Manitou Penny Arcade
Step back in time at this sprawling vintage arcade, filled with hundreds of classic pinball and video games, plus quirky carnival attractions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more games to yourself
Manitou Penny Arcade
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more games to yourself
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at this sprawling vintage arcade, filled with hundreds of classic pinball and video games, plus quirky carnival attractions.
"A must-stop attraction when you are in Manitou Springs!"
Bring Cash & Quarters! 💰
While some games are a penny, most cost 25 cents to a dollar. Quarters are your best friend here!
Check Game Status 👍
Some machines may be out of order. Ask an attendant if a game swallows your money without working.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vintage Game Collection
Hundreds of classic pinball and video games, some dating back to the 1930s. A true step back in time!
Unique Carnival Attractions
Beyond arcade games, discover quirky fortune tellers and classic carnival-style challenges.
Ticket Redemption Prizes
Rack up tickets from your gameplay to redeem for fun prizes, from small toys to unique pint glasses.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Nostalgia
Game On: What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash & Quarters! 💰
While some games are a penny, most cost 25 cents to a dollar. Quarters are your best friend here!
Check Game Status 👍
Some machines may be out of order. Ask an attendant if a game swallows your money without working.
Explore All Buildings 🗺️
The arcade spans multiple rooms and buildings, each with unique finds. Don't miss the back areas!
Hydrate & Stay Comfortable 💧
It can get a bit tight in some areas. Bringing water is a good idea, especially on busy days.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash & Quarters! 💰
While some games are a penny, most cost 25 cents to a dollar. Quarters are your best friend here!
Check Game Status 👍
Some machines may be out of order. Ask an attendant if a game swallows your money without working.
Explore All Buildings 🗺️
The arcade spans multiple rooms and buildings, each with unique finds. Don't miss the back areas!
Hydrate & Stay Comfortable 💧
It can get a bit tight in some areas. Bringing water is a good idea, especially on busy days.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Manitou Penny Arcade for its vast collection of vintage games and nostalgic atmosphere, making it a fun spot for all ages. While some note that many games are out of order and prices are higher than a literal penny, the overall experience is highly recommended as a unique attraction in Manitou Springs.
"Such a fun place to go and play around for a couple hours or take the kids as well. If you have a machine that swallows your money and doesn’t do anything make sure you tell an attendant they are very helpful. We really enjoyed it, especially using our pennies, nickels and dimes on some of the older more random machines in the back of one of the largest buildings."
Jenevieve Hornsby
"From an adult's viewpoint, the Penny Arcade is a fun, nostalgic place to spend an hour or two but I might have expected it to be better maintained. A lot of the games were out of order. Some were marked as out of order, but we lost money on several others that were not marked. I read the company is under new ownership and hope they will raise their standards before the place gets any worse. Just to clarify, the name "Penny Arcade" has some historical origin, but don't expect to find games that you can play for a penny. Most appeared to be 25 or 50 cents. Still a good deal, but manage your expectations. There are a lot of small shops and restaurants nearby. A walk around town is worthwhile."
Margaret O
"Super fun place for kids. A lot of older games which were fun to play. Quarter machines were available throughout the area. Games gave tickets that could be redeemed for prizes. There were several rooms filled with games, they are all pretty close making the areas kinda tight. I recommend bringing water."
Ashley Cheek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Manitou Springs Penny Arcade is located at 930 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829. It's easily accessible by car and is a central point in the charming town of Manitou Springs. Parking can be found nearby, though it may be limited during peak times.
Yes, there is parking available in the vicinity of the arcade. Street parking and nearby lots are common options. Be prepared for it to fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.
If you are already in downtown Manitou Springs, the Penny Arcade is very walkable. It's situated right in the heart of the town, making it easy to combine with exploring the shops and restaurants.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the name suggests pennies, most games range from 25 cents to a dollar per play. You can purchase quarters from change machines on-site.
No, you do not need to buy tickets in advance. You can simply walk in and pay per game. There are change machines available for quarters.
The hours vary slightly by season and day of the week. Typically, they are open from 10 AM to 7 PM on weekdays and 10 AM to 9 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Always check their official hours before visiting.
While some larger attractions might accept cards, it's best to have cash and quarters for the majority of the vintage games. Change machines are available.
The primary way to play is by paying per game. The value comes from the low cost of many vintage games, allowing you to play for an extended period.
🎫 🕹️ Onsite Experience
You'll find a vast collection of vintage pinball machines, classic arcade video games, skeeball, unique carnival-style games, and even fortune-telling machines. Some games date back to the 1930s! +1
Absolutely! It's a fantastic place for family fun, offering a nostalgic experience for adults and exciting games for kids of all ages. 
Many visitors rave about the vintage pinball machines and the old-school video games. The 'Peeping Tom' game has also been noted as a unique, albeit quirky, attraction. +1
It's a lively, nostalgic atmosphere filled with the sounds of classic arcade games. The multiple buildings can feel a bit crowded at times, but the energy is infectious.
Yes, many games award tickets that can be redeemed for prizes at the prize counter. Some visitors have accumulated thousands of tickets!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The arcade itself primarily focuses on games. However, Manitou Springs is filled with numerous restaurants, cafes, and snack shops right outside its doors, offering a wide variety of dining choices.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best practice to consume outside food and drinks before entering or after leaving the arcade. There are many places to eat nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, the vintage games, colorful lights, and retro decor make it a very photogenic spot. It's great for capturing nostalgic and fun shots. +1
Focus on the rows of classic pinball machines, unique game cabinets, and any quirky carnival attractions. The sheer density of games offers endless photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Bring plenty of quarters, as most games are not a penny. Be prepared for crowds on weekends. The multiple buildings offer a lot to explore, so keep an eye on younger children. It's a great way to create lasting memories and introduce kids to the arcade games of the past.
💰 Budget Travelers
Key advice: Focus on the games that offer the most plays for your money. The ticket redemption prizes can also be a fun way to get a souvenir without spending too much extra. Combine your visit with exploring the free attractions in Manitou Springs for a full day of affordable fun.
💑 Couples & Date Nights
It's a great way to spark conversation and laughter as you explore the retro atmosphere together. Afterwards, you can enjoy the many charming shops and restaurants in Manitou Springs, making for a complete and memorable date night.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The Games
What sets this arcade apart is its commitment to keeping these machines operational. While the name implies penny play, most games require a quarter or more, but the prices are still incredibly reasonable compared to modern arcades. Visitors often express delight at finding machines that are still functional and offering a genuine retro gaming experience.
Beyond the traditional games, the arcade also features unique carnival-style attractions and fortune-telling machines. These add an extra layer of quirky fun and nostalgia, making it more than just a place to play video games – it’s an immersive experience into a bygone era of entertainment.
Navigating the Arcade Experience
Practical advice from visitors suggests bringing plenty of quarters and small bills for the change machines. While attendants are generally helpful, it's wise to be mindful that some machines might be out of order or could potentially malfunction. Reporting any issues promptly can save you frustration and ensure others have a better experience.
For those looking to maximize their fun, consider visiting on a weekday afternoon to avoid the largest crowds. This allows for a more relaxed exploration and a better chance to play your favorite games without a long wait. Remember to stay hydrated, as the excitement can make you lose track of time!
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit