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Pinball and beer in Illinois

A cold beer in one hand and a pinball plunger in the other is the ideal way to spend a few hours.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Garage Band Brewing image 1
Garage Band Brewing image 2
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Wide open space with huge bar and patio seating creates a welcoming environment. Live music and pinball machines add lively entertainment. The atmosphere is comfortable and often crowded on weekends with a friendly, relaxed vibe.

Pinball machines add a fun vibe alongside darts. Friendly staff make playing more enjoyable.

Fresh beer with a very good selection makes it easy to find favorites. Knowledgeable staff offer great recommendations and create a friendly vibe.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beer and solid options."

"They planned my party with exceptional attention to detail."

"They had pinball machines available for enjoyment."

Good to know

1

Garage Band Brewing hosts Yahtzee night every Wednesday at 7pm.

2

You can bring your pets to Garage Band Brewing, both inside and outside.

3

The brewery allows outside food, so you can bring BBQ from the nearby restaurant.

02
Rock Island Public House image 1

Wall of pinball machines and a large beer garden create a lively, inviting atmosphere. Unique decor like a bike wheel chandelier and eclectic wall art add character. Separate kitchen supports a menu known for exceptional Detroit-style pizza and standout cocktails.

Free pinball plays on Wednesdays and Sundays attract regulars. The spot hosts pinball tournaments twice a month and features a lively atmosphere with an old jukebox and good specials.

Craft beers dominate the taps with a huge selection of local brews and seasonal cocktails. Draft options impress with variety, focusing on craft and local beers rather than larger brands.

People are saying

"They have an awesome selection of craft beers on tap."

"The patio is huge and great for games."

"You can play free pinball on Wednesdays."

Good to know

1

Dungeons & Dragons sessions are hosted regularly; check the schedule for details.

2

Free pinball is available on Wednesdays and Sundays, along with tournaments twice a month.

3

They have a weekly collaboration for a one-night-only dish and drink pairing.

03
Crafted 1979 Bottle Shop & Tap Room image 1

Small, quaint space combines pinball machines with a well-stocked tap room for a relaxed, fun vibe. Warm, inviting atmosphere feels like home, drawing a mix of beer enthusiasts and casual visitors. Unique single-can sales and a strong bourbon and stout selection set it apart.

A great collection of pinball machines fills the space, offering lots of games to play and hang out. The interior features unique seating areas alongside the machines.

A wide selection of high quality beers fills the taps and shelves. The spot offers an awesome variety of fresh beer and serves as a true destination for craft beer enthusiasts.

People are saying

"I found a great selection of beer and bourbon here."

"I found the pinball selection to be a great spot for trying new games."

"It's a welcoming neighborhood spot with a relaxed vibe."

Good to know

1

They have fun theme nights throughout the week.

2

Dogs are welcome inside the building.

3

There is a good sandwich shop next door if you're hungry.

04
Nik & Ivy Brewing Company image 1

Brewery offers a chill vibe with live music and well-maintained pinball machines. Space supports family-friendly atmosphere with kids playing games nearby. Beer selection includes unique craft brews not commonly found at small breweries.

Three pinball machines sit on the right side, all in great condition and costing $1 per game. Machines rotate regularly, keeping the selection fresh for players of all ages.

Craft beers feature prominently with a good selection of taps that rotate regularly. The 1853 Orange Creme Ale stands out for its balanced orange and vanilla flavors, offering a refreshing taste.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the delicious craft beer here."

"The pinball machines here are in great condition and cost $1."

"The pinball machines here are always in top-notch condition."

Good to know

1

Nik & Ivy Brewing Company hosts live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights.

2

Tickets for the comedy show on February 13th, 2026, are available for purchase now.

3

Free parking is often available nearby, but it can be limited during busy hours.

05
Phase Three Brewing - Lake Zurich image 1

Brewery occupies a smaller industrial space with large outdoor patio and modern decor. Atmosphere feels family-friendly and lively, featuring live music, pinball machines, and video games. Beers, especially stouts, receive high praise for quality and uniqueness.

Foo Fighters Pinball stands out among the machines. A dedicated area has pinball machines and video game consoles with tables and bench seating nearby for breaks.

Craft beers feature crisp lagers, hoppy IPAs, smooth stouts, and complex sours with well-balanced flavors and fresh ingredients. The lineup includes standout brews like Burger Boy and Terrazzo IPAs, plus a house-made root beer on tap for non-alcoholic options.

People are saying

"I thought the beer was excellent and amazing."

"I found the haunted event to be super fun."

