Liam AndersonI’ve been to my fair share of bars—from trendy country pubs to late-night bars with character.
But nothing quite compares to the thrill of an activity bar. You know, the kind of place where you can sip on a craft cocktail while simultaneously testing your skills at axe throwing or bowling.
So, if you’re looking for a night out that’s a little more interactive and a lot more fun, here are my favorite activity bars in Vancouver.
1. The American
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Address: 926 Main St
Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday, Sunday – 12 PM to 12 AM
- Thursday – 12 PM to 1 AM
- Friday & Saturday – 12 PM to 2 AM
Phone: +1 778-945-6751
Price: $$
You’ll find everything you could ever want in this fun-filled place. From the amazing selection of classics to the multiple TVs showing your favorite sporting events, they have it all.
I love the variety of arcade games—there are two Mario Kart Arcade GPs, Jurassic Park, and many more. But if you want a more relaxed game, there’s always a pool table to play on.
There’s always something new going on here. You can expect events like trivia nights, music bingo, and DJ nights.
The food is fantastic, too. The Down Low Burgers, made with a dry-aged beef grind, are a must-try. And yes, they have vegan options.
The selection of craft beers, cocktails, and wines is always changing. You can even grab a few to go.
| Pro Tip: Check out their analog photo booth for $8 a strip. It’s perfect for a keepsake from your night out. |
2. Par-Tee Putt
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Address: 670 Smithe St
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 5 PM to 12 AM
- Friday & Saturday – 3 PM to 1 AM
- Sunday – 3 PM to 12 AM
Phone: +1 236-304-6282
Price: $$
Par-Tee Putt is an electric, playful, and sophisticated mini-golf bar.
The 18-hole course is wildly creative. It cleverly incorporates local landmarks and pop culture icons into each hole.
You’ll find yourself dodging a Jaws-themed shark attack one minute, then soaring through space with E.T. the next! There are also playful nods to Family Guy, Game of Thrones, and even a whimsical take on the Lions Gate Bridge.
And the drinks? Amazing. The food is surprisingly delicious, too—far beyond your typical bar snacks.
But Par-Tee Putt is more than just mini-golf—there are arcade games, pool tables, and even a dance floor!
| Pro Tip: For some unforgettable late-night fun, check out their “After Dark” event every Friday and Saturday, starting at 10 PM. It’s all-you-can-putt mini-golf and DJs—all for just $15 per person! |
3. The Den – Arcade + Drinkery
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Address: 1348 Robson St
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 4 PM to 1 AM
- Friday & Saturday – 4 PM to 2 AM
- Sunday – 4 PM to 11 PM
Phone: +1 604-688-8850
Price: $
The Den is a total throwback to the best parts of the 80s and 90s. Seriously, the sheer number of pinball machines alone makes it worth the trip.
I love the atmosphere here. The walls are decorated with awesome murals of musical legends like the Beastie Boys and Run-DMC.
The relaxed vibe is infectious, the jukebox spins classic tunes, and the game selection is a nostalgic dream come true.
There’s also Skee-Ball, Pac-Man, and even classic consoles like NES and Sega to enjoy.
| Pro Tip: They don’t serve food, so I recommend ordering pizza or bringing your snacks if you’re heading out with friends. |
4. Greta Bar YVR
– Media credit: gretabaryvr
Address: 50 W Cordova St
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday, Sunday – 3 PM to 2 AM
- Friday & Saturday – 3 PM to 3 AM
Phone: +1 604-423-3081
Price: $$
Greta Bar YVR offers an awesome mix of classic arcade games and surprisingly delicious street food that keeps you coming back.
The arcade features a variety of nostalgic games. It includes Mortal Kombat, Skee-Ball, and Pinball. This gives you plenty of opportunities for friendly competition.
The atmosphere is always buzzing, and the food is better than you’d expect from an arcade bar. Those juicy coconut chicken satay skewers are amazing.
The chicken wings are perfectly crispy and full of flavor. They’re a must-try, especially when enjoyed alongside the games.
| Pro Tip: Mondays offer all-day happy hour, plus $20 for 3 hours of unlimited gaming—a great deal, in my opinion! |
5. Good Co. Granville
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Address: 965 Granville St
Hours:
- Monday – 3 PM to 10 PM
- Tuesday to Thursday – 3 PM to 11 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 3 PM to 2 AM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 10 PM
Price: $$
At GoodCo, the variety of games is truly impressive! Forget just pool—they’ve got foosball, Pac-Man Battle Royale (so addictive!), and the ridiculously fun 2-Minute Drill Football game.
But their Jurassic Park Pinball is my top choice. The nostalgia, the awesome graphics, and the gameplay just make it so much fun.
They also have classic arcade fighters like Street Fighter 2 and Mortal Combat. Plus, there are tons of other games I haven’t even tried yet, making each visit a new adventure.
The food is good, too. I like their Smashburger sliders and loaded tots. The burgers are juicy and the tots are crispy with all the good stuff—beer queso, chipotle sour cream, and more.
| Pro Tip: For groups of 20+, I’d recommend booking a private event. You can have the place to yourself! |
