Birthday Battles and Retro High Scores Beneath Courthouse Plaza

STOCKTON ATTRACTION FIELD GUIDE

Birthday Battles and Retro High Scores Beneath Courthouse Plaza

A 2-hour private party-room rental during The Underground Arcade’s open hours in downtown Stockton, offering access to 50+ retro games, pinball, an indoor Nerf Zone, and in-house food for a low‑stress celebration.

Birthday Battles and Retro High Scores Beneath Courthouse Plaza.

Duration
2 Hours
Location
Stockton
Operator
The Underground Arcade
Category
Attraction
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Tucked under the Courthouse Plaza in downtown Stockton, The Underground Arcade offers a compact, climate-controlled setting for a birthday that blends old-school coin-op nostalgia with active, supervised Nerf play — all while supporting local youth through paid work experience.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE SPACE

A colorful downtown hideaway beneath Courthouse Plaza

Host your celebration in a private party room inside The Underground Arcade — a climate-controlled, elevator-accessible (note temporary construction windows) venue in the heart of downtown Stockton with tables and seating for your group.

THE GAMES

More than 50 classic arcade games — and organized Nerf action

While your party room is private, guests can roam the arcade during open hours to play 50+ retro games and pinball machines (coin-operated); the indoor Nerf Zone features inflatable barricades and supplied gear with staff-organized games.

THE MISSION

A youth-powered social enterprise

Every event helps support local youth employment: staff members gain paid work experience and customer-service skills while helping host parties and keep the arcade running smoothly.

What the day feels like

How the two hours unfold

Arrive early to decorate your private room, then let the group drift between the party area, prize desk, classic arcade cabinets and the supervised Nerf Zone; food and drinks are ordered from the in-house menu, and staff assist with setup and basic cleanup so the adults can enjoy the celebration.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this party fits — and who should call ahead

1
Families with young childrenGreat for families: children can enjoy arcade games and supervised Nerf play; note that children under 5 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
2
Active kids and teensA good match for energetic groups who enjoy hands-on play — the Nerf Zone is geared toward active movement and recommended for ages 5 and up; closed-toe shoes are strongly recommended.
3
Guests with mobility or accessibility needsAccessibility is provided in normal operations, but the elevator will be under construction January–March 2026; contact the operator in advance so staff can help plan accommodations.
4
Expectant guests or those with limited mobilityThe Nerf Zone may not be suitable due to running and quick movements; if you or your guests have health concerns, check with staff and consider avoiding Nerf activities.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Cake, cupcakes or desserts are allowed; bring decorations, tablecloths, plates, napkins, cups and utensils to suit your group. A signed Nerf waiver (QR code provided in your confirmation) will smooth check-in.

Payment & Games

Arcade games and pinball are coin-operated (most plays cost roughly $0.25); bring cash or quarters — a change machine and ATM are on-site.

Nerf Zone Essentials

The venue provides blasters, goggles, vests and a referee; bringing favorite (non-motorized, non-Rival) Nerf gear is optional.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

What are your business hours?

Open Monday–Friday, 11 AM to 5 PM. Beginning May 2, 2026, the arcade will also be open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 AM to 4 PM.

How much do the games cost?

About 50 classic arcade games are coin-operated; most plays cost roughly $0.25. A change machine and ATM are available on-site.

How do we book a party?

Book through the online reservation page or contact the operator by email; parties include a 2-hour private rental with the option to add time if available.

Do you provide Nerf gear?

Yes — blasters, goggles and vests are provided along with a referee. Guests may bring their own Nerf gear but motorized or Rival blasters are not allowed.

Can we bring outside food?

Outside food is not allowed except for cake, cupcakes, candy bags and party favors. The arcade offers party-friendly menu items from its in-house kitchen.

Can we decorate for our party?

Yes — you may arrive up to 30 minutes early to set up. The venue provides six large round tables and chairs; avoid confetti or confetti-filled balloons and plan to clean up within 30 minutes after the party ends.

Where can I find the Nerf waiver?

A signed waiver is required for Nerf Zone participants; you’ll receive a QR code in your reservation confirmation and can also sign on-site upon arrival.

Is the arcade wheelchair accessible?

Yes; however, per current information the elevator will be under construction from August 2025 through January 2026 — please call ahead so staff can help plan your visit.