Board Game Bars in Washington: Top Spots to Drink & Play

Looking for a fun and unique way to spend your evenings in Washington? Look no further than the board game bars scattered throughout the city! These bars offer a cozy and relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy a cold drink and play a variety of board games, video games, and pinball machines with friends and family. From the welcoming and chill vibe of Ashley’s Pub to the divey and comfy Stumbling Monk, there’s a board game bar for everyone. And don’t forget to check out Around the Table Boardgame Pub for a great selection of games and delicious food. Keep reading to learn more about our favorite board game bars in Washington!

🏆 Our Choice Recommendation:

***OUR TOP PICK: Our top choice is Natural 20 Brewing Co.. With its extensive selection of board games, mead, beers, and ciders, Ashley’s Pub offers a fun and relaxed atmosphere that feels like visiting a friend’s living room. It’s perfect for a casual night out with friends or a date, but may not be the best fit for families with young children. For those looking for an alternative, Raygun Lounge is a great runner-up with its wide selection of board games, pinball machines, and affordable drinks. However, Ashley’s Pub still stands out as the superior option with its unique mead selection and cozy atmosphere.

How We Are Rating These Locations:

1) 🍺 BEER SELECTION: The variety and quality of beers offered, including local and international options.
2) 🎲 GAME SELECTION: The quantity and diversity of board games, video games, and arcade games available for customers to play.
3) 🍔 FOOD OPTIONS: The availability and quality of food options, including snacks, sandwiches, and hot dogs.
4) 💰 PRICE: The affordability and value for money of the drinks, food, and games.
5) 🏆 ATMOSPHERE: The overall ambiance and vibe of the establishment, including cleanliness, friendliness of staff, and comfort of seating areas.

Board game bars in Washington offer a unique experience for those looking to unwind with friends or family. With a variety of games available, from board games to pinball machines, these bars provide a fun and relaxed atmosphere for patrons. When considering which board game bar to visit, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the selection of games is key. Are there enough options to keep everyone entertained? Are the games in good condition? Additionally, the quality of the drinks and food can make or break a visit. Does the bar offer a good selection of beers and other beverages? Is the food tasty and reasonably priced? Finally, the overall vibe of the bar is important. Is it a comfortable and welcoming space? Are the staff friendly and helpful? These factors can all contribute to a great experience at a board game bar. So grab some friends, pick a spot, and get ready for a fun and memorable night out!

Additional Criteria:

• Inclusivity – Businesses that identify as LGBTQ+ owned, women-owned, or veteran-owned, and provide gender-neutral restrooms and transgender safespaces.
• Accessibility – Businesses that are wheelchair accessible in terms of entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating.
• Entertainment – Businesses that offer live music, performances, trivia nights, and bar games.
• Cocktails – Businesses that have a great selection of cocktails in addition to beer and wine.

Option #1. Ashley’s Pub

Address: 7600 196th St SW #300, Lynnwood, WA 98036, United States Phone: +1 425-582-2745

Inclusivity: Identifies as Latino-owned, LGBTQ+ owned, women-owned, transgender safespace
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, seating
Entertainment: Bar games, video game systems, pinball machines, private rooms
Cocktails: No information available

✅ Outdoor seating ✅ Bar games ✅ Great beer selection ✅ Wheelchair accessible facilities ✅ Dogs allowed

Ashley’s Pub is an exceptional and hospitable establishment that provides a vast array of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, such as mead, brews, and apple-based drinks. The pub boasts an extensive collection of board games, video game consoles, and pinball machines, rendering it an ideal location to hang out with companions and loved ones. The ambiance is comfortable, well-lit, and appealing, evoking the feeling of visiting a friend’s home rather than a pub. While the pub does not offer food, patrons can either bring their own or purchase something from a nearby eatery. The only drawback is that the space can become congested, making it challenging to secure a table during peak periods. All in all, Ashley’s Pub is an extraordinary venue for anyone seeking a pleasurable and distinctive experience in Bremerton, Washington.

