Sometimes less is more, and that adage is true even when applied to video games. Games like Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, and Halo have taken over the gaming scene, along with the consoles they’re played on. Sure, they’re a lot of fun, but they don’t quite offer the nostalgia that you can find in an arcade. Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and more were once the staples of quarter-fed entertainment, including the beloved pinball machine. When you visit the Asheville Pinball Museum, you can step into yesteryear and not only learn all about these iconic gaming machines, but play them, too! We’ve listed a few of the coolest, most unique pinball machines (and old-school video games) that you’ll find at the Asheville Pinball Museum. If you’re looking for even more to enjoy during your next visit to Western North Carolina, request access to our free Vacation Guide, and start planning an unforgettable trip!
7 of the Most Unique Finds at the Asheville Pinball Museum
1. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Help everyone’s favorite half-shell heroes take on Shredder when you play one of the coolest machines on display at the Asheville Pinball Museum. The artwork and game design will take you right back to your younger years!
2. X-Files
Whether you want to believe it or not, you can relive 90’s sci-fi glory when you play the X-Files pinball machine. Stunning design featuring popular elements from the television series make this machine as visually impressive as it is fun to play.
3. Donkey Kong
The classic showdown between an Italian plumber and enormous monkey (and those stinking barrels) was once a mainstay in arcades across the nation. These days, you’ll be lucky to actually find one – unless you visit the Asheville Pinball Museum, that is.
4. Roller Coaster Tycoon
Roller Coaster Tycoon has been a popular choice among PC gamers for years, but did you know that a pinball version of the game also exists? You probably won’t see many around, since the machine isn’t exactly cheap (they sell for several thousand dollars), but you’ll find this cool machine at the Asheville Pinball Museum, waiting for you to test your flipper finesse.
5. Area 51
If you visited any arcade 15-20 years ago, you more than likely spent a few quarters blasting aliens away while navigating through the levels of Area 51. Grab those plastic blasters, relive days (and pocket change) gone by, and play Area 51!
6. Earthshaker!
This vintage pinball machine lives up to its name – it actually shakes when you play it! The shaker motor inside adds to the fun (and difficulty) that makes this unique arcade machine one of the most fun to play.
7. 1942
Anyone who played 1942 will remember that it might have been a bit over-exaggerated compared to the real 1942 – but that doesn’t mean it wasn’t a ton of fun! Take to the sky and battle enemy air forces in this Capcom classic.
Stay at The Esmeralda Inn & Restaurant 
Located less than an hour from Asheville in beautiful Chimney Rock, NC, The Esmeralda Inn & Restaurant is your choice for the finest lodging in the area. Our property is brimming with rustic appeal, complemented by modern amenities and delicious dining, courtesy of Chef Polo and The Esmeralda Restaurant. Whether you stay in the Terrace King Room and enjoy the beautiful views and generous space it offers, or the cozy Rocky Broad River cabin and its jetted tub, you won’t find a better place to stay in the Asheville area.
To come replay all your favorite games and unwind at The Esmeralda, check our availability and book your stay today! We can’t wait to meet you!