Think back to when you were a kid. What was one thing your family did that still brings back fond memories? I don’t mean vacations, which are a treasure trove of memories, but the little things you did at home. One of my favorites was playing numerous games of Pinball. In the far corner of the basement, we had one of those old machines. Not the ones with all of the electronics and digital readout and scoreboards. Those are nice and fun to play, but we had an older one. The ones with the number of reels that showed the score. Mechanical buzzers and bells. The spring-loaded mechanism that launched the ball into play. It was called “Amigo” and was produced by Bally’s. I recall so many hours playing games on it. I even had my own step stool because I was too short to see everything until I grew older.
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The Pinball Hall of Fame, in Las Vegas, brings back some of those memories. To the non-nostalgic person, it’s nothing but row after row of pinball for 10,000 square feet. Approximately 2.5 miles from the Las Vegas Strip, the Pinball Hall of Fame (PHoF) is a not-for-profit corporation. Set up by the Las Vegas Pinball Collectors Club to both house and display the world’s largest collection. Unlike other Hall of Fames you may visit, this one is not only open to the public, but all are welcome to come inside and try your hand at the high score.
Every game belongs to one club member, Tim Arnold, and are from the 1950’s up to the 1990’s. Most are from the “heyday” of pinball, which was the 1960’s through the 1980’s. With game prices set to either 25 cents (for the older games) to 50 cents (for the newer ones), the entire family is sure to have a great time. Not to mention, there is a better chance of winning at these games than taking your chances in the casinos. And each machine is restored to like-new condition with great care by people who love the game and have the know-how to keep them in tip top shape.
So much of Vegas is built on, and paid for, by machines. Slot machines, video poker, etc., but these machines offer a guaranteed winner each time. And because the Pinball Hall of Fame is a not-for-profit organization, excess revenues are donated to non-denominational charities. After operating expenses are paid, the remainder of the money goes to the Salvation Army. Imagine playing a game, especially one from the 1960’s, and doing some good while having fun.
How much does it cost to visit the Pinball Hall of Fame?
Admission is free, but bring your quarters for the games.
How many machines are in the Las Vegas Pinball Hall of Fame?
About 250. You are likely to find your own childhood favorite.
Is the Pinball Hall of Fame Family-Friendly?
Yes
Vince’s Favorite Part
While walking up to the machine, I drop my quarter in, stand at the ready while the words to “The Who’s – Pinball Wizard” run through my head, and all of the memories from childhood come racing back. My timing is a little off, but it’ll come back to me. I just need a few more dollars in quarters and a little more time. We’ve had some fantastic adventures and great times, but an afternoon spent here for a mere few dollars in change is well worth it.
