Embrace the Nostalgia: An Arcade Bar Experience
Stepping into Emporium Arcade Bar in New Orleans is like finding a time machine that also serves up great drinks and music. But this isn’t just about reliving your childhood—this is a vibrant spot that brings classic games, cocktails, and your whole crew together in one bright, buzzing space. Let’s get into how an arcade bar sets the scene for team building with genuine fun and social connection.
Classic Games for Modern Teams
At Emporium Arcade Bar, you’re not just limited to Pac-Man and pinball. There’s a little something for everyone, whether you’re into:
- Four classic pool tables for laid-back games
- Rows of vintage arcade cabinets and newer video games
- Skeeball, hoops, foosball, and pinball machines
Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:
| Game Type | Available At Emporium Arcade Bar |
| Pool Tables | 4 |
| Pinball | 10+ machines |
| Video Arcade | 25+ games |
| Foosball | Yes |
| Skeeball | Yes |
Everyone can jump in, whether you’re a competitive gamer or just want to try something new with coworkers.
A Vibrant Atmosphere for Connection
You’re not stuck at a table making small talk—here, you actually have a reason to move around and connect. The space is filled with:
- Expansive murals and funky art by local artists
- DJs spinning on weekends and during special events
- Lively, colorful lighting and open layouts that keep energy high
The friendly, energetic vibe makes it easy for even the quietest folks on your team to join in and mingle.
Craft Beverages and Social Flow
The bar is just as much a draw as the games. Emporium Arcade Bar focuses on local craft beers, an inventive cocktail menu, and a serious spirits selection. Sip on a bold IPA or try a creative twist on a classic cocktail as you battle it out over a game of Galaga.
A few perks of the bar experience:
- Rotating taps with Louisiana’s best breweries
- Craft cocktails you won’t get at any old watering hole
- Bartenders who actually know their stuff and add to the fun
It’s the kind of place where you can grab a drink, cheer on your coworkers at skeeball, and recharge between rounds—all without leaving the party. That natural buzz is what makes Emporium Arcade Bar stand out for team events in New Orleans.
Unique Venues for Memorable Team Building
Beyond the Boardroom: Interactive Fun
Let’s be honest: traditional meeting spaces have a way of sucking the joy out of every group event. Plain hotel conference rooms and silent private dining areas get old really fast. At an arcade bar, you walk into a space where the games themselves open up conversation.
Here’s what you’ll find at a New Orleans arcade bar:
- Dozens of classic and modern arcade video games, pinball, pool, and other group activities
- Bright murals and colorful lights that make you want to hang out—nobody is stuck staring at a beige wall
- A bar where people laugh, compete, and cheer each other on (and you rarely see someone glued to their phone)
Wander from skeeball to Pac-Man and you’ll notice: even coworkers who barely talk in the office suddenly find themselves smiling like old friends.
Accommodating Groups of All Sizes
The beauty of a great event venue is flexibility. Whether you’re hosting a tight-knit crew of five or bringing your entire department of 200, there’s space for everyone. It’s not just about how many people fit—it’s about making sure each person finds something fun to do.
Check out this quick guide to group accommodations:
| Group Size | Space Reserved | Minimum Booking | Food Options |
| 2-20 | Table(s)/Open Area | None | BYO or Cater |
| 20-100 | Private Section | May Apply | Catering Encouraged |
| 100+ | Full Venue | Yes | Partnered Catering |
If you want to make things official, most venues will let you book ahead. Let the reservations team know your group’s vibe, and they’ll help set things up so you don’t overthink the details.
Stress-Free Planning for Event Organizers
Look, no one dreams of being the person stuck organizing snacks and making awkward icebreaker games. That’s where arcade bars step in. They make event planning simple:
- Pick your date and group size—tell the team how many are coming.
- Choose drink specials, game token deals, or ask about custom packages.
- Decide if you want to bring your own food or arrange for catering. You don’t have to commit to soggy sandwiches—pizza, burgers, or even fancy bites are all possible.