Pros:

• Huge selection of board games, card games, video games, and pinball machines
• Unique alcoholic beverage options including mead and a rotating tap selection
• Relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, feels like hanging out with friends
• Friendly and welcoming staff

Cons:

• No food served, although outside food is allowed
• Can be cliquey or difficult to meet new people during busy times

Option #2. Raygun Lounge

Address: 501 E Pine St, Seattle, WA 98122, United States Phone: +1 206-812-2521

Inclusivity: Identifies as veteran-owned.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom.
Entertainment: Bar games available.
Cocktails: No information available.

✅ Bar games ✅ Great beer selection ✅ Dogs allowed ✅ Gender-neutral restroom ✅ Free Wi-Fi

If you’re searching for a one-of-a-kind and enjoyable board game bar experience in Washington, then Raygun Lounge is a destination you can’t miss. This spot has an impressive array of arcade games, pinball machines, and board games, ensuring that everyone will find something to enjoy. The staff is always ready to assist you with anything you need, and the snacks and beverages available are of excellent quality. Although the temperature and humidity can become a bit overwhelming, the atmosphere is welcoming and laid-back. The only drawback is the limited food and drink options, but the reasonable prices and vast selection of games more than compensate for it. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful spot to hang out with pals or a lively place to play games and have a few drinks, Raygun Lounge is the ideal choice.

Pros:

• Wide selection of games including pinball, board, and video games
• Reasonable prices for games compared to other modern arcades
• Friendly and helpful staff
• Good selection of drinks including beer, cider, and CBD drinks

Cons:

• Limited food options
• Some machines are reported to eat your money

Option #3. Triple R Brewing Alley tavern

Address: 552 Denny Way, Seattle, WA 98109, United States Phone: +1 206-466-1764

Inclusivity: Gender-neutral restroom available
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance and restroom
Entertainment: Bar games available
Cocktails: No information available

✅ Bar games ✅ Great beer selection ✅ Dogs allowed ✅ Gender-neutral restroom ✅ Free Wi-Fi

Triple R Brewing Alley tavern is a concealed treasure situated in a narrow pathway in Seattle’s Roosevelt district. This warm and comfortable local garage transformed into a board game bar provides a distinct ambiance that is ideal for a casual night out with companions. The bar has a revolving assortment of regional artisanal beers on tap, which includes some of their own concoctions. On the upper level, customers can revel in a match of foosball, pinball, or darts while savoring their preferred brew. The proprietors are amiable and knowledgeable about the local brewing scene, creating a hospitable and genuine experience. Although the bar does not have a menu for food, guests are encouraged to bring their own takeout. The only disadvantage is the restricted seating, but it enhances the cozy and intimate atmosphere. In general, Triple R Brewing Alley tavern is an excellent location to unwind, converse, and engage in games while enjoying a chilled beer.

Pros:

• Great selection of local and regional craft beers on tap
• Fun and relaxed atmosphere with board games, darts, and shuffleboard available
• Friendly and knowledgeable staff who are passionate about beer
• Dog-friendly establishment

Cons:

• Limited food options, with only packaged pretzels and hot dogs available
• Limited selection of Triple R Brewing’s own beers on tap

Option #4. Around the Table Boardgame Pub

Address: 1635 E Olive Way, Seattle, WA 98102, United States Phone: +1 206-860-0916

Inclusivity: No information available
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot
Entertainment: No live music or performances
Cocktails: Rotating alcoholic and non-alcoholic taps

✅ In-store pickup ✅ In-store shopping ✅ Delivery ✅ Wheelchair accessible entrance ✅ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Around the Table Boardgame Pub is a fantastic destination for those who love board games. They offer a good selection of games for customers to enjoy without requiring them to buy anything or pay for the table by the hour. The staff is very friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere is inviting. The pub serves a variety of drinks on tap, reasonably priced snacks, and tasty ice cream. They also have a changing assortment of new and used games available for purchase, and they will buy games for store credit or slightly less in cash. Although the menu is limited, they permit customers to bring in food from other restaurants. The pub hosts weekly events, including Magic, DnD, Pathfinder, and new release parties. The only potential downside is the limited parking, but they do have access to a nearby parking lot in the evenings and on weekends. Overall, Around the Table Boardgame Pub is an excellent location for regular board game meet-ups and group table games, and is a must-visit for board game enthusiasts in the Washington area.

Pros:

• Friendly and helpful staff
• Decent selection of games to play
• No pressure to purchase anything or pay for table time
• Affordable and delicious food and drinks

Cons:

• Limited food options
• Confusing name (not actually a pub??)

