Video Vortex is a unique and immersive video-themed bar and rental store that is bringing back the classic video store experience with a modern twist. Located inside the Alamo Drafthouse in Raleigh, this establishment offers an impressive selection of over 70,000 DVD, Blu-Ray, and VHS titles for customers to rent, all for free. The space is filled with 8-foot VHS boxes, vintage exploitation movie posters, and a wide variety of cinephile-themed merchandise, from t-shirts and pins to a curated selection of the best board games and vinyl soundtracks. Customers can also enjoy 40 local craft beers on tap while browsing the extensive collection or participating in weekly trivia nights and other events. The friendly staff and the overall atmosphere of Video Vortex have been praised by customers, who describe it as a "life-changing" and "cool" place that has transformed Raleigh into a better and more fulfilling community. While the selection of newer titles may be limited, the free rental experience and the unique, video-centric environment make Video Vortex a must-visit destination for movie lovers and craft beer enthusiasts alike.
Great service, I have learned a lot about movies but picking up two DVDs at a time from Video Vortex. They literally have every cult movie you've ever heard of, and then some. It's free!
June 2024
A nostalgic joyride. Walking around the racks of videos that you can rent—for free by the way—brought me back to the days of scouring the aisles of Blockbuster Video and birthday parties at bowling alleys. Apart from their great selection of movies, they offer a ton of local beers on tap, and a very friendly and helpful... read full comment
July 2023
What a cool place! They have a great selection of craft beers, the staff are super friendly, and the space is so unique and interesting. My only complaint is that they didn’t have the T shirt I wanted in my size. Oh well, too popular I guess!
