About The Circuit Arcade Bar
The Circuit Arcade Bar is a new “barcade” in downtown Jacksonville, Florida, combining a full bar with classic and modern arcade gaming. Located at 19 North Ocean Street in the heart of downtown, it occupies the former 1904 Music Hall / Ocean Street Tequila Bar space. The venue is roughly 2,600 square feet and was retrofitted at minimal cost – even the sound system and tequila bar fittings were carried over from the previous business (www.intergameonline.com ). As of its grand opening in April 2025, The Circuit offers “a great mix of retro and new arcade machines” (dtjax.com ) in a neon-lit, nostalgic setting. It is open daily from noon until 1 a.m. (dtjax.com ), making it one of the longer-hours spots in downtown’s nightlife district (the so-called “Elbow” area). The Circuit’s full bar serves local craft brews and cocktails alongside non-alcoholic and THC-infused drinks, and there’s a snack menu with tacos available on site (dtjax.com ) (dtjax.com ). Unusually for a downtown bar, The Circuit welcomes all ages (minors under 21 accompanied by adults) (dtjax.com ), making it a family-friendly entertainment center as well as a late-night hangout. This mix of gaming and bar fun is intended to revive the energy of Ocean Street’s entertainment scene – in fact, owner Jason Hunnicutt says The Circuit “succeeds 1904 Music Hall” in continuing nightlife on this block (dtjax.com ).
Events and Programming
Although The Circuit is not a traditional concert venue, it offers a broad mix of events and activities. On most nights the music is provided by an in-house DJ or curated playlist, and the arcade machines provide live sound from gameplay. The Circuit also hosts special events: for its grand opening on April 12, 2025, it threw a party with DJ Kano, free pinball, and deep drink specials (such as $1 PBR, $3 Rumpies, $5 Tito’s) (cre8jax.com ). That kickoff event was open to all ages with no cover charge, and it drew crowds looking for a fun, social evening. The venue regularly features themed nights and community gatherings. For example, Jacksonville’s downtown “First Wednesday” art walk often includes The Circuit’s “Side Quest” – a quirky art and craft market for geek culture and indie artists, held inside the bar (www.eventbrite.com ). There are also rotating promotions like “Free Play Mondays,” when a selection of arcade games is switched to gratis play (coins optional) for the night (dtjax.com ). In short, The Circuit’s calendar includes DJs and retro dance parties, game tournaments and tournaments of skill (air hockey, basketball shootout, etc.), indie art markets, and holiday-themed events, all centered around the arcade and bar atmosphere.
Unlike its predecessor 1904 Music Hall (which hosted rock bands), The Circuit focuses on casual entertainment rather than formal live concerts. The space does have a small (open-air) patio in back, which can accommodate DJs, local bands or private gatherings when booked (dtjax.com ). If you’re planning a visit, check local listings or the bar’s announcements for special nights – but in most cases you can just arrive during operating hours, have a drink at the bar, and jump into gaming at any time.
Tickets and Booking
The Circuit Arcade Bar generally does not require tickets for entry. Most evenings are open-admission: you simply walk in, grab a drink or games, and pay for what you use. There’s no box office at the venue; special event tickets (if any) are usually sold online through event listings or social media announcements. For example, the grand-opening party was publicized through local event sites and carried no entry fee (cre8jax.com ). Days with large private parties or corporate events may restrict entry to guests by reservation, but no standing public ticket booth is present. Instead, plan to pay “pay-per-play” for the arcade games – each game takes quarters or low-denomination bills at the machine (www.herejacksonville.com ) – and to buy drinks or snacks a la carte at the bar. The Circuit’s drink pricing spans standard bar costs (craft beers, cocktails, etc.), evidenced by the $1–$5 drink specials announced at opening (cre8jax.com ). In short, you don’t “buy a ticket” for general admission; you pay per game or purchase drinks and food on site. If you really want a front-row spot for a busy event, consider arriving early, but usually popular events still have free entry as long as space lasts.
Seating and Layout
The Circuit is essentially an open floor arcade. There is no fixed theatrical seating – the space is laid out with rows of arcade cabinets, pinball machines, Skee-Ball alleys, air-hockey and other games lining the walls and central area. The full bar runs along one side (front area), with stools and standing bar height tables available nearby. Aside from the bar stools, most “seating” is communal or standing – for example, players often stand or perch at the edge of game stations. A handful of high-top tables may be scattered around, but expect to mostly roam or play while standing. The only semi-enclosed seating zone is the outdoor patio out back, where a few tables can be set up during good weather or for private parties (dtjax.com ). In practice, any spot is general admission, so the best place depends on what you want: sit at the bar for a drink and people-watch, grab a bar stool near your favorite game, or claim a patio table if it’s available for your group.
