Starcade (1977–2015) was a space-themed video arcade in Disneyland’s Tomorrowland, operating from May 27, 1977, to 2015. Located between Space Mountain and Star Trader, it opened with Space Mountain as part of a $20 million complex. Originally a two-story attraction, it featured token-based arcade games, with the second story closing in 1997. The arcade transitioned to event space by 2015, with the upper level repurposed for Space Mountain’s queue in 2018.
Below are 10 fun facts about Starcade (1977–2015):
- Two-Story Layout: Starcade spanned two floors at opening, accessible via speedramp escalators, with the upper level featuring a large mural of outer space scenes visible through Space Mountain’s queue windows.
- Token-Based Gaming: Games operated on tokens equivalent to a quarter, offering a variety of classic and new arcade titles, from racing to shooting games, in a pay-to-play setup.
- Space-Themed Decor: The arcade’s interior included sci-fi elements like a suspended X-Wing starfighter model, originally hung above the escalators, later moved to Star Trader in 2011.
- Strategic Location: Positioned near Space Mountain’s exit, Starcade capitalized on coaster crowds, drawing guests with its glowing marquee and glass wall overlooking a small garden.
- Second Floor Expansion: Due to high revenue in 1977, a second floor was added in 1978, designed by Tim Delaney, featuring a mural reminiscent of Atari’s promotional art.
- Retro Game Shift: By the 2000s, Starcade focused on 1970s and 1980s retro games like Pac-Man and Galaga, reflecting the era’s arcade culture amid declining popularity.
- PeopleMover Views: Until 1995, PeopleMover riders could peek through windows into the second floor, showcasing the arcade’s vibrant game lineup before the windows were blacked out.
- Character Meet-and-Greets: In later years, the lower level hosted character interactions for films like Wreck-It Ralph (2012) and Big Hero 6 (2014), reducing game space.
- Upper Level Closure: The second floor closed in 1997 due to declining arcade interest, becoming storage for games, including those from Disney California Adventure’s Flynn’s Arcade.
- Event Space Transition: By 2015, Starcade ceased arcade operations, serving as a private venue for corporate events and Annual Passholder activities, with the upper level repurposed for Space Mountain’s queue in 2018.
