Board Game Bars in Wisconsin: Top Spots to Game & Drink

Are you a fan of board games and bars? Look no further than Wisconsin’s board game bars! These unique establishments offer a fun and casual atmosphere where you can enjoy a cold beer or cocktail while playing your favorite classic arcade games, pinball machines, and board games. From the retro vibes of I/O Arcade Bar in Madison to the cozy rooftop atmosphere of Camp Trippalindee, there’s something for everyone. And if you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, The Bronze Dragon offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. Don’t miss out on these top picks for board game bars in Wisconsin. Keep reading to learn more!

🏆 Our Choice Recommendation:

***OUR TOP PICK: Our top choice is I/O Arcade Bar. With its wide variety of games and affordable prices, it’s the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a date night. The bartenders are friendly and the atmosphere is welcoming, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a fun and casual night out. However, if you’re looking for a more upscale experience, Camp Trippalindee may be a better fit. Despite its high prices, it offers a unique rooftop experience with great views of the city. But overall, I/O Arcade Bar is still the superior choice for its unbeatable combination of fun, affordability, and welcoming atmosphere.

How We Are Rating These Locations:

1) 🍺 BEER SELECTION: The variety and quality of craft beers on tap and in bottles/cans.
2) 🎮 GAME SELECTION: The variety and quality of arcade games, pinball machines, and board games.
3) 🍽️ FOOD OPTIONS: The quality and variety of food options, including vegan options.
4) 🏠 ATMOSPHERE: The overall vibe and ambiance of the establishment.
5) 💁‍♀️ SERVICE: The friendliness, attentiveness, and knowledge of the staff.

Board game bars in Wisconsin are the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a unique date night. These bars offer a fun and casual atmosphere where you can enjoy a variety of games, from classic arcade games to board games. When evaluating these types of businesses, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, the overall customer satisfaction is key. Are the games well-maintained and easy to play? Is the atmosphere welcoming and inclusive? Another important consideration is the drink and food selection. Are there unique and tasty options available, or is it just standard bar fare? Additionally, the level of customer service is crucial. Are the bartenders friendly and knowledgeable about the games and drinks? Finally, the overall vibe and ambiance of the bar can make or break the experience. Is it cozy and inviting, or is it too loud and chaotic? Overall, board game bars in Wisconsin offer a unique and entertaining experience that is worth checking out. So grab some friends, order a drink, and let the games begin!

Additional Criteria:

• Entertainment – Availability of arcade games, board games, bar games, live music, and live performances.
• Accessibility – Wheelchair accessibility of entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating.
• Diversity – Inclusivity of LGBTQ+ community and identifying as women-owned or Asian-owned.
• Convenience – Availability of payment options.

Option #1. I/O Arcade Bar

Address: 924 Williamson St, Madison, WI 53703, United States Phone: +1 N/A

Entertainment: Excellent selection of arcade games.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance and parking.
Diversity: LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safespace.
Convenience: ATM and change machine available.

✅ Wheelchair accessible entrance ✅ Wheelchair accessible parking lot ✅ Free Wi-Fi ✅ LGBTQ+ friendly ✅ Transgender safespace

If you’re seeking a one-of-a-kind and enjoyable experience in Madison, I/O Arcade Bar is a must-see destination. This establishment boasts an impressive assortment of brews and diversions, including traditional arcade games, pinball machines, and board games. The bar itself is roomy and tidy, with amiable personnel and quality beverages. On weekdays, happy hour is a steal, and ATMs and change machines are conveniently available. It’s important to note that, except for Sunday mornings, the bar is exclusively for those aged 21 and up, despite its welcoming atmosphere. The array of games is outstanding, with both classic and contemporary indie cabinets. However, some machines may be out of service, and parking can be a challenge. All in all, I/O Arcade Bar is a fantastic location for a romantic evening, a night out with pals, or a birthday celebration.

