A new combination arcade and bar has opened in Whitewater, offering residents a space for video games, casual dining and socializing. 

The Waypoint is operated by Jessica Marks and her husband Jon. The idea emerged from a realization in the Marks’ home. The couple had collected a few of their own retro games over the years and when they hosted gatherings, they realized how many people enjoyed the games, stating that it brought joy to those who played. Seeing how much people enjoyed playing, Jessica said that they thought of creating a bar and arcade.

Although this is not a new concept, it is new to Whitewater. 

“I bartended for a really long time, so we just put the concepts together,” Jessica Marks said. 

The Waypoint blends gaming with a bar and a small food menu, offering something for everyone. While arcades have become increasingly popular, their concept is less common in smaller cities such as Whitewater. The owner said that a part of the appeal is the variety of people who come in. Some come for the games, but many stay for the atmosphere. The bar has a large variety of games such as pool, darts, basketball and hunting games.

Although the bar is new, it has stayed busy early on in its run. The owners say families stop in during earlier hours while older patrons tend to go later in the day and stay for longer. Most days, there is a mix of age groups that is not always seen downtown. The bar offers something for everyone, including entertainment for children. 

The interior does not resemble a club or dive bar. Instead, the layout centers around games with tables. People drift between activities as some come for one specific game and others try them all out. 

“We’re involved in the dart league and we’re currently trying to get the pool league going,” Marks said.

The addition of leagues offers a structured way for people, especially those who are newcomers, to meet others with similar interests.

The atmosphere inside the bar shifts throughout the week, according to Jessica. On league nights, darts tend to dominate the scene. On slower nights, some may stop by just to spend time at the video games and relax. 

Since opening, The Waypoint has become another busy option in a downtown that has been shaped by the university and student population. While The Waypoint shares some elements with other bars, the focus on games introduces a different kind of variety, offering a sense of competition and nostalgia. 

For now, The Waypoint owners say they are watching the community make the space their own. From casual players to those who are involved in the darts league, the steady flow of visitors is giving the arcade bar a role in Whitewater’s community that goes beyond nightlife, offering one more spot for people of all ages to gather and enjoy some time playing the games they love.