Some venues will help you book live DJs or special entertainment if you’re aiming higher. Either way, you spend less time worrying about whether people are bored, and more time actually being part of your own event.
If you’re tired of boring venues, or just want coworkers to enjoy each other’s company without forced fun, an arcade bar in New Orleans is about as easy—and memorable—as it gets.
The St. Claude/Marigny Neighborhood Gem
A Hub for Classic Arcade Games
This spot in the St. Claude/Marigny neighborhood is a real find. It’s packed with all sorts of games that bring back good memories. Think classic arcade cabinets, pinball machines that light up the room, skeeball for that satisfying roll, and even pool tables for a bit of friendly competition. It’s the kind of place where you can easily lose track of time, challenging your colleagues to a high score or just enjoying the simple fun of it all. It’s more than just games; it’s a portal to a more carefree time.
Local Craft Beer and Innovative Cocktails
Beyond the games, the bar here is seriously impressive. They’ve got a great selection of local craft beers on tap, so you can sample some of the best brews the area has to offer. If you’re more into mixed drinks, their cocktail menu is pretty creative. They’re mixing up some unique concoctions that are perfect for sipping while you chat and play. It’s a good mix of familiar favorites and new tastes to explore.
Artistic Ambiance and Live Entertainment
The space itself is something special. Housed in a renovated historic garage, the walls are covered in vibrant murals painted by local artists. It gives the whole place a really cool, creative vibe. On top of that, they often have live DJs spinning tunes, adding to the energetic atmosphere. It’s a place that feels alive and buzzing, making it a great backdrop for a team event where people can relax and connect.
Tailored Events for Your Team
From Casual Gatherings to Full Buyouts
No matter the size or style of your team event, we’ve got you covered. You can book a few tables for a more relaxed get-together, or go all out and rent the entire space for a truly exclusive experience. We’re flexible and want to make sure your event feels just right for your group. It’s all about making it easy for you to celebrate and connect.
Customizable Drink and Game Packages
We know every team is different, so why should your event packages be the same? We offer a range of options to fit your crew’s vibe. Think about game token bundles to keep the fun going all night, or maybe a curated drink package featuring local brews and some creative cocktails. We can work with you to set up exactly what you’re looking for, whether it’s a simple open bar or specific drink tickets. The goal is to make sure everyone has a great time without any hassle.
Bringing Your Own Food or Catering Options
Hungry? We’ve got you covered there too. You’re welcome to bring in your own food, which is perfect if your team has specific dietary needs or a favorite local spot they want to support. Or, if you prefer, we can help you arrange catering from some of our favorite New Orleans kitchens. Just let us know what works best for your team, and we’ll help make it happen. It’s all part of creating a stress-free and enjoyable event for everyone involved.
Why Choose an Arcade Bar for Team Building?
So, you’re looking for a team-building spot in New Orleans that’s a little different from the usual conference room or stuffy dinner? An arcade bar might just be the ticket. It’s a place where people can actually have fun while getting to know each other better, which is kind of the whole point, right?
Fostering Collaboration Through Play
Think about it: classic arcade games aren’t just about individual high scores. Many games, especially the older ones, are about strategy, quick reflexes, and sometimes even a bit of friendly competition. When your team is playing together, whether it’s a two-player game or cheering someone on at the skeeball machine, they’re naturally working together. It’s a low-pressure way to see how people think on their feet and react to challenges. Plus, who doesn’t love a little friendly rivalry over who can get the best score on Pac-Man?
- Shared challenges: Tackling a tough game together builds camaraderie.
- Communication practice: Figuring out game strategies requires talking and listening.
- Problem-solving: Many games involve figuring out patterns and solutions.
Arcade bars offer a unique environment where the focus shifts from work tasks to shared enjoyment. This change of pace can surprisingly lead to better team dynamics back in the office.
