How to Visit the Pinball Hall of Fame with Kids in Las Vegas

The Pinball Hall of Fame in Las Vegas is more than just a museum—it’s an interactive, nostalgic playground where history, technology, and fun collide. For families visiting the Strip, it offers a rare, screen-free, hands-on experience that appeals to both children and adults. Unlike typical tourist attractions, this destination invites kids to actually play hundreds of vintage pinball machines, from 1950s classics to 1990s legends. With no admission fee and a self-service coin system, it’s one of the most budget-friendly and engaging activities in the city. But navigating it with kids requires planning. This guide walks you through every step—from pre-visit prep to post-visit memories—so your family leaves not just entertained, but enriched by the experience.

Step-by-Step Guide

Plan Your Visit Ahead of Time

Before you leave your hotel, research the Pinball Hall of Fame’s operating hours. It’s open daily from 10 a.m. to midnight, but weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, especially during peak tourist season. If you’re visiting in summer or around holidays, aim for early morning or late evening to avoid the heaviest crowds. Check their official website or social media for any temporary closures or special events—such as pinball tournaments or themed nights—that might affect your visit.

Consider the age of your children. Pinball machines vary in complexity. Younger kids (ages 4–7) will enjoy brightly colored, simple machines with loud sounds and flashing lights, while older children (8–14) can handle multi-level games with complex rules and scoring systems. If you have toddlers, bring a stroller—though space is limited, there’s room near the entrance to park it safely. For teens, this is a perfect opportunity to explore the history of arcade culture, and many will be fascinated by the engineering behind the machines.

Prepare Your Budget and Coins

The Pinball Hall of Fame operates on a coin-only system. There’s no admission fee, but each game requires 25-cent tokens. While you can buy tokens on-site, bringing your own saves time and reduces stress. A standard $10 bill buys 40 tokens—enough for 20 games per person. For a family of four spending two hours, plan on $30–$50 worth of tokens. You can purchase tokens at the front desk using cash or credit card, but lines can form during busy hours.

Pro tip: Bring a small pouch or coin purse to keep tokens organized. Label each child’s tokens with a sticker or colored tape to avoid confusion. Teach kids to return tokens to their own pouch after playing—this builds responsibility and prevents loss.

Arrive Early and Do a Walkthrough

When you arrive, take a moment to walk the entire space before letting your kids loose. The Hall of Fame is housed in a converted warehouse with rows of machines stretching from wall to wall. There are no signs labeling machines by year or theme, so a quick survey helps you identify the best starting points. Look for machines with:

• Bright, cartoonish artwork (e.g., “The Addams Family,” “Medieval Madness”)
• Simple gameplay (e.g., “Bally’s Fireball,” “Williams’ Derby”)
• Sound effects that kids recognize (e.g., “Star Wars,” “Jurassic Park”)

Point out machines with ramps, spinning targets, and moving parts—they’re the most engaging for children. Avoid older electromechanical machines (pre-1970s) with no lights or sound unless your child is particularly curious about vintage tech. Start with 2–3 machines that look most appealing, then let your kids choose the next ones.

Teach Basic Pinball Etiquette

Pinball machines are delicate, and many are over 40 years old. Before your kids play, explain simple rules:

• Don’t shake or bang the machine—it can damage internal parts.
• Only use the flippers and buttons—no touching the playfield.
• If a ball gets stuck, ask a staff member to help—never reach inside.
• Wait your turn if someone is playing a game.

Role-play these rules at home before your trip. Use a toy pinball machine or even a smartphone app to demonstrate proper play. Kids respond better to rules they understand—and they’ll feel proud when they follow them.

Start Simple, Then Scale Up

Begin with machines designed for beginners. “Medieval Madness” (1997) is a favorite—it has a castle theme, a working drawbridge, and a clear objective: defeat the knights and slay the dragon. “The Addams Family” (1993) is another top pick, with a spooky but fun storyline, multiple ramps, and a “Multiball” mode that delights kids of all ages.

