How to Explore the East Austin Cidercade Arcade

The East Austin Cidercade Arcade is more than just a venue—it’s a cultural hub where craft cider meets retro gaming in a uniquely Austin experience. Nestled in the vibrant, ever-evolving neighborhood of East Austin, this hybrid space blends the artisanal appeal of locally brewed ciders with the nostalgic thrill of classic arcade cabinets, creating an immersive environment that appeals to millennials, Gen Z, and nostalgic Gen Xers alike. Unlike traditional bars or gaming centers, Cidercade offers a curated, community-driven atmosphere where conversation flows as freely as the cider, and high scores are celebrated as much as handcrafted flavors.

For visitors unfamiliar with the area, navigating Cidercade can feel overwhelming at first. Is it a bar? A game room? A social event space? The answer is all of the above—and more. Understanding how to explore Cidercade fully requires more than just showing up. It demands awareness of its layout, rhythm, offerings, and local context. This guide is designed to help you unlock every layer of the Cidercade experience, from the moment you step through the door to the lingering satisfaction of your final sip and high score.

Whether you’re a local resident looking to rediscover your neighborhood, a tourist seeking authentic Austin culture, or a content creator documenting underground scenes, this tutorial will equip you with the knowledge to explore Cidercade intentionally, respectfully, and joyfully. We’ll break down the physical and social architecture of the space, highlight best practices for maximizing your visit, recommend essential tools, showcase real visitor experiences, and answer the most common questions newcomers have.

Step-by-Step Guide

Exploring the East Austin Cidercade Arcade is a multi-sensory journey best approached in stages. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure you don’t miss a single dimension of the experience.

1. Plan Your Visit Around the Right Time

Timing is everything at Cidercade. The space operates differently during weekdays versus weekends, and even within the same day. Weekday afternoons (2–6 PM) are ideal for newcomers seeking a calm introduction. The lighting is softer, the music is lower, and staff are more available for conversation. This is when you can comfortably walk through the arcade section without waiting for a machine, sample ciders slowly, and observe how the space functions.

Evenings (7 PM onward) on Fridays and Saturdays transform the venue into a social hotspot. Crowds swell, DJs spin indie and synthwave tracks, and special events like trivia nights or live pixel art battles occur. If you’re looking for energy and connection, this is your window—but arrive early. Lines form quickly, and seating fills up by 8 PM.

Check their Instagram or website calendar before you go. Many events—like “Cider & Chiptunes” nights or “Local Maker Markets”—are announced only digitally. Planning ahead ensures you don’t miss a themed night that aligns with your interests.

2. Arrive with an Open Mind and Minimal Expectations

Cidercade doesn’t operate like a typical bar or arcade. There are no neon signs flashing “2 FOR 1,” no aggressive staff pushing drinks, and no pressure to play every machine. The vibe is intentionally relaxed, almost like walking into a friend’s basement that happens to have 30 vintage games and a refrigerated tap wall.

Don’t expect polished corporate aesthetics. The walls are adorned with hand-painted murals by local artists, the cabinets are slightly scuffed from decades of play, and the cider labels are handwritten. This authenticity is part of the charm. Embrace the imperfections. They’re evidence of community ownership, not neglect.

3. Start at the Cider Bar: Taste Before You Play

Before you dive into the arcade, spend 10–15 minutes at the cider bar. The selection rotates weekly and features 8–12 local and regional ciders, including small-batch producers from Texas, Oregon, and even Mexico. The staff are trained cider ambassadors—not bartenders. They’ll guide you through tasting notes, fermentation methods, and food pairings.

Ask for a “Taster Flight” ($10–$14). You’ll receive four 3-ounce pours, allowing you to compare dry vs. sweet, still vs. sparkling, and fruit-infused vs. wild-fermented varieties. Don’t be shy to ask: “What’s the most surprising cider on the board right now?” or “Which one pairs best with salty snacks?”

Pro tip: The “Hibiscus & Rosemary Dry” and the “Blueberry Basil Sparkler” are perennial favorites. If you see the “Sour Peach Gose Cider” on tap, grab it—it’s a rare, limited release.

