keysteamexperts #keysteam @KeyWestKat_TheRealtor
@bryantgantter
103 likes • 3.7K views

🎯 Embrace the Vibe

It's not just a bar, it's an experience! Come ready to play games and soak in the nostalgia. Reddit

🍻 Huge Drink Selection

With over 20 beers on tap, wine, and sake, there's something for everyone. Reddit

Mr. Beans, 1.5 years old, works the door at Retro Room in Key West, FL. Beans was adopted as a pup by Tony the bartender through the @flkeysspca #adoptdontshop #dog #dogswithjobs #bars #florida
@gwenfilosamedia
101 likes • 1.1K views
reddit.com

Moving to Key West

🐶 Meet Mr. Beans

Say hello to Beans, the adorable dog who 'works' the door! TikTok

🎲 Games Galore

From arcades to board games, you won't be bored here. Perfect for social interaction. Reddit

reddit.com

Staying in key west 21st - 26 looking for a suggestions from local person /experienced traveler on some cool events or bars that area around the holidays. Any suggestions on bars or spots around the island with a younger crowd or? (22m). Anything would help, appreciate in advance 🤙🏼

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Embrace the Vibe

It's not just a bar, it's an experience! Come ready to play games and soak in the nostalgia. Reddit

🍻 Huge Drink Selection

With over 20 beers on tap, wine, and sake, there's something for everyone. Reddit

🐶 Meet Mr. Beans

Say hello to Beans, the adorable dog who 'works' the door! TikTok

🎲 Games Galore

From arcades to board games, you won't be bored here. Perfect for social interaction. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧 Kid-Friendly Until 8 PM

Bring the little ones for a fun, retro experience before the adult crowd takes over. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(181 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Retro Room is celebrated as a unique, nostalgic gem in Key West, offering a refreshing escape from typical tourist bars. Visitors rave about the authentic 80s vibe, extensive drink selection, and the fun of retro arcade and board games. While it's a small space and food options are limited, the overwhelming sentiment is that it's an experience worth having for its community feel and distinct charm.

"Walking into The Retro Room in Key West honestly feels like walking into a time capsule. The first thing that hit me was how different it is from the usual bars down here it’s not about noise or chaos, it’s about the vibe. The walls are covered with 80s comics, cassette tapes line the bar, and there are old-school arcade machines ready to go. It really does make me feel part of an era I was never a part of in the first place.

The drinks are on point. They’ve got a big selection on tap beer, wine, even sake which is something you don’t see everywhere. I tried a couple and they were solid, plus the happy hour prices made it even better. This isn’t a “fancy cocktail” spot; it’s more of a place where you come to chill, play games, and enjoy yourself without the usual Key West touristy feel.

The games are what make this place stand out. You’ve got retro arcades, board games, and even music bingo. It’s the kind of place where you don’t just sit at the bar and stare at your phone you actually do stuff. That makes it social in a way most bars just aren’t anymore.

Now, it is a small place. When it fills up, it feels packed, and the food options are limited. But honestly, that’s not why you come here. You come for the nostalgia, the drinks, and the community vibe. I noticed a lot of locals hanging around, which to me is always a good sign.

For me, The Retro Room is the kind of place that deserves more recognition. It’s not trying to be the biggest or the flashiest it’s authentic. It feels like the owners put a lot of heart into creating something different for Key West, and they nailed it.

If you like the 80s, or even if you just want a laid-back spot with good drinks and a fun environment, this place is worth checking out. It’s not just a bar it’s an experience."

Alejandro Pv

"Skip the rest of the tourist spots in Key West. This place will bring you back to your childhood. Great beer, great staff, and great times."

Nick

"This is absolutely the coolest pub I have ever been in. It was exactly how I would have decorated my man cave. It is full of pop culture and has a giant beer menu. I would have spent longer here but was short on time in Key West."

Jason Lang

What People Like

Authentic retro atmosphere
Great beer selection
Fun arcade and board games

What People Dislike

Limited food options
Can feel crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Retro Room is located in Key West, Florida. It's easily accessible by walking or biking if you're staying in the main Key West area. Parking can be challenging in Key West, so consider ride-sharing services or public transport if you're coming from further afield. TikTok

Yes, The Retro Room is situated in a central part of Key West, making it convenient to reach on foot from many popular hotels and attractions. TikTok

If you're not within walking distance, consider using a local taxi or a ride-sharing service. Key West is quite compact, so most rides will be short and affordable. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, The Retro Room typically does not require tickets for entry. It operates as a bar and entertainment venue. Reddit

The Retro Room is generally open in the evenings and is kid-friendly until 8 PM. It's always a good idea to check their social media or website for the most up-to-date hours, especially on holidays. Reddit

There is usually no cover charge to enter The Retro Room. You pay for your drinks and any arcade games you play. Reddit

Due to its intimate size, reservations are not typically taken. It's a first-come, first-served establishment, so arriving earlier can secure a good spot. Reddit

Yes, The Retro Room is family-friendly and welcomes children until 8 PM, making it a great spot for a fun evening with the whole family. Reddit

🎫 🕹️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy a variety of retro arcade games, classic board games, and sometimes even music bingo. It's a place designed for interaction and fun. Reddit