Option #5. Stumbling Monk

Address: 3605 S McClellan St, Seattle, WA 98144, United States Phone: +1 206-717-2902

Inclusivity: No information available
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance and parking lot
Entertainment: Bar games
Cocktails: No information available

✅ Bar games ✅ Great beer selection ✅ Fast service ✅ Outside food allowed ✅ Dogs allowed

Stumbling Monk, situated in Capitol Hill, Seattle, is a warm and cozy board game bar that welcomes its customers with open arms. The establishment prides itself on its impressive collection of Belgian and Trappist beers, as well as a few select local brews. The ambiance is casual and unpretentious, with board games available for patrons to enjoy. The staff is friendly and well-informed about the beer selection, making it an ideal destination for beer aficionados. Although the bar does not offer food, guests are encouraged to bring their own or have it delivered. Despite its somewhat shady location, the bar itself is a hidden gem. All in all, Stumbling Monk is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic and distinctive beer experience in Seattle.

Pros:

• Excellent selection of Belgian beers
• Comfy dive bar vibes
• Board games available
• Great spot for a laid back night with friends

Cons:

• Limited selection of Belgian beer on tap and in bottles
• Place is a bit underlit and could use more airflow

Option #6. TeKu Tavern + Café

Address: 916 NE 64th St, Seattle, WA 98115, United States Phone: +1 206-898-3094

Inclusivity: Women-owned, LGBTQ+ friendly, transgender safespace
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom, seating
Entertainment: Bar games, trivia night
Cocktails: No information available

✅ Outdoor seating ✅ Bar games ✅ Great beer selection ✅ Dogs allowed ✅ Free Wi-Fi

TeKu Tavern + Café is a destination that should not be missed by those who enjoy beer and board games. The establishment boasts an impressive array of more than 50 beers on tap, as well as a wide variety of bottles and cans, ensuring that there is something for everyone. The venue is contemporary and welcoming, with lengthy tables that are perfect for groups and a selection of board games that are available for play. The staff is affable and knowledgeable, always prepared to offer suggestions or assist you in discovering your new favorite beverage. While some customers have reported issues with certain beers, the bottle shop is a standout feature, offering a vast selection of hard-to-find items. Overall, TeKu Tavern + Café is an excellent location for a relaxed evening with friends or for sampling a variety of beers if you happen to be in the area.

Pros:

• Huge selection of beers on tap and in fridges, including hard-to-find items and good Belgian selections.
• Cozy and inviting atmosphere with long tables for larger groups, board games to borrow, and chill vibes.
• Friendly and knowledgeable staff who provide great recommendations and service.
• Allows dogs and outside food, and has a coffee program and tea available in the morning.

Cons:

• Some customers have reported occasional issues with the quality of the beer on tap.
• A few customers have mentioned bizarre behavior from a late-night bartender.

Option #7. CaskCades

Address: 409 Pacific Ave UNIT 105, Bremerton, WA 98337, United States Phone: +1 360-813-1633

Inclusivity: Identifies as veteran-owned
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, and restroom
Entertainment: Bar games, trivia night
Cocktails: Great beer selection, hard liquor, cocktails

✅ Outdoor seating ✅ Bar games ✅ Great beer selection ✅ Trivia night ✅ Free Wi-Fi

CaskCades is a remarkable bar that specializes in board games, situated in the heart of Puyallup, Washington. This snug establishment is ideal for a night out with your loved ones or friends, with a selection of over 30 rotating beers and ciders on tap. The staff is cordial and attentive, and the ambiance is vibrant and hospitable. CaskCades is not just about the drinks, it also offers a range of board games, pinball machines, and arcade games, making it a perfect spot for entertainment. The food menu is uncomplicated but delectable, with a variety of hot dogs and other snacks to choose from. Although the seating can be a little tight during peak hours, the overall experience is worthwhile. If you’re searching for a fun and unique place to hang out and play games, CaskCades is definitely worth a visit.

