What if you could embark on a road trip that feels straight out of Stranger Things?

Explore nine wonderfully retro Vermont attractions that blend ‘80s nostalgia with a touch of mystery.

1. Pastime Pinball (Manchester Center)

Holy flipper fingers, Batman!

Pastime Pinball is a silver ball paradise that’ll make you feel like you’ve stumbled into an episode of “Stranger Things.”

This arcade haven is packed tighter than Eleven’s psychic powers with vintage pinball machines from every era.

From the moment you step inside, the cacophony of bells, bumpers, and flashing lights will have you convinced you’ve entered an alternate dimension – one where quarters are king and high scores are the ultimate bragging rights.

The place is a veritable museum of pinball history, with machines dating back to the 1960s all the way up to modern marvels.

You’ll find classics like “The Addams Family” and “Twilight Zone” rubbing elbows with newer hits.

And let’s not forget the pièce de résistance – a row of machines featuring pop culture icons that would make even the Hawkins AV Club drool.

But Pastime Pinball isn’t just about nostalgia – it’s a living, breathing arcade where skills are honed and friendships are forged over intense multiplayer battles.

Just don’t be surprised if you lose track of time and emerge hours later, blinking in the sunlight like you’ve just escaped the Upside Down.

2. The Archives (Burlington)

If Pastime Pinball is the appetizer, The Archives in Burlington is the main course of retro gaming goodness.

This barcade (that’s bar + arcade for the uninitiated) is where adults come to play – and boy, do they play hard.

Picture this: rows of vintage arcade cabinets, the sweet symphony of 8-bit soundtracks, and craft beers flowing like liquid gold.

It’s like someone took your childhood dreams and added a splash of grown-up fun.

The Archives boasts an impressive lineup of classic games that would make any 80s kid weak in the knees.

From Pac-Man to Donkey Kong, Street Fighter to Galaga, it’s all here.

And let’s not forget about the pinball machines, standing proud like chrome-plated sentinels of fun.

But what sets The Archives apart is its atmosphere.

The exposed brick walls and dim lighting create a cozy vibe that’s part speakeasy, part time capsule.

It’s the perfect spot to challenge your friends to a round of Mortal Kombat or bond over a shared love of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles – both the game and the pizza-loving heroes themselves.

Just remember, while you’re busy saving princesses and gobbling power pellets, don’t forget to sample some of their creative cocktails.

Who knows?

After a few rounds, you might even start to believe you could take on a Demogorgon.

3. Fairlee Motel & Drive-in Theater (Fairlee)

Hold onto your leg warmers, because the Fairlee Motel & Drive-in Theater is about to blow your mind with a double feature of retro awesomeness.

This place is like stepping into a time warp where the 1950s and 1980s decided to have a party, and you’re invited.

First up, we’ve got the drive-in theater.

Picture this: you’re snuggled up in your car, the radio tuned to the perfect frequency, as larger-than-life heroes and villains duke it out on a massive screen under the stars.

It’s the kind of experience that’ll make you wonder why we ever traded this for tiny smartphone screens and overpriced popcorn.

But wait, there’s more!

The Fairlee Motel takes the concept of “dinner and a movie” to a whole new level.

Each room comes equipped with a picture window that faces the drive-in screen.

That’s right, folks – you can watch the latest blockbuster from the comfort of your own bed.

It’s like Netflix and chill, but with way more charm and a lot less buffering.

The motel itself is a delightful throwback, with retro furnishings that’ll make you feel like you’re crashing at your cool aunt’s place circa 1985.

Just don’t be surprised if you wake up expecting to see Marty McFly zooming past in his DeLorean.

4. Sunset Drive-In Theatre (Colchester)

If the Fairlee Drive-in whetted your appetite for outdoor cinema, the Sunset Drive-In Theatre in Colchester is about to serve up a four-course meal of movie magic.

This isn’t just a drive-in; it’s a bona fide institution that’s been beaming larger-than-life adventures onto its screens since 1948.

As you pull into the lot, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a scene right out of “Grease” (minus the spontaneous musical numbers… probably).

The air is thick with the smell of buttery popcorn and the buzz of excitement as families and couples stake out the perfect spot for the evening’s entertainment.

But here’s where the Sunset Drive-In really shines: they don’t just show one movie, oh no.

They give you a double feature for the price of one ticket.

It’s like the cinematic equivalent of a BOGO deal, and who doesn’t love a good bargain?

You’ll be settling in for a marathon of movie-watching that’ll make your Netflix binge sessions look like amateur hour.

And let’s talk about that sunset.

As the sky transforms into a canvas of pinks and oranges, you’ll realize why this place got its name.

It’s the kind of view that makes you want to break out in slow claps, even before the opening credits roll.

Just a word of advice: bring blankets, bring snacks, and maybe bring a few friends.

Because once you experience the magic of the Sunset Drive-In, you’ll want to share it with everyone you know.

It’s not just a movie; it’s a time machine on wheels.

5. Welden Theatre (St. Albans)

Alright, movie buffs and nostalgia nuts, prepare to have your socks knocked clean off by the Welden Theatre in St. Albans.

This isn’t just a cinema; it’s a portal to a time when going to the movies was an event, not just something you did to kill time between TikTok sessions.

The Welden has been holding court on Main Street since 1947, and boy, does it wear its history well.

The moment you lay eyes on that classic marquee, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Norman Rockwell painting – if Norman Rockwell was really into “Jurassic Park” and “Spider-Man.”

Inside, it’s a feast for the senses.

The lobby is a time capsule of movie memorabilia, with vintage posters and the intoxicating aroma of freshly popped popcorn.

And don’t even get me started on the auditorium.

Those plush seats and that big screen?

It’s enough to make you want to stand up and slow clap before the movie even starts.

But here’s the kicker: the Welden isn’t just coasting on its retro charm.

They’re serving up first-run movies with state-of-the-art projection and sound.

It’s like having your cake and eating it too, except the cake is a perfectly preserved slice of Americana and you’re eating it while watching the latest blockbuster.

So, whether you’re a film fanatic or just someone who appreciates a good dose of nostalgia with their entertainment, the Welden Theatre is a must-visit.

Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself humming the theme from “Indiana Jones” as you leave.

6. Vermont Antique Mall (Quechee)

Buckle up, time travelers, because the Vermont Antique Mall in Quechee is about to take you on a whirlwind tour through the decades.

This isn’t just an antique store; it’s a labyrinth of memories, curios, and treasures that would make even the most seasoned collector’s head spin.

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As you step into this 17,000 square foot wonderland, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled onto the set of “American Pickers” – if “American Pickers” had a love child with “The Goonies.”

Every nook and cranny is packed with relics from bygone eras, from kitschy 50s kitchen gadgets to groovy 70s lava lamps.

But let’s talk about the 80s section, because that’s where things get really radical.

Imagine a treasure trove of Rubik’s Cubes, Cabbage Patch Kids, and enough neon to make Miami Vice look subdued.

It’s like someone took all your childhood memories, shook them up in a snow globe, and scattered them across dozens of booths.

And here’s the best part: unlike a museum, everything here is for sale.

That’s right, you can actually take a piece of history home with you.

Always wanted a vintage arcade machine?

They’ve got you covered.

Looking for that one album to complete your vinyl collection?

It’s probably hiding in here somewhere.

Just a word of warning: time moves differently in the Vermont Antique Mall.

What feels like a quick browse can easily turn into hours of wide-eyed wandering.

But hey, that’s all part of the charm.

After all, where else can you travel through time without worrying about accidentally becoming your own grandparent?

7. Bennington Centre for the Arts (Bennington)

Hold onto your berets, art aficionados, because the Bennington Centre for the Arts is about to blow your mind faster than Bob Ross can paint a happy little tree.

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill, “please don’t touch the paintings” kind of place.

Oh no, this is where art comes alive and practically jumps off the walls to high-five you.

From the moment you approach the building, you know you’re in for something special.

The architecture is a work of art itself, blending seamlessly with the picturesque Vermont landscape.

It’s like Mother Nature and Frank Lloyd Wright got together and said, “Let’s make something awesome.”

Inside, it’s a smorgasbord of artistic delights.

The galleries are packed with everything from traditional New England landscapes that’ll make you want to bust out your hiking boots, to contemporary pieces that’ll have you scratching your head and saying, “Is that… is that art?”

But here’s where things get really groovy: the Bennington Centre doesn’t just showcase art, it celebrates it.

They host workshops, lectures, and events that’ll make you feel like you’ve stumbled into the coolest art school party ever.

Want to try your hand at pottery?

They’ve got you covered.

Fancy learning about the finer points of landscape painting?

Pull up a chair, Bob Ross wannabe.

And let’s not forget about the outdoor sculpture garden.

It’s like a jungle gym for your imagination, where larger-than-life creations mingle with the natural beauty of Vermont.

Just try not to get too carried away and start climbing on the sculptures.

Trust me, the security guards don’t appreciate that kind of “interactive art.”

So whether you’re a seasoned art critic or someone who thinks “abstract” is just a fancy word for “I don’t get it,” the Bennington Centre for the Arts has something for everyone.

Just don’t be surprised if you leave feeling inspired to create your own masterpiece.

Macaroni art, anyone?

8. Parkway Diner (South Burlington)

Alright, food lovers and nostalgia seekers, prepare your taste buds for a blast from the past at the Parkway Diner in South Burlington.

This isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a time machine disguised as a chrome-plated, neon-lit slice of Americana.

From the moment you lay eyes on that classic red-and-white exterior, you know you’re in for something special.

It’s like the 1950s decided to park itself right in the middle of Vermont and never left.

And honestly, why would it?

The view is great, and the milkshakes are even better.

Step inside, and you’re immediately enveloped in a world of checkered floors, vinyl booths, and the kind of friendly service that makes you wonder if everyone here graduated from the “Leave It to Beaver” School of Charm.

The air is thick with the aroma of fresh coffee, sizzling bacon, and the sweet promise of pie.

Now, let’s talk about the menu.

It’s a greatest hits album of diner classics, with a few Vermont twists thrown in for good measure.

Want a stack of pancakes taller than the Green Mountains?

They’ve got you covered.

Craving a burger that’ll make you forget all about those fancy gourmet patties?

Look no further.

And don’t even get me started on the milkshakes.

They’re so thick, you might need to borrow a snow plow to get through your straw.

But the real magic of Parkway Diner isn’t just in the food – it’s in the atmosphere.

It’s the kind of place where the regulars have their own mugs, where the waitstaff knows your order before you sit down, and where you half expect to see the Fonz walk in and give everyone a thumbs up.

So whether you’re a diner aficionado or just someone who appreciates a good dose of nostalgia with their eggs and bacon, the Parkway Diner is a must-visit.

Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself humming “Rock Around the Clock” as you waddle out, fully satisfied and ready for a nap.

9. Fortress of Fun (Rutland)

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, step right up to the Fortress of Fun in Rutland – the place where childhood dreams come to life and adults rediscover the joy of being a kid again.

This isn’t just an arcade; it’s a full-blown carnival of nostalgia that’ll have you grinning from ear to ear faster than you can say “Game Over.”

From the moment you walk in, you’re hit with a sensory overload that would make even the most jaded teenager’s eyes light up.

The air is filled with the sweet symphony of beeping arcade machines, the clatter of skee-ball, and the victorious shouts of kids (and let’s face it, adults) winning tickets.

But let’s talk about those games.

Oh boy, where do we even start?

They’ve got everything from classic pinball machines that’ll make you feel like a wizard, to the latest video games that’ll have you questioning your hand-eye coordination.

Want to show off your dance moves?

Hit up the DDR machine.

Fancy yourself a sharpshooter?

The shooting games are calling your name.

And if you’ve ever dreamed of being a racecar driver without the pesky danger of actual high-speed collisions, their driving games have got you covered.

And don’t even get me started on the prize counter.

It’s like Santa’s workshop exploded in here, with rows upon rows of colorful toys, gadgets, and gizmos just waiting to be claimed.

Sure, you might need to play for three hours straight to earn enough tickets for that giant stuffed unicorn, but hey, that’s all part of the fun, right?

But the real magic of Fortress of Fun isn’t just in the games or the prizes – it’s in the laughter, the friendly competition, and the pure, unadulterated joy that fills the air.

It’s the kind of place where families bond, friendships are forged, and memories are made.

So whether you’re a seasoned gamer or someone who thinks Pac-Man is a new diet craze, Fortress of Fun has something for everyone.

Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself begging for “just one more game” long after you promised to leave.

After all, in this fortress, fun is the ultimate boss level.

There you have it, folks – a whirlwind tour of Vermont’s most radical retro attractions.

From pinball wizardry to drive-in delights, this Green Mountain journey is sure to satisfy your nostalgia cravings.

The open road is waiting!

Let this map guide you to your next amazing destination.

So grab your Walkman, dust off your Members Only jacket, and hit the road.

The 80s are calling, and Vermont’s got the perfect answer.