Who said museums had to be stuffy places filled with boring placards and decades-old dioramas? That’s certainly not the case for this interactive museum in Idaho. In fact, this museum is home to the largest collection of pinball machines in all of Idaho…and yes, you can absolutely play them. This fun destination pays homage to all-things-retro so that future generations can experience the beauty of pinball for years to come!
Hiding in Garden City is an interactive "museum" that's throwing it back several decades. The Ugly Gold Couch Pinball Museum claims to have the largest collection of pinball machines in Idaho and you're welcome to come check 'em out!
Pinball machines were a staple of any arcade back in the retro game golden age. Unfortunately, they are getting harder and harder to find "out in the wild." That's exactly why the Ugly Gold Couch was created - to keep the spirit of pinball alive!
Home to more than 50 pinball machines and a variety of other nostalgic arcade games, you'll feel like you've struck the jackpot as you peruse the museum's eclectic collection.
The collection consists of several newer pinball machines with themes including Guardians of the Galaxy, Lord of the Rings, and Star Wars. However, most of the machines are from the 1970s and include classics like Space Invaders, Wizard!, Xenon, and Captain Fantastic.
Best of all, all of the machines are free-to-play...so leave your quarters at home! Playing on these vintage beauties is free, but consider leaving a donation so that the Ugly Gold Couch can continue to operate and get bigger and better.
The museum is open just a few times a month. You'll want to be sure to check their Facebook page to see when they'll be open next. Additionally, they regularly hold pinball tournaments that are open to all abilities and ages.
The Ugly Gold Couch is playing an important role in keeping pinball alive while also introducing new generations to this fantastic game. Are you ready to beat the high score?
