Serving up Fun: 4 Indy Bars Offering More Than Just Cocktails

Sometimes a night out calls for more than just a cocktail at a high-top. For nights when your inner child demands fun and games, Indy has the ticket with local bars that serve up Jenga with their gin.

Punch Bowl Social

Find nostalgia in pinball, Skee-Ball and other vintage arcade games, or get in a game of 10-pin at this bar-slash-Southern-scratch-kitchen that proves nothing but fun.

Loosen up with a craft cocktail and hit one of three karaoke rooms, or challenge less-musically inclined friends to a game of cornhole. Giant wall scrabble, darts and ping-pong round out the shenanigans while vittles like cocoa-dusted pork tacos and chicken 'n' waffles with jalapeño maple syrup wait to be devoured after play. 120 S. Meridian St., 317.249.8613

Howl at the Moon

This rowdy dueling piano joint keeps imbibers of bucket-sized cocktails entertained as two talented musicians jam to the likes of Journey, Aerosmith and current hits. Part concert, part bar, this party-all-night joint is a hit with bachelorette parties and birthday celebrations. But it doesn't take a special event to fill the place. Howl is hoppin' with those who like to sing-along, drink their fill and bust a move. 20 E. Georgia St., 317.955.0300

Action

The restored 1930s-era duckpin alley includes eight lanes, billiards and a cafe. This favorite pastime of Babe Ruth employs small balls to knock down 10 pins with three rolls per turn. It’s harder than it seems, which makes it all the more addicting. Since most duckpin alleys reside in the Northeast, the rarity of this good-time spot makes it all the more appealing for locals and visitors to challenge their usual 10-pin game. 1105 Prospect St., 317.685.1955

Tappers

The retro arcade bar offers free-to-play arcade video games like Popeye, X-Men, Donkey Kong and Super Mario Brothers. The occasional trivia nights spot the calendar and pinball machines are an inexpensive way to relish in nostalgia. A dozen craft beers are on tap, offering porters, IPAs, Irish red ales and American pale ales. 501 Virginia Ave., 317.602.6411