Acoustically, the venue can get lively. Arcade games and music speakers both contribute to a nostalgic 1980s-90s gaming-fun hustle. On busy nights the noise level will be high ( flashing lights and sound effects everywhere), so those sensitive to volume might avoid being right next to the loudest machines or speakers. Conversely, the vintage-looking jukebox or playlist often plays dance and video-game soundtracks to keep the party vibe going. There are no “bad” seats per se – you can see and participate from almost anywhere – but the absolute slam spots tend to be near the entrance (where lines form on busy nights) or directly in front of powerful audio (sound is mixed toward the console areas). If you want a full view of the action, standing at mid-floor or next to the bar gives a vantage of most machines. Just remember that this is an interactive arcade environment, so the idea is to keep moving and playing, not to sit quietly and watch.
Getting There and Parking
The Circuit Arcade Bar is in downtown Jacksonville’s entertainment district at 19 N. Ocean St (zip 32202). Major highways nearby include I-95 (exit I-10 downtown) and I-10 (exit Main St), so it’s straightforward to reach by car. However, street parking is very limited right on Ocean Street itself (the block has loading zones and some metered spots). For driving, it’s easiest to use a nearby public parking garage. Several large garages and lots are within a few blocks – for example, the City of Jacksonville garage at Water Street (across from the Times-Union Center) or the JEA garage on Temple Street are about a 2-5 minute walk from Ocean Street. Metered street parking is available on some adjoining streets (especially Bay Street and Court Street) – note that meters enforce pay rates during business hours (often ~$1/hour) and may be free after evening. Some downtown garages (like those on Hogan or Church streets) charge a flat fee (e.g. around $5–$10) after hours and on weekends. Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) drop-off is convenient right outside: pull up on N. Ocean Street between Church and Bay and look for the neon sign.
Public transit is also an option. Jacksonville’s JTA buses cover downtown, with frequent routes running along Ocean Street and neighboring Bay and Hogan Streets. You can catch any bus that stops in the Bay Street/Legislative Plaza area and walk a short block south on Ocean to reach The Circuit. Additionally, the Jacksonville Skyway (automated monorail) stops at the nearby Hemming Plaza/Government Center station; from there it’s just a 5-minute walk west down Bay Street to Ocean (turn left heading south). Essentially, any downtown transit corridor will leave you within 2–3 blocks of the venue. For those arriving by foot or bicycle from other parts of downtown, there are pedestrian crosswalks at Ocean & Bay or Ocean & Church that bring you right to the front. In short, while personal vehicle parking can be tight, visitors can use public garages, metered streets or transit. The area is a short walk from other downtown attractions, so you can combine your visit to The Circuit with other sights on foot.
Inside the Venue
On entering The Circuit Arcade Bar, expect a blast of neon and game sounds. The front door leads directly into the main gaming floor. As one reviewer notes, “the chirps and beeps of retro arcade games combined with bright LEDs” give a strong feeling of nostalgia (dtjax.com ). The bar is immediately visible – it spans nearly one wall and is staffed by bartenders serving craft beers, signature cocktails, mocktails and popular THC-infused drinks (dtjax.com ). There’s a small food counter or menu (often featuring tacos) that operates in conjunction with Ocean Street Tacos next door. Restrooms are located in the rear; given the new build-out, they are wheelchair-accessible and modern. The venue is all indoors (the main arcade floor is air-conditioned, great for hot Florida days), but the back patio is treated like an extension when weather allows (heaters and overhead cover are often in place). You may see a small merchandise section near the entrance or bar, selling The Circuit T-shirts or posters.
Entry procedure is straightforward. Since this is a bar, patrons 21 and over may be asked for ID at the bar area. If you bring a minor, staff will note that it’s an all-ages venue (kids do not drink). As with most arcades and bars, plan to pay for games and drinks on site. The arcade cabinets take quarters or tokens; some newer machines may take bills or game cards (ask at the counter). Expect to need cash on hand for certain games (the venue does not provide free-play tokens in regular hours) (www.herejacksonville.com ). The bartenders will sell beer, cocktails (margaritas, rum punches, etc.), and sodas on tap or bottle. Outside food is technically discouraged, but the venue makes an exception since you can order freshly made tacos at the adjacent shop and bring them in to eat. If you’re hungry, be sure to grab something savory – the arcade play can work up an appetite!
