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continued from page 13 Dorky’s Arcade, Tacoma • dorkysarcade.com If you remember Pac-Man and Frogger, you’ll be right at home at Dorky’s. Located in the heart of downtown Tacoma, Dorky’s boasts several rooms of old-school video games and pinball machines. Beer is available, but there is an equal mix of young families, teenagers and 20-somethings on first dates. Our boys had a great time here, although they were initially frustrated by how quickly they reached “game over.” Your young gamers may be surprised at how tricky the old-fashioned games can be at first. Be prepared to go through some quarters. Dorky’s also serves up some tasty dinner specials. Tips: All ages are welcome until 9 p.m., after which this spot is strictly for patrons 21 and older. Children must be with a grown-up at all times. Most games are 25 cents a play; come with cash. Details: Open daily Find it: 754 Pacific Ave., Tacoma

Destiny City Comics, Tacoma • destinycitycomics.com Though the all-ages section of this small shop in the Stadium neighborhood is small, the owner is friendly and knowledgeable, and was able to steer our kids toward several appropriate titles. While most of the shop is for comic fans of all ages, we didn’t see any covers or posters displaying anything rated higher than PG — a big plus. Tip: Destiny City Comics is located right next to King’s Books (kingsbookstore.com), the area’s largest independent bookseller. You’ll find somewhere around 150,000 new and used titles there. Details: Closed Mondays Find it: 218 Saint Helens Ave., Tacoma

Don’s Ruston Market & Deli, Ruston Sit at the counter and order a malt or another classic treat at this little spot in picture-perfect Ruston. It’s a tasty trip back in time. On our last visit, our boys sat on stools at the counter chatting about their days with the owner while he made their shakes with real ice cream. Tip: The market is close to Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium (PDZA) and Point Defiance Park. Check out the phenomenal slides at the newer Dune Peninsula section of the park or the brand-new tot play area at PDZA. Details: Open daily Find it: 5201 N. Winnifred St., Ruston ■ Maegen Blue is the editor of Sounds Fun Mom (soundsfunmom.com), a blog for South Sound families.