Chicago Illinois is a city that offers something for everyone, and for pinball and arcade fans, it's a veritable paradise. The Windy City is home to some of the best pinball and arcade spots in the country, with a wide variety of options that cater to all tastes and skill levels. From classic arcades to modern barcades, and from vintage pinball machines to the latest and greatest games, Chicago has it all.

For pinball enthusiasts, Chicago is particularly special as it's home to almost all of the major pinball manufacturers like Stern, Jersey Jack, American Pinball and others, meaning that you'll find some of the newest and most exciting games here before they hit other cities. It's also the city where pinball started its journey many years ago. Bally, Williams, and Gottlieb all once called Chicago their home.

But it's not just the new games that make the Chicago pinball scene so great - the city is also home to a number of world-class pinball arcades and bars that showcase the history and evolution of the game. Some of the most notable places for pinball in Chicago include Logan Arcade, Galloping Ghost Pinball, and Prince Arcades.

Without further ado, here's our guide to the best pinball arcades in and around Chicago.

Galloping Ghost Pinball Arcade

Why You Should Play Pinball at Galloping Ghost

If you’re looking for the pinball paradise of Chicagoland, this is your ultimate destination. Galloping Ghost Pinball in Brookfield, Illinois boasts the most pinball machines on location in the entire area! As a pinball focused outpost of Galloping Ghost Arcade, they offer an incredible variety of over forty two games all available on free play with just a $20 admission fee. Moreover, various membership options provide even greater value to the eager gamer; whether it’s weekly, monthly, yearly or even lifetime passes, they have something to suit every budget and style. Plus their selection of rare and classic titles including Joust (Williams), The X-Files (Sega) and Caveman (Gottlieb), means you can discover something new and exciting. But be warned - there's no bar or food here! Instead, walk next door to Danny's Italian Pizza & Beef when you get hungry.

Galloping Ghost Address

9213 Ogden Ave

Brookfield, IL 60513

Pinball Machines at Galloping Ghost

42

Logan Arcade

Why You Should Play Pinball at Logan Arcade

Logan Arcade in Chicago, Illinois is a must-visit for any pinball enthusiast. Home to 35 machines and counting that range from the latest Stern Pinball games to classics like Centigrade 37, Radical!, and Robocop, Logan Arcade has something for everyone. Logan Arcade proudly boasts three TWIPY awards for "Best Pinball Location" in the U.S., making it one of if not the best Pinball Bar in the country! With regular game release parties, tournaments, and other fun events, Logan Arcade ensures a great experience no matter what your skill level may be. All pinball machines are very well-maintained - especially for a public location - so you can feel confident regardless of what machine you choose. What's more, Logan Arcade also has a few retro arcade games on offer so there's definitely something for everyone here - just remember that Logan Arcade is strictly 21+ only!

Logan Arcade Address

2410 W Fullerton Ave

Chicago, IL 60647

Pinball Machines at Logan Arcade

35

Headquarters Beercade - River North

Why You Should Play Pinball at Headquarters Beercade - River North

Headquarters Beercade Chicago is the Windy City's outpost of a growing chain of pinball bars (see also, Nashville), with an amazing selection of 32 pinball machines. They cover all eras, from Bally's Eight Ball to Stern's Game of Thrones and Sega's Space Jam, offering something for everyone. Headquarters Beercade also features a full bar and elevated pub food options like pizza, burgers, and tacos - not to mention retro arcade games, skee ball, and other gaming favorites! With a unique and heavily decorated atmosphere, Headquarters Beercade Chicago is the perfect place to hang out for a few pints and some pins. Chicago pinball fans will certainly feel at home here!

Headquarters Beercade - River North Address

213 W Institute Pl

Chicago, IL 60610

Pinball Machines at Headquarters Beercade - River North Address

32

Enterrium

Why You Should Play Pinball at Enterrium

Enterrium is a one-of-a-kind pinball arcade that has something for everyone. With 25 pinball machines on site, Enterrium has games like Stern's Kiss, American Pinball's Houdini, and Bally's Paragon. Enterrium is also a massive complex with retro and modern arcade games, bowling, food, drinks and more. Enterrium is a family friendly option for your pinball and gaming needs, as kids are always welcome.

Enterrium Address

2 Woodfield Mall

Schaumburg, IL 60173

Pinball Machines at Enterrium

25

Replay Lincoln Park

Why You Should Play Pinball at Replay Lincoln Park

Replay Lincoln Park in Chicago is the place to be for adult arcade fans who are looking for a night of fun and drinks with friends. Much more than just a pinball arcade, Replay also offers retro arcade games, skee ball, DDR, air hockey, and more. And don't worry about digging up quarters -- almost all the games are free play if you purchase a drink! Replay's 22 pinball machines include everything from Stern's Batman 66 to Creature from the Black Lagoon to Lord of the Rings. Replay Lincoln Park is guaranteed to give you a unique and unforgettable experience.

