No surprises
Here's exactly
how it works.
Simple, fun, and fully cashless. Here's everything you need to know before you walk in — so you can focus on the claw.
The Mission Briefing
Five steps to a stuffie rescue.
Head to Squad HQ.
When you arrive, look for Squad HQ — our custom branded self-service kiosk in the arcade. This is your starting point for every visit. Pick up a new RFID card for a one-time $0.50 card fee, then load it with at least $6.00 to start playing.
The card is yours to keep. Write your child's name on it so it doesn't get lost — you'll want it back for your next visit. Not ready to keep it? There's a card recycling drop at the kiosk too.
Stuffie Squad RFID cards make great gifts, stocking stuffers, and Easter basket additions. Check out our gift cards page.
Load up. Tap in.
Squad HQ accepts card and digital payments — the entire Stuffie Squad experience is fully cashless. Load any amount you'd like onto your RFID card right at the kiosk. Need more credits mid-visit? Head back to Squad HQ and reload in seconds.
Your balance never expires. Whatever you don't use today stays on the card for next time.
Step up to the claw.
Find a machine that catches your eye. Each one is clearly priced — games range from $1 to $5 per play depending on the machine. Tap your RFID card on the reader to start, then take control of the joystick.
Some machines are tougher than others. Some produce a winner every single time. All of them are skill games — timing, positioning, and a little nerve go a long way.
You won. Now what?
Your stuffie drops and the choice is yours. Keep it and walk away a hero — or donate it by dropping it into the clearly marked donation box in the arcade. Every donated stuffie goes to a child in need in the Birmingham area, brand new with the tag still attached.
Either way, you win. And so does a kid.
Keep playing. Keep your card.
Your card balance saves automatically — reload at Squad HQ anytime and keep going. When you're done for the day, hold onto your card. It's your ticket back in on your next visit and your key to earning rewards through our loyalty program.
Good to know
Everything in one place.
Card Fee
One-time $0.50 fee for a new RFID card. Covers the cost of the physical card and encourages you to keep it for future visits.
Minimum Load
$6.00 minimum to load on your first visit. You can add any amount beyond that. Balance never expires.
Per-Play Pricing
Games range from $1 to $5 per play, clearly displayed on each machine. Pick your game, pick your price point.
Location
Inside The Local Bourbon House & Eatery
633 Montgomery Highway
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
Hours
Sun 11am – 2pm
Mon Closed
Tue – Thu 11am – 9pm
Fri – Sat 11am – 10pm
Who Can Play
All ages welcome. No height or age requirements. The whole family plays together.
FAQ
Questions we get a lot.
Do I need cash?
Nope. Stuffie Squad is fully cashless. Everything runs through your RFID card, loaded at Squad HQ using a card or digital payment.
Where do I get a card?
Head straight to Squad HQ — our self-service kiosk inside the arcade. Pick up a card, load your credits, and you're ready to play. The whole process takes about a minute.
How much does it cost to play?
Games range from $1 to $5 per play depending on the machine. The price is clearly displayed on each one. There's something for every budget.
Can I reload my card mid-visit?
Yes — head back to Squad HQ anytime and reload in seconds. No need to leave the arcade.
Does my balance expire?
Never. Whatever's left on your card stays there until your next visit. No deadlines, no pressure.
What happens to donated stuffies?
Donated stuffies go to children in need across the Birmingham area. Every stuffie we donate is brand new with the tag still attached — because the kids who receive them deserve that.
Can I buy a card as a gift?
Absolutely. Stuffie Squad gift cards make great presents, stocking stuffers, and Easter basket additions. Visit our gift cards page to purchase digitally or order a physical card.
Is there an age limit?
No age limit — all ages are welcome. Younger kids may need a little help with the joystick, which is half the fun.
Do you host birthday parties or private events?
We don't host standalone events ourselves, but The Local does. Reach out to them directly to ask about event options that include access to the arcade.
How does the loyalty program work?
Every visit, every win, and every donation earns you points you can redeem for perks. Learn more and sign up on our loyalty page.