How to Visit Rivers Casino Family Arcade Des Plaines

Visiting the Rivers Casino Family Arcade in Des Plaines, Illinois, is more than just a trip to a gaming venue—it’s an immersive experience designed for families, casual gamers, and entertainment seekers alike. Nestled within the larger Rivers Casino complex, the Family Arcade offers a vibrant, safe, and engaging environment where children, teens, and adults can enjoy arcade games, prize redemption, and interactive attractions without the adult-only restrictions of the main casino floor. Unlike traditional casino environments, the Family Arcade is intentionally curated to be welcoming to all ages, making it a unique destination in the Chicago metropolitan area for group outings, birthday parties, and weekend fun.

Understanding how to visit the Rivers Casino Family Arcade Des Plaines requires more than just knowing the address. It involves navigating entry protocols, understanding operating hours, selecting the right time for your visit, preparing for payment systems, and maximizing your experience through smart planning. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to ensure your visit is seamless, enjoyable, and fully aligned with your expectations—whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for another round of claw machines and virtual racing.

By following this guide, you’ll learn not only the logistics of access but also insider tips that enhance your experience—from avoiding crowds to earning the most prizes. The Family Arcade is often overlooked by those who associate Rivers Casino solely with slot machines and table games. But for families and casual visitors, it’s one of the most underrated entertainment hubs in the region. This tutorial will help you unlock its full potential.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Confirm the Location and Operating Hours

Before planning your trip, verify the exact location and current operating hours of the Rivers Casino Family Arcade. The arcade is located within the Rivers Casino Des Plaines complex at 888 W. Golf Road, Des Plaines, IL 60016. It is situated on the ground floor near the main entrance and is clearly marked with signage.

Operating hours for the Family Arcade typically align with the casino’s general schedule but may vary on holidays and special events. As of the latest updates, the Family Arcade is open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM. However, hours may extend during weekends, school breaks, or holidays such as Memorial Day, Fourth of July, or Christmas. Always check the official Rivers Casino website or call ahead to confirm hours on the day of your visit, as adjustments can occur without public notice.

Step 2: Plan Your Visit Around Family-Friendly Times

To maximize enjoyment and minimize crowding, choose your visit time strategically. Weekday afternoons between 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM are generally the least crowded and ideal for families with younger children. Evenings after 7:00 PM tend to attract teens and young adults, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. If your goal is a quiet, relaxed experience, avoid weekends between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM, when foot traffic peaks.

Additionally, consider visiting during school breaks or summer months when the arcade often hosts special themed events, such as “Family Game Night” or “Prize Bonanza Weekends,” which offer bonus tokens, discounted game bundles, and exclusive redemption items.

Step 3: Prepare for Entry and Age Restrictions

Unlike the main casino floor, which requires guests to be 21 or older, the Family Arcade welcomes guests of all ages. Children under 18 may visit without an adult, but those under 13 are strongly encouraged to be accompanied by a guardian. There are no ID checks at the arcade entrance, but staff may ask for age verification if they suspect a minor is attempting to access restricted areas.

Be aware that while the arcade is family-friendly, it is still part of a licensed gaming facility. Visitors are expected to adhere to a code of conduct: no running, no aggressive behavior, and no use of electronic devices in a way that disrupts other guests. Security personnel patrol the area, and violations may result in removal.

Step 4: Understand the Payment System

The Family Arcade operates on a token-based or card-based system. Cash is accepted at the kiosks located near the entrance, where you can purchase tokens or load value onto a reloadable arcade card. Credit and debit cards are also accepted at these kiosks. Some games accept direct card swipes, while others require tokens.

Token prices typically range from $1 to $2 per token, with bulk purchases offering discounts—for example, $20 for 25 tokens or $50 for 65 tokens. The reloadable card is the most convenient option for repeat visitors. You can load any amount onto the card, track your balance online via the Rivers Casino app, and even use it at other participating venues within the casino complex.

Pro tip: If you’re visiting with multiple people, consider purchasing one card per family and assigning a designated “token manager” to handle all reloads and game credits. This avoids confusion and ensures equitable play.

Step 5: Explore the Game Selection

The Family Arcade features over 100 games across multiple categories: classic redemption games, modern motion simulators, interactive video games, and skill-based prize machines. Popular attractions include:

• Redemption games: Skee-Ball, Whac-A-Mole, ring toss, and basketball shootouts
• Prize counters: Merchandise ranging from small plush toys to electronics and gift cards
• Virtual reality stations: Immersive experiences like VR racing, space adventures, and zombie shooters
• Interactive dance and music games: Dance Dance Revolution, Just Dance, and Guitar Hero clones
• Classic arcade cabinets: Pac-Man, Galaga, Street Fighter II, and Ms. Pac-Man

Each game displays its token cost and prize potential. Redemption games award tickets based on performance—higher scores yield more tickets, which can be exchanged for prizes at the redemption counter. Some games also offer digital ticket tracking via the arcade card, allowing you to accumulate points across multiple sessions.

Step 6: Redeem Prizes Strategically

The redemption counter is located near the back of the arcade and features a wide variety of prizes categorized by ticket value. Items range from $5 candy and stickers (10–50 tickets) to $100 electronics (500–1,500 tickets). To maximize your prize haul:

• Save tickets from multiple visits to reach higher-tier prizes
• Look for “Double Ticket Nights” or promotional events that increase ticket yield
• Check for limited-edition items that rotate weekly—these often sell out quickly
• Use the arcade’s digital kiosk to view your ticket balance and available prizes in real time

Many families plan their visits around prize goals—such as earning enough tickets for a specific toy or gift card—making the experience more engaging for children and encouraging repeat visits.

Step 7: Utilize Group and Event Services

If you’re planning a birthday party, school group outing, or corporate team-building event, the Family Arcade offers customizable packages. These include reserved game zones, private party rooms, dedicated staff assistance, and bundled token credits. Packages start at $250 for up to 15 guests and include 100 tokens per person, a private party host, and a themed cake or snack option.

Reservations are required and can be made online via the Rivers Casino website under “Events & Groups” or by visiting the concierge desk in person. Book at least one week in advance during peak seasons (summer, holidays) to secure your preferred date and time.

Step 8: Exit and Leave a Review

Before leaving, take a moment to check your remaining ticket balance and redeem any final prizes. If you used a reloadable card, ensure you keep it for future visits—it retains your balance indefinitely.

Consider leaving feedback on Google, Yelp, or the Rivers Casino website. Your review helps improve the experience for others and may even prompt the arcade to add new games or extend hours based on community demand. Many visitors report that their suggestions have led to tangible upgrades, such as the addition of new VR stations or expanded prize inventory.

Best Practices

Set a Budget Before You Enter

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of flashing lights and winning tickets. To avoid overspending, determine a spending limit before entering the arcade. Whether it’s $25 or $75, stick to it. Many families find success by allocating a portion of their budget to tokens and another portion to prizes—this prevents “ticket overload” where kids collect hundreds of tickets but can’t choose what to redeem.

Use the Mobile App for Real-Time Tracking

The Rivers Casino mobile app allows you to link your arcade card, view your current ticket balance, see upcoming promotions, and even reserve games in advance during peak hours. Download the app before your visit and register your card to unlock these features. The app also sends push notifications for limited-time events, such as “Free Play Fridays” or “Ticket Doubler Tuesdays.”

Rotate Game Types to Maximize Ticket Yield

Not all games are created equal in terms of ticket output. High-skill games like basketball shooters or claw machines often yield fewer tickets per play than simpler games like ring toss or balloon pop. To optimize your ticket earnings, mix high-reward, low-skill games with occasional high-skill challenges. For example, play 3 rounds of Skee-Ball (high ticket yield) and 1 round of VR racing (low ticket yield but high fun factor).

Visit During Off-Peak Hours for Better Game Availability

Popular games like the VR simulators and giant racing tracks often have long wait times during weekends. Visiting mid-week or early in the day ensures you can play your favorite games without waiting. If you’re visiting with children, this also reduces frustration and fatigue.

Teach Kids About Delayed Gratification

One of the most valuable lessons the Family Arcade teaches is patience. Encourage children to save tickets over multiple visits rather than spending them all at once. Create a “prize goal chart” at home—mark progress with stickers or checkmarks. This transforms the arcade visit from a spontaneous treat into a structured, rewarding experience that builds financial literacy and goal-setting skills.

Bring a Reusable Water Bottle and Snacks

While the arcade has a snack bar offering popcorn, candy, and soda, prices are higher than average. Bringing your own water and small, non-messy snacks (like granola bars or fruit) helps reduce costs and keeps energy levels up, especially during longer visits. Just be sure to dispose of wrappers properly—staff enforce cleanliness standards.

Check for Seasonal Promotions and Loyalty Rewards

Rivers Casino frequently runs promotions tied to holidays, sports events, or new game launches. Examples include:

• “Buy 5, Get 1 Free” token packs during spring break
• Double ticket nights on the first Friday of each month
• Free admission for kids under 10 during summer family weekends

Subscribe to the casino’s email newsletter or follow their social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram for real-time updates. Loyalty members who sign up for the Rivers Rewards program also receive exclusive arcade discounts and early access to new games.

Respect the Space and Other Visitors

While the Family Arcade is a fun environment, it’s not a free-for-all. Teach children to wait their turn, avoid hogging machines, and clean up after themselves. Staff are trained to enforce courtesy rules, and repeated violations can lead to temporary bans. A respectful visit ensures everyone has a positive experience.

Tools and Resources

Official Rivers Casino Website

The primary source for accurate, up-to-date information is the official Rivers Casino Des Plaines website: www.riverscasino.com/desplaines. Here, you’ll find:

• Current arcade hours and holiday schedule
• Online event registration for group bookings
• Game gallery with descriptions and ticket values
• Links to download the mobile app

Rivers Casino Mobile App

Available for iOS and Android, the Rivers Casino app is essential for maximizing your arcade experience. Features include:

• Link your arcade card to view real-time ticket balance
• Receive push notifications for promotions and new game releases
• Reserve game stations during peak hours
• Access digital coupons for token discounts

Download the app from the App Store or Google Play by searching “Rivers Casino.”

Google Maps and Reviews

Google Maps provides real-time crowd heatmaps, user-submitted photos, and recent reviews. Search “Rivers Casino Family Arcade Des Plaines” to see:

• Current wait times (based on user check-ins)
• Photos of prize selections and game layouts
• Verified visitor tips on best games and least crowded times

Reading the most recent reviews (within the last 30 days) gives you the most accurate picture of current conditions.

YouTube Tutorials and Walkthroughs

Many local families and content creators have uploaded walkthrough videos of the Family Arcade. Search “Rivers Casino Family Arcade tour 2024” on YouTube to find:

• Video tours of the entire arcade layout
• Gameplay footage of top-performing machines
• Prize redemption demonstrations

These videos help you visualize the space before you arrive and identify which games to prioritize.

Local Parenting and Community Blogs

Chicago-area parenting blogs such as “Chicago Kids Outdoors,” “Suburban Family Fun,” and “The Loop With Kids” regularly feature guides to the Family Arcade. These resources often include:

• Seasonal event calendars
• Discount codes for local residents
• Insider tips from frequent visitors

Bookmark a few trusted blogs and check them monthly for updates.

Customer Feedback Platforms

While not official resources, platforms like Yelp and TripAdvisor offer candid feedback. Look for patterns in reviews—consistent mentions of “long lines at the claw machine” or “great staff for kids” can help you adjust your strategy. Avoid relying on single negative reviews; instead, focus on recurring themes.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Weekly Family Outing

The Rodriguez family from Park Ridge visits the Family Arcade every Saturday afternoon. They budget $30 per visit: $20 for tokens and $10 for snacks. They play Skee-Ball, basketball shoot, and ring toss—games that consistently yield 15–25 tickets each. After three visits, they’ve saved 180 tickets and redeemed a $15 gift card to a local bookstore. Their 7-year-old daughter now tracks her tickets on a paper chart at home. “It’s not just fun,” says mom Maria, “it’s teaching her how to save and plan.”

Example 2: The Birthday Party Success

In June, the Chen family hosted their son’s 9th birthday party at the Family Arcade. They booked the “Family Fun Package” for $350, which included 200 tokens, a private party room for 90 minutes, a custom cake, and a dedicated staff member to assist with games. The party lasted 2.5 hours, and all 12 children left with at least one prize. The Chens reported that the event was “stress-free” and “perfectly organized.” They’ve since booked the same package for their daughter’s 7th birthday.

