Best Places to Play Pinball in San Diego, California

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Best Places to Play Pinball in San Diego, California
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Best Places to Play Pinball in San Diego, California
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Best Places to Play Pinball in San Diego, California
Published on
October 31, 2022
Updated on
May 2, 2024
Read time:
4
minutes

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San Diego. Mmmm. Drink it in. The greatest city in the history of mankind. Discovered by the Germans in 1904, they named it Saaan Dieaago which of course in German means, "A Whale's Vagina".

Ok I'm sorry. I'm writing on the internet about San Diego and feel obligated to make an Anchorman reference. Moving on.

San Diego is big. Like all of lower California big. Yes, that's an exaggeration but it is still a pretty darn big city. This means there are a lot of places to play pinball in San Diego. Over 60 active San Diego pinball locations with games on site, to be precise.

So where should you go to get your pinball fix in San Diego, Mankind's Finest City? We tend to focus on locations where you can get the most bang for your quarters, which typically means they need to have more than a single machine on location unless that location happens to be the private vacation residence of Gary Stern himself, but that's just not a realistic expectation, is it.

Anyway! Here are some of the best places to play pinball in San Diego:

The Best Places to Play Pinball in San Diego, California

Dyno Bar (at the Aero Club)

dyno bar pinball san diego

Why You Should Play Pinball at Dyno Bar (Aero Club)

Dyno Bar is the perfect place to get your fill of classic pinball machine action in San Diego. Located at 3367 India St., Dyno Bar features more than a dozen pinball machines on location, making it the perfect spot for a quick game or an all-day session. Dyno Bar is also home to sister property, the popular Aero Club, and is open 7 days a week from 2pm - 2am. To get to Dyno Bar, simply walk through the arch located within the Aero Club. In addition to pinball, Dyno Bar also features classic arcade games and pool tables. So whether you're in the mood for some friendly competition or just want to relax with a beer in hand, Dyno Bar is the place for you.

Dyno Bar (at the Aero Club) Address

3367 India St

San Diego, CA 92103

Pinball Machines

13

Fat Joe's

the pinball machine selection at Fat Joes san diego

Why You Should Play Pinball at Fat Joe's

Fat Joe's Kitchen & Arcade in Oceanside offers a vibrant pinball experience, featuring a selection of 10 different games. Some notable titles include Elvira and the Party Monsters, Ghostbusters, and James Bond 007. Fat Joe's in Oceanside is a delightful destination for families and arcade enthusiasts, known for its delicious American cuisine featuring favorites like jalapeno bacon cheeseburgers and supreme pizza. The relaxed, friendly atmosphere, coupled with an array of entertaining arcade games, makes it a popular local hangout. Its pet-friendly policy and outdoor seating add to its appeal, making it a must-visit spot for both locals and travelers

Fat Joes Address

424 S Coast Hwy

Oceanside, CA 92054

Pinball Machines

10

Coin-Op Game Room, Gaslamp

coin op game room gaslamp san diego pinball location

Why You Should Play Pinball at Coin-Op Game Room, Gaslamp

Coin-Op Game Room in San Diego's historic Gaslamp Quarter is the perfect place to indulge your inner child - or meet new friends who are just as excited about pinball as you are. With nine machines on site, ranging from classic games like "The Addams Family" to more modern offerings like "Guardians of the Galaxy", there's something for everyone. And if pinball isn't your thing, Coin-Op also features classic arcade games, dance-dance revolution, arcade-style basketball games, skee-ball and more. The best part? The first Sunday of every month is free play day, so you can enjoy all your favorite games without spending a dime.

Coin-Op Game Room, Gaslamp Address

789 Sixth Ave

San Diego, CA 92101

Pinball Machines at the Coin-Op Game Room, Gaslamp

9

Brewski's Bar & Arcade

brewski's bar and arcade pinball san diego ca

Why You Should Play Pinball at Brewski's Bar & Arcade

Brewski's Bar & Arcade is the perfect place to enjoy a frosty beer and some classic arcade games. This hidden gem is located in North San Diego, and it features eight pinball machines, a spacious patio, and a wide selection of cocktails, craft beer, and wine. The barcade also offers a variety of bar food, sandwiches, and breakfast items on Football Sundays. In addition to pinball, Brewski's features classic arcade games, air hockey, pool tables, and arcade beer pong. Whether you're looking for a low-key night out or a fun-filled evening with friends, Brewski's is the perfect spot. So grab a beer and your quarters, and get ready to have a blast at Brewski's Bar & Arcade.

Brewski's Bar & Arcade Address

8670 Miramar Road

San Diego, CA 92126

Pinball Machines

8

Coin-Op Game Room, North Park

coin op game room north park pinball san diego ca

Why You Should Play Pinball at Coin-Op Game Room, North Park

Coin-Op Game Room North Park is a barcade located in San Diego's trendy North Park neighborhood. The barcade is part of the slowly expanding Coin-Op Game Room empire and features 5 pinball machines like Stern's Rush and Godzilla, classic arcade games like The Simpsons and NBA Jam, and fighting games like Mortal Kombat II. In addition to drinks and food options like cocktails, local craft beer and shared snacks, Coin-Op Game Room North Park also has tons of fun and entertaining games that will keep you coming back for more. So if you're looking for a fun night out in San Diego, be sure to check out Coin-Op Game Room North Park.

Coin-Op Game Room, North Park Address

3926 30th St

San Diego, CA 92104

Pinball Machines at Coin-Op Game Room, North Park

5

Corvette Diner

corvette diner pinball location san diego ca

Why You Should Play at Corvette Diner

Corvette Diner is the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. This classic 50s-style diner is located in San Diego and offers a menu of both classic and creative diner food. Corvette Diner is also a great place to bring your kids, as they offer "dine and play" packages that include access to their small collection of pinball machines, air hockey, skee ball, and other redemption games. And if you're into delicious food and milkshakes (who isn't?), Corvette Diner is definitely the place for you!

Corvette Diner Address

2965 Historic Decatur Rd

San Diego, CA 92111

Pinball Machines:

3

Mission Brewery

mission brewery san diego pinball location

Why You Should Play Pinball at Mission Brewery

Mission Brewery is a local brewery located in San Diego that is definitely worth checking out, especially if you're a fan of craft beer or pinball. They make their own excellent, award winning craft beer in a variety of styles, and they have a small collection pinball machines on location to keep you entertained while sipping on suds. The brewery is located in a building that dates back to 1894, so it has a really cool, historic vibe. It's also conveniently located near Petco Park if you're looking for pre or post Padres baseball game activities. And another bonus - it's dog friendly, family friendly, and you can bring your own food. So whether you're looking to try some new craft beer, play some pinball, or just explore a cool historic building, Mission Brewery should definitely be at the top of your list.

Mission Brewery Address

1441 L St

San Diego, CA 92101

Pinball Machines at Mission Brewery

3

Side Car

side car san diego pinball arcade bar

Why You Should Play Pinball at Side Car

Side Car is the perfect place to enjoy a cold craft beer and play some pinball in San Diego. This unpretentious dive bar is located in San Diego and features three pinball machines, a pool table, skee ball, and real darts, among other gaming options. The venue frequently features live music with no cover, making it the perfect place to relax and have a good time. The staff is attentive and friendly, and the selection of craft beer on tap is impressive. Side Car is the perfect place to enjoy a night out with friends in San Diego.

Side Car Address

1310 Morena Blvd

San Diego, CA 92110

Pinball Machines at Side Car

3

San Diego pinball players - did we miss anything good? Drop us a line and let us know