The Pinball Hall of Fame: A Nonprofit Museum in Las Vegas Las Vegas is known for its vibrant entertainment scene, but tucked away on the Strip lies a unique attraction dedicated to preserving a classic form of amusement: pinball. The Pinball Hall of Fame offers visitors a chance to play hundreds of machines in a nonprofit setting, combining nostalgia with community support.
What Is the Pinball Hall of Fame?
The Pinball Hall of Fame is a nonprofit hands-on museum featuring playable pinball machines in Las Vegas, Nevada. Established in February 2006, it is a project of the Las Vegas Pinball Collectors Club and showcases machines from various eras. The museum is fully staffed by volunteers, with excess revenues donated to the Salvation Army.
Location and Hours
Located at 4925 S. Las Vegas Boulevard, the Pinball Hall of Fame sits directly across from the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign on the South Strip. The facility spans 25,000 square feet and opened at this dedicated location on April 15, 2021. Hours of operation are Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. To 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. To 10 p.m.
The Collection
The museum houses approximately 700 pinball machines, making it one of the largest playable collections in the world. The assortment includes rare vintage games from the 1950s through the 1990s, as well as newer releases such as Stern’s Pokémon pinball machine from 2026. In addition to pinball, the museum features a selection of arcade novelty games.
Admission and Play Costs
Admission to the Pinball Hall of Fame is completely free. Visitors only pay to play the games, with individual plays typically costing between $0.25 and $1.00. This pricing model allows guests to enjoy extended playtime without significant expense.
Experience and Atmosphere
Described as a smoke-free, family-friendly environment, the Pinball Hall of Fame provides a contrast to the high-energy resorts nearby. The museum emphasizes pure pinball gameplay without ticket-spitting or redemption mechanics often found in other arcades. Excess proceeds from gameplay support charitable causes through donations to the Salvation Army.
Leadership and History
Tim Arnold has served as director since the museum’s inception. His involvement began in 1990 through fundraising efforts, including selling pinball repair videos and hosting events at his home. Arnold’s personal collection, which started with a machine purchased in 1972, forms the foundation of the museum’s exhibits. Over the years, the collection has grown from approximately 200 machines at its original Tropicana Avenue location to nearly 700 at the current site.
Why Visit?
For those seeking a break from the typical Las Vegas experience, the Pinball Hall of Fame offers a nostalgic and interactive alternative. The combination of free admission, affordable play, and a vast selection of machines makes it accessible to casual visitors and dedicated enthusiasts alike. As a nonprofit institution, each game played contributes to local charitable efforts, adding a layer of community impact to the visit. Whether drawn by the sound of flippers, the glow of vintage playfields, or the chance to support a charitable cause through play, the Pinball Hall of Fame stands as a distinctive destination in Las Vegas.