The overall atmosphere is energetic and casual. The floors are often crowded with people standing at machines or at the bar. It’s not a quiet, formal space; rather, think of a throwback arcade at a fun nightclub. Photography for personal use is fine (the neon arcade glow makes for fun selfies), but you’ll see guests often immersed in games or chatting at the bar. Free Wi-Fi is not heavily advertised, so assume internet access is through your own mobile data. Coats and bags are usually carried with patrons (no formal coat check is offered), though staff can provide lockers upon request for an event. If you’ve visited other “barcades,” you’ll fit right in – just come prepared to drop quarters at games, tip your bartender generously on drinks, and be ready for a brightly lit, upbeat hangout designed for pure fun.
Nearby Amenities
The Circuit Arcade Bar sits in Jacksonville’s bustling entertainment district, with many amenities and attractions in walking distance. Directly next door (around the corner) is Ocean Street Tacos & Tequila – in fact the same owner runs that Mexican-themed eatery and a connected tequila bar (dtjax.com ). Patrons often grab a taco plate or a margarita there before or during a Circuit visit. Another nearby spot is Spliffs Gastropub, also owned by the same group, which offers a broader menu of American pub food and craft beer (just one block south). Beyond the owner’s establishments, you’ll find a variety of restaurants within a few blocks: Bowie’s BBQ, JJ’s Bistro, Cold Stone Creamery, and various sandwich shops on Bay Street, for example. For pre-arcade dining, consider Neoclassical gastropubs or quick bites downtown on Bay. After your game session, downtown nightlife beckons – dance clubs, live music venues, and roof-top bars are a short walk off Ocean Street.
If you need accommodations, several hotels flank the downtown area. The Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront and Marriott downtown are each about 0.5–1 mile away (10–15 minute walk), and boutique hotels like Hampton Inn / Senator or Aloft are even closer. Riders arriving or departing can use the Jacksonville Regional Transportation Center (five blocks east) for tickets to bus or Skyway. In a pinch, any downtown taxi or rideshare can drop you at Ocean & Bay. In summary, The Circuit is in the core of downtown: restaurants, shops and hotels lie a few blocks in every direction, and there’s enough happening on Ocean and Bay to make an evening out of the visit. It’s wise to arrive a little early to enjoy nearby bars or eateries and then head to the arcade right when things start to kick off.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Circuit Arcade Bar stands out as one of the few true “barcades” in Jacksonville. Its blend of classic arcade nostalgia with modern nightlife creates a unique draw. As Downtown Vision notes, it “strives to entertain everyone” and injects life back into the Ocean Street entertainment scene (dtjax.com ) (dtjax.com ). The venue’s neon decor, accompanied by chirping game sounds, truly feels like stepping into a time capsule from the 1980s/90s, yet with all the amenities of today. By repurposing the former 1904 Music Hall (a beloved live-music venue) into a gaming hub, The Circuit preserved downtown’s “Elbow” district energy (dtjax.com ) (www.herejacksonville.com ). Ownership by a local entrepreneur means the business is rooted in the community: in fact, the owner Jason Hunnicutt already operates a taco bar and spliff-themed gastropub nearby, and he views the arcade as a way to make visitors “stay and explore all that Downtown has to offer” (dtjax.com ). This camaraderie shows in The Circuit’s friendly, inclusive vibe – there’s no exclusive VIP section, and staff actively encourage anyone (gamers of all ages and interests) to play together.
Another special feature is the variety of programming. The Circuit isn’t just a “pay and play” arcade; it also offers free-play promotions and community events that most bars don’t. For example, every Monday night some machines are switched to free play, bringing in fans who remember the days of unlimited arcade fun (dtjax.com ). It’s effectively a weeknight anti-boredom event. The bar also acknowledges local culture: its art markets and DJ nights celebrate Jax’s creative scene. Moreover, the combination of entertainment with a full bar (including local craft beers and even THC-infused beverages (dtjax.com ) (dtjax.com )) broadens its appeal. Families can spend a birthday here, clashing on skee-ball and pinball, while college students or young professionals can mingle over cocktails and retro games. In a downtown area often dominated by nightclubs and concert halls, The Circuit’s all-ages, neon-lit arcade concept is truly one-of-a-kind, making it the go-to spot where both local regulars and visitors feel they’ve found a game-filled home.
Visitor Tips and Information
Plan your visit: The Circuit is open daily noon–1:00 AM (dtjax.com ), so midday fun and late-night gaming are both possible. If you’re planning to play lots of arcade games or drink, bring some small cash or quarters – about $0.25–$1 per play is standard (www.herejacksonville.com ) and not every game takes cards. (Most bartenders will accept credit cards for drinks, but games themselves usually require cash.) On busy weekend nights, the arcade floor will fill up quickly, so arrive early or be prepared to share machines. For popular events (like themed parties or local meetups), tickets or RSVPs may be required in advance, so check local listings or the venue’s announcements beforehand.
