After nearly 40 years of birthday parties, bumper cars, and arcade battles, Houston’s Funplex has officially closed — but now, the memories are going up for sale.
HOUSTON — After nearly 40 years of birthday parties, bumper cars, and arcade battles, Houston’s Funplex has officially closed — but now, the memories are going up for sale.
An online auction is live right now, offering up nearly everything that made the Alief entertainment center a local favorite.
“Everything is for sale—from the Ferris wheel to the hand dryers in the bathroom,” said Justin Balsam with Auction Management Corporation.
KHOU 11 got an exclusive tour of what’s still inside, and the list of auction items is massive.
Here’s a look at what’s up for grabs:
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Dozens of classic arcade games
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Electric go-karts and gear
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A full 40-lane bowling alley
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Equipment and décor from restaurant areas and concession stands
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Furniture and supplies from multiple ballrooms and party rooms
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All signage, including neon lights and branded graphics
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And inside the iconic roller skating rink — the same one featured in Beyoncé’s “Blow” music video — everything from skates to lockers is being sold
Every item in the auction starts at just $10, making it accessible for collectors, local businesses, or even nostalgic Houstonians.
“We’ve already seen interest from private collectors around the country,” said Balsam. “It’s a chance to bring a piece of Funplex home.”
For many, Funplex wasn’t just an amusement park — it was a part of childhood.
“I live close enough to walk here,” said local collector David Shacub. “I used to bring quarters and just play. Now I’m hoping to find some vintage arcade games.”
From roller skating memories to family outings, the closing of Funplex marks the end of an era. But for a lucky few, the memories can live on — one item at a time.
The auction is live now and runs through the 24th and 25th of this month. All bidding is done online.
For more information you can visit: https://www.amcbid.com/auctions/detail/bw145133