The atmosphere is laid-back, nostalgic, and social. It's a departure from typical Key West bars, focusing on a chill vibe with plenty of entertainment. Reddit

Many reviewers mention a strong local presence, suggesting it's a great spot to connect with the Key West community and make new friends. Reddit

Its unique selling points are the extensive collection of retro games, pop culture decor, and a focus on community and nostalgia rather than just loud music. Reddit

While not always advertised, keep an eye out for events like music bingo. The general vibe encourages spontaneous fun and interaction. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Retro Room has limited food options. The focus is primarily on drinks and games, so don't expect a full dining experience. Reddit

They boast an impressive selection with over 20 beers on tap, plus wine and sake. Happy hour is particularly popular for great drink deals. Reddit

While the focus is on alcoholic beverages, they likely offer standard non-alcoholic options like soda. It's best to inquire upon arrival. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant 80s comic decor, the rows of cassette tapes, and the classic arcade machines. The unique atmosphere makes for great shots. TikTok

Yes, you're welcome to take photos to capture the unique atmosphere and your fun experiences. TikTok

Absolutely! The Retro Room's distinctive aesthetic and fun activities are perfect for creating engaging social media content. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Retro Room is a surprisingly family-friendly spot, welcoming children until 8 PM. It's a fantastic place to bring the kids for a unique evening of fun before the adult crowd takes over. They can enjoy the retro arcade games and soak in the vibrant, pop-culture-filled atmosphere. Reddit

It offers a refreshing change from typical tourist attractions, providing an engaging and interactive experience for all ages. The kid-friendly hours make it easy to fit into a family's schedule, and the diverse drink options mean parents can enjoy a drink while the kids play. Reddit

🤓 Nerds and Geeks

If you're looking for the ultimate 'nerd spot' in Key West, The Retro Room is it! The walls are covered in 80s comics and memorabilia, and the arcade games are a dream come true. It's the perfect place to indulge your inner child and geek out. Reddit

Reviewers rave about finding this hidden gem, describing it as the kind of place they'd decorate their own 'man cave' with. It's a community hub where like-minded individuals can connect over shared interests, making it more than just a bar – it's a destination for pop culture enthusiasts. Reddit

🍻 Beer Enthusiasts

For beer lovers, The Retro Room is a must-visit. With over 20 beers on tap, the selection is impressive and caters to a wide range of tastes. Whether you're looking for local brews or something more unique, you're likely to find it here. Reddit

The happy hour is particularly recommended for sampling the extensive tap list at great prices. It's a casual setting where you can explore different beers and enjoy the lively, nostalgic atmosphere. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Retro Room's Unique Vibe

Stepping into The Retro Room is like entering a meticulously curated time capsule. The walls are a vibrant tapestry of 80s comics, interspersed with cassette tapes lining the bar, creating an immersive visual experience. This isn't just decor; it's a deliberate choice to transport visitors to a bygone era, offering a stark contrast to the typical Key West bar scene. Reviewers consistently praise this authentic, nostalgic atmosphere, noting it feels like a personal 'man cave' brought to life. Reddit

This dedication to a specific aesthetic fosters a unique community feel. It's a place where people come to chill, play games, and connect without the pressure of being overly trendy. The vibe is laid-back and social, encouraging interaction among patrons. It’s this commitment to an authentic experience that makes The Retro Room a standout destination for those seeking something different in Key West. Reddit

The establishment is also known for its friendly staff, with bartenders like Sammy receiving specific shout-outs for their excellent service. This personal touch further enhances the welcoming and community-oriented atmosphere, making visitors feel like regulars even on their first visit. Reddit

Gaming and Entertainment

The Retro Room truly shines with its diverse range of entertainment options, centered around classic gaming. Visitors can dive into a selection of retro arcade machines, offering a chance to relive childhood favorites or discover them for the first time. Beyond the arcades, a collection of board games provides a more relaxed, social gaming experience, perfect for groups or couples looking to spend quality time together. Reddit

This focus on interactive entertainment sets The Retro Room apart. Instead of just passively consuming drinks, patrons are actively engaged in fun activities. This makes it an ideal spot for those who enjoy a lively yet casual environment. The presence of music bingo on occasion adds another layer of entertainment, catering to a variety of tastes and ensuring there's always something engaging happening. Reddit

The combination of arcade classics and board games creates a dynamic environment where visitors can easily spend hours. It’s a place that encourages conversation and friendly competition, contributing to its reputation as a fun and social hub in Key West. Reddit

Drink Selection and Happy Hour

The Retro Room boasts an impressive beverage menu, with a particular emphasis on its extensive beer selection. Featuring over 20 beers on tap, there's a wide variety to satisfy any beer enthusiast. Beyond tap beers, the bar also offers a good selection of wine and sake, broadening the appeal for those who prefer other options. Reddit

A significant draw for many visitors is the happy hour. This period offers fantastic deals on drinks, making it an even more attractive time to visit and sample the bar's offerings. Reviewers consistently highlight the value and quality of the drinks available, especially during happy hour. Reddit

While the focus is on a broad selection rather than elaborate craft cocktails, the drinks are consistently described as solid and enjoyable. This straightforward approach to beverages complements the bar's overall theme of accessible fun and nostalgia. Reddit