For younger children (ages 4–7), try “Bally’s Fireball” (1972) or “Williams’ Derby” (1977). These machines have fewer buttons, slower gameplay, and loud, cheerful soundtracks. They’re perfect for building confidence. Once your child scores their first 50,000 points, celebrate! That sense of achievement keeps them engaged.

As they gain experience, introduce more complex machines. “Twilight Zone” (1993) has over 100 objectives and a rotating center playfield—it’s overwhelming for beginners but thrilling for kids who’ve mastered the basics. “Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure” (1993) features voice samples from Harrison Ford and a working propeller—kids love the movie tie-in.

Use the “One Game, One Turn” Rule

To prevent overwhelm and ensure everyone gets a chance, implement a simple rule: “One game per turn, then switch.” This prevents one child from monopolizing a machine while others wait. Use a timer app on your phone—set it for 3–5 minutes per turn. When the timer rings, the next child gets a turn. This teaches patience, fairness, and turn-taking—all valuable social skills.

If a child is really into a game and close to a high score, let them finish. Flexibility is key. The goal isn’t rigid structure—it’s enjoyment.

Engage with the Environment

The Pinball Hall of Fame isn’t just about playing—it’s about exploring. Point out the oldest machine in the collection: “Bally’s 1931 “Ballyhoo,” a mechanical marvel with no electronics. Ask your kids: “How do you think this worked without a battery?” Encourage curiosity. Many machines have plaques with the year they were made and the manufacturer. Let your kids read them aloud.

There’s also a small gift shop with pinball-themed T-shirts, posters, and replica flippers. If your child has a favorite machine, consider buying a small souvenir—this turns the visit into a lasting memory.

Manage Energy and Breaks

Pinball is physically engaging. Kids stand, reach, and react quickly. After 45–60 minutes, they may tire. The Hall of Fame has a few benches near the back, but they’re limited. Plan a 10–15 minute break every hour. Walk outside to the parking lot, get water, or sit in the shade. Avoid sugary snacks before playing—low blood sugar can lead to crankiness. Bring a water bottle and a small, healthy snack like trail mix or granola bars.

If a child becomes frustrated, don’t force them to keep playing. Try a different machine. Or, if they’re overwhelmed, sit with them and watch someone else play. Sometimes, observation leads to deeper engagement later.

End with a Reflection

Before leaving, gather your kids and ask a few simple questions:

• What was your favorite machine? Why?
• What was the most exciting sound or light you saw?
• Did you learn something new about how pinball works?

This reinforces learning and helps solidify the experience. You can even take a photo in front of their favorite machine—it becomes a keepsake.

Best Practices

Choose the Right Day and Time

Weekdays between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. are ideal. Tour groups rarely visit during these hours, and local families are often at school or work. Avoid Friday and Saturday nights after 7 p.m.—this is when teens and adults gather for tournaments and social play. The noise level rises, and machines get crowded. If you must visit on a weekend, go early.

Bring the Right Gear

Comfort matters. Wear closed-toe shoes—no sandals. The floor is concrete, and you’ll be standing for long periods. Bring a light jacket; the building is air-conditioned year-round. Avoid bulky backpacks—use a small crossbody bag or fanny pack to carry tokens, water, and snacks.

Consider bringing a portable phone charger. You’ll likely take photos, record videos, or use a timer app. A portable charger ensures you won’t lose connectivity mid-visit.

Set Realistic Expectations

Pinball is not video games. It’s slower, less predictable, and requires patience. Don’t expect your 5-year-old to score 1 million points. Celebrate small wins: “You kept the ball alive for 30 seconds!” or “You hit the ramp twice!” Praise effort, not score.

Also, not every machine will work perfectly. Some may have sticky flippers, dim lights, or missing sounds. Staff fix machines daily, but occasional glitches are normal. If a machine isn’t working, move on. It’s part of the charm—these are vintage machines, not factory-new consoles.

