5 Within 50 Nostalgic Adventures

5 Within 50: Time Traveling Through Tech: Nostalgic Adventures of Retro Technology

If you are anything like us, you’ve probably noticed fashion and items from the 2000s are now considered vintage and suddenly feel ancient. (Don’t worry; we are right there with you.) However, while we may not always love the feeling of getting older, there is something special about reconnecting with the past and experiencing the nostalgia of a simpler time.

From vinyl records to classic video games and flip phones (the Motorola Razr, amirite??!), the nostalgia of retro technology continues to captivate us today. Whether listening to a vinyl record, typing on a typewriter or snapping a Polaroid photo, these experiences allow us to slow down and appreciate the simple things in life.

Here is a list of 5 Retro Technology Experiences around metro Atlanta for when the nostalgia of yesteryear starts to hit.

My Parent’s Basement
22 N Avondale Rd
Avondale Estates, GA 30002

A popular retro technology experience is playing classic video games – the pixelated graphics, simple controls and nostalgic sound effects combine to create a truly unique gaming experience. Next time you crave classic video games and vintage consoles, head to My Parent’s Basement. My Parent’s Basement is a combination comic-book store and taproom started by three friends who love beer and comic books. Enjoy an array of seasonal cocktails and craft beer, rotate through your choice of 20 pinball machines and indulge in a wide range of food options, including twists on American classics plus vegetarian and vegan choices. My Parent’s Basement also serves brunch on Saturday and Sunday until 3 PM. Join in on pinball tournaments on the first Thursday and the third Sunday of every month and check out other events such as their Cartoon and Beer Breakfast. Get the scoop on new games, upcoming events and more by following their social media on Instagram @myparentsbasement.

Joystick Gamebar
427 Edgewood Ave SE
Atlanta, GA 30312

Embrace your inner nerd at Joystick Gamebar, where old school arcade meets Atlanta cocktail bar. Joystick Gamebar is a “nerdy dive bar” with classic arcade games, tabletop gaming and booze aplenty and hosts weekly events, including Smash Bros tournaments, open mic comedy nights and karaoke. There are dozens of arcade games available, with most costing just 25 cents per round. Joystick is the perfect place for your next affordable date night or night out with friends, with a retro and nostalgic vibe that will surely transport you back to the golden age of gaming.

Computer Museum of America
5000 Commerce Parkway
Roswell, GA 30076

This list of retro technology experiences would be incomplete without the addition of the Computer Museum of America, one of the world’s largest collections of artifacts from the digital revolution and a mecca for computer and technology enthusiasts. Located in Roswell, the Computer Museum of America has everything from the first Apple computer to the most extensive collection of CRAY supercomputers located in Roswell. Their mission is to preserve the stories and artifacts from the digital age while educating and inspiring visitors of all ages and backgrounds – and they do just that. When we visited, we were inspired by how far technology has come – and where it’s going.

Battle and Brew
5920 Roswell Rd, Ste A-120
Sandy Springs, GA 30328

Head to Battle and Brew in Sandy Springs for endless gaming, geeking and grubbing. A staple of geek, gamer and nerd culture in the metro Atlanta area since 2005, Battle and Brew boasts being a “no-judgment zone,” with reviewers calling it a “safe haven” and “nerd’s paradise.” Battle and Brew has the option to play by the hour or play all night at a fixed-rate price and offers console gaming, tabletop/board games, PC gaming and virtual reality experiences. Top off this nostalgic gaming experience by trying one of their delicious homemade dishes or experiencing one of their many cosplay, trivia or cocktail events. Follow their social media to stay in the know @battleandbrew.

Red Door Tavern
3180 Roswell Rd
Atlanta, GA 30305

For another retro gaming experience, head to Red Door Tavern in Buckhead and return to an 80’s arcade, but with a vodka drink. Voted in multiple publications for “Best Dive Bar,” Red Door Tavern has been around for almost 20 years and is known for its casual atmosphere with the tagline “where locals come to be locals.” To celebrate its sweet-sixteen anniversary in 2020, the Tavern did a complete remodel, adding a full retro arcade and new outdoor patio design. Don’t worry, dog moms and dads, Red Door Tavern is Fido-friendly! Follow them on Instagram @reddoortavern for more information and the occasional photos of bar-hopping dogs.