The Garage Arcade Bar

Imagine a place where eighties nostalgia meets modern mixology. The Garage Arcade Bar is the first establishment of its kind in the city of South Bend, combining a classic bar with a retro gaming hall. Located in Indiana, USA, this venue has become a major draw for those seeking a unique way to unwind.

The venue occupies the former LaSalle Body Shop building in the historic East Bank district. The building's industrial past not only gave the bar its name but also shaped its unique interior, where rugged elements blend harmoniously with the neon glow of arcade machines. It is a modern interpretation of the entertainment center concept popular in major American metropolises.

The Garage offers guests a retro-futuristic atmosphere. Here, you can find a wide selection of craft beers and original cocktails while spending time with classic video games. It’s more than just a bar; it’s a cultural space where memories of the golden age of arcades come back to life.

To plan your visit to The Garage Arcade Bar, it's helpful to check its contact details and exact location in advance. The establishment actively engages with guests through official channels, making it easy to check availability or book a space for a private event.

Below is the detailed information to help you find this bar and get in touch with its representatives:

The main magnet for visitors at The Garage Arcade Bar is its impressive collection of over 40 video games. Here, you can find legendary 80s and 90s arcade classics that evoke warm feelings of nostalgia, as well as more modern gaming setups. The variety of machines ensures that everyone—from veteran gamers to newcomers—will find something they enjoy.

Beyond the gaming, the bar is famous for its drink menu. You can try a craft beer or order a signature cocktail while watching other guests play. The interactive environment encourages easy socializing, turning a regular trip to the bar into a true social adventure.

This spot is perfect for themed nights, corporate parties, or just fun get-togethers with friends in an informal setting. The dynamic atmosphere and high-quality service make for an eventful and memorable evening, especially for those who appreciate active and interactive leisure.

The Garage Arcade Bar is located at 503 E Colfax Ave, South Bend, IN 46617, in the vibrant East Bank district. Its central location makes it easily accessible for both residents and tourists exploring the area.

For those who prefer traveling by car, the route is quite straightforward—the building is conveniently located on Colfax Avenue, with nearby parking available. Using GPS navigation with the coordinates (41.6780202, -86.2441903) will ensure you find the former auto shop without any issues.

If you are using public transportation, it is worth checking the local bus schedules for South Bend, as several routes pass through the central blocks. Additionally, you can always use a taxi or popular ridesharing services from the city center—the trip will only take a few minutes.

The history of The Garage Arcade Bar began as a bold and innovative project designed to revitalize the city's cultural life. The idea for the venue belonged to Zachary Nelson, who noticed the growing popularity of arcade bars in major metropolises and decided to adapt this format for the local audience.

Notably, the project gained significant momentum thanks to community support on the Indiegogo platform. Local residents enthusiastically responded to the crowdfunding campaign, providing the necessary funds to launch this unique space in the East Bank district.

The choice of building was deliberate and deeply symbolic. The establishment moved into the premises of the historic LaSalle Body Shop. The new owners decided to preserve the industrial spirit of the site, which is reflected in the name: "The Garage" is a direct nod to the building's industrial past, creating a unique link between the neighborhood's history and modern entertainment culture.

To fully soak in the atmosphere and have enough time to try out your favorite arcade machines, we recommend setting aside 2 to 4 hours for your visit. This is plenty of time to play games and enjoy drinks with friends at a leisurely pace.

If you are short on time and just want to stop by to check out the interior or play a few rounds of classic arcades, a quick visit of 1–2 hours will also leave a pleasant impression. However, keep in mind that during evening hours and weekends, time tends to fly by when you're caught up in the gaming excitement.

Currently, the exact operating schedule for The Garage Arcade Bar may change depending on the season or private events. The venue typically opens its doors in the afternoon and stays open until late evening, serving as a hub for the district's nightlife.

Before heading out for a dose of gaming excitement, we strongly recommend checking the current opening hours on the bar's official website or its social media pages to ensure your visit is as comfortable as possible.

A visit to The Garage Arcade Bar can easily be combined with a stroll to other interesting spots in the city, as the East Bank district and its surroundings are rich in attractions. Exploring nearby locations will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere and history of the region.

Within walking distance, you will find both historic mansions and modern park areas. Below is a list of nearby sites that may interest tourists: