Alongside its performing arts scene, the pristine beaches, and the glorious food and drink on offer, Sarasota is a city that also caters to the area’s large population of gamers. From gaming stores to retro arcades, staunch gamers tend to gather in these well-liked destinations, be it to play games and record high scores or to simply snap up products after speaking to knowledgeable staff. 

Ultimately, the city in west-central Florida delivers for gamers. Sure, it might not contain as many VR centers to take the family to as major cities like New York possess, but there are still some exceptional offerings that gamers from the city seem to rate highly. Some people base a day around these popular gaming havens, while others spend a couple of hours there after attending a local museum or gallery. Essentially, gamers from Sarasota certainly can’t complain. 

If you’re also partial to smartphone games like Candy Crush Saga or McLuck’s online slots like Fish Tales Halloween and Spin of the Dead, then below are some popular places to consider frequenting that are go-to options for Sarasota’s huge population of gamers. From gaming bars to arcades, we’ve got your back! 

ARCADEbar

Kicking things off with a place many locals know about, ARCADEbar deserves to have far more of a following behind it. This great spot boasts a strong selection of games to explore, all while gamers munch on Oreo-inspired desserts and a diverse range of craft cocktails. If you’re keen to eat good food while playing some excellent games, then ARCADEbar is the place to go. 

Livingston's Amusements

An option you’ve undoubtedly heard of before if you’ve been living in Sarasota for a while, Livingston's Amusements offers fun for all the family. From go-karts and billiards, to great grub options and a good selection of drinks to sip on, this warm and welcoming gaming destination is a fantastic place to experience for an hour or so. Located on Clark Center Avenue, Livingston's Amusements is definitely worth checking out. 

Dark Side

While Dark Side isn’t strictly a gaming store, it’s a place where dedicated gamers are known to gather. On the whole, though, this popular spot is for board gamers. However, alongside the board games on offer, plus a plethora of comic books to read, there are gamers to converse with. If you’re keen to immerse yourself in a community and explore your passion for gaming with others you meet while playing board games, then Dark Side is a fantastic game store with so much to offer. 

Sizzling Sam's Arcade

Located in South Bradenton, Sizzling Sam's Arcade has been keeping gamers entertained for a good few years now. This top-notch gaming space offers a vibrant atmosphere, staff that will get to know you and your gaming needs, and a solid choice of games to consider playing. 

Arcade Monsters

An arcade like no other, Arcade Monsters doesn’t just specialize in providing some unmissable gaming adventures to get through, but it’s also a spot where you can devour Cuban street food and beer while enjoying a gaming marathon. Also offering a relaxing atmosphere thanks to the venue’s dimly lit arcade area, Arcade Monsters is a wonderful option for gamers to experience. 

Escape Reality

A slightly different inclusion to the rest, escape rooms are extremely popular in the modern environment. One of the finest options for the people of Sarasota to consider venturing to for this truly immersive gaming package is Escape Reality, a well-liked venue where virtual reality games and tasty dishes are on offer. Also containing a team of helpful staff and a comprehensive selection of escape room products to tackle, Escape Reality is a superb venue.