Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines — Attraction in Palace District

Even though the name of the museum is what originally hooked us, the name actually sells it a little short. While they do have a huge unique selection of Soviet-Era arcade machines, they also have many other things from that era including a unique exhibit where you can smell things from that time, listen to things, try drinks, etc. How the arcade portion works is you pay admission and receive about 15 Soviet era coins to use in the machines. I believe you can buy more as well. They also come in a unique match box to hold while you play. “Technically” you are supposed to turn in the remainder coins as you leave since they aren’t in circulation any more, but no one really seems to care if you want to keep one as a souvenir.

They also have free Wifi, coffee and snacks, clean toilets and a small selection of things to purchase.

The selection of arcade machines is good, although they aren’t always in perfect repair, but that is...

A fun addition to anyone's trip to St. Petersburg. The games are a blast and a unique look at a part of culture that anyone who grew up in the 80's and later can identify with. There's also a nice little cafe where you can hang out and have a drink.

Most importantly, the staff is super awesome and friendly. If you ask, they'll explain the games to you and give you some perspective so you know what it is you're actually trying to accomplish. For example, there's a "strongest man" game that's based on the Russian fairytale "The Giant Turnip," but if you weren't Russian you'd probably have no way of knowing that.

The location is accurate on Google Maps; know that the museum entrance is in an interior courtyard and there's a sign by the gate where you need to enter. Plus, it's just one hundred meters or so from the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood which everyone visits, so you'll be in the neighborhood already. Absolutely...

Walk through the dodgy courtyard and you'll see the museum. Hand over some modern money in exchange for Soviet coins, and go nuts.

The museum consists of a collection of Soviet arcade machine, most of them functioning (though as time goes on that is liable to change). You throw in a coin, play a few rounds, and read the informative plaque on the wall which tells you about the history of this game (which engineer had the bright idea if turning a surplus wheel and a lightbulb into a racing simulator), and this specific machine in particular (which abandoned summer camp it was found in).

When you're done with the historic exhibits there is an area with some beanbags and more conventional consoles, if you want to brush up on your double dragon, and a...