About Arcade
Arcade is a popular music venue and nightclub in Joondalup, a major suburb 26 km north of Perth. Located at 4 Reid Promenade (within the Lakeside Joondalup shopping precinct), Arcade has been a hub for live entertainment in Perth’s northern suburbs. It occupies a roughly 765 m² multi-level space (recently renovated and rebranded as “Loop” in late 2023) . Inside, the décor mixes industrial and modern elements – think exposed trusses, bright LED accents and a large raised stage area – creating a club atmosphere. Notably, the main performance space features a corner-stage design with state-of-the-art lighting trusses overhead. In fact, in 2021 Arcade upgraded its largest room with a new “V”-shaped truss lighting rig and moving spot lights to boost visual production . The venue now boasts multiple bars (four in total) and two distinct dance floors , along with lounge and VIP booth areas. This layout – complete with kinetic light balls and an LED “wing” wall – gives Arcade a modern, immersive feel that guests often remark on.
Arcade’s history as a nightlife spot goes back several years. It has long been one of the few 18+ nightclubs serving Perth’s fast-growing northern corridor. Over time it earned a reputation for club nights featuring local DJs, themed parties and even choreographed live shows (for example, Top Shelf Entertainment’s “Magic Mike” boys’ nights attracted sold-out crowds ). In early 2024 the venue officially relaunched under new management as “LOOP Nightclub,” aiming to broaden its programming while retaining the energetic club vibe. Despite the new branding, locals still refer to it as Arcade. In short, what makes Arcade special is this combination of high-end production (club-grade sound and lights) with a large capacity – roughly 500 people in the main area – something rare in the northern suburbs. It fills the gap between small local bars and big arenas, giving Joondalup a true metropolitan-style club for concert tours and dance parties alike.
Events and Programming
Arcade/Loop hosts a wide variety of events, usually on weekends. As a nightclub it primarily features DJ-driven dance parties – from EDM and hip-hop to top 40 and hard-style tunes – delivered by both local and occasional guest DJs. Many Friday and Saturday nights are themed (for example, throwback classics vs. new hits) and draw the 18–30 crowd. In recent years Arcade also opened up as a live-music venue. The latest incarnation (LOOP) has already announced indie-rock shows – for instance, Aussie band British India headlined a grand opening concert in Dec 2023 – and plans to book touring acts in rock, punk and electronic genres. Monster Management (who run Perth’s Amplifier and Metropolis venues) is tapping this space to diversify Joondalup’s music scene, stating the new 500-capacity room will host “indie rock, commercial pop/rock, trance, EDM ... punk rock and metal” . In effect, Arcade offers both club nights and occasional booked shows, making it a versatile choice.
In practice, typical events might be monthly themed nights (like the “Magic Mike” burlesque style shows ), house/trance DJ nights, retro/dancehall nights, and the occasional major concert. Ticket prices range accordingly – casual club nights often start at a modest cover (around $10–$20), while special events or bands can run $30–$50 or more. Some shows sell out quickly; for example, in 2017 a Magic Mike event offered only 30 free birthday tickets and sold the rest in advance . If you’re after a particular event, it’s wise to follow Arcade or Loop on social media and book early. The club frequently offers early-bird and VIP ticket tiers – as one event listing described, VIPs get priority front-row seating and perks, while general admission is mostly standing on the dance floor .
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Arcade events are typically available online well before showtime. Check listings on sites like Ticketbooth, Oztix or the club’s own Facebook page. There is no traditional box office on site, so advance purchase is recommended – especially for popular nights. Many events introduce tiered pricing: for example, limited VIP passes (often with stage-side seating and drinks) and general-admission (standing/dance-floor) tickets . In-crowd promotions do happen – one Magic Mike night offered a free General Admission ticket to ladies celebrating birthdays (with valid ID) – so keep an eye out for those. Pricing varies: standard club party covers might be around $15, while branded events or concerts can push $30+.
