Posted in Rhode Island Fun Adventures, History November 20, 2020 by

Rhode Island Is Home To The World’s Oldest Penny Arcade, And It’s Still Delightful

During these rather strange times, it’s easy to get lost in the memories of the good old days. Luckily Rhode Island, being one of our first states, has plenty of places that inspire nostalgia and joy. The Ocean State has quite a few claims to fame, one of which is being home to the world’s oldest penny arcade. And with any luck, we’ll all be visiting it once again next summer.

You'll find the penny arcade at Burrillville Spring Lake Beach.
Mike Paolino / Google
Located in the small town of Burrillville, this beach stays perpetually packed in the summertime.
Burrillville Spring Lake Beach is open seasonally, and it's a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.
Mike Paolino / Google
The concessions and food vendors arrive in the summer, and the children's recreational activities are a blast for families.
The Spring Lake Arcade first opened in 1930. The original building was razed in 1998, and a modern building was constructed soon after.
Spring Lake Arcade
This makes it the oldest penny arcade in the U.S. by several years, and it's still going strong.
Step inside and you'll find some of the oldest arcade games in the country.
Cynthia P / TripAdvisor
Imagine playing some of the exact same games your grandparents played as children.
The original coin operated machines were purchased as a package from the Mills Novelty Company in 1930. Some of the games here date all the way back to the 1920s, but you'll also find more "modern" options in the mix.
Fred Owsley / Flickr
And, while you will still find some penny arcade games here, it's worth mentioning that they don't all cost a penny. You had better bring some quarters as well.
The Spring Lake Arcade is one of a small handful of arcades that still have penny games in play.
John Lomi / Google
As you can imagine, Burrilville didn't have the easiest year, and the arcade remained closed for most of it. Hopefully we can all show our support next summer.

Do your summer plans tend to include a trip to Spring Lake Beach and this charming penny arcade?

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