Fun for Kids (Rain or Shine): Board Games, Tommy’s Arcade, and maybe an Ice Cream Treat?
Lexington, Virginia, a charming town known for its historical significance and vibrant community life, offers a variety of family-friendly activities that cater to all interests and weather conditions. Among these are Just Games, a haven for tabletop gaming enthusiasts, Tommy's Arcade, an all-ages arcade experience, and local ice cream shops for delightful treats.
Just Games: A Tabletop Gamer's Paradise
Just Games, located at 29 W Nelson St, is more than just a store; it's a community hub for gaming enthusiasts. Owned by Zander Tallman and Paige Gance, the store opened its doors on September 5, 2018. In October 2020, they relocated to a larger, more central location in downtown Lexington to better accommodate their growing clientele.
The store boasts an impressive array of tabletop games, ranging from specialty board games to classics like Chess and Backgammon. For fans of trading card games, it offers a selection of Magic the Gathering and Pokémon cards. Dungeons and Dragons enthusiasts can find the latest edition and various accessories to enhance their gameplay. The store also specializes in miniatures, featuring Whiz Kids Pre-Primed D&D Minis, an extensive collection of Warhammer 40,000 and Warhammer Age of Sigmar miniatures, and the necessary paints and tools from Citadel. Disc golf enthusiasts are not left out, with a selection of discs available and the option to place specific orders. Just Games emphasizes customer service, with the ability to order any product from their wide array of distributors, ensuring that if they don't have something in stock, they can still get it for you. The store accepts returns of sealed products with accompanying receipt.
Just Game’s hours are Tuesday and Wednesday from 11 am to 6 pm, Thursday and Friday from 11 am to 9 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm, and Sunday from Noon to 5 pm. Enthusiasts and families will find ample time at Just Games to explore and enjoy.
Tommy's Arcade: Endless Fun for All Ages
Tommy's Arcade, situated at 5 W Nelson St, is a fun-filled addition to Lexington's entertainment scene. Catering to all ages, it offers an array of arcade games and pinball machines that appeal to both young gamers and seasoned veterans. The arcade's dynamic environment makes it an ideal place for family outings, parties, or simply a fun day out.
The arcade's hours are seasonally adjusted and generally include weekends throughout the year. During the school year, it's closed from Monday through Thursday, but available for reservations, and typically opens to the public on school holidays. In the summer, winter, and spring breaks, the arcade is open almost daily, with some Mondays also available for gaming fun. For the most up-to-date hours and special event information, Tommy's Arcade encourages visitors to check their Facebook or Instagram profiles. For reservations or specific inquiries, interested parties can reach out at (540) 319-0915.
Sweet Treats: The Perfect End to a Fun-Filled Day
After a day of gaming and exploration, a visit to one of Lexington's local ice cream shops is the perfect way to relax and indulge. These shops offer a variety of homemade gourmet ice creams, sundaes, shakes, and other sweet delights. The friendly atmosphere and delicious treats provide a delightful end to an exciting day in Lexington or Buena Vista, VA.
Lexington, VA:
- Sweet Things Ice Cream Shoppe
- Location: 106 W. Washington St., Downtown Lexington, VA
- Contact: (540) 463-6055
- Hours: Mon-Thu 12pm-9pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-10pm, Sun 2pm-9pm
- Features: Serving homemade gourmet ice cream for over 30 years. Offers sundaes, shakes, splits, and more.
- Pronto Cafe & Gelateria
- Location: 26 S Main St, Lexington, VA
- Contact: (540) 464-1472
- Hours: Mon-Sun 8AM - 5PM
- Features: Gourmet ice cream made on premises. Flavors like chocolate Grand Marnier and Berry Lavender. Pet-friendly, outdoor seating, handicap accessible, dairy-free options. Known for welcoming service and dog treats.
- Dairy Queen
- Location: 874 N Lee Hwy, Lexington, VA
- Contact: (540) 463-1927
- Hours: Store and Drive-Thru: 10:00 AM-10:00 PM
- Features: Classic selection of ice cream treats and desserts, as well as fast food options.
- Sweet Things Ice Cream Shoppe
Buena Vista, VA:
- Holy Cow! Ice Cream
- Location: 103 Glen Maury Park Rd, Buena Vista, VA
- Contact: (540) 817-9153
- Hours: Thu-Sat 3 - 7 PM, Closed Sun-Wed
- Features: Gourmet ice cream made on premises. Flavors like Chocolate Grand Marnier and Berry Lavender. Pet-friendly, outdoor seating, handicap accessible, dairy-free options. Known for welcoming service, dog treats, and savory treats like smash burgers.
- The BeeVe: Sweet Souvenirs
- Location: 2175 Magnolia Ave, Buena Vista, VA
- Contact: (434) 226-0376
- Hours: M-Th: 4pm - 10pm, Fri: 2pm - 10pm, Sat: 12pm - 10pm, Sun: Closed
- Features: Gourmet ice cream made on premises. Flavors like Chocolate Grand Marnier and Berry Lavender. Pet-friendly, outdoor seating, handicap accessible, dairy-free options. Known for welcoming service, dog treats, and savory treats like smash burgers, french fries and corn dogs.
- Holy Cow! Ice Cream
For a healthier and more substantial option than ice cream, try GloBowl Cafe next door to Tommy’s Arcade and only a few doors down from Just Games. They specialize in healthy, ethnically diverse dishes, including vegan and gluten-free salads and bowls. You can also add chicken or salmon, and they offer tasty falafel and pita bread. Don’t miss my personal favorite, their Traditional Empanada: a golden-fried blend of slow-cooked beef, veal, and pork with onions, peppers, garlic, cilantro, olives, and capers.