On the night of the event, door sales are only available if the venue isn’t sold out. For most shows, especially big ones, tickets sell in advance, so the door might close as soon as capacity (around 500 in the main area ) is reached. If you plan to arrive late, you risk not getting in. To avoid disappointment on peak nights, grab tickets online or arrive early when doors open.
Seating and Layout
Arcade’s layout is mainly open-plan dance floors with scattered seating. There is no fully reserved seating like a theatre; most of the space is general admission. The center of each room is a wide dance area, surrounded by high-top cocktail tables and a few bench seats along the perimeter. Along one side of the main room is a raised stage area (corner-of-room), and the back of that stage features the DJ booth or band stage. VIP/latte areas are typically positioned near the front half of the room or along the walls by the stage – these spots (often with couches and low tables) give one of the best views of the performance without fighting the crowd.
For the best experience, hitting the floor right in front of the stage puts you in the heart of the action – that’s where you’ll feel the music and lights most intensely. If you prefer a slightly quieter vantage, aim for the raised booths or bar stools to the sides of the stage; these offer clear sight lines while still soaking in the atmosphere. On many nights the club runs two simultaneous "rooms": a main room with current club hits and a smaller front lounge playing throwback or R&B . In that setup, each room has its own bar and sound system. In short, whether you’re dancing up close or chilling at a booth, Arcade provides multiple zones – but standing by the stage or at the main room’s front generally guarantees the best view and sound.
Acoustically, Arcade pumps loud, bassy sound throughout. The speaker setup was upgraded during the renovation, so expect crisp, club-standard audio. (Be aware: the music can be very loud, especially near the speakers. Hearing protection or earplugs is recommended if you’re sensitive.) The main floor is rubberized, but balconies and booths have hard surfaces, causing some echo. Sound spills between the two dance areas, so even if one room’s genre isn’t your vibe, you may catch beats from the other through the walls.
Getting There and Parking
Location: Arcade is located at 4 Reid Promenade, Joondalup WA 6027. It sits beside the Lakeside Joondalup Shopping Centre (close to the Joondalup City Hotel and City of Joondalup library). Google Maps pinpoints it right next to Lakeside.
By train/bus: The venue is incredibly accessible by public transport. Joondalup Train Station (on the Joondalup/Yanchep Line) is just a 400m walk south of Arcade . Trains run from Perth CBD to Joondalup roughly every 15 minutes during the day and evening (last trains around midnight on weekends). A short dash from the station to Arcade takes less than 5 minutes on foot. The Joondalup Busport (interchange) is also adjacent to the station, served by multiple Transperth lines connecting Perth’s northern suburbs. If you’re coming from farther away, take a train to Joondalup and your final stop will be steps from Arcade’s front door.
Parking: If driving, the most convenient option is Lakeside Joondalup’s car park. Lakeside offers over 4,800 parking bays (about 1,500 undercover) and provides free parking for up to 4 hours . Note that after 4 hours your car could be towed or fined, so plan accordingly (the management discourages overnight parking for non-shoppers). Enter the Lakeside multi-level carpark from Joondalup Drive or Main Street and then head to the southern end near Reid Promenade – Arcade is on the ground floor by the eastern side entrance. Weekend nights see heavy traffic around the complex, so give yourself extra time.
Besides the main car park, there’s limited on-street parking on Reid Promenade (mostly timed bays) and in nearby side streets. Arrive early to snag a free spot. Rideshare/taxi drop-offs are easy: they can pull up right outside Arcade at Reid Promenade. In practice, many people park at Lakeside and walk a minute into the club. For guests with mobility needs, Lakeside provides designated ACROD (accessible) parking bays near the entrances .
Inside the Venue
When you walk into Arcade, expect nightclub-style entry. Security staff check ID (strictly 18+ entry, so have valid photo ID ready) and may pat-down or wand-badge check for large items or contraband. Once inside, your ticket or QR code is scanned, and you may be given a wristband indicating if you’re 18+ (so you can buy a drink). The atmosphere is energetic and dimly lit, with pulsating lights, heavy volume music and people dancing. The main entry leads into the first room (often labeled “Front Room”), then either side or stairs take you to the deeper “Main Room”. Expect a queue for the bars, which serve full beverage menus: bottled beer, tap beer/cider, wine, vodka/gin/spirit mixes, and signature cocktails. Prices are typical nightclub rates (around $8–12 for cocktails). Bartenders work quickly but on packed nights lines can back up; it’s wise to buy drinks during slower songs or off-peak times. Arcade does not serve hot food, though there are often light snacks like chips or nuts by the bars. You are welcome to eat beforehand at the many nearby restaurants at Lakeside/right outside.
