Things to do in Liverpool during River of Light

River of Light is returning for its latest instalment from 25 October - 5 November and this year the theme is ‘Play’!

With 12 installations taking over Liverpool’s Waterfront all inspired by the theme of Play, we’ve rounded up a list of things you can do during your visit to get playful in the city. 

Whether it’s getting competitive in a round of bowling, taking on some retro video games, exploring an exhibition all about games or getting messy with some painting - there’s lots to do to get into the River of Light spirit. 

Junkyard Golf Club

If you're a fan of crazy golf with a twist, Junkyard Golf Club is a must-visit. Located in Liverpool ONE, this indoor mini-golf experience offers a wild, neon-lit adventure with three different courses—each one crazier than the last! Expect junkyard-themed obstacles made from all sorts of random items, from old cars to carnival memorabilia. Grab a cocktail and enjoy the chaos of hitting a ball through obstacles like twisted fairgrounds or a scrapyard rave.

Golf Fang

Another one-of-a-kind mini-golf experience, Golf Fang in the Baltic Triangle combines street art, great music, and some seriously creative mini-golf courses. You can also have a go at Big Fang Karaoke too and sing your heart out to your favourite tunes! The venue’s lively vibe, coupled with tasty food and cocktails, makes it perfect for a memorable night out.

Lane7

Step into Lane7, one of Liverpool’s bowling alleys, for a night of fun that goes beyond just bowling. This venue, located at Clayton Square, is more like a bowling alley meets nightlife experience. With a cocktail in hand and funky tunes playing in the background, Lane7 is a fantastic spot for a laid-back yet lively night.

Roxy Ball Room

For those who love a variety of games in one place, Roxy Ball Room is the ultimate playground. This place has it all—tenpin bowling, beer pong, shuffleboard, pool, and mini-golf all under one roof. Find three venues in the city with each one featuring their own experiences. 

PINS Social Club

PINS Social Club on Duke Street is spread across multiple floors, it offers bowling, rooftop cocktails, karaoke, shuffleboard, and even arcade games. PINS mixes retro gaming with a modern twist, and if you're looking for a chill evening with drinks and a little friendly competition, this is the place to be. Don't miss the rooftop bar for a relaxed vibe with views over the city too.

NQ64 Arcade Bar

Nostalgia meets nightlife at NQ64 Arcade Bar. Hidden beneath the bustling streets of Liverpool, this underground bar is filled with retro arcade games and consoles. If you're into classic games like Pac-Man, Street Fighter, or Mario Kart, this neon-lit haven will be a hit. The arcade-themed cocktails are a bonus, offering drinks named after your favourite 80s and 90s video game characters.

Upside Down House

Want to flip your world upside down? Head to the Upside Down House at Liverpool ONE, a quirky photo-op destination where all the furniture and decor is reversed. Walk along the ceiling and capture surreal images of yourself "floating" in a topsy-turvy home. 

Quirky Quarter

For a blend of brain-teasing fun and photo-worthy illusions, Quirky Quarter on Duke Street is a fantastic choice. This interactive museum offers a series of mind-boggling optical illusions, puzzles, and challenges that will delight visitors of all ages. It’s a great spot to explore with friends, family, or even solo for a few hours of immersive fun.

Gravity MAX

Located in Liverpool ONE, Gravity MAX offers an exhilarating range of immersive activities. From high-tech virtual reality experiences and e-sports gaming to a futuristic bowling alley, this is where you can lose yourself in tech-driven fun. They even have an arcade and multiple games to keep your competitive spirit alive. It's the ultimate venue for an adrenaline-pumping outing.

Arcains

Gaming heaven awaits you at Arcains in the Cains Brewery Village. This massive retro arcade and gaming centre is home to hundreds of arcade machines, pinball tables, VR experiences, and classic video games. Whether you're a fan of 80s classics like Pac-Man or modern immersive VR games, Arcains has something for everyone.

Flight Club

If you’re in the mood for darts but with a modern twist, Flight Club is the place to go. This trendy venue transforms the traditional game into a social experience, complete with interactive scoreboards, themed game modes, and a vibrant atmosphere. 

Splash Art

Looking for something artistic and fun? Splash Art is an interactive art experience where you can get messy and creative at the same time. Unleash your inner Jackson Pollock by throwing paint at canvases and creating your own abstract masterpiece. It’s a great place for anyone who wants to try something unique and bring home a personalised piece of art.

'Art Plays Games' at FACT

Art meets technology at FACT, Liverpool’s centre for film, art, and new media. This innovative space hosts exhibitions that explore the intersection of creativity and digital technology, often featuring interactive installations, virtual reality experiences, and film screenings.

They are currently showing the free exhibition, 'Art Plays Games' which looks at how artists are increasingly using games as a way to challenge conventional forms of storytelling and offer us new ways to make sense of the world today. Over the exhibition’s run, the artworks and games on display will rotate, introducing something different to discover each time you visit!