Arcade City

The floor mixes classic arcade favorites with modern interactive games and prize games. The operator describes skill games, multiplayer games, carnival-style games and immersive experiences. Selection varies by location, so if you have played at the Gatlinburg or Branson branches, expect a similar feel but not an identical lineup.

There are no paper tickets. Arcade City uses a play card: tickets load onto the card automatically as you play, and you redeem them for prizes at the counter. Games cost between $0.25 and $3 per play.

The operator lists three play card options:

• $30 for $25 of value
• $65 for $50 of value
• $145 for $100 of value

The website also advertises savings of up to 30 percent on online tickets, so it pays to look at the official site before you arrive.

Hours for the Pigeon Forge location are 10 AM to 10 PM Sunday through Thursday and 10 AM to 11 PM on Friday and Saturday. The address is 131 Island Dr #1105, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863, and the phone number is (865) 286-0149. Because it is inside The Island complex, you can park once and combine it with the rest of the area.

• Weekday mornings are quieter. Saturday evenings and rainy afternoons in July are packed.
• Sound level is high. If someone in your group is sensitive to noise and flashing lights, plan for short visits.
• Set a budget per kid before you load cards. A $30 card disappears faster than you expect at $2 to $3 a game.
• Prizes are on the counter wall, so let kids look before they decide what to play for.
• Pairings: it fits easily with The Island's other attractions and restaurants, and gives you a covered fallback when a thunderstorm rolls through.