Where can you go for some great gaming in Las Vegas? Many would be quick to think of the Strip, but there's a hidden gem along Tropicana Blvd about 2 miles south of the Strip known as the Pinball Hall of Fame that caters to gamers old and young with a collection of antiquated as well as much newer pinball machines. The Pinball Hall of Fame offers a collection of 200 plus pinball machines that provides hours of vintage entertainment.
Best and worst time to go to the Pinball Hall of Fame
As there are no weather concerns to be had when visiting the Pinball Hall of Fame, the big thing to consider is crowds. It is best to plan your Hall of Fame visit in the middle of the day on a school day to cut down on crowds. Early evening on a Friday or mid-afternoon on Saturdays are the times to avoid.
Must see at the Pinball Hall of Fame
As a bit of nostalgia, there is an entire row of 1950 and 1960 era cabinets that beg to be played.
Admission to the Pinball Hall of Fame
The Pinball Hall of Fame has no admission, though each game does require quarters to play. Machines range anywhere from $.25 to $1 to play and the establishment offers change machines right by the main entrance.
Parking and public transportation to the Pinball Hall of Fame
Parking for the Hall of Fame is located directly outside the building. Access to the lot can be found off of Tropicana Blvd. A bus terminal at Tropicana and Spencer is only a few minutes walk from the establishment.
Food at the Pinball Hall of Fame
If you think you will get hungry during your outing to the Hall of Fame, it's best to bring a sandwich as, beyond a popcorn machine, there isn't any on-site dining.
Insider tip for visitors to the Pinball Hall of Fame
If you're looking to make your dollar last, newer machines based off of film franchises will generally cost a lot more than the more classic cabinets. Some of the older games also implement unique facets, such as utilizing magnets to create the effects of gravitational orbit.
Author's bio: Mark is a Vegas local and freelance writer with expertise in Las Vegas nightlife, entertainment, and video gaming. Contact Mark and see more of his work at Prototype Freelancing.
The National Bowling Stadium is a 363,000-square-foot, 78 lane professional stadium right in the center of downtown Reno. It's 80-foot round aluminum ball on the exterior can be seen for miles and it has the longest display video screen in the world-440 feet. The stadium also includes a pro shop, club and a 172-seat theater. The stadium is open to professional teams and tournaments and when there are no tournaments, it's open to amateur bowlers.
National Bowling Stadium parking
There is a parking garage and a parking lot available for the stadium. During events, the garage and lot tends to fill up but visitors may park in the parking garages of various casinos like the Silver Legacy, Eldorado Hotel & Casino and Harrah's Hotel Reno for free.
Hotels near the National Bowling Stadium
The stadium is right in the middle of downtown Reno and just steps away from hotel casinos like the Silver Legacy, Eldorado Hotel & Casino, Circus-Circus Hotel & Casino and Harrah's Hotel Reno.
Seating at the National Bowling Stadium
There is seating across the entire back of the stadium for tournaments and public viewing. If you are in a tournament, there are various seating options including dining tables for your team.
Food at the National Bowling Stadium
There is one restaurant and bar in the stadium. The Stadium Club features a full service bar, a large screen TV, pool table and a view of downtown. Since the stadium is downtown, within 5-10 minutes you can be at dozens of casino restaurants or local restaurants and bars.
Beer at the National Bowling Stadium
Beer and other drinks can be purchased at the Stadium Club bar. Drinks can be taken to the lanes or back to the seating areas.
What to bring to the National Bowling Stadium
Since the tournaments are held indoors, there is no need to bring a sweater or jacket in the winter-unless you plan to walk to the local casinos. Binoculars might be a good idea if you are seated in the back rows of the stadium.
Insider tip for the National Bowling Stadium
If you are in a larger group (50+), you can rent the Kingpin Club for your next party. It has 10 professional lanes, a full bar, HD screen TVs and a hip environment. The 172-seat theater can also be rented for parties and private events.
Author's bio: Christina Nellemann has been living and writing in the Reno area for decades and has bowled one strike at the National Bowling Stadium.