Since the spring of 2020, when the world was at the very beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Portland's beloved Arcadia National Bar on Preble Street was forced to close, like so many other businesses were. Many didn't make it, but now, 20 months later, Arcadia is back and better than we could possibly imagine. Was that too much hype there? No. I don't think so.

Thanks to the support from the community and all those who love this unique arcade bar, which has officially dropped the "National Bar" and is now just known as Arcadia, survived and is ready to open in a bigger and better location at the former Port City Music Hall on Congress Street. A bigger space, a bigger bar, and a ton more games.

Arcadia will open to the public on Friday, January 7 and proof of vaccination will be required to enter.

UPDATE: Due to COVID the public opening has been pushed off for a week.

It is going to be epic. With well over 100 arcade games and pinball machines, Skee-Ball, a well-stocked bar with local brews and pizza, this is the place to go out and have the time of your life with friends.

I've been fortunate enough to be able to see what's in store for everyone on opening day and it's amazing.

Here's a tour through photos of what you can expect when Arcadia re-opens on Friday.

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