Did you know that in the heart of Kraków, just next to Wawel, there’s a pinball collection that includes machines dating back to the 1930s? It’s a great alternative plan for the May holiday: fun for grown-ups and kids in one place, where a single ticket often lets you play all day. Below you’ll find practical tips for visiting with a stroller — no surprises, just lots of enjoyment.
Kraków Pinball Museum houses dozens of pinball machines and arcade cabinets — from electromechanical classics to modern tables with LCD screens. The venue occupies roughly 300 m2 and is set in a historic cellar close to Wawel Castle, which makes it a nice addition to a stroll around the Old Town. Admission usually gives you unlimited access to the games for the day (you can leave and come back), so it’s perfect for a relaxed May holiday afternoon, especially if the weather changes its mind.
The museum is located at Stradomska 15, very close to Wawel Royal Castle. Opening hours can be steady for much of the year, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays — it’s a good idea to check current times before you arrive. Typically there are hourly and full-day tickets; a full-day pass usually costs more than an hourly ticket but pays off if you plan to stay longer. Drinks and a relaxation area are usually available on site — handy for breaks between games.
The museum is in a historic cellar around a courtyard, which means the entrance may involve stairs and the interior can be intimate. For that reason a large, bulky stroller can make entering and moving between machines difficult. If you’re visiting with a little one, consider bringing a lightweight, foldable stroller or a baby carrier/sling — these are the most convenient solutions for narrow passages and stairs. Ask the staff at the entrance whether you can leave a stroller under supervision or outside in the courtyard — staff are often happy to help arrange that.
The May holiday brings extra tourist traffic, so if you want a calmer experience with a child, plan your visit on a weekday or in the early afternoon. The museum is usually least busy outside of weekend evening hours — mornings and early afternoons are the best time to come with a stroller. If you have a full-day ticket, consider taking a short outdoor break — the entrance courtyard and the Wawel area offer spots to relax, and you can return later to play more.
Inside you’ll find a retro atmosphere: dramatic lighting, the sounds of machines and bright colours. Most machines are available to play as part of the paid ticket — there’s no need to insert coins. A common-sense fair-play rule usually applies (for example, avoid excessive banging or forcing the machine), and staff are happy to help with technical issues. Keep in mind seating space can be limited — some visitors note a shortage of large seating areas, so with a small child it’s wise to plan shorter play sessions and to have outdoor meal breaks.
The Old Town area has many well-reviewed cafés and restaurants with child-friendly menus. If you want to stay near Wawel, you’ll find traditional spots serving home-style and regional dishes within a short walk — convenient after lively time at the machines. Choose places with easy access for a stroller or outdoor terraces so you can relax regardless of the weather.
1) Arriving at peak season without a plan: May holiday crowds can be surprising. Solution: pick an earlier time or a weekday. 2) Bringing a heavy stroller and no storage plan: large models make entry and movement difficult. Solution: bring a light, foldable stroller or a baby carrier. 3) Skipping breaks for the child: long standing can be tiring. Solution: plan shorter rounds of play and take breaks outside.
- The museum’s collection includes machines and pinball tables going back to the early 20th century; some exhibits date from the 1930s and 1950s, showing the evolution of mechanical entertainment. - A ticket often allows unlimited play throughout the day — a big difference from classic arcades where you pay per game. - The place mixes a museum function with interactive entertainment: instead of just looking, you can operate most machines yourself.
Can I enter with a stroller? — Yes, but expect possible stairs and narrow passages; a lightweight solution or carrier is better. Do children pay full price? — Reduced tickets are usually available for younger visitors; check current pricing before you come. Can I take photos? — Generally yes, but avoid using flash for delicate historic pieces. How much time should I allow? — If you love retro gaming and want to explore calmly, plan at least 1–3 hours; a full-day ticket gives the most flexibility.
- Check current opening hours and ticket prices online. - Bring a light, foldable stroller or a baby carrier/sling. - Schedule your visit outside weekend evening hours if you want quiet time. - Take snacks and a drink for breaks or check nearby cafés. - Take photos and share your impressions with friends — it’s a memorable, unusual May holiday keepsake.
If you found this guide useful — share it on social media or send it to friends planning a May holiday in Kraków. If you’d like the visit to be even easier and tailored to your family, you’re invited to use the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details are available at zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. I’ll gladly help plan a route so your May holiday is stress-free, interesting and full of good flavours.