Restrooms (separate male/female, plus at least one accessible toilet) are available inside the club. The main bathroom area is near the Main Room’s rear exit, and another set is in the Front Room. All have multiple stalls and sinks, but be prepared for a line during peak breaks. The venue does offer coat hooks or a cloakroom for jackets or light bags (especially useful on cold nights). Any merchandise tables (e.g. band T-shirts or freebies) appear only during special concerts. Generally, there is no permanent merch shop. There is also no official phone charging station or Wi-Fi hotspot; mobile phone reception is usually okay, but it can be spotty near the back stages. Bring a power bank if you need it.
Nearby Amenities
Arcade is in the heart of Joondalup’s entertainment district. Immediately next door (connected via a walkway) is the Lakeside Joondalup Shopping Centre, a large mall with dozens of shops and eateries. In Lakeside itself you’ll find fast-food and casual dining options open until around 10pm: Mexican (Zambrero), burgers (Grill’d, Red Rooster), pizza (Sugo, Pizza Maker), Thai and Asian cuisine, coffee shops (San Churro café, Cold Rock ice cream), bubble tea and more. For sit-down dinners, popular choices nearby include Indochine (harmony of Thai and Vietnamese fusion), River Wild (modern Australian steakhouse), and Mama D’s (classic diner). There are also sports bars/pubs in the Lakeside precinct if you want a pre-show drink – the Lakeside Hotel and Mulligan’s have drinks, pub snacks, and big screens for sports.
If you’d like to stay overnight, several hotels are within walking distance of Arcade. The Quest Joondalup apartment-hotel sits above Lakeside and offers self-contained rooms. The Joondalup City Hotel (an independent boutique inn) is a block away. The Novotel Lakeside (Accor) is just across Joondalup Drive, connected by a pedestrian footbridge. A little further but still close is the Joondalup Resort & Country Club (with rooms, golf course and restaurants).
For planning purposes, aim to arrive at least 30–60 minutes before showtime. This gives you time to park or walk over, get a drink, and find a good spot on the dance floor before the music starts. Late-night eateries (e.g. kebab shops) and 24-hour convenience stores are a short walk from the area (e.g. on Grand Boulevard) if you need post-show snacks. Taxis and rideshares may be in high demand after midnight, but there are usually pickups permitted on Reid Promenade. Overall, Joondalup offers everything you need within a few minutes – just follow the club crowd or use Google Maps to navigate from Lakeside Mall to Arcade’s entrance.
What Makes This Venue Special
Arcade/Loop stands out in Joondalup for several reasons. Architecturally, its corner-stage design and towering light rig give national-act production values that few suburban venues match. Historic photos (1990s) show that Joondalup once only had bare-bones pubs; Arcade brought a Las Vegas-style club vibe to the area. Locally, it’s been at the center of Joondalup’s nightlife for years, helping define a young-adult scene. Many Perth artists consider it a rite of passage to play Arcade – it’s one of the largest north-of-Perth clubs that can pack a crowd of a few hundred. Memorable moments include themed parties (annual events like Halloween raves or costume parties) and surprise guest appearances by well-known DJs. It’s also one of the few WA clubs to embrace live bands recently, continuing Joondalup’s early-music heritage from the 1980s when suburban “beer barns” hosted rising talent. In that sense, Arcade ties Joondalup’s past (roots-rock party barns) to its present (glossy club with original acts) .
