I want to go back this summer to experience it then too~ Most everything was closed for the Winter. I was here years ago as a kid. The huge Victorian summer homes overlooking the beach and lake were beautiful too. Cedar Lodge is a hidden gem just steps from Weirs Beach and many local attractions as well as some of the best skiing New England has to offer. Channel Waterfront Cottages has been in business since the 1920’s, and 2020 will be our 29th season! Boardwalk – 350′ feet away! Now that the pier head been restored, there is more to do. Located along the boardwalk is Half Moon Amusement Arcades there are actually two gaming areas within this location. It was on the boardwalk that Weirs Sport Center became the perfect place for families to go during the rainy days of a week-long vacation. Perfect place to vacation at lake Winni! We are still receiving inquiries about these games which are long gone. With an unusual density of arcades, it’s also an exceptional place to bring the kids. On the first day the center was open it made $36.60 from miniature golf admission and … Visit the beach or docks from five different areas of the boardwalk while you are walking. This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. At one end of the boardwalk is the Winnipesaukee Pier, with more food, arcades, mini golf, shops and boat rentals. (This building currently houses the Half Moon Bumper Cars.) Weirs Beach Today. Cash Bingo (2 mins.) Adjacent to the beach and comprising the center of the village are a boulevard and boardwalk that run along a quarter mile stretch of Lakeside Ave. In 1948, Mr. Ames visited Weirs Beach, saw the potential of the area, and came back the following season to start the business. Head over to the Winnipesaukee Pier and Weirs Boardwalk for classic arcade games and miniature golf in this “heart of the boardwalk” location. The business was founded in 1949 by Sidney E. Ames, who rented a small space adjacent to the Half Moon Snack Bar for an arcade. Arcades and Games: There are two main arcades at Weirs Beach. It was opened by then 21-year-old Bob Lawton as an indoor miniature golf course and penny arcade with $750 USD borrowed from his grandmother. If you get tired of the beach just a short walk you are shops and arcade area. In 1967, another, larger arcade building was built, and the “New” arcade moved next door, becoming the Half Moon Penny Arcade. Weirs Beach, Weirs Beach: See 293 reviews, articles, and 63 photos of Weirs Beach, ranked No.4 on Tripadvisor among 11 attractions in Weirs Beach. Looking to Visit Weirs Beach in Lake Winnipesaukee, N.H., ... An iconic neon sign with a U-shaped arrow has pointed the way for generations of visitors to the video arcades, mini-golf courses, ... wooden boardwalk lined on the one side by shops and attractions, and on the other by picturesque views of … You can even buy a fishing license at the same time. Now, this is a secret. While staying at Half Moon cottages, my family visited the Weirs Beach. Weirs Beach Attractions The location is awesome. Recently I drove through Weirs Beach NH during the Winter. His three sons, Jeffrey, Michael, and Robert, now manage the arcades and the other Half Moon businesses. A drive-in movie theater, arcade, bowling, and … Weirs Beach & Public beach (1 minute away.) There are actually TWO arcades: a Penny Arcade and a Family Fun Center. What you get now is a run down tourist trap with putrid public bathrooms. History. Around 1980, the original arcade, which had existed continuously in the same location for 30 years, quadrupled in capacity, when it incorporated the location of the former bowling alley and became the Half Moon Family Fun Center. Funspot first opened as the Weirs Sports Center on June 27, 1952, in the top floor of Tarlson's Arcade building across from the Weirs Beach boardwalk. 9 Reviews (603) 366-4315 Website. You are steps from the Winni Boardwalk/Pier, the beach, the stores, the boating, the restaurants, the arcade, etc. You can spend time at the Public Sandy Beach with a playground and picnic area, walk to mini golf and climbing walls, bumper boats or perhaps stroll along the boardwalk for fried dough, cotton candy, games, shops, and restaurants. Cottages line the background up on the hill. The Weirs Beach Arcade has been around for over forty years, and this may be the last one. Lakeside Ave., Weirs Beach, New Hampshire features old time arcades, shops, ice cream stands and restaurants for family fun or a break from the beach. Only 5 minutes from Weirs Beach and the boardwalk, you are never far from entertainment! Review tags are currently only available for English language reviews. The Weirs, as the locals refer to it, is located next to Endicott Rock State Historic Site, which has a stone engraved by surveyors of the area dating back to 1652. Now I love to this way and still like to go and enjoy the old school arcades and shops. The lakeside getaway is an older style multi-tenant building that is slightly tucked behind the pier and almost in a summer residential neighborhood of … If the machine you love isn’t there, it’s probably because it’s been “retired”. There is the infamous Penny arcade which includes over 120 games from pinball to whack a mole, and the Family Fun Center arcade that offers classics from Pac Man to Galaga. Half