The Pinshack

The Pinshack

Reviews Summary

Overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight a nostalgic, fun-filled arcade with a great selection of well-maintained classic games. The $10-$15 all-day play fee is praised as excellent value. Many appreciate the friendly, knowledgeable owner and the BYOB policy. While some note the exterior is unassuming or the interior dim, most agree it’s a hidden gem. A few mention occasional machine issues or the space feeling cramped, but these are minor critiques. The arcade appeals to all ages, offering a unique, affordable blast from the past.

About This Listing

Who Can Play?

Most arcades welcome all ages (some may have age restrictions for certain games)
Minors may need parent/guardian supervision (policies vary by location)
No gaming experience required - games range from beginner to expert level
Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes recommended for safety
Valid ID may be required for certain attractions or age verification
Groups and parties welcome (advance booking may be required)

*Note: Age restrictions and policies may vary by arcade. Check with your local facility for specifics.*

First-Time Visitors

First-time visitors may need to sign a waiver or register for a game card. Staff are typically available to help explain games and provide tutorials. Some arcades offer newcomer specials or free play sessions to help you get started.

Common Restrictions:

Age-Based Some games may have height or age requirements for safety reasons
Capacity Popular games may have wait times during peak hours

*Note: Policies vary by arcade. Confirm with your local facility.*

What to Bring

Cash or card for tokens/credits (some arcades are cashless)
Valid ID for age verification or membership signup
Phone to capture high scores and memories (check photo policies)

*Note: Payment methods and requirements may differ by arcade.*

Preparing for Your Visit

Check arcade hours and peak times online before visiting
Eat beforehand or check if the arcade has food options
Bring friends for multiplayer games and competitions
Wear comfortable clothes you can move freely in
Avoid bringing valuable items that could be lost or damaged
Check for special events, tournaments, or discount days
Set a budget for games and stick to it
Stay hydrated, especially during long gaming sessions

*Note: Tips may vary by arcade type and location.*

How to Get Started

Most arcades accept walk-ins, but call ahead during busy periods or for large groups. Check for membership deals!

Other Helpful Info

Most visits last 1-3 hours depending on games and group size
Popular games may have longer wait times during weekends and evenings
Many arcades offer unlimited play packages or time-based pricing
Some locations host tournaments and special events regularly
Prize redemption available at many arcades - save your tickets!

*Note: Policies, pricing, and features differ by arcade. Contact your local facility for details.*

Contact Information

Address

12 Summit St

East Hampton, Connecticut 06424

Hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday Closed
Friday 12-10PM
Saturday 12-10PM
Sunday 12-8PM

Customer Reviews

Super fun place in a rustic building, great selection of pinball, all in good working order. Got lost in a few: Terminator 2, Toy Story 4, Roller Coaster Tycoon, High Roller Casino, and an oldie but goodie Jungle Lord. What a gem, I hope this place gets well supported, it's too much fun. I look forward to coming back the next time I return to New England. Memories!!!

Relived some of my childhood with a group of friends. Had the place to ourselves. $15 all you can play. Good variety of nostalgic games including Pac-Man which was my favorite. Guitar hero was a fun dual game. Loved the Toy Story pinball machine as well. A few of the games were broken down which was a little disappointing but there were plenty up and running. Would be great if a bathroom was available as well. Owner was very nice and the heat was cranked to keep us warm on a freezing night. Nice to have so

We were looking for another fun and different thing to do to celebrate my friend's 60th bdy. I heard about this place and decided to make it one of our destinations. There were 8 of us. We had a blast! The pinball machines are great, the old baseball game, Centipede, etc were so fun. Even her 22 year old son and his friend had a good time and want to go back! The place is what we expected from looking at the pics. The owner was very friendly and accommodating. The price is right too. Would've given 5 stars

Fun times at The Pinshack for my cousins bday party! Stocked with vintage pinball machines & video games, The Pinshack is a Retro Arcade in East Hampton, Connecticut! $15 admission per person, All games on free play. A much needed time warp and hit of nostalgia! -Marisa Balletti-Lavoie

If you are a diehard, hard-core arcade fan, this is the place to be, you can relive all your childhood memories and hours and days spent at the arcade, and all for a small flat rate, you get to play all day. Highly recommended, the owner is very friendly .

An amazing way for kids or teens to have fun local without breaking the bank. You get $10.00 all you can play of classic 80s and 90s arcade and pinball. No fus design and good times.

This place is awesome. Especially for retro arcade games. Love that there is one price to enter and all games are on free play. Large selection of pinball tables to choose from.

I don't really frequent it. I was at the auto body shop next-door, but I guess it's the only place in town kids can go and play all day for $10 so it may have higher stars in that but like I said, I've never been in and it never looks busy.

Went last weekend, great time with my kid, all you can play for $15 is a great deal.

