Top 21+ of the Best Nickelodeon Shows From the ‘80s

Nickelodeon was one of the most beloved kids' networks in the '80s for its iconic, entertaining, and educational content for kids. Let’s take a journey to the past to remember 21 of the best Nickelodeon shows from this decade.

1. Double Dare (1986-2019)

Double Dare, led by host Marc Summers, was a fun-filled game show where teams competed in physical challenges and trivia questions. The show featured messy obstacle courses and slime-filled stunts, making its exhilarating format a favorite among children.

2. Inspector Gadget (1982-1985)

This animated series followed the bumbling detective Inspector Gadget, equipped with an array of silly gadgets. Voiced by Don Adams, Inspector Gadget was determined to foil the evil Dr. Claw, aided by his niece Penny and their trusty dog Brain. Nickeodean aired reruns of the show from 1987- 1992 and again from 1996-2000.

3. Hey Dude (1989-1991)

Hey Dude followed the lives of the ranch owner, his son, their ranch hand, and four teenage summer employees working at the fictitious Bar None Ranch in Tucson, Arizona. Its blend of comedy and youth culture made it a fan favorite.

4. Mr. Wizard’s World (1983-1990)

This educational series, a favorite among kids devoted to all things science and technology, featured the friendly scientist Don Herbert as Mr. Wizard. The show aimed to introduce young viewers to scientific concepts through fun experiments and engaging, hands-on demonstrations.

5. Eureeka’s Castle (1989-1991)

Eureeka’s Castle was set in a whimsical castle inhabited by creatures like Eureeka the young wizard, and her friends like Magellan the dragon. The puppet-based show, which aired on Nickelodeon's Nick Jr. block, was a favorite for its blend of music, storytelling, and problem-solving elements.

6. DangerMouse (1981-1992)

This British animated series featured DangerMouse, a secret agent mouse dedicated to thwarting villains. With his quirky sidekick Penfold, DangerMouse faced various comical adversaries, including the nefarious Baron Greenback. The show’s blend of humor, adventure, and British wit established it as a Nickelodean classic. It was aired in the United States from 1984-1987 and again from 1991-1994.

7. Today’s Special (1981-1987)

This Canadian educational program was about a magical department store that came alive at night. Characters included mannequin Jeff, shop owner Suki, and the friendly puppet Muffy. Together, they explored different themes like friendship and problem-solving through imaginative storytelling.

8. Count Duckula (1988-1993)

Count Duckula was a vegetarian vampire duck who preferred to feast on tomatoes, rather than blood. It also featured his loyal, dimwitted assistant Nanny and nemesis, the vampire hunter Dr. Von Goosewing.

9. Pinwheel (1977-1990)

This variety show featured a mix of live-action and animated segments designed to engage and educate young children. It included puppet shows, music, and educational skits, all set to a cheerful theme.

10. You Can't Do That on Television (1981-1990)

This Canadian sketch comedy show featured a cast of kids who engaged in humorous skits that often included reactions to viewer questions. It also included iconic elements like green slime, which secretly intrigued every kid.

11. Out of Control (1984-1985)

Out of Control, hosted by comedian Dave Coulier, was a variety show that parodied youth-oriented media. The program, created by Bob Hughes, featured sketches, stunt performances, and humorous commentary on social issues.

12. Picture Pages (1978-1984)

This educational segment starred comedian Bill Cosby as Mr. Picture Pages, who encouraged kids to explore art and creativity. The interactive format featured various drawing prompts, games, and lessons designed to spark imagination. It was rerun as an interstitial program on Nickelodeon from 1984-1993.

13. Finders Keepers (1987-1989)

In this treasure hunting game show, kids searched for hidden objects in various rooms of a set home. Hosted by Wesley Eure, the game combined elements of adventure with trivia questions, while encouraging teamwork and problem-solving.

14. Make the Grade (1989-1990)

This educational quiz show aimed to challenge kids academically while providing fun entertainment. Hosted by Bob Goen, contestants faced trivia questions on various subjects. Its focus on education through entertainment motivated young audiences to appreciate learning, all while enjoying the thrill of competition.

15. Kids' Court (1988-1989)

Kids' Court presented a courtroom scenario where children served as jurors, giving them the opportunity to hear cases involving their peers. With host Paul Provenza guiding each episode, kids learned about justice, responsibility, and community values through playful skits and mock trials.

16. The Third Eye (1989-1990)

This educational anthology series had a unique featurette format that combined storytelling, puppetry, and music to promote creativity and critical thinking. All of the characters had psychic abilities.

17. Standby: Lights, Camera, Action! (1988-1989)

This variety show invited kids behind the scenes of film production where they were introduced to filmmaking concepts and techniques. Hosted by actors and industry insiders, the program showcased various aspects of filmmaking. Its informative approach fostered interest in the arts, encouraging viewers to explore their own storytelling capabilities.

18. Think Fast! (1989-1990)

This energetic game show combined trivia questions with physical challenges, which encouraged teamwork and friendly competition. Hosted by J.D. Roth, the contestants had to race against the clock.

19. Hocus Focus (1979-1981)

In this whimsical variety show, hosted by magician Harry Anderson, children learned critical skills while being enchanted by illusions, thanks to its blend of entertaining magic tricks and educational segments.