"You can grab a beer and play pinball here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour pricing is available before 5 PM on weekdays.

2

The event costs $50 for three pours plus a welcome pour.

3

You can bring your own food or order from a nearby restaurant.

06
Hailstorm Brewing Co image 1

Large open space with live music stages and 20 pinball machines creates a lively atmosphere. Comfortable seating and a quiet outdoor patio offer options for relaxation. The venue welcomes groups and families, blending kid-friendly entertainment with craft beer enjoyment.

About 20 pinball machines spread throughout the brewery offer plenty of options. A couple of machines make it kid-friendly and add a fun touch to the visit.

A wide selection of craft beers brewed on premises offers options for every palate. The beers are consistently tasty and great, pairing well with snacks like pretzels with beer cheese.

People are saying

"I thought the beer here was great."

"I thought the food here was awesome."

"They had plenty of pinball games available to play."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Oktoberfest event occurs annually in October; check for specific dates.

3

Parking can be challenging, so arrive early to secure a spot.

07
Mikerphone Brewing image 1

Music-themed brewery with pinball machines, dog-friendly environment, and a decorated tap room featuring old guitars and vinyl. Outdoor patio offers space for casual conversation, though it lacks shade. Atmosphere shifts from relaxing to lively during concerts and trivia nights.

Lots of pinball machines fill a cool side room alongside darts and shuffleboard. The spot offers a relaxed vibe for drinks and pinball away from crowds.

Selection covers all brewing styles from east to west coast with Hazies, stouts, and Weiss beers. Bourbon barrel aged stouts and great IPAs stand out among the variety of tap beers.

People are saying

"The beer here is fantastic and thoughtfully brewed."

"This place is dog friendly, I saw cool dogs here."

"I found a cool side room with many pinball machines."

Good to know

1

Live events are held year-round at Mikerphone Brewing.

2

Food trucks frequently serve local food alongside their beer.

3

Parking can be challenging on busy days due to the industrial area.

08
Global Brew Tap House image 1

Industrial space with huge cozy seating and a spacious patio featuring garage doors that open inside. The vibe is welcoming and lively, with board games, darts, shuffleboard, and pinball adding to the energy. Dog-friendly atmosphere attracts groups for casual drinks and socializing.

Multiple pinball machines sit alongside board games, darts, shuffleboard, and slots. The setup invites casual play and competition.

An eye wateringly massive selection of beers fills both taps and fridges, featuring craft beers from all over the world. Friendly staff offer great recommendations and know their craft beer well.

People are saying

"The beer selection here is eye-wateringly massive."

"You can host your next event with your own food and decorations."

"I played pinball here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required for events, and you can bring your own food.

2

The bar serves only tacos and pizza, so plan accordingly for meals.

3

Expect high drink prices; a few drinks can lead to a hefty bill.

09
DMen Tap image 1
Bar & grill

Small, eclectic bar with D&D themed decor and nerdy misfit toys creates a playful, quirky atmosphere. Back room offers pinball, video games, and tabletop RPGs, adding a quieter hangout space. Music leans toward metal and punk, complementing the divey, dark vibe.

A few well cared for pinball machines sit in a quieter back room alongside classic games. Free play on pinball adds to the great hangout atmosphere created by the game room setup.

A killer beer selection includes a variety of craft beers, meads, and wines. Options range from IPAs like the Ninja vs Unicorn DIPA to sour beers, all served in a casual, lively setting.

People are saying

"This bar has such a fun vibe and cool decor."

"They have a great selection of craft beers and meads."

"The German street food, especially the currywurst, was incredible."

Good to know

1

DMen Tap offers a variety of vegan options on their menu.

2

Expect to pay around $30 for a meal, which may feel pricey.

3

They host monthly hardware synth events that are popular.

10
Riverbend Axe and Games - East Alton image 1

Bar combines axe throwing with interactive digital games in a family-friendly and laid-back atmosphere. Space feels clean and inviting, with room to move even when busy. Energy shifts from relaxed to lively during competitions, welcoming groups and solo players alike.

A wide selection of pinball games offers plenty of options to play. The games are super fun and add to the lively atmosphere.

A great selection of beers fills the bar alongside seltzers and non-alcoholic drinks. Cold beer pairs well with activities like axe throwing here.

People are saying

"It's a fun place to hang out and throw axes."

"They had a great selection of cold beer."

"It's a great place for date night or family night."

Good to know

1

Prices are very affordable, typically under $30 per person.

2

Private events and corporate gatherings can be booked.

3

The venue is suitable for large groups or solo players.

