Seattle's only Interactive Pinball Museum & Free-play Arcade!
Plan Your Visit to the Seattle Pinball Museum
Explore Seattle's Chinatown-International District (CID)
Looking for a fun and unique day in Seattle? Plan your visit to the Seattle Pinball Museum, located in the heart of the Chinatown-International District (CID)—one of the city’s most vibrant, historic neighborhoods that is also one of the oldest Asian American neighborhoods on the West Coast. Whether you're a local or visiting the Emerald City for the first time, CID is packed with things to do, places to eat, and cultural landmarks to explore—all within walking distance of our museum.
Things to Do in the Chinatown-International District
🎮 Start at the Seattle Pinball Museum
Play your way through decades of pinball history! With over 50 vintage and modern machines ranging from 1960's to the latest releases—all on free play with admission—it’s a hands-on arcade experience!
🍜 Savor the Local Flavor
CID is a foodie’s paradise. While you're here, make time to visit:
- Tai Tung Restaurant – Bruce Lee’s favorite dining spot and the oldest Chinese restaurant in Washington State. A Seattle cultural landmark!
- World Pizza – A local favorite for unique, delicious vegetarian slices.
- Uwajimaya – One of the largest Asian grocery and specialty stores in the region. Inside, don’t miss Kinokuniya Bookstore for Japanese books, manga, and collectibles.
- Local Game & Hobby Shops – Find rare models, video games, imports, and collectibles just steps away.
- Tea Culture – Whether you're into traditional loose leaf teas, or the latest in boba tea creations, CID offers a rich tea scene. Sip on handcrafted drinks at one of the neighborhood's many unique bubble tea shops or explore specialty tea stores that focus on ancient brewing traditions and wellness.
🏛️ Explore Local Museums & Landmarks
- Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience – A Smithsonian affiliate highlighting rich community stories.
- Historic Chinatown Gate – Snap a photo at this iconic landmark that marks the heart of the neighborhood.
- Hing Hay Park – A peaceful green space often used for community gatherings and performances.
- Kobe Terrace & the Danny Woo Community Garden – A hidden gem in the CID, this terraced garden and green space offers walking paths, city views, and a quiet place to enjoy nature. The garden features community plots, public art, and is an important cultural and ecological space maintained by local residents.
🎉 Events Year-Round
CID is alive with culture and celebration. Throughout the year, enjoy:
- Lunar New Year Parades
- Dragon Fest & Summer Food Walks
- Night Markets, Street Fairs, Block Parties, and Art Walks
- Watching Table Tennis, Regular performances and music in Hing Hay Park
These events often include food vendors, lion dances, music, and family-friendly entertainment—making it the perfect time to plan your visit.
⚾ Catch a Game
We're a short walk from Lumen Field (home of the Seahawks football team and Sounders soccer team) and T-Mobile Park (home of the Mariners baseball team). Make a day of it by visiting the museum before or after a game!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I purchase admission?
A: Admission can only be purchased upon entry on location. You may purchase Gift Cards online that can be used to purchase an entry wristband and other items but they do not guarantee immediate entry.
Q: How to BEST enjoy the new Pinball History Exhibit?
A: Make sure to bring fully charged headphones along with your smartphone, as we cannot accommodate charging your electronics for you, and permission to scan QR Codes is ON in your device settings.
Q: What forms of payment do you accept?
A: Admission, souvenirs, snacks, soda and beer can all be purchased with cash or any major credit or debit card as long as the card is presented with a matching valid ID. We also accept Apple Pay, Google Wallet and other NFC Payment methods. We can also accept Square and Cash App to pay by QR Code.
Q: When are you open?
A: We are open Thursday through Monday from 12:00 pm until 6:00 pm except for specific holidays (New Years Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day) and on occasion special events which will be listed here on our website, our social media and on Google.
Q: What is the age limit?
A: Our age limit is 7 years of age and older and must be accompanied by an adult the entire time. This is because we find that Children under 7 have a hard time remembering the rules we have for safety of your young ones, other patrons our staff and equipment.
Q: When are the last admissions?
A: We allow admission until 5:00 pm at which point we lock our doors to make sure you have enough time to play plenty of games before we close for the evening. We currently do not have discounts for latecomers so come early to get the most out of your experience!
Q: How long can we stay?
A: You are allowed to stay from open to close! Wristbands are good for all day. So the earlier you get here the more time you have.
Q: Are you allowed to leave and come back later?
A: YES! A wristband is good for all day! However if you leave and we are at capacity you will have to go on a waiting list before re-entry.
Q: What is the wait list?
A: If we are very busy and hit building capacity we implement a first come first serve waiting list. If you leave for a short time (such as paying for extended parking or a phone call) we will hold your space. If you leave for longer than 10 minutes you may have to be placed on the wait list upon your return, don't worry, your wait will likely be 30 minutes or less and there's lots of cool shops in the neighborhood.
Q: Are there Reservations?
A: No. Every admission is on a first come first serve basis. So if you are planning on coming with 5 or more people, on a holiday weekend or when schools are on a break, come early or on a weekday to avoid the wait list.
Q: Whats should we do if we want to bring a large group?
A: Definitely come early! Also feel free to reach out to us via email Info@SeattlePinballMuseum.com or phone (206) 623-0759 and let us know you're coming, although we can't reserve space, it is much appreciated and we'll do what we can to accommodate your group.
Q: Do you rent the museum for parties?
A: We do rent our space for larger private parties outside of our normal business hours. Please See our events page and contact info for further information
Q: Are Infants allowed?
A: Yes! Infants and toddlers are allowed so long as they are in a carrying pack and kept on you at all times. Also they are of course not charged admission.
Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Pets are unfortunately Not Allowed. As much as we Love our fluffy friends besides our employee, Rocky the pinball dog, we do not allow pets in the pinball museum, primarily for their safety.
Q: Is there Parking?
A: There is ample pay parking lots within a block or two in addition to limited street parking with a 2 hour limit.
Q: Is it easy to get there with public transport?
A: Yes! We are two blocks away from The International district/China Town Bus and Train Station. With trolly and bus stops even closer!
Q: Are there restaurants in the area?
A: Yes! We are surrounded by some amazing restaurants. We highly recommend Tai Tung located just around the corner from us and is the longest operating Chinese restaurant in Seattle. As well as World Pizza with some fantastic vegetarian pizza. There is also Uwajimaya Market and food court if you want a variety of options. If you have something specific in mind feel free to ask our staff while you're here.
Q: Do you allow outside food or drinks?
A: We do not allow outside food or beverages to be consumed inside of the museum. If you have outside food or drink that can be stored safely inside a pocket or bag you may bring it in, but is not allowed to be opened inside due to Washington State LCB laws and regulations.