Retroactive Arcade: Bringing Nostalgia to Life in South Lake Tahoe 👾🕹️

  Jessica Grime  |   October 1, 2025   |   Blog • Community News • Member Spotlight

Retroactive Arcade: Bringing Nostalgia to Life in South Lake Tahoe

Step into a world where neon lights glow, joysticks click, and the sounds of Pac-Man and Skee-Ball transport you back to the golden era of arcades. Retroactive Arcade, located upstairs at Cecil’s Fountain Plaza, is South Lake Tahoe’s newest entertainment spot—and it’s already creating buzz with locals and visitors alike.

A Local Dream Turned Reality

Owners Kevin and Erin Fuller didn’t set out to stay in South Lake Tahoe forever, but after moving here for a “summer season” nine years ago, the mountain town quickly became home. Erin has worked with Cali Burger since their move, while Kevin spent years at Stateline Brewery. Then, in the fall of 2024, a late-night idea changed everything.

“I had a premonition at midnight that I should open a nostalgic arcade in downtown South Lake. From there, it just spiraled,” Kevin recalls. The idea gained momentum when he pitched it to the Cecil’s Fountain Plaza property owner—someone he already knew through his brewery job. The proposal was accepted, and by summer 2025, Retroactive Arcade officially opened its doors.

Games, Memories, and More

The arcade boasts 55 retro favorites from the ’80s and ’90s, all set to free play. Classics like Pac-Man, Centipede, and Dig Dugsit alongside Skee-Ball and Time Crisis 2, creating endless opportunities for fun.

Although the décor and nostalgia give the feel of an adult arcade, the space is designed for everyone. “Kids need to experience what a real arcade was like back in the day,” Kevin says. Families, date nights, groups of friends, and solo players alike will find something to love.

 What Makes Retroactive Arcade Unique

Unlike arcades that cater strictly to bar crowds or children, Retroactive Arcade blends both worlds. Nostalgic décor, free-play retro games, and a welcoming atmosphere (plus cold beer in cans) make it a standout destination in South Lake Tahoe. Guests might even be greeted by Luna, Lodi, and Chicken—the arcade’s energetic miniature pinschers!

Exciting Things Ahead

The fun doesn’t stop with what’s already on the floor. Coming soon are a photo booth, new games like Super Punch-Out and air hockey, and local memberships designed to keep the community coming back.

Pricing and Options:

• $6 per player per 15 minutes
• Unlimited Day Pass: $20 for adults | $10 for children
• Party Rentals: $300 per hour for exclusive use of the arcade
• Local Memberships: Launching soon!

Retroactive Arcade is also a one-of-a-kind venue for birthdays, team outings, and private celebrations. Guests can rent out the arcade or simply enjoy unlimited play with a day pass.

Celebrate with the Tahoe Chamber

Mark your calendars for Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 4:00 PM—the Tahoe Chamber will host a Blue Ribbon Cutting for Retroactive Arcade. Join us to celebrate this exciting addition to South Lake Tahoe, enjoy light refreshments, and experience the arcade firsthand.

Visit Retroactive Arcade

Whether you grew up dropping quarters into arcade machines or you’re introducing your kids to the magic for the first time, Retroactive Arcade delivers the perfect mix of nostalgia and new memories.

Location: Upstairs at Cecil’s Fountain Plaza, South Lake Tahoe, CA
Website: RetroactiveArcadeSLT.com