11
Rec Haus image 1

Bright, open space filled with many TVs showing sports and a self-pour beer wall offering a wide selection. Atmosphere is fun and lively, with pinball, mini golf, and games for all ages. Energy suits groups, families, and casual outings, blending entertainment with a social vibe.

A wide selection of brand new pinball machines sits alongside other games like skee ball and basketball. The pinball games are well maintained and even feature a leaderboard to track high scores.

Self-pour beer wall offers an extensive selection of local brews with payment by the ounce. Flights and glasses let you try different beers at your own pace.

People are saying

"The beer wall lets you try so many local brews by the ounce."

"The bar staff are super friendly and accommodating."

"The Pinball games here are super fun."

Good to know

1

Bingo nights happen every Wednesday at Rec Haus.

2

Rec Haus is family-friendly during the day and adults-only at night.

3

Drinks and food are served quickly, even when busy.

12
Kristof's Entertainment Center image 1

Amusement center combines bowling lanes, arcade games, and a bar area under one roof. Atmosphere feels family-friendly and playful, with busy, lively energy. Activities include mini golf, go-karts, and billiards, offering variety for all ages.

A fantastic collection of pinball machines includes TMNT, Venom, Toy Story, and Deadpool, with all Sterns connected to Insider. Machines stay well maintained and are tucked into a quiet corner, making it a great spot for pinball enthusiasts.

Great beer selection offers a variety of choices. The bar keeps a kid-free atmosphere, making it easy to enjoy a few beers and open a tab.

People are saying

"Our party host, Max, handled every detail and made it memorable."

"I loved playing pinball here; there were tons of machines."

"I thought the beer was awesome."

Good to know

1

Thursdays are half price arcade day from 3 to 9 pm.

2

The party area is clean and ready upon arrival.

3

The mini golf course costs $10 and is well-maintained.

13
Replay Lincoln Park image 1

Bar combines retro arcade games and rotating themed pop-ups for a lively, nostalgic vibe. Atmosphere blends club energy with casual gaming, attracting fans of classic pinball and video games. Attention to detail in decor and themed cocktails creates a unique, immersive experience.

A killer selection of retro pinball machines sits alongside classic arcade games, mostly free to play with no tokens needed. Machines are well-maintained, though some flippers stick occasionally, adding to the authentic arcade vibe.

An excellent beer selection includes a rotating craft lineup with stiff pours. The spot pairs beer well with old-school arcade and pinball games.

People are saying

"The arcade games here are free and totally a blast."

"The staff here is super nice and friendly."

"You can grab a beer and play all the classic arcade games."

Good to know

1

Themed events, like Taylor Swift night, happen regularly and are very popular.

2

Most arcade games are free to play while you are drinking.

3

Bring cash for arcade games as some machines may not accept cards.

14
Bottom Lounge image 1
Live music venue

Small, intimate live music venue with a speakeasy vibe and excellent sound quality. Space feels cozy but includes a pillar that blocks some views and no seating inside the music hall. Crowd energy is lively, with a fun bar atmosphere upstairs and re-entry allowed for fresh air.

Large bar area features several pinball machines alongside a concert venue. Staff and patrons often share pinball knowledge, creating a fun atmosphere for playing.

A great beer selection includes craft beers on draft, cans, cider, and hard seltzer. Prices stay reasonable with options available both in the front restaurant and a small bar near the concert area.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and reasonably priced."

"I loved the amazing beer selection here."

"The staff here is so friendly and professional, and they have pinball!"

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; arrive early to secure a spot in the free lot.

2

Bottom Lounge hosts weddings and private events in their upstairs space.

3

The venue is wheelchair accessible, making it friendly for disabled visitors.

15
Twisted Pin image 1
Bowling alley

Modern bowling alley offers high-tech lanes with arcade games and a pour-your-own bar. Atmosphere feels fun and inviting, suitable for families and events with a VIP area. Food includes notable pizza and fries, complementing the lively setting.

The arcade features Jurassic Park and Godzilla games that kids enjoy. The game room stays clean and fun with staff engaging players through games and prizes.

A self-serve beer wall offers easy access to a variety of brews. The pour your own section adds a fun, interactive touch to the beer experience.

People are saying

"The staff here makes bowling feel so welcoming and friendly."

"The food here is amazing, especially the burrito bowl."

"The pinball staff are super awesome and friendly."

Good to know

1

Twisted Pin charges by time for bowling instead of per game.

2

Reservations are required for large groups in VIP lanes.

3

Expect higher prices for food and drinks compared to other venues.

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