Flip Out at the Roanoke Pinball Museum

In the heart of downtown Roanoke, the Roanoke Pinball Museum offers an immersive experience into the world of pinball. At this museum, you’ll learn about the rich history and enduring appeal of this classic game. On the second floor of Center In The Square, this museum is a haven for enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. While you’re there, you can explore an impressive collection of pinball machines that span nearly a century—from 1932 to the present day.

Do you love pinball and other arcade games? Check out the Spinners Pinball Arcade in Frederick MD!

For a flat fee of $15, guests can enjoy unlimited play all day long, making it a great value for anyone looking to dive into the art, sounds and kinetic energy that pinball offers. The museum’s collection, all set to free play, allows you to explore the evolution of pinball, from the mechanical charm of early models to the complex, electrified marvels of the modern era. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer, there’s something here for everyone.

In addition to its regular offerings, the Roanoke Pinball Museum hosts special late-night events. So come for music and craft brews, adding a social and lively atmosphere to the experience. With its downtown location, a visit to the museum is easily paired with a stroll through Roanoke’s vibrant city center, making it a must-see destination for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re staying for a few hours or the entire day, the Roanoke Pinball Museum is a place where history and entertainment collide, providing a memorable outing for all ages.

History of Pinball

The history of pinball dates back to the 18th century, with roots in the French game of bagatelle, where players used a cue to shoot balls across a table filled with pins. By the late 19th century, bagatelle evolved with the addition of a spring-loaded plunger, laying the foundation for modern pinball. The first coin-operated pinball machines emerged in the early 1930s, with “Baffle Ball” and “Ballyhoo” leading the way. The introduction of electricity in the mid-1930s brought new features like lights and the “tilt” mechanism, while the 1947 innovation of flippers transformed the game into one of skill rather than chance.

Pinball’s Golden Age spanned the 1950s to the 1970s, with the game becoming a staple in arcades and entertainment venues. However, the rise of video games in the 1980s led to a decline in pinball’s popularity. Despite this, a revival in the 1990s, driven by nostalgia and new technological advancements, kept pinball alive. Today, pinball enjoys a resurgence, blending the classic tactile experience with modern innovations, continuing to captivate players of all ages.

Know Before You Go

Although there is street parking available in downtown Roanoke, the Center in the Square Garage at 11 Campbell Ave SE is centrally located and provides easy access to popular attractions like the Roanoke Pinball Museum, the Taubman Museum of Art, and the downtown market area.

Getting there: 1 Market Square SE, Roanoke, VA
Hours: Closed Mondays; Tuesdays – Saturdays 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Sundays 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Website: Roanoke Pinball Museum