The collection includes machines dating back to the early 1950s, representing various eras of pinball manufacturing.
Every machine in the museum is maintained by a dedicated group of volunteer technicians.
The facility serves as a non-profit entity aimed at arcade preservation and public education.
Many of the machines on display were once found in classic, high-traffic arcades that have since closed.
The museum frequently rotates its inventory to feature rare or newly acquired restoration projects.
The Roanoke Pinball Museum is an interactive arcade experience located in downtown Roanoke, Virginia, featuring over 65 vintage and modern pinball machines. Unlike traditional museums, all machines on the floor are playable and included in the price of admission. The collection highlights the evolution of pinball technology from the mid-20th century to the present. Visitors can play historically significant games that showcase changing mechanics, artwork, and scoring systems. The facility functions as an educational non-profit organization focused on preserving the history of arcade gaming. It occupies a space within the Center in the Square complex. The museum hosts various community events and leagues for competitive players. The floor is curated to provide a chronological representation of the hobby's development.
The neon-lit back row of the museum, which provides a vibrant backdrop of flashing light displays.
Test the buttons and flippers on a few machines before committing to a long game, as older models have different tactile responses.
Bring a water bottle, as the physical activity of playing multiple rounds can be tiring.
Visit during non-peak hours to access popular titles without waiting in line.
Avoid arriving shortly before closing, as there is often a queue to play the most popular machines.
Closed on Mondays throughout the year.
No food or drink allowed near the machines; do not shake or tilt the machines excessively.