Replay Lincoln Park Address

2833 North Sheffield Ave

Chicago, IL 60657

Pinball Machines at Replay Lincoln Park

22

Emporium Logan Square

Why You Should Play Pinball at Emporium Logan Square

Emporium Logan Square in Chicago Illinios is an adult-only playland that combines the best of gaming and entertainment. As one of the top pinball barcades in the city, Emporium features sixteen classic machines, ranging from underrated favorites like Baywatch and Breakshot to out-and-proud fan choices like White Water and World Cup Soccer. Besides pinball, Emporium also offers foosball tables, air hockey, Super Chexx bubble hockey, arcade basketball and more for adult gamers looking for an ultimate pastime experience.

Emporium hosts tournaments for those looking for a more competitive edge, so keep your eyes peeled if you're ready to take your skills to the next level! Emporium has a great selection of craft beers and cocktails, but it's important to note that you won't find any food here - you'll have to bring your own if you're looking for a snack. Overall Emporium Logan Square is a great spot for 21+ adults looking to tap into their inner child while enjoying a tasty beverage or two!

Emporium Logan Square Address

2363 N Milwaukee Ave

Chicago, IL 60647

Pinball Machines at Emporium Logan Square

16

Prince Arcades

Why You Should Play Pinball at Prince Arcades

Prince Arcades in Bolingbrook, Illinois is a great place to get your retro gaming fix. With 10 pinball machines and a ton of classic arcade games, it's perfect for anyone looking for a dose of nostalgia. The focus at Prince Arcades is solely on the games; there's no bar or restaurant here. That said, it's one of the few places where you can get that full retro mall arcade experience, as it's located in an open-air shopping center. Best of all, games are on free play with a $15 admission fee. So if you're in the Chicago area and are looking for a great place to bring the family (or just want to relive your childhood), Prince Arcades is the perfect spot.

Prince Arcades Address

639 East Boughton Road

Bolingbrook, IL 60440

Pinball Machines at Prince Arcades

10

Yetee Station

Why You Should Play Pinball at Yetee Station

Yetee Station in Aurora, Illinois is the perfect place to enjoy some classic arcade games. With 10 pinball machines on site, as well as a wide selection of retro video games and dance and rhythm games like Jubeat and Guitar Freaks, there's something for everyone to enjoy. And because all of the games are on free play with a $15 admission fee, you can come and go as you please throughout the day. Yetee Station is also a great place to bring the family and children, as the games are kept in pristine condition so you're almost guaranteed to have a good experience playing here.

Yetee Station Address

11 N Broadway

Aurora, IL 60505

Pinball Machines at Yetee Station

10

Emporium Wicker Park

Why You Should Play Pinball at Emporium Wicker Park

Emporium Wicker Park in Chicago IL is the perfect spot for adults seeking a gaming fiesta. This barcade offers not only an impressive array of 9 different pinball machines (including rare models like Chicago Cubs Triple Play and Austin Powers) but also an exciting selection of other classic arcade games like air hockey and foosball. Emporium does not have any food onsite, however you’re welcomed to bring in your own snacks! And, with a full bar there’s plenty of options to enhance your gaming experience even further. Emporium Wicker Park has all the ingredients for a fun night out in Chicago so come and check out what this pinball arcade has to offer!

Emporium Wicker Park Address

1366 North Milwaukee Ave

Chicago, IL 60622

Pinball Machines at Emporium Wicker Park

9

Bottom Lounge

Why You Should Play Pinball at Bottom Lounge

Bottom Lounge in Chicago is the ultimate spot for lovers of live music and pinball. Immerse yourself in 9 different pinball machines, including a lineup of unique titles like Bobby Orr's Power Play, The Champion Pub, and Bugs Bunny's Birthday Ball. Bottom Lounge stands out among Chicago’s pinball arcades as it doubles as a live music venue—so you can catch some indie tunes and shoot some silverball too. Bottom Lounge isn’t just a pinball and live music outpost though—they also have a full bar and restaurant to satisfy all your entertainment and sustenance needs. But be warned: Bottom Lounge is 21+ only, so leave the kiddos at home!

Bottom Lounge Address

1375 W Lake St.

Chicago, IL 60607

Pinball Machines at Bottom Lounge

9

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Chicago pinball players - did we miss anything good? Drop us a line and let us know!