Another unique trait is its position within a multi-venue complex. The Arcade building complexes include other nightlife spots like The Dusk Lounge and now Loop, making Reid Promenade a mini-district of clubs. This means on a busy night Arcade can coordinate events alongside its neighbors, and fans often bar-hop. Finally, the branding itself is distinctive: neon arcade-game motifs have featured in past décor (fitting the name), and the club’s logo and flyers play up a retro-futuristic pixelated style. All told, Arcade delivers both on current party trends and a touch of nostalgic fun, which resonates with Perth crowds.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is essentially on one level inside, and Lakeside Joondalup provides disabled parking near the entries . The club has step-free access for wheelchairs and widened doorways. Accessible restrooms are nearby in the Lakeside complex and presumably inside Arcade as well. If you have specific needs (wheelchair seating, companion cards, licensed assistance), it’s wise to contact the club ahead via social media to confirm details.
Age and ID: Arcade is 18+ only. Everyone, without exception, must show valid photo ID (Australian driver’s licence, passport or proof of age card) at the door. Security is strict: if you look under 25, be ready to present ID. There have been no caches for minors.
Dress Code: The club enforces a smart-casual dress code. Team boxed! Jeans and polo or a nice shirt are fine; avoid sports jerseys, was, flip-flops “thongs,” or anything too beachy or sloppy. Premium style (nice sneakers, dress shoes) is encouraged on weekends. On very busy nights, they might turn away guests for blatant rule violations.
What to Bring: The essentials: your ID and your entry ticket (printed or e-ticket on phone). It’s smart to carry a little extra cash – cards work at the bar but small amounts can speed up lines. Leave large bags and valuables at home; the venue offers a coat-check hook but not a secure locker. Bring earplugs if you have sensitive hearing. You might also pack deodorant or a comb for quick touch-ups. Your phone is allowed (document good times!), but don’t expect spotty service inside.
Prohibited Items: Don’t try to sneak in your own food or drinks – staff will confiscate outside beverages. Professional cameras (other than phone cameras) and video recording gear are generally banned unless pre-approved for media. Be aware of the no-weapons policy (even pepper spray or pocket knife) – they search at entry. Any illicit substances or uncensored content on your gear is a fast-track to ejection.
Age Restrictions: In line with WA liquor laws, you must be 18 or over, and ID is checked regardless of age appearance. There are no age caps beyond 18+, but note that the scene skews young. If you bring a group, expect the majority of the crowd to be 18–30. The club won’t refuse entry based on age if you’re 18+ with valid ID, though.
Timing: Doors usually open after 8pm, but peak hours are 10pm–2am. It’s wise to plan on arriving early (7:30–8pm) for big events to avoid lines. The club typically closes around 3–4am on weekends (depending on the event), so public transport/home arrangements should account for that. Perth’s last Transperth trains from Joondalup leave around midnight to 1am, so late-night rideshares or cabs may be needed for very late leaves.
Connectivity: There is no advertised venue Wi-Fi, so use mobile data if needed. If you plan to meet friends, pick a landmark outside (like the statue at Lakeside entrance) in case signal is low inside. The club occasionally has charging stations for phones or tablets, but bring a charger just in case.
Other Tips: Plan your trip with traffic in mind: Reid Promenade gets busy on weekends. Uber/Lyft drivers may charge surge after 10pm on weekends. If parking on weekends, arrive 30–60 minutes early – the lot fills fast. After midnight, there are still buses (Nightrider or selected routes) back to the city, but schedules thin out. If you’re a first-timer, ask staff politely if unsure about anything. Lastly, respect the venue rules and staff – venues in Perth value a friendly, respectful crowd. Follow any insider social posts (Facebook/Instagram) for last-minute event updates or door time changes. With these tips, you’ll have a smooth, fun night at Arcade in Joondalup!
Where is Arcade Nightclub located and how do I get there?
Arcade Nightclub is at 4 Reid Promenade, Joondalup (inside the Lakeside Joondalup complex). It sits just north of the intersection of Joondalup Drive and Reid Promenade. You can walk there from the Joondalup Train Station in about 5 minutes . Many Transperth buses also stop at the Joondalup interchange (near the station), so public transport is easy. If driving, use the Lakeside car park.