4. Navigate the Arcade Layout Intuitively

The arcade is divided into three zones: Classic Cabinets, Modern Retro, and Social Games.

Classic Cabinets (left wall): These are the originals—Pac-Man, Galaga, Donkey Kong, Centipede. They’re fully restored by local technicians and operate on original hardware. Tokens are required here. Buy a booklet of 10 tokens ($10) at the counter. Each game takes 1–2 tokens. Don’t assume you can just swipe a card—this is analog nostalgia.

Modern Retro (center): Think Sega Dreamcast, PlayStation 1, and Nintendo 64 hooked up to CRT TVs. These are curated for multiplayer. Look for the “Co-op Corner” where you can team up with strangers for Double Dragon or Gauntlet. Staff often leave a stack of extra controllers nearby—grab one and join in.

Social Games (right wall): This includes pinball machines, foosball, and oversized Jenga. These are free to use. They’re designed for group interaction. If you see a group huddled around a pinball machine, ask if you can join. It’s common for people to rotate turns and cheer each other on.

Look for the “Game of the Week” sign near the entrance. It highlights a machine with a leaderboard. Try to beat the high score and sign your initials on the sticky note next to it. Many visitors return just to see if they’ve been dethroned.

5. Engage with the Community

Cidercade thrives on interaction. Staff aren’t just employees—they’re enthusiasts. Ask them about their favorite cider, their favorite game, or how they got involved with the space. Many started as regulars who eventually volunteered to help restore cabinets.

Don’t hesitate to strike up conversations with other guests. It’s not uncommon to hear someone say, “I came here alone last week and ended up playing Tetris with a guy who flew in from Chicago.” The shared love of retro culture breaks down social barriers.

If you’re shy, start with a simple compliment: “This Galaga cabinet looks like it’s been playing since 1982.” That’s often enough to spark a 10-minute story about the arcade’s history.

6. Explore the Hidden Corners

Beyond the main floor, there are two lesser-known areas: the “Reading Nook” and the “Cider Lab.”

The Reading Nook is tucked behind a velvet curtain near the restrooms. It’s a small shelf of vintage game magazines, zines about DIY arcade restoration, and chapbooks by local poets. Take one. Read it. Leave it when you’re done—or swap it with one you brought.

The Cider Lab is visible through a glass window in the back. On weekends, you might catch staff blending experimental batches. If you see a sign that says “Taste Test: Volunteers Needed,” step up. You’ll get a free flight and a chance to influence the next seasonal release.

7. Document Your Experience Thoughtfully

If you’re a photographer, writer, or content creator, remember: Cidercade is not a backdrop—it’s a living space. Ask before photographing people. Avoid using flash on the arcade screens—it disrupts others. Natural light during the afternoon hours creates the best ambiance for photos.

Consider capturing: the texture of a worn joystick, steam rising from a cider glass, the glow of a CRT screen reflecting on a stranger’s face. These moments tell the real story of Cidercade.

8. Leave with Intention

Before you exit, take a moment to look around. Notice the small details: the hand-lettered chalkboard menu, the sticker-covered doorframe, the collection of old game cartridges displayed like art. These are the fingerprints of a community.

Don’t just leave a tip—leave a note. There’s a small journal by the exit where guests write messages to future visitors. “Beat my Pac-Man score!” or “Found my favorite cider here—thank you.” These notes become part of the venue’s legacy.

Best Practices

Maximizing your Cidercade experience isn’t just about what you do—it’s about how you show up. These best practices ensure you respect the space, its community, and its ethos.

Respect the Hardware

These arcade machines are decades old and often restored with painstaking care. Don’t slam buttons. Don’t shake cabinets. Don’t try to “fix” a game that’s glitching—ask a staff member. Many of these machines have been donated by collectors and are irreplaceable.

Don’t Hoard Machines

If you’re playing a popular game like Street Fighter II, limit your session to 15–20 minutes if others are waiting. It’s common courtesy to let someone else have a turn after two rounds. Look for the “Waiting List” clipboard near the arcade entrance. Sign your name if you want to return after a break.

