Lights flashing, music blaring and the sound of quarters clinking – welcome to the Retro Arcade at Hotel X Toronto, where the spirit of the ’80s and ’90s comes alive! Dust off your neon leg warmers and grab your Walkman because from February 16 to March 17, this iconic pop-up arcade is back, and it’s bigger, better and more rad than ever before.

Picture this: you stroll into the Kandy Gallery at Hotel X, and suddenly you’re transported back in time. Classic arcade games call the retro child within, promising hours of pixelated fun. Whether you’re a Street Fighter champion, a Skee-ball aficionado or a Mario Kart maestro, there’s something here for every gamer, young and old (over 20 games, to be precise!). While Lucky Elephant pink candy popcorn made me feel like a kid again, getting winded after one round of dance dance evolution quickly reminded me that I am in fact not a kid again.

But the Retro Arcade isn’t just about gaming – it’s a full-blown experience straight out of the ’80s playbook. Think themed nights like Flashback Fridays, where DJs spin vinyl records while you sip on expertly crafted cocktails and munch on nostalgic snacks. It’s like stepping into a John Hughes movie, with all the charm and none of the teenage angst.

And speaking of movies, weekends at the Retro Arcade are a cinephile’s dream come true. After you’ve dance battled it out on the arcade floor, head over to the Hotel X screening room for screenings of timeless classics. From Ferris Bueller’s Day Off to The Goonies, these movies are the perfect complement to a day filled with retro gaming. Back to the Future was our jam the evening we visited.

There’s more! Every Sunday, gear up for the ultimate showdown in the multiplayer Mario Kart tournament. Put your racing skills to the test for a chance to win a luxurious one-night stay at Hotel X Toronto. It’s high stakes and high-speed action, all wrapped up in a package of pure nostalgia.

And here’s the best part – the Retro Arcade isn’t just for hotel guests. Whether you’re a local looking for a fun night out or a traveler seeking a unique experience, everyone is welcome to join in on the fun. With tickets priced at just $18.80 to the public for an all-day pass (complimentary for hotel guests), it’s an affordable way to relive the glory days of arcade gaming.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your fanny pack, lace up your high-tops and get ready to level up at the Retro Arcade. Whether you’re a child of the ’80s, a ’90s kid at heart or just someone looking for a good time, this is one event you won’t want to miss. Book your tickets now and get ready to press play on the ultimate nostalgia trip!

Photography courtesy of Duet PR & Ethan Shaw Door24.