Moon has it. The wife and I did a tour of New England and I have written several reviews. Less than 150 feet from any shoreline near a beach boardwalk, there's probably a video game arcade. ), In 1951, after two seasons in Weirs Beach, Mr. Ames purchased the Half Moon buildings and land from the local Postmaster, Howard Ballou. Getting an ice cream. Such a charming old school arcade vibe. Visit Weirs Beach or walk along the boardwalk and pier. Like any northern area, it is seasonal. (In the year 2000, the Half Moon arcades had a one-time auction on a Games For Sale web page. (603) 366-5188 (For more detail on Mr. Ames’s activities and family business during the 1940’s, click here. The beach is well maintained, and it is a perfect place for a picnic. Weirs Beach and the historic boardwalk is filled with fun and entertainment for the entire family. Color postcard of Weirs Beach pier. An information booth is seen along the boardwalk. He passed away on January 29, 2009. They even have a drive in theater. Weirs Beach. Why buy these items, when you can win them, and have fun at the same time! The best part is, there is a short 3-minute walk to Weirs Beach Boardwalk, Restaurants, Shopping, Attractions, Arcades, and Convenience. That is, only the best of the best machines that make the grade will you find here! (For more detail on Mr. Ames’s activities and family business during the 1940’s, click here.) (There are multiple copies of some of the games.) Today, Weirs Beach is once again a dominant vacation destination drawing visitors from throughout the Northeast and around the world! Both arcades feature a large variety of video games, including the latest simulators; flashy pinball machines; antique games which you can play for a dime; and a tremendous, Accommodations On Weirs Boulevard (Route 3 South), Accommodations On Endicott Street North (Route 3 North). Virginia Beach Boardwalk (Virginia Beach, Virginia) Virginia Beach's boardwalk is 28 feet wide and runs 3 miles for a bike ride, walk or, wait for it, rollerblade through time. To the right is a full listing of all the games, sorted by category. Affordable, Year Round Accommodations with Spectacular Views Cedar Lodge on Lake Winnipesaukee is the Perfect New Hampshire Getaway. There are over 120 different games in the Half Moon Penny Arcade! Dine on the Mount Washington Cruise Ship watching the sun slip into the lake. Be sure to check out the prize assortment in both arcades, as you can redeem your tickets and tokens for prizes in either one! Adults will like it and your children will be asking to go back again. From our location you are just a short walk: Weirs Beach – just a short walk! The boardwalk begins on Lakeside Avenue and runs the full length of Weirs Beach.. The arcade includes Cott apples, bowling, and penny arcade. Weirs Beach, or "The Weirs" as it is referred to by locals, is named for a wide, sandy, public beach on Lake Winnipesaukee. Rent a boat from Anchor Marine, located just north of the beach. Many good bars and dance floors in the summer. Next to the beach along Lakeside Ave lies the boardwalk. Wouldn’t you love to have a classic pinball or video in your basement? Discover a gorgeous view of the lake and the mountains at every step. Go-karts & Bumper Cars (1 min.) In 1948, Mr. Ames visited Weirs Beach, saw the potential of the area, and came back the following season to start the business. Winnipesaukee Pier, Arcade. There is so much that could be done with this area, but in my opinion full of junk shops and less than average restaurant. Set on the beautiful Lake Winnipesaukee, Smitholm Cottages is in the beautiful Laconia, New Hampshire. Menu & Reservations Make Reservations . At the opposite end you’ll find the Weirs Beach Drive … The view, the lake, and the cruise ship that you can tour on. They are now known as the Half Moon Motel & Cottages. Bank of NH Pavilion (6 mins) They have arcades and little food shops. There’s only so much room! Mr. Ames was active in the business until the age of 92. In 1934 and 1935, when he was just a teenager, Mr. Ames had traveled on the carnival and fair circuit with some of the first pinball machines ever to be made. My last trip to this location. Built in the early 1930’s by Bob Wagner, the Half Moon at that time consisted of a restaurant, snack bar, and bowling alley. The view of Lake Winnipesaukee was beautiful. Boardwalk. For more info about the history of the Half Moon, click here.). York Beach, Maine | Skee-Ball, Goldenrod Kisses, and the Most Photographed Lighthouse in New England Tucked between Kittery and Ogunquit on the southern Maine coast, York Beach is a popular summer seaside destination thanks to its family-friendly vibe, beautiful beaches, fun downtown, and memorable attractions. Dine on the Mount Washington Cruise Ship watching the sun slip into the lake. Watch Friday Night Fireworks (weather and funding dependent); Water sports – swimming, boating, cruises, fishing, sailing, kayaking, canoeing, jet skis, water skiing Arcades and amusements There are over 1000 items in stock at any one time, and the prizes not only include items to please children, but also items for the discerning adult: electronics, NH souvenirs, housewares, beach items, and gifts. Boat rides (1 min.) What a beautiful beach. 