Support Local, Not Just the Brand

Cidercade sources 95% of its cider from Texas-based producers. Choosing a local cider isn’t just patriotic—it’s economic activism. You’re helping small farms, independent brewers, and artisans stay in business. Ask for the producer’s name and follow them on social media.

Bring Cash

While credit cards are accepted, many of the token dispensers and merch stands only take cash. Keep $20–$30 on hand. You’ll need it for tokens, merch, and tips. The venue doesn’t have an ATM, so plan ahead.

Be Mindful of Noise Levels

The space is intentionally intimate. Keep phone calls outside. Avoid loud group conversations near the reading nook or the CRT gaming area. If you’re celebrating a birthday or special occasion, notify staff in advance—they can arrange a quiet corner.

Volunteer or Contribute

Cidercade is run by a nonprofit collective. They welcome volunteers for game restoration, event setup, and cider tasting events. Even a few hours a month makes a difference. Ask at the counter how to get involved. Many regulars started as volunteers.

Leave No Trace

Wipe down your table. Recycle your cider bottle. Don’t leave empty cups on the arcade floor. This space is maintained by community effort. Treat it like your own living room.

Don’t Expect Perfection

Some games might be out of order. The cider might be sold out of your favorite flavor. The lights might flicker. These aren’t failures—they’re part of the story. Embrace the glitches. They’re what make Cidercade real.

Tools and Resources

To fully explore Cidercade, you don’t need expensive gear—just a few smart tools and reliable resources.

Essential Apps

• Instagram – Follow @eastaustincidercade for daily updates, event announcements, and behind-the-scenes restoration videos.
• Google Maps – Use the “Indoor Map” feature to navigate the layout before you arrive. The venue has a detailed floor plan pinned in its listing.
• Untappd – Search “Cidercade” to see which ciders are currently on tap and read real-time reviews from other visitors.
• MAME Cabinet Database – If you’re a gaming enthusiast, use MAMEdb.com to identify the exact model and year of each cabinet you play.

Printed Resources

At the entrance, pick up a free, bi-monthly zine called “Cider & Pixels”. It includes: interviews with cider makers, game restoration tips, local artist spotlights, and a map of East Austin’s other hidden gems (like the nearby mural alley and vinyl record shop).

Community Networks

Join the East Austin Cidercade Discord Server. It’s a quiet, active community of regulars who share game tips, cider recommendations, and organize monthly “Cidercade Crawl” events to nearby local businesses. You’ll find it via their website or Instagram bio.

Recommended Reading

• “The Art of the Arcade” by David S. Kennedy – A visual history of arcade restoration in the U.S.
• “Texas Cider: The New Craft Revolution” by Maria L. Chen – Explores the rise of hard cider in the Southwest.
• “Pixel Dreams: Growing Up in the Golden Age of Arcades” by Jamal Ortiz – A memoir that resonates deeply with Cidercade’s demographic.

DIY Toolkit for Enthusiasts

If you’re interested in helping restore cabinets:

• Small screwdriver set (Phillips

  1 and #2)

• Isopropyl alcohol and microfiber cloths
• Electrical contact cleaner
• 16-gauge wire strippers

Staff often lend tools to volunteers. Just ask.

Real Examples

Real stories illustrate the true spirit of Cidercade better than any guidebook. Here are three authentic experiences shared by visitors.

Example 1: Maria, 68, Retired Teacher from San Antonio

“I came here on a whim after my granddaughter told me about it. I thought it was just for kids. I sat down at the Pac-Man table and played for 45 minutes. I beat my high score from 1983. The guy next to me—maybe 25—started coaching me. He didn’t know I was a teacher, but he said, ‘You’ve got the patience of someone who’s taught third grade.’ We laughed. I bought a pint of the peach cider and wrote a note in the journal: ‘I came for the games. I stayed for the kindness.’ I’m coming back next month.”

Example 2: Diego, 22, College Student and Indie Game Dev

“I was working on my game’s pixel art and needed inspiration. I came here after midnight on a Tuesday. No one else was around. I played a 1985 version of Galaga on a restored cabinet and started sketching the sprite patterns. The bartender noticed and gave me a free cider. We talked for an hour about game design. He told me about a local arcade museum that lets developers prototype on original hardware. Now I’m volunteering there. Cidercade changed my career path.”

