Chicago’s Only Pinball Museum Moving From Pilsen To The Loop This Summer
Block Club Chicago • • technology
Key Points:
- The Flip: Chicago’s Playable Pinball Museum, the city’s only pinball-focused museum, will open this summer at Block 37 in the Loop, featuring over 30 playable machines and exhibits on pinball history.
- The new museum space will expand from 550 square feet in Pilsen to 2,900 square feet downtown, with ticketed admission replacing the previous free entry, though pricing has not yet been announced.
- Founder William Pietri, inspired by his experience volunteering at a Bay Area pinball museum, aims to celebrate Chicago’s rich pinball heritage, noting the city’s historical role as the industry’s heart and home to major manufacturers like Stern Pinball.
- The resurgence of pinball is highlighted by growing competitive leagues and industry expansions, such as Stern Pinball’s facility upgrade in Elk Grove, reflecting renewed interest across generations.
- The museum seeks to attract tourists, families, and pinball enthusiasts alike, offering an interactive, educational experience that emphasizes pinball’s tactile appeal and cultural significance.