Is there parking available at Arcade Nightclub?
Yes. The best option is Lakeside Joondalup Shopping City’s car park. Lakeside has about 4,800 parking bays (including 1,500 undercover) and offers free parking up to 4 hours . Park on the south side of the complex near Reid Promenade. There is also limited street parking on Reid Promenade, but that’s time-limited. Rideshare/taxi drop-offs can pull up right in front of Arcade on Reid Promenade. Accessible (ACROD) parking is available in Lakeside close to the entrances .
What is the capacity of Arcade Nightclub?
The main room of Arcade (now known as Loop) holds roughly 500 people standing . In practice, it often caps out around that number. Because Arcade has multiple dance floors and zones, its total capacity (spread across all areas) can be higher, but for fire safety the biggest space is about 500. Special events may use a few hundred attendees to allow room for dancing and stage space.
What kind of events and music does Arcade Nightclub host?
Arcade is primarily a nightclub that throws high-energy dance parties. Expect DJs spinning house, techno, hip-hop, R&B, top 40, trance and other club genres on most weekends. They often have themed nights (e.g. 90s throwback vs modern hits) and large dance floors with live light shows. Recently, under the new Loop branding, the venue has added live music acts too – for example, indie rock band British India played a re-opening show in Dec 2023 . In the past it also hosted novelty events like the "Magic Mike" strip show . So you’ll find anything from EDM dance nights to commercial pop/rock concerts, often with big production.
How and where can I buy tickets for Arcade events?
Tickets are sold online through event sites or the club’s social media. Common sellers include Ticketbooth, Oztix or the venue’s Facebook page. Arcade doesn’t have a walk-up box office, so you should buy tickets in advance. For big nights, presale tickets often sell out, so it’s best to book early. If advance tickets are sold out, the venue may sell a limited number at the door (if not already at capacity), but you shouldn’t count on it.
Are door tickets available for sold-out events at Arcade?
Generally no. If an event is marked sold-out, you likely won’t get in at the door. Most popular shows fill up via advance sales, so only unsold tickets (if any) are held for latecomers. For example, special nights like the Top Shelf "Magic Mike" events warned early that only a small number of tickets would remain at the door . In practice, arrive with a ticket in hand. If by chance tickets remain shortly before showtime, they may sell them at the door, but expect door queues to form early.
What is the typical ticket price at Arcade?
Ticket prices vary widely. Regular club nights often have a $10–20 cover charge. Larger events or touring bands can be $25–50 or more. VIP/meet-and-greet packages cost extra. The early-bird or presale tickets are sometimes cheaper. Always check the specific event listing for exact prices. Remember there’s also normal drink prices at the bar once you’re inside.
Does Arcade have assigned seating or is it general admission?
It is mostly general admission standing/dancing. There are no fixed seats against the stage or aisles. High-top tables and lounge booths around the edges are first-come spots for sitting, and some events offer VIP tables by reservation. But in general, get there early for the best front-of-stage spots. The front and center dancefloor is open to all ticket-holders on a first-come basis.
What are the age restrictions and ID requirements at Arcade?
Arcade is strictly 18+ only. You must show valid photo identification (such as an Australian driver’s licence, proof-of-age card or passport) at the door before entry. No one under 18 is allowed, even if accompanied by a parent. Security will check IDs thoroughly (everyone is assumed under 25), so carry your ID at all times.
Is there a dress code at Arcade?
Yes. Arcade enforces a smart-casual nightclub dress code. Wear clean, neat attire – for example jeans or slacks with a shirt or clean T-shirt, and decent shoes. Avoid sportswear, board shorts, flip-flops (“thongs”) or overly casual beachwear. Basically, don’t wear anything you wouldn’t wear to a nice bar. A good rule is to dress as if you’re going to a hip bar or nice party. If you dress very casually, security might turn you away.
What items or behaviors are not allowed at Arcade?