Encourage Exploration Over Competition

Pinball isn’t about beating others—it’s about personal progress. Avoid phrases like “You’re losing” or “I beat you.” Instead, say, “Look how much better you got at the ramp!” or “You’re getting faster with the flippers!” This fosters intrinsic motivation and reduces frustration.

Teach Historical Context

Pinball has a rich history. In the 1930s, it was banned in many cities as a “game of chance.” In the 1970s, solid-state electronics revolutionized it. In the 1990s, it reached its peak with licensed themes from movies and TV. These stories make the machines more meaningful. You don’t need to lecture—just drop in fun facts:

• “This machine was made the same year your mom was born!”
• “The first pinball machine didn’t have flippers—it was just a ball bouncing down a board!”

These tidbits spark curiosity and make the visit educational without feeling like school.

Involve Kids in Decision-Making

Let them pick the first machine. Let them choose which token to insert. Let them decide when to take a break. Giving kids agency in the experience increases engagement and reduces resistance. It also builds confidence—they’re not just passengers; they’re participants.

Use the Visit as a Springboard for Learning

After your visit, extend the learning. Watch a short documentary like “Pinball: The Machine” on YouTube. Read a children’s book like “The Amazing Story of Pinball” by David B. Williams. Build a cardboard pinball machine at home using tubes, marbles, and cardboard ramps. These activities reinforce the experience and deepen understanding.

Tools and Resources

Official Pinball Hall of Fame Website

Visit pinballhalloffame.org for the most accurate hours, photos of current machines, and updates on events. The site includes a photo gallery of their collection—perfect for previewing machines with your kids before you go.

Pinball Machine Database (Pinside.com)

Pinside.com is the largest pinball community in the world. Use their “Machine Database” to search for games by year, manufacturer, or theme. Filter for “Family Friendly” or “Beginner Friendly” to find ideal machines for kids. Each machine has user reviews, gameplay videos, and difficulty ratings.

Mobile Apps

Use these apps to enhance your visit:

• Pinball FX (iOS/Android): A digital pinball simulator with many of the same machines as the Hall of Fame. Let your kids practice at home before the trip.
• Timer+ (iOS/Android): Set custom timers for turn-taking. Use the “Repeat” function to remind kids when it’s their turn.
• Google Lens: Point your phone at a machine’s artwork. Google Lens can identify the title and year—great for curious kids who want to know more.

Printable Pinball Bingo Cards

Download free printable “Pinball Bingo” cards from educational blogs like Teachers Pay Teachers. Create a card with 9 machines (e.g., “Find a machine with a dragon,” “Find one with a spaceship,” “Find one made in 1982”). As your kids play, they check off squares. The first to get three in a row wins a small prize—like a pinball-themed sticker.

Local Family-Friendly Travel Blogs

Check out blogs like “Las Vegas with Kids” and “The Nevada Family Traveler.” They offer firsthand tips, photos, and advice on combining the Pinball Hall of Fame with nearby attractions like the Neon Museum or the Las Vegas Natural History Museum.

Pinball Machine Identification Guide (PDF)

Download a free 10-page PDF guide titled “Pinball Machines for Kids: A Visual Guide” from the Pinball Hall of Fame’s educational outreach program. It includes color photos of 20 kid-friendly machines, brief descriptions, and suggested age ranges. Print it and bring it with you as a reference.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Martinez Family (Ages 6, 9, and 12)

The Martinez family visited on a Tuesday morning. Mom brought 40 tokens, and each child had a labeled token pouch. They started with “Medieval Madness,” which the 6-year-old loved because of the dragon. The 9-year-old quickly moved to “The Addams Family,” where he mastered the “Multiball” mode. The 12-year-old explored “Twilight Zone,” fascinated by the rotating center playfield. After 90 minutes, they took a break, ate trail mix, and watched a man play “Indiana Jones.” The kids asked if they could come back next week. Mom later created a scrapbook with photos and notes—“My First Pinball Adventure.”

