Photo: David Firth
Photo: Cheryl Six
Photo: Bud Parker
Top Hat
★4.5(1,791 reviews)$$Arcade
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 6 and up. Younger elementary kids enjoy the accessible classic games and pinball machines, while tweens and teens appreciate the nostalgic arcade vibe and more challenging games. The mix of vintage and modern options keeps all ages entertained.🧡 Saved by 250+ families
About
Top Hat in downtown Missoula offers a unique family-friendly experience combining retro arcade gaming with quality food in a gastropub setting. Kids will love the vintage pinball machines and classic arcade games, while parents can appreciate the full-service restaurant and relaxed atmosphere that makes this more than just a typical arcade.
Highlights
- ✓Vintage pinball machines from different eras
- ✓Mix of classic arcade games like Pac-Man and modern gaming options
- ✓Full gastropub menu with kid-friendly food options
- ✓Nostalgic gaming atmosphere that parents and kids both enjoy
- ✓Downtown Missoula location near other family attractions
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit during weekday afternoons (Tuesday-Thursday) for fewer crowds and easier access to popular arcade games
- 2.Bring plenty of quarters for the games, though they typically have change machines available
- 3.The venue doubles as a live music space, so check the schedule beforehand if you prefer a quieter gaming experience
- 4.Start with lunch or early dinner when kids are hungry, then transition to gaming so they're fueled up for fun
- 5.Street parking can be limited downtown, so arrive early or use nearby public parking lots on weekends
Best Time to Visit
Tuesday through Thursday afternoons (11 AM - 3 PM) offer the best experience for families with fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere. Weekend mornings when they open are also good before the evening crowd arrives.
What to Know
Top Hat is primarily a gastropub that also features arcade games, so it has a bar atmosphere in the evenings. Pricing is moderate ($$) for both food and games, and street parking downtown requires quarters or a parking app.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with consistent hours, making it an excellent indoor option during Montana's snowy winters. Note that the venue is closed Sundays and Mondays, so plan accordingly.
Nearby Eats
Being a gastropub with a full restaurant, Top Hat serves its own food, but if you're looking for additional options, check out the nearby downtown Missoula restaurants within walking distance along Higgins Avenue.
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