Looking for a cheap, kid-friendly activity in Frisco that parents will enjoy just as much? The National Videogame Museum delivers — playable retro consoles, a giant Pong machine, a recreated 1980s bedroom, and a working classic arcade, all for less than the cost of a movie ticket. Dallas Love List (@dallaslovelist) flagged it as a summer must-do, and we fully agree.
@dallaslovelist A cheap, kid-friendly activity to hit this Summer in Frisco! #frisco #friscotx #videogames #museum
What is the National Videogame Museum?
Located inside the Frisco Discovery Center, the National Videogame Museum (NVM) is dedicated to preserving the history of the videogame industry — but it’s much more hands-on than the word “museum” suggests. Exhibits trace gaming from the earliest consoles to modern eras, and a huge portion of the collection is playable. Highlights include:
- Playable retro consoles from Atari to Sega to Nintendo classics
- Giant Pong — the world’s largest home Pong console experience
- The recreated ’80s bedroom, a nostalgia time capsule (and photo op)
- A classic arcade stocked with cabinet games from the golden age
Admission & hours
Admission: $12 for adults, $10 for children 10 and under, military, educators, and seniors — one of the most affordable family outings in the Dallas–Fort Worth area.
Hours: closed Mondays; typically Tuesday–Friday 10 AM – 5 PM, Saturday 10 AM – 6 PM, Sunday 12 – 5 PM. Hours change seasonally, so check nvmusa.org before visiting.
Address: 8004 Dallas Parkway, Suite 300, Frisco, TX 75034 · (972) 668-8400
Why it works for the whole family
This is that rare attraction where three generations genuinely have fun: kids discover the games their parents grew up on, parents rediscover them, and grandparents get to say “we had that exact console.” Budget a couple of hours — and some quarters for the arcade room. It’s all indoors and air-conditioned, making it a perfect Texas-summer or rainy-day pick.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the National Videogame Museum cost?
$12 for adults and $10 for kids 10 and under, military, educators, and seniors.
How long does a visit take?
Most families spend 1.5 to 2.5 hours exploring the exhibits and playing in the arcade.
Are the games actually playable?
Yes — playable consoles and arcade cabinets are the heart of the museum. Some arcade games take quarters, so bring a few dollars in change.
Is it good for young kids?
Yes, though kids old enough to hold a controller (roughly 4+) will get the most out of it.
More budget-friendly Frisco fun
Pair the museum with the free Cottonwood Creek Greenbelt trail, or level up the action at Slick City Action Park and Active Arena. Find every local favorite in our Things to Do in Frisco guide, including these family-friendly favorites.