Example 3: The Thompson Family, Austin Locals

“We come every second Sunday. My husband plays pinball, my daughter plays DDR (Dance Dance Revolution), and I sip cider and read. Last month, we joined a ‘Family Game Night’ where kids under 12 got free tokens. We met a family from New Orleans who’d traveled here just for the event. We exchanged emails. Now we’re planning a trip to their city. Cidercade didn’t just give us a night out—it gave us friends.”

Example 4: The “High Score Challenge” That Went Viral

In March 2023, a local YouTuber named “RetroRiley” posted a video titled “I Beat the Cidercade Pac-Man High Score—Here’s How.” He spent three weeks practicing, documented his progress, and finally surpassed the 1.2 million point record held since 2018. The video got 800K views. The staff invited him back for a live stream event. He brought 50 people. The event raised $3,000 for a local youth coding nonprofit. That’s the ripple effect of Cidercade.

FAQs

Is Cidercade kid-friendly?

Yes, but with caveats. Children under 12 are welcome until 8 PM. There’s a dedicated “Family Zone” with simpler games like Frogger and Ms. Pac-Man. Alcohol is served, so supervision is required. High chairs and non-alcoholic cider (sparkling apple) are available upon request.

Do I need to pay to enter?

No. There is no cover charge. You only pay for what you consume—cider, food, tokens, or merch.

Can I bring my own cider or snacks?

Outside alcohol is not permitted. However, you’re welcome to bring non-alcoholic drinks and snacks. The venue offers vegan-friendly pretzels, roasted nuts, and charcuterie boards if you’d prefer to purchase.

Are the arcade games free to play?

No. Classic cabinets require tokens (1–2 per game). Modern retro and social games are free. Tokens are sold at the counter in booklets of 10 for $10.

Is there parking?

Street parking is available along East 6th Street and surrounding blocks. There’s also a public lot two blocks away at the corner of East 5th and Chicon. Bike racks are plentiful. Cidercade encourages sustainable transportation.

Can I host a private event here?

Yes. Cidercade hosts small private events (up to 25 people) for birthdays, art shows, and indie game launches. Contact them via email at events@eastaustincidercade.com at least two weeks in advance. No corporate events or large parties.

Is Cidercade wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The entire space is ADA-compliant with wide aisles, accessible restrooms, and low-height game controls available upon request. Staff are trained to assist with mobility needs.

What’s the policy on photography?

Photography is encouraged for personal use. Commercial shoots require prior permission. Always ask before photographing people. Flash is prohibited near arcade screens.

Do they serve food?

Yes. A rotating menu of local food trucks partners with Cidercade on weekends. Expect tacos, vegan bowls, and artisanal grilled cheese. You can also order from nearby restaurants via delivery—Cidercade has a designated pickup shelf.

How do I know if a game is broken?

Look for a red “Out of Order” sticker. If you see a game glitching without a sticker, notify staff. They’ll fix it or replace it. Don’t try to fix it yourself.

Conclusion

Exploring the East Austin Cidercade Arcade isn’t about ticking boxes or chasing trends. It’s about stepping into a space where history, community, and creativity converge in the most unexpected ways. It’s where a 70-year-old woman beats her own 40-year-old high score, where a college student finds mentorship in a bartender, and where a simple sip of cider becomes a conversation starter that lasts hours.

This guide has given you the structure—the steps, the practices, the tools, the stories—to navigate Cidercade with confidence and curiosity. But the real magic happens when you put it all down and simply show up. Let the scent of apple blossom cider guide you. Let the chime of a high score pull you in. Let the quiet hum of a CRT screen remind you that some things are worth preserving.

Cidercade doesn’t just exist in East Austin—it reflects East Austin: resilient, creative, deeply human. To explore it is to participate in a living archive of joy, nostalgia, and connection. You don’t need to be a gamer or a cider connoisseur. You just need to be present.

So go. Buy a token. Order a flight. Sit down. Play. Talk. Laugh. Leave a note. And come back.

Because the best way to explore Cidercade… is to let it explore you.