Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade

Work Hours

Location

About the Business

Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade (GK) was founded in 1999 by 2 record store employees who loved classic video games. Originally at SW 12th & Alder, GK also sold used records & videos. In 2003, five lifelong pinball & video game fans joined up and purchased GK.

With a new focus on games and gaming culture, the records and videos were sold off and the console selection expanded. GK also began to host live shows, including the video game inspired band The Minibosses.

In October 2004, GK moved to bigger & better digs at 511 NW Couch St. in the historic Old Town district. In May 2005, GK added beer & wine service. Portland's definitive "barcade" was born!

Today Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade is the West Coast's premier arcade, appealing to video game and pinball lovers of all ages. GK preserves the experience of an '80s arcade while updating it with newer features, like a full bar & food, and is the only place in the Pacific Northwest where many arcade games can be played.

Established in 1999.

Business Name

Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade

Specialties

Age restrictions: All ages noon-5pm on Friday-Sunday, exit-only for minors after 4:30pm. 21+ only with ID after 5pm, exit-only after 11pm! Remember when you weaseled your parents out of every quarter you could, only to blow them all on Pac-Man? Space Invaders? Defender? Now that you don't need your parents' permission or a month's allowance, one place still has all your favorites: Ground Kontrol, the Pacific Northwest's best collection of arcade and pinball classics. Ground Kontrol brings the arcade experience into the 21st century with over 100 of the most popular video games and pinball tables in a futuristic multi-level space. Enjoy a full bar and food menu nightly, along with recurring events such as console game tournaments, pinball and Killer Queen arcade tournaments, and two monthly FREE PLAY parties! So, adults, bring your ID and your 21+ self down any day and enjoy a drink or two while playing your favorite arcade games, the way Nolan Bushnell intended.

Amenities

Takes Reservations, Accepts Credit Cards, Accepts Android Pay, Accepts Apple Pay, Accepts Cryptocurrency, Hipster, Classy, Casual, Loud, Casual Dress, Good for Groups, Street Parking, Live Music, Best nights on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Happy Hour Specials, Full Bar, Wheelchair Accessible, Gender-neutral restrooms, No Outdoor Seating, Not Good For Kids, Not Good For Dancing, No Pool Table, No Wi-Fi, No Smoking, No TV, No Heated Outdoor Seating, No Covered Outdoor Seating, Bike Parking

Business Owner

Dylan S. (Manager)

Like most children of the 80s, my first introduction to video gaming was the Nintendo Entertainment System and Super Mario Bros. I grew up spending countless nights at my hometown arcade, developing a love for arcade gaming and pinball that has only continued to grow over the years. Now I look forward every day to making sure (along with the fantastic owners & staff) that Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade is the best arcade/bar it can be.

Categories

• Arts & Entertainment
• Nightlife

Categories By Location

• Portland, Oregon, United States
• Arts & Entertainment
• Nightlife

• Oregon, United States
• Arts & Entertainment
• Nightlife

• United States
• Arts & Entertainment
• Nightlife

Tags

Bars, Arcades