"Stranger Things" in Seattle Southside

Arcades, Ice Cream, and Other "Stranger Things" in Seattle Southside

Feeling nostalgic? Revisit the 80's and get a taste of Hawkins right here in Seattle Southside.

With Season 5 of Stranger Things on the horizon but without a release date, some of us are looking for ways to scratch that 80's nostalgia itch without doing (yet another) retwatch of the series. Take a trip back in time without visiting the Upside Down, and check out these nostalgic spots in Seattle Southside. No Demogorgons, guaranteed.

Level Up at the Waterland Arcade

The Palace Arcade is a major spot for the gang in Hawkins, especially in season 2, and here in Seattle Southside we have our own arcade that's tapping into that 80's nostalgia. The Waterland Arcade feels like a slice of the 80's and 90's, a trip back in time to when the local arcade was a major attraction. With a huge selection of both video game cabinets and pinball, you'll feel like a kid again, and with a great selections of beers and beverages the adults can enjoy something a bit more grown up. Plus, Waterland Arcade leans into the nostalgia by carrying a wide array of gear, memorabilia, and toys from 80's and 90's pop culture icons like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Ghostbusters, and more. They even carry real VHS tapes, so that you can pretend to be at Family Video in Hawkins!

Pinball & Nostalgia in Seattle Southside: Waterland Arcade

Want to take your nostalgic vibes to the next level? Waterland Arcade is also available for party rentals, so you can throw the most epic Stranger Things-themed party ever here. Not only can you find most of the video games mentioned in Stranger Things at this arcade, there's also a ton of pinball available to play. Combine that with the intentionally retro vibe and you have a perfect party atmosphere.

Haven't had enough nostalgia? We've got a few other stops in mind that will help fill out your experience.

Scoops Ahoy at Auntie Irene's

After you game your heart out, refuel with a sweet treat at Auntie Irene's, located just down the street from the Waterland Arcade. Get a scoop or two of ice cream and pretend you're at Scoops Ahoy in Hawkins! Or, if you're feeling like getting something a little warmer than ice cream, Auntie Irene's is also a fantastic bakery and cafe with a wide selection of pastries and coffee to enjoy. While the staff here may not have sailor's uniforms on, you'll definitely get the same cozy, nostalgic vibes from Auntie Irene's. You won't be able to pick up any Russian numbers stations on the radio here, though.

Retail Therapy at Westfield Southcenter Mall

The decor is a bit more modern than Starcourt Mall, but Westfield Southcenter Mall will get you in the mallrat mood from seasons 2 and 3 of Stranger Things. Plus, you won't have to worry about running into the Mind Flayer here, which is a good bonus. There are a number of stores in the mall that will help get you in the Stranger Things spirit. At Mind Games, you can pick up a player's handbook and a set of dice to get started with a game of Dungeons & Dragons of your own! You can also find Stranger Things collectibles and fun at Boxlunch and Hot Topic.

Once you have all your shopping out of the way, head to the food court for some good eats and a D&D session with your friends. You'll be feeling ready to face down the Demogorgons and Mind Flayers...in your game, of course, not in real life.

Bike Through the Woods at North SeaTac Park

We can't promise you an epic chase complete with telekinesis, but you can get the experience of racing through the woods on your bike at North SeaTac Park, where trails specifically designed for off-road biking wind through the trees. Ride through beautiful trails, taking in the wooded scenery, and imagine you're on your way to Fort Byers in the woods. You'll have to provide your own Ghostbusters costume, though!