Pros:

• Great selection of beer and games
• Clean place with friendly bar staff and good drinks
• Wide variety of games that aren’t super expensive to play
• Beautiful arcade bar with lots of space for large parties or groups

Cons:

• No women’s bathroom, only all gender restroom
• Some machines were reported to be broken
• Beer selection is relatively sparse compared to other barcades

Option #2. Camp Trippalindee

Address: 200 Main St Suite 101, La Crosse, WI 54601, United States Phone: +1 608-519-0076

Entertainment: Board games available
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Diversity: Women-owned, transgender safespace
Convenience: Accepts credit and debit cards

✅ Outdoor seating ✅ Rooftop seating ✅ Great beer selection ✅ Great cocktails ✅ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Camp Trippalindee is a restaurant and bar located in Madison, Wisconsin that has a summer camp theme. The restaurant’s interior is designed to look like a camper, and the rooftop provides breathtaking views of the lake and campus area. The bar has an excellent selection of local beers on tap and in bottles, and the bartenders are known for their delicious and amusing drinks. Additionally, the bar offers various board games, such as oversized versions of popular games like Jenga and Connect 4. While the food is decent, some customers have observed that it can be a little basic and pricey. Nevertheless, the bar’s atmosphere and vibe make it an excellent spot to chill with friends and enjoy the views. All in all, Camp Trippalindee is a fantastic choice for those seeking a one-of-a-kind and enjoyable board game bar experience in Wisconsin.

Pros:

• Unique and fun summer camp theme
• Fantastic rooftop view of downtown Madison
• Great selection of local beers and camp-themed drinks
• Cozy atmosphere with northwoods vibes and board games

Cons:

• Inconsistent food quality and slow service reported
• Some menu items seem overpriced

Option #3. Dead Bird Brewing Company

Address: 201 Main St, Onalaska, WI 54650, United States Phone: +1 608-781-2626

Entertainment: Arcade games available.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, and restroom.
Diversity: No information available.
Convenience: Accepts debit/credit/NFC mobile payments.

✅ Alcohol ✅ Beer ✅ Bar onsite ✅ Debit cards ✅ Credit cards

Dead Bird Brewing Company is an ideal destination for individuals seeking an unparalleled board game bar experience in Milwaukee. The establishment provides a warm and inviting ambiance with ample seating and vintage arcade games, rendering it an excellent venue for amusement. The vegan cuisine options are delectable and bursting with flavor, and the beer assortment is exceptional. The personnel are amicable and well-informed, and they can effortlessly accommodate large groups. Although the beer selection may be restricted for some, the exceptional mixed drinks and artisanal soft drinks are worth sampling. The ordering procedure during the COVID-19 pandemic may be slightly inconvenient, but the on-site parking and outdoor seating compensate for it. All in all, Dead Bird Brewing Company is a fantastic place to relax, savor some scrumptious food and beverages, and engage in some classic arcade games.

Pros:

• Cozy atmosphere with plenty of seating and things to do
• Delicious and well-crafted beer selection
• Friendly and helpful staff
• All-vegan menu with flavorful options

Cons:

• Limited beer selection, no pale ales
• Small portion sizes for some menu items

Option #4. The Bronze Dragon

Address: 110 S 3rd St, Watertown, WI 53094, United States Phone: +1 920-390-4373

Entertainment: Board games available.
Accessibility: No information available.
Diversity: Inclusive and women-owned.
Convenience: Accepts multiple payment options.

✅ Alcohol ✅ Beer ✅ Food ✅ Restroom ✅ Casual

The Bronze Dragon is a fantastic addition to the downtown area, providing a cool and welcoming spot for both gamers and teetotalers. There’s ample room to chill and a decent selection of beverages, making it a great place to unwind and enjoy board games. The ambiance and decor are superb, and the non-alcoholic cocktails are a big hit. Although the food and drink choices could be expanded, the Bronze Dragon hosts exciting events like the Bizarre Bazaar, which is perfect for meeting new people. The staff is accommodating and friendly, and the venue is ideal for anyone seeking a bar experience without alcohol. It’s worth noting that the Bronze Dragon doesn’t offer much beyond a hangout spot, but it’s an excellent choice for those who love gaming or want a fun and inclusive atmosphere to relax in. All in all, the Bronze Dragon is a reliable option for anyone seeking a unique and enjoyable board game bar in Wisconsin.