Pros:

• 32+ beers on tap with good food and amazing service
• Discounts for military and others
• Great spot to hang out with friends and family
• Within walking distance of many good pizzerias, cozy cocktails, and boutique stores

Cons:

• Limited seating
• Food menu is fairly limited

Option #8. One Tree Cider House

Address: 5227 S Tacoma Way, Tacoma, WA 98409, United States Phone: +1 253-247-6314

Inclusivity: Identifies as veteran-owned, LGBTQ+ friendly
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating
Entertainment: Live music, bar games
Cocktails: No information available

✅ Bar games ✅ Live music ✅ Live performances ✅ Wheelchair accessible entrance ✅ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

If you’re searching for a top-notch board game bar experience in Washington, then One Tree Cider House is a must-visit location. The atmosphere is cozy and comfortable, and they offer an extensive selection of ciders, including unique flavors like Lemon Basil and Staycation. Additionally, their food menu is exceptional, featuring delectable options such as pulled pork nachos and Margherita pizza. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the products they serve, and there are various seating options available, including group seating, booths, and small tables. However, some customers have pointed out that the limited snack menu may not accommodate all dietary restrictions. In general, One Tree Cider House is an excellent spot for a laid-back night out with friends or loved ones, with reasonably priced drinks and flights, an outstanding selection of ciders, and a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

Pros:

• Comfy casual dining experience
• Friendly and accommodating staff
• Delicious food and cider selection
• Great atmosphere with cozy seating and table games

Cons:

• Gluten-free pizza was undercooked
• Limited snack menu with few vegetarian and vegan options

Option #9. 1-Up Lounge

Address: 106-A N Meridian, Puyallup, WA 98371, United States Phone: +1 253-256-4210

Inclusivity: Women-owned, LGBTQ+ friendly, transgender safespace
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating
Entertainment: Bar games, video games, themed parties
Cocktails: Great selection of cocktails, beer, and wine

✅ Bar games ✅ Great beer selection ✅ Great cocktails ✅ Gender-neutral restroom ✅ Free Wi-Fi

1-Up Lounge is the ultimate spot for those who love board games in Washington. This establishment provides a one-of-a-kind experience for patrons, boasting an impressive collection of over 3,000 games that can be played for free after 8 pm. The environment is warm and inviting, with amiable personnel and a wide range of beverages and snacks to choose from. Additionally, the bar serves cocktails inspired by video games and has pinball machines available. Although the venue can become congested, the staff is always obliging and supportive. One downside is that the noise level can be high, making it challenging to hold a conversation. Nevertheless, if you’re seeking a fun night out with friends or a distinctive date location, 1-Up Lounge is unquestionably worth a visit.

Pros:

• Excellent selection of drinks at different price points, including non-alcoholic options
• Friendly and helpful staff
• Huge variety of video games and consoles, including retro games
• Fun and unique themed nights and events

Cons:

• Crowded with mostly pinball machines, not much for kids to play
• Some areas of the lounge may be in need of cleaning

Option #10. Natural 20 Brewing Co.

Address: 1121 McKenzie Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225, United States Phone: +1 360-398-6183

Inclusivity: LGBTQ+ friendly, transgender safespace
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, seating
Entertainment: Bar games, trivia night
Cocktails: No information available

✅ Bar games ✅ Trivia night ✅ Fast service ✅ Casual atmosphere ✅ LGBTQ+ friendly

If you’re on the hunt for a board game bar in Washington, then Natural 20 Brewing Co. is a must-visit. This snug establishment boasts a small yet impressive selection of beverages that caters to all tastes, as well as scrumptious and reasonably priced food choices. The counter service enables patrons to drink, eat, play games, and socialize at their own pace, making it an ideal location for a relaxed evening out with friends or a significant other. The staff is amiable and knowledgeable, and the ambiance is laid-back and inviting. Additionally, the brewery hosts monthly One-shot D&D campaigns and other enjoyable events. Although the seating may not be the most comfortable, the overall experience is well worth it. Natural 20 Brewing Co. is the perfect place to have a distinctive and enjoyable night out in Washington.

Pros:

• Small but mighty tap list that has something for everyone.
• Stellar food and drinks.
• Great atmosphere for hanging out, playing games, and socializing.
• Fun and unique events like One-shot D&D and themed trivia nights.

Cons:

• Deli-style counter service may not be preferred by some customers.
• Seating may be uncomfortable for some.

