Asheville Pinball Museum

Asheville Pinball Museum & 10+ Great Things to Do Nearby

Let’s dive into the Asheville Pinball Museum.

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In the heart of Asheville, NC, the Asheville Pinball Museum offers a unique and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages. With a remarkable collection of 35 pinball machines and 35 classic arcade games, this museum is a paradise for gaming enthusiasts. The museum is always on our list of things to do in Asheville, NC. 

Let’s take a closer look at what they offer and how to visit.

Asheville Pinball Museum

The pinball museum address:
1 Battle Square, Asheville, NC 28801

Asheville Pinball Museum

Planning your visit

Asheville is known for its unpredictable weather, and rainy days tend to draw larger crowds to the Pinball Museum. Keep this in mind when planning your visit, as it can get busy. However, the fun you’ll have is well worth any wait time. The museum is first come, first serve.  They do not take reservations. 

Asheville Pinball Museum Arcade Games

Be prepared on busy days; you may have an hour or more wait.  If you do arrive and there is a wait, they will take your name and number so you can walk around and explore while you wait. They will contact you when it’s your turn. 

Asheville Pinball Museum

Hours of Operation 

Mondays | 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Tuesdays | Closed
Wednesday – Friday | 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Saturday | Noon to 9 p.m.
Sunday | 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Asheville Pinball Museum

Cost of Admission 

For just $15 per person, visitors can enjoy unlimited playtime on the museum’s 70 gaming machines. Whether you’re a pinball wizard or a classic arcade aficionado, there’s something for everyone.  There are just a few games that require money, but most of everything is included with the admission.

Asheville Pinball Museum

Bonus: There’s no need to rush through your visit; you can stay and play as long as you like once you’ve paid the admission fee.

Asheville Pinball Museum

If you’re coming along with someone but don’t plan to play yourself, there’s no need to worry about an additional fee. You can simply accompany your friends or family members as they enjoy the games.

Asheville Pinball Museum

The Experience 

To ensure an enjoyable gaming experience, the museum allows a maximum of 65 players inside at any given time. This means you won’t have to wait around for your turn, as there’s almost always a game available to dive into. 

Asheville Pinball Museum Arcade Games

As you enter, you’ll find rows of pinball machines from a wide range of eras. As you work your way toward the back room, you’ll step into the world of classic arcade games. As you play, you will find signs on the machines giving you a brief history of the game and the year it was created.  

Asheville Pinball Museum Arcade Games

You will be provided a wristband, so don’t worry about bringing a bunch of quarters.  You may also leave the museum and come back later in the day to play again.  The wristband is good all day.

Asheville Pinball Museum
Asheville Pinball Museum

Where to Park 

While the museum doesn’t offer on-site parking, you’ll find ample parking options nearby. For the best chance of securing a spot, head over to the parking garage, located just three blocks away. It’s a convenient choice that ensures a hassle-free start to your gaming adventure.

Asheville Parking Garage | 77 W Walnut St, Asheville, NC 28801
Wall Street Garage | 45 Wall St, Asheville, NC 28801

Parking meters must be paid Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. Outside of these posted hours, Asheville on-street parking is free of charge.

Asheville Pinball Museum

Drinks and Restaurants near the Asheville Pinball Museum

You’ll find a bunch of great options near the museum.  Here are some places to check out.

✅ Huli Sue’s BBQ and Grill
Address: 1 Page Ave Suite 150, Asheville, NC 28801

Nestled within the iconic Grove Arcade lies a Texas BBQ joint with a twist that infuses the vibrant flavors of Hawaii. Popular dishes at this establishment include Sue’s Huli Chicken, delectably crispy ribs, the indulgent Brisket French Dip, and the must-try Poke Nachos. And, of course, you simply can’t leave without savoring a slice of their renowned Banana Cream Pie.

Huli Sue's BBQ

✅ Wedge Brewery Downtown
Address: 1 Page Ave Suite 152, Asheville, NC 28801

The Wedge Brewery proudly stands as the first taproom within the iconic Grove Arcade.  They have several other locations around Asheville, but this is the closest to the museum.  They have great beers, an inviting, open layout, and a cozy bar.   

Wedge Brewery in Grove Arcade

✅ Asheville Proper
Address: 1 Page Ave Suite 151, Asheville, NC 28801

Also located in the Grove Arcade, Asheville Proper redefines the classic American steakhouse. With a warmly lit dining room adorned in marble, it offers a relaxed setting for enjoying exceptional seafood, wood-fired meats, and more. They are dedicated to sourcing ingredients locally, delivering a farm-to-table experience. While you dine, catch the mesmerizing live kitchen fire. 

Steakhouse in Asheville NC include Asheville Proper

✅ Bebettes: A New Orleans Coffeehouse
Address: 1 Page Ave #111, Asheville, NC 28801

Bebettes is your go-to coffeehouse for New Orleans-style premium coffee, lattes, and fresh-made-to-order beignets, as well as delightful beignet sandwiches.

✅ Chai Pani 
Address: 32 Banks Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

On the Asheville culinary scene, there’s a standout: Chai Pani, crowned “America’s Most Outstanding Restaurant” at the James Beard Foundation Awards. Here, the menu draws inspiration from the vibrant world of Indian street food, influenced by Chef Meherwan Irani’s Indian upbringing. Get ready for a taste explosion!