We loved it!! So nostalgic and plenty of games!! Owner was really nice!! We can't wait to go back!

Bryan serviced my machine at my home recently, and if I could give 10 stars I would. He was courteous, knowledgeable and knew exactly what to do to bring this vintage machine back up to speed and into working order. I highly recommend and would use his repair services again in a second if needed. Thanks Bryan!

Bryan, the owner, came out to my house to repair my pinball machine. He did an excellent job and my machine plays like new. I would recommend him to anyone who needs repairs to their pinball machine. Thank you!

Nice little place to play some pinball.Plesant owners .Almost missed the place trying to find it.

Great time! Highly recommend. Between vintage video games and pinball we had a blast ??

Dark dingy hole in the wall place on a side street in a rural town...but they have about 30 pinball and video games that are all on freeplay. You just pay $10 an hourly to use the games - pretty fair. If it ever gets busy, I could see it feeling crowded and cramped, but they can control the number they allow in at one time. Air blowers near a couple of the machines are strong enough to be distracting when trying to play.

Well the owner is very friendly and polite we were happy to get out and enjoy some games of the old school classics which brought back many great memories I will give it five stars just for the games that they had The only downfall was some of the machines were very tough to see due to the dark environment other than that I would highly recommend the place all day everyday and look forward to coming back for more action.

This place is amazing for older folks and kids alike. I thought my young-ish kids would be bored, but they played for hours here and keep asking when we can go back. Nostalgic for those that grew up in the 80s and 90s for sure. Come support a local business owner and spread the word so we can all keep enjoying!

First public review of my 4 decade life for a reason. This place is a gem that I want to succeed. East Hampton is lucky to have the pin shack around! Best entertainment for 10$ anywhere

I brought my grandson here today. Place is dark and kinda dismal but we had fun. Dress warm during winter months!

Excellent place to go back in time and have some fun. Owner is very personable, games worked great, son (16) and I had a blast.

Awesome place Great games and they all work..the owner Bryan is a real nice person..can't beat the price to play all you want

If you don't know? you should!!! As a local realtor I refer all my fellow millennials to enjoy some good old fashioned nostalgic gaming!! Highly recommend!! 10/10

Had a great time Brings you back to the old days I truly enjoyed it spent about an hour Or so.. played pinball an video games Will definitely go back again soon

Great experience, great price for the time we were able to spend there, able to play lots of different games, had a blast.

While it looks a little rundown on the outside, inside is a treasure of great classic games. Only $10 for all-day play.

Retro arcade with pinball and arcade games from the 80s to present. Flat admission fee for unlimited play on all machines. Wonderful experience!

Went for the first time today, awesome place. Great selection of games, had a blast.

Lots of fun games, super friendly people!

Cool, little arcade. Super friendly and knowledgeable owner

Not a bad retro spot . Well worth the $10 for unlimited play

Owner is very nice, changes the games after he restores them.

Small but some awesome machines. BYOB and the dog is great.

Great place and brought back great memories will be back, owner is very kind and professional

Amazing experience, Bryan was extra nice to my lil lady! ??

Great games nice place brian knows his pinball

Great find. Lots of family fun

Great fun place thumbs up!

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s it like visiting an arcade today?

It’s a mix of nostalgia and high-energy fun! Many arcades blend retro classics like Pac-Man and pinball with modern VR games, racing simulators, and rhythm challenges — often with music, lights, and a social vibe.

Is it better to go alone or with friends?

Both can be great! Solo visits let you focus on your favorite games, while going with friends adds competition, teamwork, and laughs. Many people plan arcade meetups as a casual hangout or even date spot.

What should I bring to an arcade?

Usually just yourself and a way to pay (some arcades still use coins, others use cards or apps). If you're competitive, bring your A-game. If you're social, bring friends or meet new ones over multiplayer games.

What’s the best time to visit an arcade?

Weekdays or early afternoons are usually less crowded — perfect for focused play. Evenings and weekends bring the buzz, especially at barcades or venues with DJs, tournaments, or themed nights.

Can I meet new people at arcades?

Absolutely! Arcades attract a mix of casual players and serious gamers. Whether you're jumping into a four-player co-op or chatting between rounds, it's a fun, low-pressure way to connect over shared interests.

Are arcades still just for kids?

Not at all. While many arcades are family-friendly, there are also adult-oriented ones with full bars, 18+ nights, or vintage nostalgia themes. Arcades today cater to everyone — from first-timers to lifelong gamers.

Are there events or tournaments I can join?

Yes! Many arcades host regular competitions, retro nights, cosplay parties, and more. Whether you're into high scores or just want to watch and vibe, events add an extra layer to the experience.

What if I’m not great at arcade games?

No worries — arcades are about having fun, not being perfect. Try a variety of games, ask others for tips, and remember: the vibe is more “let’s play” than “let’s win.”