The Pinball Museum is one of those Kraków spots that surprises even people who think they know the city well. Housed in a historic, partly medieval cellar near Wawel (around the Stradom area), it contains a collection of old pinball machines and arcade games, many dating from the mid-20th century. It’s a great attraction because it lets children and adults play on machines you rarely see in everyday life.
In practice you’ll find dozens of machines in the museum — classic pinballs as well as arcade cabinets. Many models have been restored and are available to play. Common ticketing options include hourly tickets and a "day pass" with unlimited play, which is often the most cost-effective choice for families with kids. Opening hours and prices can change seasonally, but the museum typically operates in the afternoons and evenings, with extended hours on weekends.
Who is it for? If you have children from around 5–6 years old (and some patience), this place will bring a lot of joy. Smaller children will also be impressed by the colours and sounds, but remember to supervise them around mechanical machines. The museum is also excellent for nostalgic adult players and anyone looking for non-standard entertainment beyond Kraków’s classic monuments.
The choice of neighbourhood can determine how comfortable your trip will be. Here are practical tips to help pick a family base:
Kazimierz – the heart of atmospheric Kraków. Close to many restaurants, short walks to Wawel and the Market Square, lots of family-friendly spots. Evenings can be noisier, so ask for a room facing the courtyard.
Old Town near the Planty – ideal if you want to be able to start sightseeing immediately: Wawel, the Market Square and St. Mary’s Church are within easy reach. Downsides can be higher prices and restricted vehicle access on certain days.
Podgórze and the area around the Podgórski Market – quieter at night, easy access to Kazimierz via the Bernatek footbridge, good for families seeking calm and short walks along the river boulevards.
Grzegórzki and the area around Rondo Mogilskie – excellent tram connections and many hotels with larger-room options; a good choice if you plan trips outside the historic centre.
Krowodrza and the Avenues – a good base if you also plan to visit museums north of the city centre or are looking for cheaper options with good transport links.
Nowa Huta – budget-friendly with larger properties, but farther from the Market Square (treat it as a separate day in your itinerary).
For families it’s worth considering 3-star hotels with family rooms (fast breakfasts, 24-hour reception), apartments with a kitchenette (more space, the ability to prepare simple meals) or guesthouses with family rooms. Hostels? Only those with private bathrooms and good reviews for quiet and safety.
A popular practical choice for families is an object near the Main Railway Station — it makes train arrival and luggage transfers easier. Families often appreciate hotels that offer child amenities (cots, baby tubs, children’s menus).
When booking, ask for: a room facing the courtyard, earlier breakfast on departure day, information about parking and stroller storage. If you arrive by car, choose places that allow parking reservations or check nearby Park&Ride options.
A simple day plan: morning at Wawel and the Dragon’s Den (a light dose of history and the dragon legend), late morning lunch and a short rest in a café, afternoon at the Pinball Museum (play time and fun), evening stroll through Kazimierz or along the Vistula boulevards. This rhythm works well with younger children and helps avoid overtiring them.
If the weather is good, after the Pinball Museum consider a playground in Henryk Jordan Park, or a visit to the Botanical Garden or the Zoo to burn off energy after intense play. Children often also enjoy a short tram ride — it’s an attraction in itself.
Practical tip: to secure your spot at the Pinball Museum visit outside weekend afternoons or plan a full-day ticket. Evenings can be popular with families and groups.
The chocolate workshop and chocolate-making activities are a great culinary attraction for children — not only dessert, but also an engaging activity that leaves a souvenir and good moods for the rest of the day. Popular venues include local chocolate workshops and the Kraków Chocolate Manufacture (Manufaktura Czekolady).
In Kazimierz and on the Old Town you’ll find many restaurants with child-friendly menus and quick options like pierogi, pancakes or pasta. Choose places with high ratings and space for strollers.
If you stay at a hotel with a generous breakfast buffet, use it as an economical and convenient morning option. For dinner, look for venues recommended for families — broad menus, quick service and the possibility to reserve a table.
Booking the cheapest accommodation in the very centre without checking noise and the neighbourhood – result: restless nights. Solution: request a courtyard-facing room or choose a slightly quieter district.
Not allowing enough time for walking and transport – planning "on the dot" between attractions can tire children. Solution: leave a 30–45 minute buffer between itinerary items for walks and breaks.
Not booking tickets for popular attractions in advance – in season queues can be long. Solution: buy advance tickets where possible or choose less busy time slots.
Assuming children will sit quietly in a restaurant without preparation – helpful are toys, a short game or drinks to survive waiting. Solution: choose restaurants with a kids’ corner or fast service.
Is the Pinball Museum suitable for toddlers? Yes, but take care around some machines. The youngest children will need supervision and help playing. The museum works best for children from about 5 years old who can use simpler machines.
Do I need to book accommodation well in advance? During the tourist season (spring–autumn and long holiday weekends) it’s better to book early, especially if you need a family room or a cot.
How to get from the airport or main station? Many trams and buses run from the Main Railway Station and the airport — choosing a base near the Main Station makes arrivals by train and luggage transfers easier.
Are there discounts for children at the museum? Many places offer reduced prices for children or family tickets; check the current price list before your visit.
The Pinball Museum is located in historic cellars — it’s not just a machine collection but also a place with atmosphere. Playing amongst historic walls adds an extra time-travel feel.
Kraków has more small, unusual museums and family workshops than many expect — check local chocolate manufactories, ceramics workshops or interactive science centres to diversify your stay.
To avoid crowds at the Market Square and Wawel, choose early morning hours (the earlier, the better) or late afternoon. Children often respond better to short, intense attractions than long walks without breaks.
Kraków can combine history with unexpected entertainment: the Pinball Museum is a perfect example — historic surroundings plus interactive fun for the whole family. Choosing the right neighbourhood for your stay, booking the suitable accommodation and planning the day sensibly are keys to a calm and joyful trip.
If you found this article helpful, share it with family or friends to make their planning easier. If you’d like to explore Kraków with a local guide, consider arranging a private guided tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz — contact details are available on her official site or by inquiring through her local tour service. Good luck and enjoy your stay in Kraków!
