You’ve seen quite a few museums on the Ingles Open Road, and each one has been unique. Some were educational. Some have taken you through a great artist’s home. And others have taken you through the history of incredible inventions like airplanes. But wait, there’s more. Check out this unique museum tucked into a beautifully restored historic hotel in the quaint North Carolina town of Hendersonville.

What makes this museum so different? The relics on display are not hidden behind velvet ropes and glass cases. Unlike most places, here, you’re encouraged to touch, tap, and flip to your heart’s content.

The Appalachian Pinball Museum was founded in 2017. It’s the perfect destination for fun and excitement. The museum is located in the old ballroom and theatre of the one-time Skyland Hotel and features over 70 pinball machines, with the oldest dating back to 1946, the Gottlieb “Marjorie.”

Here’s a little history for you. Did you know that pinball originated in France? It started as a lawn game, with a ball rolling down a hill bouncing off pins, hence the name, “pinball.”

The game took off in the United States in the electro-mechanical era, and believe it or not, it was banned in New York City from 1942 until 1976 because of its association with gambling. Despite its past, one thing’s for sure. You can bet you’ll have a good time at the Appalachian Pinball Museum.

All it takes is $12 to get in the door, and once you’re in, you can play all you want for as long as you want. Think of it as a food buffet. The selection of games is endless.

Play Captain Fantastic and Wizard—the “pinball wizard” referenced in The Who’s “Tommy.”

Try your hand at a Stern Wrestlemania signed by Hulk Hogan.

Or take a spin on the Suncoast Cosmic Carnival, one of only 25 in the world.

The machines are frequently alternating, so the museum is rarely the same twice. It makes every visit and experience even more exciting than the last one because you don’t know what to expect. There are also classic arcade games to enjoy as well.

If you need a little fuel for your next round, the museum also serves beer, soda, and snacks. It’s a great place to bring your children, family, or friends. Either way, you’ll feel like a kid here surrounded by games that might be older than you are but full of addictive adventure that will make it hard even for grown-ups to leave.

This is a museum experience you don’t want to miss. It’s unique in many ways and an absolute blast. So, visit AppalachianPinballMuseum.com and plan your next night out.

A good time is waiting!

To learn more about Ingles Market, visit their website at ingles-markets.com.