Option #11. The Velvet Elk

Address: 13216 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley, WA 99216, United States Phone: +1 509-413-3663

Inclusivity: Women-owned, LGBTQ+ friendly, transgender safespace
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance
Entertainment: Live performances, bar games
Cocktails: Great cocktails, hard liquor, wine

✅ Bar games ✅ Great cocktails ✅ Live performances ✅ Seating ✅ Dogs allowed

The Velvet Elk, located in Mount Baker, is a delightful local bar that provides a warm and intimate setting for patrons to enjoy. Featuring an unusual and diverse interior design, this bar is ideal for individuals seeking a lively and peculiar location to socialize with friends. The drinks are reasonably priced and exceptionally refined, embodying the Seattle culture that feels like home. The staff is amiable and efficient, ensuring that customers feel welcomed and well-cared for. Although the establishment does not offer food, it compensates with a superb assortment of beverages and a small loft upstairs for guests to unwind. Nevertheless, some customers have observed that the service can be sluggish and chaotic on occasion. All in all, The Velvet Elk is an excellent choice for a romantic evening or a night out with friends, particularly for those searching for a distinctive and comfortable ambiance to savor some superb cocktails.

Pros:

• Unique and eclectic decor with a cozy retro vibe
• Friendly and knowledgeable staff
• Creative and delicious cocktails with interesting options
• Inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for all types of people

Cons:

• Some reports of slow or disorganized service
• Prices can be on the higher side

More About The State

Washington is more than just a destination for board game enthusiasts. This state, located in the northwest corner of the contiguous United States, boasts an abundance of natural wonders, historical significance, and cultural attractions. From the dense rainforests of Olympic National Park to the towering Cascade Mountains, Washington offers a diverse range of geographical features that will undoubtedly leave you in awe. Additionally, the state is home to noteworthy landmarks such as the Seattle Space Needle and Mount St. Helens, which experienced a massive eruption in 1980. Washington is also a hub for cultural attractions, with notable figures such as musician Jimi Hendrix and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates hailing from the state. And let’s not forget about the delectable produce that Washington has to offer, including sweet cherries, apples, pears, and red raspberries. Come explore the Evergreen State and all it has to offer.

POINTS-OF-INTEREST TO CONSIDER WHEN YOU VISIT:

🌲 – Olympic National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder that spans nearly one million acres of forests, waterfalls, and towering mountains. Explore Mount Olympus, which is home to a plethora of flora and fauna, or journey through Hoh Rainforest and its colossal 500-year-old trees. Be sure to visit the famous Marymere Falls and the stunning Kalaloch Beach along the Pacific coastline.

🏔️ – Mount Rainier National Park, one of the oldest national parks in the US, is home to the massive volcano, Mount Rainier, and some of the largest glaciers in the continental US. With diverse ecosystems and habitats, visitors can spot black bears, mountain goats, bobcats, cougars, elk, and various species of birds. Hiking along the miles of trails, mountaineering to ascend the summit of Mount Rainier, and backcountry skiing during the winter season are some of the top activities to enjoy here.

🚀 – The Space Needle is an iconic building that dominates the Seattle skyline and offers panoramic views of the city, Downtown, and beyond towards Mount Rainier, the Olympic Mountains, and the Cascade Mountains. The top of the building features a rotating observation deck called The Loupe, which includes an open-air deck and leaning glass walls to give an exhilarating view over the city. The Seattle Center, where the Space Needle is located, also includes several cultural venues worth checking out, such as the Chihuly Gardens, Museum of Pop Culture, Pacific Science Center, and the Seattle Monorail.

Conclusion

In conclusion, board game bars in Washington offer a unique and enjoyable experience for customers looking to unwind and have some fun. With a variety of games available, from board games to pinball machines, there’s something for everyone. These businesses provide a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, making it feel like you’re hanging out with friends in your own living room. Additionally, the selection of drinks and snacks is impressive, with some locations even offering mead and ice cream. Whether you’re a seasoned board gamer or just looking for a fun night out, these bars are definitely worth checking out. Remember to bring your friends and family, and don’t be afraid to try new games or ask the friendly staff for recommendations. So why not grab a drink, pick a game, and let the good times roll? Thank you for taking the time to read this review, and we hope to see you at one of these fantastic board game bars soon!