Pros:

• Great hangout spot for gaming with a chill atmosphere
• Owner is kind and brings something special to the community
• Non-alcoholic venue for those who want a fun social experience without drinking
• Fun events and activities, such as the Bizarre Bazaar, to meet new people and vendors

Cons:

• Limited options for food and drink
• Not much to do besides gaming and hanging out

Option #5. UnWine’d Wine Bar

Address: W204N11912 Goldendale Rd, Germantown, WI 53022, United States Phone: +1 262-229-3009

Entertainment: No information available
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating.
Diversity: Identifies as women-owned, LGBTQ+ friendly.
Convenience: Accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

✅ Dine-in ✅ Delivery ✅ Takeout ✅ Great beer selection ✅ Great cocktails

UnWine’d Wine Bar is a snug and cozy establishment situated in a renovated old bank in downtown Onalaska, Wisconsin. The establishment offers a diverse selection of wines and beers, as well as scrumptious food and chocolates. Patrons have the option of sitting in the bank vault, the main bar area, or one of the numerous cubby holes for a more secluded experience. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, providing exceptional customer service and recommendations on new wines. The ambiance is welcoming and ideal for a romantic evening or a night out with friends. Nevertheless, the bar can become crowded and may necessitate a brief wait for exceptional service and products in a fantastic atmosphere. All in all, UnWine’d Wine Bar is a fantastic location for those seeking a fashionable spot to enjoy a drink and relax.

Pros:

• Cozy and inviting atmosphere
• Knowledgeable and personable staff
• Unique seating options, including bank vaults
• Constantly changing wine menu with great recommendations

Cons:

• Could use more servers
• Appetizers are overpriced for portion sizes

Option #6. The Broken Chandelier

Address: 1726 N 5th St, Milwaukee, WI 53212, United States Phone: +1 414-930-0707

Entertainment: Fun board games, cozy atmosphere
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible parking, restroom, seating
Diversity: No information available
Convenience: Accepts credit, debit, NFC payments

✅ Great beer selection ✅ Great cocktails ✅ Wheelchair accessible parking lot ✅ Wheelchair accessible restroom ✅ Assistive hearing loop

The Germantown-based establishment known as The Broken Chandelier is a recently-opened board game bar that boasts a welcoming and cozy environment. The proprietor’s dedication to creating a must-visit destination is evident in the imaginative mixed drinks and amusing board games on offer. The adornments are incredibly charming and the personnel are amicable and attentive. Although there may be some reservations about the limited area and potential noise levels, the overall experience is pleasurable and ideal for a night out with companions. The Broken Chandelier is a superb addition to Wisconsin’s board game bar landscape and is certainly worth exploring.

Pros:

• Warm and inviting atmosphere
• Creative and flavorful craft drinks
• Committed owner dedicated to making the business a destination
• Excellent service and attentive owner

Cons:

• Limited area
• Loud noise levels reported

Option #7. The Drafty Cellar

Address: 601 Langdon St, Madison, WI 53703, United States Phone: +1 608-257-6949

Entertainment: Arcade games, board games, live music.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom.
Diversity: Identifies as Asian-owned.
Convenience: Accepts credit cards.