Accessibility: The building is a modern build-out, so the main entrance is at street level and wheelchair-accessible. Restrooms are handicap-friendly. If you need special accommodations, the staff are very accommodating in this neighborhood-focused business.
What to bring: You can carry in light food from outside (many guests bring tacos from next door’s kitchen) (dtjax.com ), but alcohol other than what you buy at the bar is not allowed. Casual attire is perfectly fine – the vibe is very laid-back. There’s no formal dress code (jeans, shorts, anything goes, as long as it’s not offensive). Because it can get loud, toddlers or easily startled kids may want to avoid peak weekend nights; that said, families often enjoy early-evening visits. Photography or video is welcome for personal memories, but professional filming usually requires prior permission (this isn’t a strict rule, but keep it courteous). Coat check is not available, so bring only what you need or ask staff if a small bag locker can be provided for the evening.
Age rules: The Circuit explicitly welcomes all ages (dtjax.com ), yet remember it’s still a bar. Anyone drinking must provide valid ID (21+) at the bar. If you’re under 18, you may need an adult 21+ to accompany you after a certain evening hour (Florida law allows minors in mixed-age entertainment venues only with adults). The general policy is family-friendly until 8 or 9 PM, after which most of the crowd will be adults focusing on the bar. Check with staff if you plan to bring teens late in the evening.
Insider advice: Keep an eye out for special deals: social media and posters inside often advertise discounted game tokens or drink combos, especially on weekdays. For example, happy-hour drink specials may overlap with slower arcade times. Don’t miss free-play nights (commonly on Mondays) – it’s a great low-key night to chill when other bars are quiet (dtjax.com ). If you want a group experience, consider renting the patio or hosting a small party there; many have held birthdays or gaming tournaments in that space. Finally, remember to tip your bartenders – they’re usually gaming enthusiasts too and will keep the experience fun. Follow The Circuit’s event calendar (they post on downtown Jacksonville news sites and on local event listings) to catch any new attractions like cosplay nights, esports demos or tech meetups. With a little planning – and plenty of quarters – you’re all set for a memorable visit to this uniquely vibrant arcade bar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours of The Circuit Arcade Bar?
The Circuit Arcade Bar is open every day from 12:00 PM (noon) until 1:00 AM (dtjax.com ). It’s open early enough for afternoon gaming and stays open late into the night for nightlife. Check local event pages for any special holiday-hour notices, but typically these hours apply daily.
Is there an admission fee or cover charge?
General entry to The Circuit is free – there is normally no cover charge for casual attendance. You pay only for what you use: arcade games (quarter or token play) and any food or drinks. The only time you might pay admission is for private bookings or special ticketed events (like a big party or show), but for typical evenings the venue is first-come, first-served with no fee at the door.
How much do the arcade games cost?
Most games at The Circuit are coin-operated. Expect to pay about 25 cents to $1 per play, depending on the machine. For example, classic games or pinball machines generally take a quarter each. It’s a good idea to have a roll of quarters or small bills handy. (Special promotions like “Free Play Mondays” occasionally let you play certain games gratis (dtjax.com ), but usually you’ll need to pay per game.)
What food and drinks are available?
The Circuit features a full liquor bar with local craft beers, draft cocktails (margaritas, rum cocktails, and specialty drinks), as well as non-alcoholic sodas and mocktails (dtjax.com ) (dtjax.com ). They even offer THC-infused beverages (legal cannabis drinks) for those 21 and over (dtjax.com ). For food, the venue itself serves light snacks and coordinates with the adjacent Ocean Street Tacos & Tequila. You can order fresh tacos and Mexican-style dishes from next door and eat them in the arcade (dtjax.com ). There isn’t a full kitchen, so don’t expect entrees – the menu focuses on grab-and-go foods like tacos and chips.
Is The Circuit Arcade Bar family-friendly?
Yes, The Circuit is marketed as an all-ages venue (dtjax.com ). During daytime and early evening hours especially, families and kids are welcome to play the games. Children are required to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. After about 8–9 PM on weekends it becomes primarily an adult crowd, but minors are still allowed if with an adult. One thing to remember is that, since there is a full bar, the bar staff will enforce age restrictions on serving alcohol (ID required for 21+ drinks).
How do I get to The Circuit by public transit?
