Tampa’s first Japanese claw machine arcade will open this spring

Tampa’s first claw machine arcade, or clawcade for short, is opening at 14313 N Dale Mabry Highway. Before its official debut, the future Aikon appeared at the Lunar New Year celebration at Armature Works and on campus at USF.

The new brick-and-mortar spot will be packed with various challenging claw machines, blind box figures, toys, collectibles, and more. While the exact opening date is still TBA, the team behind the concept expects to open sometime in the spring of 2025. Based on trends we’ve seen with other clawcade locations, expect games with varying difficulty levels, so you’ll have a good shot at taking home a prize or two.

The global gaming sensation is coming to Tampa this spring

This won’t be your average arcade. Clawcades are known for being packed tight with crane games, so no one will be waiting too long for their turn. Plus, there’s always that electric energy of neon lights and the joyful buzz of prizes. I’m in my 30s, but I’ll always be down to win a Bulbasaur, and I know I’m not alone (right?!).

Time Out recently named the clawcade the hottest hangout in New York City—so we’re pretty sure it will be just as popular here in Tampa.

Stay updated by following Aikon Tampa Clawcade on Instagram!

Over in Pinellas County, a claw machine arcade also just opened: Atomic Claw Arcade – Treasure Island

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