So I should go ahead and state up front: I love going to Chuck E. Cheese’s. I have a long history of taking my nieces and nephew whenever I can get them to come for a visit. I’ve even been known to drag my friends there on a random weeknight for an impromptu game of Skee Ball. Of course I know that many of my friends view a trip to Chuck E. Cheese’s with the same joy and anticipation they share with visits to the dentist or an appearance in traffic court. That doesn’t have to be the case, though. I’m sharing some of my favorite tips for having a blast at Chuck E. Cheese’s.

Go early!

Did you know that most Chuck E. Cheese’s locations are open early? Find out what time your location opens. (Mine opens at 9am!) Things don’t get crowded, even on the weekends, until closer to lunch time. Visit early and you can often have the entire play area to yourself! (And who says you can’t have pizza for breakfast or brunch, anyway?)

Play the games!

Just because you’re an adult, it doesn’t mean you have to stop loving Skee Ball. Sure, Chuck E. Cheese has plenty of games for the little ones. There are also lots of fun games that an adult can enjoy, too. In addition to Skee Ball, you can usually find games like football toss, air hockey and pinball. So keep some of those tokens for yourself and have a little fun. (You can totally say you’re just trying to earn a few prize tickets for your kids if it helps…)

Have a drink!

Chuck E. Cheese’s is not the place for tying one on. I repeat: Chuck E. Cheese’s is NOT the place for tying one on. That said, if you’re someone who just can’t picture enjoying a slice of pizza without an ice cold beer? Chuck E. Cheese’s has you covered. Most locations have several beers on tap. They also have non-pizza options like their salads and wings.

Skip the meal!

Yes, Chuck E. Cheese’s is a restaurant, but that doesn’t mean you have to eat when you visit. If it’s not meal time or you’re just not in the mood for pizza you can skip the menu and go directly to the games. Each game is only one token, so it’s a great value. Make sure you sign up for their coupons and look in your local paper. There are always great deals available, and there’s usually at least one token offer that doesn’t involve ordering a meal.

Let them plan  your party!

If you’re one of those people who live to party plan? Yeah, then this tip isn’t for you. However, if you would love to make your kids crazy happy on their birthday and do almost none of the work? Chuck E. Cheese’s has a variety of birthday packages available. All you need to do is send out your email invitations and show up! Extra bonus? The birthday boy or girl gets to jump in the Ticket Blaster. Don’t pretend like you didn’t always want to get in one of these things when you were a kid…

(And enjoy this ridiculously unattractive picture of me living the dream when I met the team from Chuck E. Cheese’s at BlogHer last year! )