The door policy forbids outside food/drinks or alcohol (they’ll be confiscated), and professional camera/video equipment (only personal phone cameras are allowed). Large bags are usually disallowed, and any sharp or hazardous items (like spray cans, glass bottles, weapons) are banned. Drug paraphernalia or illicit substances are strictly prohibited. Also note Arcade has a zero-tolerance rule on harassment or fights – security will eject any troublemakers. In short: bring your ID, wallet and phone, and leave large bags or outside snacks at home.
Are there food or drink options inside Arcade?
Inside Arcade you’ll find multiple bars serving a full range of drinks (beer, wine, spirits, cocktails, mixers and soft drinks). There is no kitchen, so no hot meals are served. You won’t get burgers or pizza at the club, only bar snacks (e.g. chips) might be available at the counter. For food, you should eat beforehand or step out to the adjoining Lakeside Mall or nearby eateries during a break. After the show, late-night fast-food shops are just a short walk away.
Is Arcade wheelchair accessible?
Generally yes. The Lakeside Joondalup center (which houses Arcade) has ramps, lifts and accessible toilets. ACROD parking spaces are provided nearby . Within the club, the main floor is flat and there are wider doorways. Keep in mind though that crowded dance floors and steps to raised areas can still be used if careful. If you need special accommodations (e.g. a personal seating area or assistance), it’s best to call the venue in advance.
Are there any smoking areas at Arcade?
Arcade is a smoke-free indoor venue. If you want to smoke, you must go outside. The front entry/exit on Reid Promenade serves as the main smoking zone; there is usually an ashtray and some outdoor space right by the doors. Smoking on the dance floor or inside will get you escorted out. Note that during busy nights everyone congregates by the entrance, so expect it to be a bit crowded outside if there’s a break in the music.
Does Arcade have free Wi-Fi?
No. Arcade (Loop) does not advertise any public Wi-Fi network. Expect to use your mobile data. Cell phone reception inside the club can be spotty due to thick walls and interference, so you may lose signal, especially on the lower level. For stays in touch, consider messaging friends ahead or meet at a fixed spot.
What is a good time to arrive at Arcade on event nights?
To avoid long lines and guarantee entry, arrive 30–60 minutes before the advertised start time. This also gives you time to park and grab a drink. For example, if doors open at 8pm, arriving between 7:15–7:45pm is wise. On very busy nights (especially big-name DJs), the queue can form early, so plan accordingly. Keep in mind that public trains and buses to Joondalup run until about midnight, so you’ll need an alternate ride (taxi/Uber) if you stay past then.
What are some recommended spots near Arcade for food or drink?
Since Arcade is part of the Lakeside precinct, you’re surrounded by eateries. Pre-show quick bites could be burgers at Grill’d or Red Rooster in Lakeside. For full meals, try the Indochine Thai/Vietnamese bistro or Mellen + Rye (Australian fare) inside Lakeside. Fast casual options like Zambrero (Mexican) and Sugo Pizza are open late. Nearby bars include Mulligan’s Irish Pub and the Lakeside Hotel for a sit-down pint before going to the club. If you stay late, there’s a 24/7 Kebabs and a service station across the road for late-night snacks.
Which nearby hotels can I stay at if I'm visiting Arcade?
Several accommodations are just steps from Arcade. The Quest Joondalup is actually attached to Lakeside (entry via an interconnecting walkway). Joondalup City Hotel is one block north on Reid Promenade. Arcadia apartments (Arise Joondalup) and Novotel Perth Lakeside are across Joondalup Dr. These are all within 5–10 minutes’ walk. A bit further (10–15 minutes) are the Joondalup Resort & Country Club and a few self-contained apartment hotels. Booking one of these lets you easily walk in that night without worrying about driving home.
I heard Arcade is now called LOOP Nightclub. Is this true?
Yes. In late 2023 the venue was rebranded as Loop Nightclub . The name changed coincided with a major renovation. According to news reports, the new 500-capacity venue features four bars, two dance floors and upgraded production . Locals may still call it Arcade out of habit, but the website and signage now say “Loop.” The change is intended to broaden the club’s appeal and highlight its live music programming. Despite the new name, the location, layout and most of the staff remain the same.
