Imagine your child’s face lighting up as they step into a colorful world of glowing arcade machines, classic consoles, and exciting games from every generation. That is exactly what visitors experience at GamePlaza, Zurich’s interactive video game museum. Perfect for family outings, GamePlaza turns rainy weekends into memorable adventures where children and parents can play, discover, and learn together.
Located at Badenerstrasse 569 in Zurich Altstetten, the museum offers two hours of unlimited play across arcade machines, consoles, PC gaming stations, and virtual reality experiences. For families looking for something different to do in Zurich, GamePlaza offers a fun mix of entertainment, nostalgia, and gaming history.
Why GamePlaza Feels Like a Kids’ Paradise
Children want to explore and interact, not just look at exhibits behind glass. At GamePlaza, everything is designed to be fully playable. Visitors can try games from different eras of gaming history, including:
- Classic arcade machines such as Pac-Man and Donkey Kong
- Home consoles from Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) to modern systems like PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch
- Handheld devices including Nintendo 2DS
- Modern virtual reality experiences
Tickets are affordable for families:
- Adults: 22 CHF
- Kids (6–15): 19 CHF
- Kids (5): 5 CHF
- Kids under 4: Free
QR codes placed throughout the museum share interesting facts about gaming history, helping children learn while they play. Many parents appreciate that the museum encourages shared experiences instead of isolated screen time.
Start Your Adventure in Arcade Alley
Many families begin their visit in the arcade area, where classic machines bring the golden age of gaming back to life. Popular games include:
- Pac-Man
- Donkey Kong
- Asteroids
- NBA Jam
- Point Blank
- Time Crisis
Light gun games like Point Blank are especially popular with younger visitors, while classic arcade titles give parents a nostalgic trip back to the 1980s and 1990s. Arcade games are simple to understand but challenging to master, making them perfect for family friendly competitions.
From Retro Consoles to Modern Games
After exploring the arcade machines, families often move on to the console gaming area. Here visitors can experience gaming across several decades, from early systems to modern consoles.
Children might start with Super Mario Bros. on the NES, then jump forward to modern games on the PlayStation 5 or Nintendo Switch. Handheld gaming stations allow kids to explore portable gaming, while PC gaming stations showcase classic computer titles. The virtual reality section is another highlight, especially for older kids and teenagers who want to try something immersive and new.
Events and Activities for Kids
GamePlaza regularly hosts family friendly activities that add even more excitement to the experience. These may include:
- Birthday parties
- Friendly competitions
- Rhythm games such as Guitar Hero or Dance Dance Revolution
- Guided tours explaining how video games evolved
These events make the museum feel like a lively community space rather than a traditional exhibition.
Why Parents Love GamePlaza
GamePlaza is designed to be enjoyable for both children and adults. Parents often appreciate:
- A safe and welcoming environment
- Friendly staff available to help visitors
- The opportunity to share childhood games with their kids
- Instead of passive entertainment, families play together, compete for high scores, and celebrate small victories.
Many visitors describe it as one of the most enjoyable indoor family activities in Zurich, especially on rainy or cold days.
Tips for Your Family Visit
If you are planning a visit to GamePlaza with children, a few simple tips can help make the experience even better:
- Book tickets online to secure your preferred time slot
- Arrive on time to enjoy the full two hour play session
- Encourage kids to try both classic and modern games
- Take photos of high scores and memorable moments
The museum is easily accessible by tram or train to Zurich Altstetten, followed by a short walk to Badenerstrasse 569.
A Weekend Activity Kids Will Remember
GamePlaza turns a simple weekend outing into an adventure full of discovery and fun. From the excitement of beating a Pac-Man high score to the thrill of modern gaming on the PlayStation 5, the museum offers a unique journey through video game history. For families looking for a memorable indoor activity in Zurich, GamePlaza offers a place where kids can explore, parents can rediscover classics, and everyone can play together. GamePlaza — where families and games come together.