✅ Bar games ✅ Great beer selection ✅ Great cocktails ✅ Live music ✅ Trivia night

The Drafty Cellar in Watertown is a must-see for those seeking a fun night out. This bar offers a rotating selection of specialty craft beers and ales from around the globe, making it a perfect destination for beer aficionados. The arcade games, pinball machines, and pool table provide endless amusement, making it an ideal location for groups. The welcoming and knowledgeable staff is always eager to assist you in finding the perfect beverage, whether it be a craft beer or a specialty cocktail. Although the food options are limited to locally sourced soft pretzels and frozen pizzas, they are delectable. The only drawback is that the prices can be a bit steep, but the quality of the drinks and the ambiance make it worthwhile. All in all, The Drafty Cellar is an excellent choice for those seeking a unique and entertaining night out in Watertown.

Pros:

• Constantly rotating selection of specialty craft beers and ales from all across the world
• Curated lineup of taps and cans with outstanding selection and knowledge of beers and bourbon
• Friendly and knowledgeable staff who will help you find the perfect craft beer
• Dozens of arcade games and pinball machines for entertainment

Cons:

• Food is limited to soft pretzels and frozen pizzas
• Prices are so-so (expected for a craft beer bar)

More About The State

Wisconsin is more than just a haven for board game bars! This state in the Midwest boasts a diverse geography and rich history that will leave you in awe. From the mammoth bones that are 14,500 years old and bear human-made tool marks, suggesting that people have lived in the Western Hemisphere for longer than previously thought, to the lead-mining boom that brought settlers to the region in the 1820s, Wisconsin has a lot to offer. Cheese is also a famous product of the state, and visitors can explore a museum dedicated to cheese and even watch the creation of a 90-pound wheel of Swiss. Wisconsin is a nature lover’s paradise, with over 15,000 lakes, including the Apostle Islands off the coast of the Lake Superior Lowland. And let’s not forget about the state’s famous badgers, which were a nickname for the miners who cut into Wisconsin’s hills in the 19th century to find lead. Come and discover Wisconsin’s unique history, culture, and natural beauty for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!

POINTS-OF-INTEREST TO CONSIDER WHEN YOU VISIT:

🌊 – Wisconsin Dells is recognized as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” boasting the largest collection of indoor and outdoor waterparks globally. There are numerous options to choose from, including Noah’s Ark Waterpark, the most extensive outdoor waterpark in the United States. Additionally, many of these parks offer on-site lodging for convenience.

🏍️ – The Harley-Davidson Museum is a haven for motorcycle enthusiasts, showcasing the world’s best bikes. With approximately 450 artifacts and motorcycles, including the oldest known Harley-Davidson motorcycle, Serial Number One, visitors can also explore their Design Lab to witness the behind-the-scenes process of creating these iconic bikes.

🌅 – Door County is a paradise for outdoor activities and the performing arts, with 11 lighthouses, 300 miles of shoreline, and five state parks to explore. Visitors can choose from various accommodations, including camping, bed and breakfasts, and historic inns. Additionally, there are numerous concerts, outdoor theater performances, and outdoor sports to enjoy, such as hiking, birding, paddling, and more.

🌺 – Olbrich Botanical Gardens spans 16 acres of stunning gardens and is home to the only Thai Pavilion in the continental United States and the only one of its kind surrounded by a garden outside of Thailand. Visitors can also visit the Bolz Conservatory, a 50-foot-high pyramid with a rushing waterfall, blooming orchids, free-flying birds, and tropical plants.

Conclusion

In conclusion, board game bars in Wisconsin offer a unique and exciting experience for customers. These businesses provide a fun and casual atmosphere for patrons to enjoy a wide variety of board games, arcade games, and craft beers. With a focus on inclusivity and community, these bars are perfect for groups of friends or a fun date night. From the cozy atmosphere of UnWine’d Wine Bar to the arcade games and craft beer selection at The Drafty Cellar, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, whether you’re a local or just passing through, be sure to check out these board game bars for a memorable and entertaining experience. And remember, don’t be afraid to try something new and step out of your comfort zone. Thank you for taking the time to read this article, and we hope to see you at one of these amazing locations soon!