The Circuit is downtown at 19 N. Ocean St. Several Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) buses stop nearby on streets like Ocean, Bay, or Monroe. Check the JTA route maps – for example, the No. 19 bus (Arlington–Downtown line) comes close. The Jacksonville Skyway monorail has a station at Government Center (Downtown), about a 5-minute walk from The Circuit. From that Skyway stop or from Hemming Plaza, just walk south on Ocean Street one block to Bay. Many downtown buses converge on Bay Street, so transfers at the Transit Center also put you within easy walking distance. In practice, taking a short Uber/Lyft or taxi to the door is often simplest, but public buses and the Skyway do serve the area.
Where can I park near The Circuit, and is there a fee?
Street parking right on Ocean Street is very limited. The best options are nearby public garages and metered lots. There are several paid parking garages a block or two away (for example, the Water Street Garage and City lot at Church Street each charge hourly rates). On-street meters on adjacent streets (Hogan, Bay, etc.) are typically enforced weekdays (often $1–$2 per hour) and may be free after 6 PM or on weekends. Rates vary, so watch the posted signage. Motorcycles and bicycles have a few dedicated racks on Ocean Street as well. In any case, plan on a $5–$10 parking fee if you use a garage; some lots allow evening flat rates. Rideshare/drop-off access is straightforward from N. Ocean. Tip: If visiting on a busy night, arrive early to secure parking, or consider parking on a nearby side street.
Is there a dress code at The Circuit?
No formal dress code is enforced – most patrons wear casual attire. Feel free to wear jeans, shorts, graphic tees or even retro gaming shirts. The atmosphere is very laid-back. Just avoid any clothing with offensive graphics or gang insignia. In cooler weather, it can be a bit chilly inside, so bringing a light jacket is a good idea if you’re sensitive to air-conditioning. Comfortable footwear is helpful, since you may be standing to play games for stretches of time.
Is The Circuit wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the venue is ADA accessible. The main entrance is at street level with no steps. The main floor and restrooms are designed for wheelchair use. Most of the games can be played from a standing or seated position with enough space to maneuver around the cabinets. If you have specific accessibility questions or needs, staff are friendly and can assist (for example by moving a game cabinet aside if needed).
Does The Circuit Arcade Bar have free Wi-Fi?
Free public Wi-Fi is not guaranteed. Some bars offer a complimentary network for guests, but The Circuit focuses on social gaming, so connectivity is not advertised as a feature. You should plan on using your mobile data for internet access. (Tip: Many downtown establishments do provide guest Wi-Fi; feel free to ask at the bar if they have a locked network or login.)
Can I rent or book The Circuit for a private event?
Yes, The Circuit offers private event bookings. The rear patio and even the full arcade floor can be reserved for birthday parties, corporate events, or group gatherings. These bookings usually include reserved space and may come with package deals (game credits, drink minimums, etc.). Contact The Circuit in advance to arrange details; they often hold birthday parties with game play and drink tickets. Be aware that private bookings may have a minimum spend or room rental fee, and these events are typically held when the venue isn’t fully open to the public.
What games can I expect to find at The Circuit?
The Circuit boasts about 30 arcade machines spanning retro and modern. Expect classics like Skee-Ball, air hockey tables, basketball shoot-outs and multi-player pinball machines. Video game favorites include fighting and action titles such as Mortal Kombat (genres like fighting and racing), as well as updated versions of Space Invaders and other vintage coin-ops (arcadeheroes.com ) (www.herejacksonville.com ). The lineup is always changing, but reviews mention machines like Guns N’ Roses pinball and Indiana Jones pinball, plus cabinets for games like Killer Instinct and Aliens Armageddon (www.intergameonline.com ) (arcadeheroes.com ). In short, there’s a mix of neon-lit retro fun and newer arcade games to enjoy.
Can I bring outside food or drinks?
As a bar, The Circuit does not allow outside alcoholic beverages. For snacks or meals, outside food is generally discouraged except for the in-house taco station: patrons can buy tacos at the venue’s food counter (operated jointly with the neighboring taco shop) and eat them inside (dtjax.com ). Bringing your own beer or spirits would violate liquor laws. In practice, most visitors buy drinks at the bar and simply purchase any arcade “food” (like pretzels or ice cream sandwiches) from The Circuit itself. If you have special dietary needs, you may want to eat before coming or order delivery to be eaten off-site.
What if I’m only going to play games? Do I have to buy a drink?
No, there’s no mandatory purchase if you just want to play games. You can enter without ordering anything, although it’s common courtesy to at least buy a drink or snack while using the facility. Games are rented by the slice (quarters per play). So technically you could play for an hour on just coins and leave. Keep in mind that space is shared, so buying a drink or tip at the bar supports the business. But The Circuit does not enforce a drink minimum unless you booked a private group event.
