Galloping Ghost Arcade
The world's largest arcade, offering unlimited play on over 800 retro and rare games for a single day pass.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more machines
Galloping Ghost Arcade
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more machines
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The world's largest arcade, offering unlimited play on over 800 retro and rare games for a single day pass.
"It's an arcade purist Mecca, worth the trek for any serious gaming enthusiast."
🎯 All-Day Unlimited Play
Your $25 entry fee covers unlimited play on all arcade machines. Come ready to play for hours!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be on your feet exploring for hours. Comfort is key for a full day of gaming.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vast Retro Game Collection
Main Arcade Floor
Explore over 800 classic and rare arcade games from the golden age and beyond. All on free play!
Pinball Paradise
Separate Pinball Building
An additional $5 unlocks a dedicated space filled with a diverse range of pinball machines.
Rare and Unique Finds
Throughout the Arcade
Discover hard-to-find titles like Castlevania: The Arcade and F-Zero AX, alongside beloved classics.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Unlimited Play for One Price
Prepare for a Marathon Session
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 All-Day Unlimited Play
Your $25 entry fee covers unlimited play on all arcade machines. Come ready to play for hours!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be on your feet exploring for hours. Comfort is key for a full day of gaming.
💰 Pinball Add-On
For an extra $5, access a separate building packed with pinball machines. Worth it for enthusiasts!
🗺️ Plan Your Game List
With so many games, consider researching rare titles you want to find beforehand.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 All-Day Unlimited Play
Your $25 entry fee covers unlimited play on all arcade machines. Come ready to play for hours!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be on your feet exploring for hours. Comfort is key for a full day of gaming.
💰 Pinball Add-On
For an extra $5, access a separate building packed with pinball machines. Worth it for enthusiasts!
🗺️ Plan Your Game List
With so many games, consider researching rare titles you want to find beforehand.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking can be limited, especially on busy days. Arrive early or consider ride-sharing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Galloping Ghost Arcade for its incredible value, vast selection of games, and nostalgic atmosphere. The unlimited play for a single day pass is a major highlight, allowing for hours of exploration. While some machines may occasionally be down, the sheer volume and rarity of titles make it a must-visit for arcade enthusiasts.
"Awesome place! I took my daughter and her friend here and we had a blast. Not sure but I believe might be around 300 plus games? For $25 you can play all day long."
Behemoth
"We made a trip to Chicago with the sole purpose of hitting up the Galloping Ghost Arcade. My son really wanted to experience this unique arcade full of vintage games. He was not disappointed. In fact, he loved it. It was a rainy day when we arrived, but it didn't matter at all because we never left (except to run down the street to grab some tacos when we needed some sustenance). Such a fun, different option and excellent reason to go on a vintage arcading adventure."
SarahBeth Carter
"OMG,It's been 10 years since the last time we were here, and let me just say...WOW! It is better than ever! I read some reviews that complained about some games being down, come on, with as many games as they have, there's bound to be some issues. I absolutely recommend to anyone who loves old school arcades 🥰 100% satisfied 😊"
Jackie Blossom
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Galloping Ghost Arcade is located in Brookfield, IL, about 20-30 minutes west of downtown Chicago. You can drive there, and parking is available, though it can get busy. Public transportation options include Metra trains to Brookfield station, followed by a short walk or bus ride.
For arcade enthusiasts, many consider the drive worthwhile due to the sheer volume and rarity of games. It's often described as an 'arcade purist Mecca.'
Parking is available, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving early is recommended, or consider alternative transportation like ride-sharing services.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted. However, there are nearby options for grabbing a bite, and some visitors have mentioned quick food runs.
The arcade is quite large with ample space between machines, and most areas are accessible. Stools are provided at many games for comfort.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A day pass costs $25 per person, which grants you unlimited play on all arcade games for the entire day.
While specific coupons are not widely advertised, the $25 day pass for unlimited play is considered excellent value by most visitors, making additional discounts less necessary.
Tickets are typically purchased upon arrival at the arcade. It's advisable to check their official website or social media for any updates on advance ticketing options.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the Galloping Ghost Arcade's official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information on their daily hours.
Yes, there is an additional $5 fee to access the separate building dedicated to pinball machines. This fee is separate from the arcade day pass.
🎫 🕹️ Onsite Experience
Galloping Ghost Arcade boasts over 800 arcade games, with some sources mentioning over 1,000. This includes a vast collection of retro, rare, and modern titles.
You'll find a massive variety, from iconic classics like Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and Street Fighter, to rarer gems like Castlevania: The Arcade, F-Zero AX, and Typing of the Dead.
With such a large collection, it's possible some machines may be temporarily out of order. However, the vast majority are well-maintained and playable.
Crowds can vary. Weekdays tend to be less crowded, offering more space to play. Weekends and evenings can be busier, but the sheer size of the arcade usually means there's still plenty to do.
The atmosphere is highly nostalgic and energetic, filled with the sounds of classic arcade games. It's a place where both long-time enthusiasts and newcomers can have a fantastic time.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The arcade itself primarily focuses on games. While there might be limited snack options, many visitors opt to grab food from nearby establishments during their visit.
There are various dining options in Brookfield, including casual eateries and taco places, perfect for a quick refuel between gaming sessions.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography and videography are generally allowed, and many visitors share their experiences on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Be mindful of other guests' privacy.
The sheer density of colorful arcade cabinets provides endless photo opportunities. Capturing the rows of games or specific favorite machines makes for great shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Parents often appreciate the nostalgic atmosphere and the chance to share their childhood gaming memories with their children. The arcade is spacious, allowing kids to move around comfortably, and the $25 day pass offers excellent value for a full day of entertainment. Consider planning a food break at a nearby eatery to keep energy levels high.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1Instead of paying per game, you pay once and play all day. This allows for extensive exploration of the arcade's vast collection, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck. Pack some snacks or plan a quick, affordable meal nearby to keep overall trip costs down.
🕹️ Retro Gaming Enthusiasts
The free-play model is a dream for serious gamers, allowing for in-depth exploration of game mechanics and strategies without interruption. The separate pinball building also caters to a different but equally passionate segment of the retro gaming community.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Unlimited Play
+1This approach fosters a relaxed and communal atmosphere. Visitors can spend hours trying out different titles, revisiting old favorites, or discovering hidden gems. The value proposition is clear: for a single price, you get access to a vast library of gaming history, making it an attractive destination for both casual visitors and dedicated enthusiasts.
A Treasure Trove of Rare Games
+2Visitors often highlight the thrill of finding and playing these hard-to-come-by machines. Whether it's a specific game from their childhood or a title they've only read about, the arcade delivers on the promise of a comprehensive gaming journey. This dedication to preserving and showcasing a wide spectrum of arcade history is a major reason why many consider it a must-visit destination.
Beyond the Arcade: Pinball and Events
Furthermore, the arcade frequently hosts special events and fan meetups, such as SEGA fan gatherings. These events create a vibrant community hub, bringing together like-minded individuals to celebrate their shared passion for gaming. Keeping an eye on their schedule can enhance your visit with unique opportunities to connect with fellow enthusiasts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit