The no-fluff, how-to guide to getting your family entertainment / arcade business found.
We see it all the time—an exciting new arcade opens its doors, but when you search it on Google… crickets. No listing. No photos. Sometimes it shows up, but only the name and a half-completed profile.
That’s a huge missed opportunity.
Google is the first place people go when they’re looking for something fun to do, planning a kid's birthday, or when they are looking for directions. If your business isn’t listed properly—or worse, not listed at all—you’re leaving money on the table. And the best part? It’s free to fix.
That’s why we’re writing this blog. We want to help our arcade partners and FEC operators maximize their visibility using one of the most powerful (and free!) tools out there: Google Business Profile.
You don’t need a marketing team to make this work. You just need a little time, a clear plan, and the willingness to take control of your online presence. Let’s get started.
Step 1: Set Up or Claim Your Google Business Profile
Go to google.com/business
- Click “Manage Now”
- Type your business name. If it pops up, claim it. If not, select “Add your business to Google”
- Choose the category that fits best—start with “Amusement Center” or “Arcade”
Pro tip: You can add more categories later, like “Birthday Party Venue” or “Children’s Entertainment Center.”
Step 2: Add Your Full Address (Be Precise)
This is critical if you want to show up in local “near me” searches. Or even more critical, if you want to show up on Google maps when someone is in their car looking for your venue.
Example:
Game Galaxy Arcade
1234 Funzone Blvd, Suite 200
Austin, TX 78701
(Located inside Barton Creek Square Mall)
Keep it consistent—your address should match exactly across your website, Facebook, Yelp, TripAdvisor, and other directories.
Step 3: Upload Photos (Not Stock Ones)
Photos help customers know what to expect. Real ones build trust and make your place look worth visiting.
Upload:
- Wide shots of your arcade floor
- Redemption prize wall
- Front entrance
- Birthday rooms
- Staff and customers (with permission)
Cover Photo Tip: Make it bright, clear, and fun—this shows up first on search.
Step 4: Set Accurate Hours
Set your regular hours and use the “Special Hours” section for holidays or special events.
Don’t guess. If you say you’re open until 10 PM, people will show up at 9:55.
Step 5: Write a Simple, Clear Business Description
Use this structure:
- Who you are
- What you offer
- Where you’re located
Example:
Game Galaxy Arcade is Austin’s ultimate destination for arcade lovers! With 70+ classic and new games, VR racing, and a mega prize wall, we’re your go-to for family fun, parties, and all things gaming. Located inside Barton Creek Square Mall.
Avoid buzzwords or writing like a brochure. Be real.
Step 6: Get Reviews—They Matter More Than You Think
Positive reviews help your business show up more often and build instant credibility.
How to get them:
- Ask after birthday parties or events
- Add a “Leave us a Google review!” sign at your redemption counter
- Send a follow-up message or email after party bookings with the link
Pro tip: Always respond—thank the good ones, handle the bad ones professionally. Google loves active listings.
Bonus Tips to Stay Visible
- Post updates weekly (“New game alert!” or “Now booking summer birthdays!”)
- Turn on messaging so guests can contact you directly
- Link your website to your Google listing—and make sure your website links back
- List your business on other platforms like Yelp, Facebook, and TripAdvisor with matching info
Bonus: Your Website Should Be Easy to Update
One of the most common mistakes? Having a website that no one on your team can actually update.
Make sure your site:
- Is mobile-friendly
- Loads quickly
- Has clear info (hours, address, phone, games, party packages)
- Uses an easy to use content manager so you’re not relying on a developer for every change
Digital is not a one-and-done process. Your site should evolve with your arcade—new games, new promos, new events.
Be Easy to Find, Easy to Choose
Google Business is free. It’s powerful. And it’s one of the most important marketing tools you have.
If you’re not showing up when someone types “arcade near me,” you’re missing out. But with a little setup and a few weekly updates, you can turn your listing into a traffic-driving, party-booking machine.
If you’re one of our P1AG partners, we’re happy to walk you through it.