263 Lakeside Ave Weirs Beach, NH 03246. Over the years, the arcade expanded tremendously in size. Standard boardwalk fare is on hand at The Weirs with fried dough, pizza, ice cream stands, shopping, and arcades. The main summer port of the Winnipesaukee Flagship Company's MS Mount Washington is located on the boulevard. 9 reviews of Half Moon Amusement Arcades "If your looking for that Boardwalk Arcade feel look no further. People walk along the water. (The Half Moon Cabins, on a separate parcel of land, were purchased by Mr. Ames from Mr. Ballou on December 14, 1956. While each arcade has some of the same items, many other prizes are unique to each arcade. Bowling (1 min.) With over sixty years of experience in the arcade business, you might imagine the variety of machines you will find in the Half Moon arcades. The prize assortment is, in fact, one of the largest you will find anywhere! Batting cages & Climbing Wall 1 min.) more. Great Beach with plenty of things to do nearby. of Weirs Beach boardwalk activities and easy walking distance to the world's largest arcade, Funspot ... fun for all ages! Mini-golf (1 min.) And a T-shirt store almost entirely stocked with MAGA/ trump crap. To the right is a full listing of all the games, sorted by category. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. The arcade and boardwalk are in the back (mid ground). This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Enjoy in the summer! The beach is very clean, and provides spectacular views of the mountains, and the many boats that travel on the lake. It was magic. There are over 140 different games in the Half Moon Family Fun Center! I love how the strip lines the breathtaking views of Lake Winni and the giant open doors allow you to see the many adults as well as children basking in the arcade glory. Arcades (1 min.) Half Moon Amusement Arcades 240 Lakeside Ave #260 Weirs Beach NH 03246. I don't think I'm supposed to know this, but the owners have retired and sold the Weirs Beach "Boardwalk" Arcade and Shops just this year. Swimming, boating, golf, arcades, fireworks, horseback riding, hiking trails, tax-free shopping, wonderful restaurants, and even a drive-in theater! Rebuilt in 2010, the boardwalk is over 1300 feet long and offers amazing views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the Ossipee mountains. A carousel dating back to 1902, free boardwalk entertainment, and the classic vibe of a relaxed beach town make Ocean City's boardwalk one of the most popular stops on the Atlantic. Get directions, reviews and information for Half Moon Amusement Arcades in Weirs Beach, NH. Top Selling Tours & Activities in and around Weirs Beach, Piers & Boardwalks, Points of Interest & Landmarks. Walking distance from the beach, boardwalk, arcades and many other attractions... Posted by Brittany Josephine Foskitt on Wednesday, July 10, 2019 Beautiful beach, lots to do especially in the summer.We went in the fall and saw the beautiful colors, went to 2 fall displays. And with a penny arcade, an indoor miniature golf course, and an active concession stand, there wasn't much more a family looking for a break from the beach needed. Take a scenic train tour or try the elegant Dinner Train. ), At the very center of Weirs Beach you’ll find the HALF MOON AMUSEMENT ARCADES. Manchester Scavenger Hunt: The Granite... Manchester to Manchester–Boston Regional... Hotels near (MHT) Manchester Municipal Airport, Hotels near (LEB) Lebanon Regional Airport, Hotels near (PSM) Portsmouth International Airport at Pease, Hotels near Lakes Region Community College, Game & Entertainment Centers in Weirs Beach, Points of Interest & Landmarks in Weirs Beach, Laconia Motorcycle Week: Tickets & Tours‎, Half Moon Family Fun Center: Tickets & Tours‎. This is the happening spot for the Laconia night scene. 1500 signs telling you what you can and cannot do every step. Mr. Ames had a background in the arcade business. Weirs Beach. Don't tell anyone. From 1936-1950, his family owned and operated an arcade in Old Orchard Beach, Maine. Remember, kids 16 and under do not need a fishing license. Other than the Mount Washington cruise the Weirs is a giant waste of time. There's a 1,300-foot boardwalk with arcades, shops, and bites to eat, great views, and water that climbs above 70 degrees in the dead of summer. Weirs Beach … Take a scenic train tour or try the elegant Dinner Train. Hitting up the arcade. Catalog Number: L1990.0009.J.0060 Earliest Date Weirs Beach Drive-in theater (1 min.) Visit Weirs Beach or walk along the boardwalk and pier. Weirs Beach: Classic boardwalk and arcades - See 298 traveler reviews, 63 candid photos, and great deals for Weirs Beach, NH, at Tripadvisor. Swimming at the beach with my cousins. If you are interested in buying an old retired game, please contact us directly. Winnipesaukee Scenic train rides (1 min.) Frozen and covered with snow. In 1957, the business doubled to become TWO arcades, when a new arcade building was built. (There are multiple copies of some of the games.) A great beach with plenty of space on one of NH's best lakes. I was originally from Laconia and went to the Weirs as we stayed near by. Boardwalk (1 min.) From 1936-1950, his family owned and operated an arcade in Old Orchard Beach, Maine. 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