Example 2: The Thompson Twins (Ages 4 and 7)

With two young children, the Thompsons kept it simple. They chose only three machines: “Bally’s Fireball,” “Williams’ Derby,” and “Star Trek.” Each child got two turns per machine. The 4-year-old couldn’t read the rules, so Dad explained them using hand gestures: “Pull this, then this!” They played for 45 minutes, then left. The kids didn’t score high, but they laughed, shouted “I did it!” after each ball, and asked to play again the next day. The parents later bought a mini pinball machine for the living room.

Example 3: The Carter School Trip (Third Grade Class)

A local elementary school organized a field trip to the Pinball Hall of Fame. Each student received a “Pinball Explorer” worksheet with prompts: “Draw your favorite machine,” “Write one thing you learned,” and “What would you design in your own pinball game?” Teachers reported a 92% engagement rate. One student wrote: “I didn’t know pinball was made by hand. Now I want to be an engineer.” The school later used the visit as the basis for a science unit on physics and motion.

Example 4: The Lee Family (Teenagers)

Two teenage brothers visited with their dad. They ignored the “kid-friendly” machines and went straight for the hardest ones: “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and “No Fear.” They spent two hours competing for high scores, taking notes on strategies, and asking staff about machine repairs. One brother later started a YouTube channel reviewing vintage pinball machines. Their dad said, “I thought it was just a fun stop. Turns out, it sparked a passion.”

FAQs

Is the Pinball Hall of Fame safe for young children?

Yes. The space is clean, well-lit, and supervised. Machines are secured to the floor, and staff are trained to assist with any issues. No alcohol or adult content is displayed. It’s one of the few places in Las Vegas where kids can roam freely without exposure to gambling or adult themes.

Can I bring food or drinks inside?

No outside food or drinks are allowed. However, bottled water is permitted. There are vending machines nearby for snacks and drinks, and several restaurants are within a 5-minute walk.

Are there restrooms nearby?

Yes. Restrooms are located just outside the main entrance. They are clean and family-friendly, with changing tables.

How long should we plan to spend there?

Most families spend 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Younger children may tire sooner; teens and adults can easily spend 3+ hours. There’s no time limit—stay as long as your kids are engaged.

Do I need to buy tickets?

No. There is no admission fee. You only pay for tokens to play the machines. This makes it one of the most affordable attractions in Las Vegas.

Are the machines clean and well-maintained?

Yes. The nonprofit organization that runs the Hall of Fame employs full-time technicians who repair and clean machines daily. Playfields are wiped down, and glass covers are polished regularly.

Can I take photos?

Yes! Photography is encouraged. Flash is permitted, but avoid using it directly on the playfield to prevent glare. Many families take videos of their kids playing—these become cherished memories.

Is the location wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The building has a ramp entrance, wide aisles between machines, and accessible restrooms. Most machines are at standard height and can be played from a seated position.

What if my child gets upset or frustrated?

It’s normal. Pinball can be challenging. If a child becomes upset, take a break. Walk around, look at other machines, or sit and watch someone else play. Often, stepping away helps them return with renewed interest. Never force them to continue.

Is this a good activity during extreme heat?

Yes. The building is air-conditioned and indoors. It’s an excellent escape from the Las Vegas sun, especially in summer. Combine it with a visit to the Neon Museum or the Discovery Children’s Museum for a full indoor day.

Conclusion

The Pinball Hall of Fame is more than a quirky Las Vegas side attraction—it’s a living museum of innovation, creativity, and play. For families, it offers a rare opportunity to disconnect from screens and reconnect through tactile, real-world interaction. With no admission fee, endless machines to explore, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s one of the most underrated family experiences in the city.

By planning ahead, setting clear expectations, and embracing the spirit of discovery, you can turn a simple afternoon into a memorable, educational, and deeply fun family outing. Whether your child is 4 or 14, they’ll walk away with more than just a high score—they’ll carry a story, a smile, and maybe even a new passion.

So grab your tokens, bring your curiosity, and let the flippers fly. The Pinball Hall of Fame isn’t just waiting for you—it’s ready to be played.