Flipping Out: How America’s Pinball Scene is Bouncing Back

Pinball isn’t just a relic of smoky arcades and 1970s diners. No, it’s experiencing a full-scale revival. Across the U.S., from intimate basement tournaments to high-stakes national championships, the game is thriving like never before. Pinball arcades are making a comeback, tournaments are drawing bigger crowds, and new generations of players are discovering the thrill of the silver ball.

With historic pinball spots in cities like Indianapolis, Chicago, and Portland, competitive pinball is a growing phenomenon fueled by passionate players and dedicated venues.

Indianapolis: A Midwest Pinball Powerhouse

Indianapolis has quietly become a hotspot for competitive pinball, boasting some of the best venues and tournaments in the country. Tappers Arcade Bar, a local favorite, offers a curated selection of classic and modern pinball machines, while Fountain Square Pinball provides players with a deep lineup of machines in a relaxed setting.

The Indianapolis Pinball League hosts regular competitions, drawing local and regional talent. Meanwhile, major events like the Indiana State Pinball Championship showcase top-tier competition, with players battling it out on machines ranging from vintage Bally classics to the latest Stern releases.

Chicago: The Birthplace of Pinball

No discussion of American pinball is complete without mentioning Chicago, where the industry was born. Home to legendary manufacturers like Williams, Bally, and Stern, the Windy City remains a mecca for pinball enthusiasts.

Logan Arcade and Emporium Arcade Bar are two of Chicago’s top pinball locations, offering a mix of vintage and cutting-edge machines. The city also hosts the Pinball Expo, one of the largest annual gatherings of players, collectors, and designers in the world. If you want to see where the sport’s past and future collide, Chicago is the place to be.

Portland: The West Coast’s Pinball Capital

On the other side of the country, Portland, Oregon, has one of the strongest pinball scenes in America. The city is home to an impressive number of dedicated pinball bars, including Ground Kontrol and QuarterWorld, where players can experience everything from electromechanical classics to the newest releases.

The Portland Pinball League is one of the most competitive in the nation, and the city frequently hosts IFPA (International Flipper Pinball Association) sanctioned events, where top players earn points toward global rankings.

Competitive Pinball Is Bigger Than Ever

The rise of streaming platforms and online leaderboards has pushed pinball into the esports realm, allowing players to follow tournaments and track global rankings in real time. Events like Pinburgh (Pittsburgh) and the IFPA World Championship now feature big prize pools and international competitors, proving that competitive pinball is no longer just a niche hobby.

Whether you’re a casual flipper or a competitive wizard, there’s never been a better time to dive into the world of pinball.