Breaking Down Barriers with Shared Experiences
Let’s be honest, sometimes it’s hard to connect with colleagues outside of project deadlines and meetings. An arcade bar provides a common ground. Everyone, regardless of their role, can find a game they enjoy or at least appreciate the fun atmosphere. It’s a chance to see different sides of your coworkers – the competitive one, the strategic one, or just the one who’s really good at air hockey. These shared moments, filled with laughter and maybe a little friendly trash talk, create memories that stick.
Creating a Fun and Inclusive Environment
An arcade bar is inherently designed for fun. The vibrant atmosphere, the sounds of classic games, and the buzz of people enjoying themselves create an energy that’s infectious. It’s a place where everyone can feel comfortable letting loose a bit. Unlike more formal settings, there’s less pressure to be
Planning Your New Orleans Team Building Event
Pulling together a team building in New Orleans isn’t as stressful as it sounds. Arcade bars and creative event spaces in the city keep the process light, with flexible booking options and plenty to do. Here’s how you can plan a standout corporate event in New Orleans that your team will actually look forward to.
Location and Accessibility
You want a place that everyone can actually get to without jumping through hoops. Some of the best arcade bars and group venues in New Orleans, like those in the St. Claude/Marigny area, make this easy:
- Central spot near city transit lines, ride-share drop-offs, and decent street parking
- Main roads and quick access from the CBD or French Quarter
- Walkable to loads of food/coffee spots
If most of your crowd’s local or you’re bringing in out-of-towners, double-check those transit or parking situations ahead of time.
Event Options and Booking
New Orleans arcade bars keep it pretty simple:
- Decide your group size (could be anywhere from 5 to 500, honestly)
- Choose between reserving just a table/section or renting the whole venue
- Pick your game/drink/catering packages — most spots have deals, or you can bring your own food
- Book online or call (owners love a quick call to finalize details)
Here’s a quick look at typical booking perks:
| Group Size | Reservation Style | Cost | Food Options |
| 2–30 | Table or small area | Usually free | BYO or local catering |
| 30–150 | Large reserved space | Varies | Catering encouraged |
| 150–500 | Full venue buyout | Contact venue | Customizable |
Making Your Event Unforgettable
The secret to a slam-dunk team building in New Orleans? Let people relax and play. Here are three ideas that always raise the energy:
- Set up a mini game tournament—arcade games, pool, pinball, whatever gets folks moving around
- Let everyone vote in advance on music playlists or cocktail options
- Bring in local catering (seriously, New Orleans food is half the fun)
When the vibe is casual and everyone’s got something fun to do, there’s way less pressure to mingle. Those weird work silences disappear, and people actually start connecting over games, music, and a round of local brews.
Don’t let planning your next corporate event in New Orleans turn into a chore. With the right venue, simple booking, and a few creative add-ons, you’ll have people actually excited for a work get-together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of games are available at the arcade bar in New Orleans?
You’ll find a wide range of classic arcade games like pinball, skeeball, pool tables, foosball, hoops, and vintage video games. There’s something for everyone, whether you want to compete or just have fun.
Can I bring my own food or have catering for my team event?
Yes! You’re welcome to bring your own food or arrange for catering at the arcade bar. You can even bring a cake for special occasions. Just remember to clean up after your group.
How many people can the venue accommodate for a team building event?
The space can handle groups as small as five and as large as 500. For events with 30 people or less, you can usually reserve a spot for free and manage your own tab.
What drink options are available at the bar?
The bar serves a big selection of local craft beers, creative cocktails, and a huge list of spirits. There’s something for everyone, whether you like beer, whiskey, or mixed drinks.
Is the venue easy to get to and is there parking nearby?
The New Orleans location is in the St. Claude/Marigny neighborhood. There is street parking available, but using ride-shares like Uber or Lyft is a good idea if you plan to enjoy drinks.
How do I book a team building event at the arcade bar?
Booking is simple! You can reserve a table or rent out the whole space. Just contact the venue with your group size and preferred date, and the staff will help you plan your event to make it easy and memorable.
