Coastal Connections: Zelky’s Arcade to Close Original Rehoboth Beach Location After 40 Years
A Beloved Boardwalk Landmark Bids Farewell
For four decades, Zelky’s Beach Arcade has been a staple of Rehoboth Beach, offering families and visitors classic, coin-operated fun along the vibrant boardwalk. This summer, however, the iconic arcade will light up for the last time at its original location.
Zelky’s at 5 N Boardwalk will close its doors after the 2025 season, as the building is set to be demolished to make way for the One Rehoboth Avenue mixed-use hotel and retail project.
“We are in the business of providing fun and memories,” said Matt Weiner, general manager of the arcade, who has grown up surrounded by its nostalgic sights and sounds. “I feel very sad. I love the nostalgic charm that this building holds. I mean, I’m standing on almost 100-year-old bowling alley floors.”
The End of an Era – But Not the End of Zelky’s
While the original location will close, Zelky’s Arcade at the Tanger Outlets will remain open, continuing to provide entertainment for families. The arcade’s south-end boardwalk location will also remain in operation.
For many, the loss of the north-end arcade is more than just a change in scenery—it’s the end of a cherished tradition.
“It’s weird because it’s like taking a piece of history away,” said John Paczek, who visited with his family to celebrate his son’s birthday. “It’s a staple of the boardwalk.”
A Future for Fun
Though the original Zelky’s will be gone, Weiner remains optimistic, hinting at plans to build a new arcade in its place after the construction of One Rehoboth Avenue is complete.
“It’s only going to lead to our ability to improve the Zelky’s experience,” Weiner said.
This year marks Zelky’s 40th anniversary, and the arcade has planned special events to celebrate, including the grand opening of a rooftop mini-golf course at the south-end location and the return of their classic “sno balls” for the summer season.
As Weiner puts it, “It makes you smile when you say it… Zelky’s, it’s better than cheese.”
The arcade’s original location will host one final season of tokens, tickets, and timeless fun, but Zelky’s legacy will continue to thrive in Rehoboth Beach.