Example 3: The First-Time Visitor

John, a single dad from Evanston, visited the Family Arcade for the first time with his 5-year-old daughter. He didn’t know what to expect. After reading reviews and downloading the app, he arrived at 3:00 PM on a Tuesday. He loaded $25 onto a card, played 3 games, and earned 60 tickets. They redeemed a small stuffed animal and a candy pack. “I was nervous about the environment,” John says, “but the staff were friendly, the games were clean, and my daughter didn’t want to leave. We’re going back next week.”

Example 4: The Teenager’s Strategy

16-year-old Maya visits the arcade every Friday after school. She uses her part-time job earnings to load $50 onto her card weekly. Her strategy: play the VR racing game (10 tokens) for fun, then focus on high-yield redemption games like “Lucky Lanes” and “Ticket Tornado.” She saves her tickets and redeems them every 3 weeks for a $25 gift card to her favorite clothing store. “It’s my way of being independent,” she says. “I earn my own rewards.”

Example 5: The Corporate Team-Building Event

A marketing team from downtown Chicago booked the Family Arcade for a team-building day. They reserved a 4-hour block, split into teams of 4, and competed in a “Ticket Challenge” to see which team could earn the most tickets in 90 minutes. Prizes were awarded for top performers. “It was hilarious,” said team lead Lisa. “People who never play games were screaming at claw machines. We bonded more in two hours than we have in six months of Zoom calls.”

FAQs

Can I bring my own food and drinks into the Family Arcade?

Yes, you may bring non-alcoholic beverages and small, non-messy snacks. Large meals, hot food, or items with strong odors are discouraged. The arcade has a snack bar if you prefer to purchase on-site.

Are there any age restrictions for specific games?

While the arcade is open to all ages, some VR experiences and motion simulators have height or age recommendations (typically 8+). These are clearly posted on each machine. Staff can assist you in selecting age-appropriate games.

Do I need to be a Rivers Casino Rewards member to use the arcade?

No. The Family Arcade is open to the public. However, joining the Rivers Rewards program gives you access to exclusive discounts, bonus tokens, and early access to new games.

Can I use my casino rewards points in the Family Arcade?

Yes. If you’re a Rivers Rewards member, you can redeem points for arcade tokens at the rewards kiosk near the main entrance. 100 points = $1 in token value.

Is there parking available?

Yes. Rivers Casino offers free parking in multiple lots adjacent to the building. The Family Arcade entrance is a short, well-lit walk from the main parking areas. Valet parking is also available for a fee.

What if my child loses their arcade card?

Lost cards can be replaced at the arcade kiosk. Your balance is linked to your account in the system, so as long as you provide your name and phone number, staff can restore your balance. Keep your card secure or store your balance digitally via the app.

Are the games regularly updated?

Yes. The arcade rotates 10–15% of its game selection every quarter. New games are often announced via the app and social media. Recent additions include augmented reality treasure hunts and interactive dance floors.

Can I host a private event outside of regular hours?

Yes. The Family Arcade can be rented for private events after hours on weekdays. Contact the events team through the website to discuss availability and pricing.

Is the arcade wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The entire Family Arcade is fully ADA-compliant, with wide aisles, low-height game stations, and accessible redemption counters. Staff are trained to assist guests with mobility needs.

What happens if a game malfunctions?

If a game stops working or doesn’t dispense tickets, notify a staff member immediately. They will either refund your tokens or credit your card. All machines are inspected daily for functionality.

Conclusion

Visiting the Rivers Casino Family Arcade in Des Plaines is not merely about playing arcade games—it’s about creating shared moments, teaching valuable life skills, and discovering joy in simple, interactive experiences. Whether you’re a parent looking for a safe, engaging outing for your kids, a teen seeking a fun after-school escape, or an adult rediscovering the thrill of classic games, the Family Arcade offers something meaningful for everyone.

This guide has equipped you with everything you need to plan, execute, and maximize your visit. From understanding payment systems and optimizing ticket earnings to leveraging digital tools and avoiding common pitfalls, you now hold the keys to a seamless, rewarding experience.

Remember: the best visits aren’t the ones with the most tokens spent, but the ones filled with laughter, connection, and the quiet satisfaction of a hard-earned prize. Plan ahead, stay flexible, and most importantly—have fun. The Family Arcade isn’t just a place to play. It’s a place to remember.

Now that you know how to visit, all that’s left is to go—and make your next trip unforgettable.