Beloved dishes encompass Okra Fries, Vada Pav, Paneer Tikka Roll, and the tantalizing Sloppy Jai. And for those with dietary preferences, Chai Pani offers dairy-free and vegan options as well!

Chai Pani Dish

✅ Citizen Vinyl
Address: 14 O’Henry Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

Citizen Vinyl is a communal space encompassing a record press facility, café, bar, recording studio, and analog art and record store. Within Citizen Vinyl, a cafe serves local artisan coffee and a full bar specializing in aperitivo cocktails (carbonated, bitter, and low-alcohol beverages). Crafted to the backdrop of timeless vinyl, Session’s menu invites visitors to experience nostalgic deli classics with an Asheville creative twist.

✅ Early Girl Eatery
Address: 8 Wall St, Asheville, NC 28801

Since 2001, Early Girl Eatery has been committed to the farm-to-table philosophy. They prioritize local, organic, seasonal, and fresh ingredients as their first choice. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.

Early Girl Eatery Breakfast

✅ Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
Address: 12 College St, Asheville, NC 28801

Dedicated to crafting authentic Southern cuisine from scratch, this restaurant welcomes patrons for a delightful experience spanning brunch, lunch, and supper. Their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients exemplifies their farm-to-table ethos. While they’ve expanded their presence across the country, it all began right here in downtown Asheville in 2000.

Mouthwatering fan favorites include Mac-n-Cheese Waffles, Fried Green Tomatoes, Sweet Potato Pancakes, and the irresistible Sriracha Honey Chicken and Waffles.

✅ Red Ginger Dimsum & Tapas
Address: 82 Patton Ave Suite 100, Asheville, NC 28801

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Asheville, Red Ginger is an authentic Chinese dim sum and tapas bar. This trendy, contemporary establishment provides a modern take on dim sum and Chinese small plates, accompanied by a selection of fine wines and cocktails.

Things to do near the Asheville Pinball Museum

Want to explore more of the area? Here are some great options nearby. 

✅ Grove Arcade
Address: 1 Page Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

Explore shopping and dining at the Grove Arcade, where you can immerse yourself in the rich historical architecture while savoring the city’s top-notch shopping offerings. Once you’ve finished perusing the boutiques, treat your taste buds to a delectable meal at one of the esteemed eateries along Restaurant Row.

✅ Breakout Games – Asheville
Address: 60 Patton Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

Embark on an adventure in Asheville’s finest escape rooms. Each experience is 60 minutes, as you take on the challenge alongside friends and family. You can explore islands, track down kidnappers, or restore ancient relics to their rightful owners. Each Breakout location offers distinctive challenges and thrills.

✅ Asheville Museum of Science
Address: 43 Patton Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

Asheville Museum of Science (AMOS) is Western North Carolina’s premier hub for hands-on science exploration. It sparks curiosity with interactive exhibits for all ages. Highlights include the Colburn Hall of Minerals, captivating astronomy and climate displays, and a remarkable teratophoneus dinosaur skeleton. 

Check out more Museums in Asheville, NC

✅ Visit the Biltmore Estate
Address: 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803

One of the top things to do in Asheville is to visit the Biltmore Estate, the largest privately owned home in the United States, located amidst a breathtaking landscape. It’s a true wonder of architecture and has so many fascinating stories to share. You can purchase tickets to tour the home or just the gardens and grounds. 

Day Trips from Charlotte should include the Biltmore Estate in Asheville NC, pictured outside

​​Where To Stay near the Asheville Pinball Museum

📍Cambria Hotel Downtown Asheville | The Cambria Hotel is a one-minute walk to the Asheville Pinball Museum.  2.2 miles from the Biltmore Estate and near the US Cellular Center.  It is a convenient location and a beautiful hotel.

Cambria Hotel

📍Haywood Park Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection | Also located downtown, about a 3-minute walk to the museum. Free champagne is served upon arrival; they also offer a complimentary breakfast.  Biltmore Estate is a 10-minute drive away.  

📍The Restoration Asheville | Located downtown Asheville, about a 6-minute walk to the museum.  Includes a continental breakfast and private parking.  The Biltmore Estate is about 5.6 miles from this property. 

📍Kimpton Hotel Arras | Great location downtown; they provide private parking, free bikes, and a continental daily breakfast. Located about 5.6 miles from the Biltmore Estate.  They have views of the city and mountains.

Kimpton Hotel in Downtown Asheville NC

Asheville Pinball Museum: FAQs

📌 Does the Asheville Pinball Museum have food?
They have little snacks and drinks available.  You will also find local beers available too.

📌 How many pinball machines are in the Asheville Pinball Museum?
They have a collection of 35 pinball machines.

📌 How much does the Asheville Pinball Museum cost?
$15 per person, visitors can enjoy unlimited playtime.

Asheville Pinball Museum Old Lunch Boxes

Final Thoughts

Asheville Pinball Museum is a fantastic destination for both locals and tourists looking for affordable, family-friendly entertainment. With its extensive collection of pinball machines and classic video games, it’s a place where nostalgia meets modern fun. 

So, gather your friends and family, head on over, and prepare for a day of gaming excitement. It’s an experience that will transport you back in time while creating new memories to cherish.