Ann Arbor’s beloved arcade institution, Pinball Pete’s, is set to continue its vibrant legacy in a brand new location, ensuring that the dazzling neon lights and thrilling arcade games will remain a cornerstone of the city’s entertainment scene for years to come. Fans of Pinball Pete’s can breathe a sigh of relief as Ted Arnold, co-owner of the iconic establishment, has officially signed a 20-year lease at 500 E. Liberty St. within the Carver-Gunn Building. This strategic move, facilitated by Colliers International Ann Arbor, guarantees the survival and evolution of Pinball Pete’s, despite the impending demolition of its current home.
For decades, since the 1990s, Pinball Pete’s has been a fixture in the Galleria building at 1214 S. University Ave. However, with the building’s owners planning to sell to developers proposing a 17-story apartment complex, the future of Pinball Pete’s was cast into uncertainty. Arnold admitted to initial fears about the arcade’s survival, particularly regarding finding a suitable new space. “When we first found out about it there was a time when we were like, ‘Wait a minute. Are we out of business?’,” Arnold recounted, highlighting the initial shock and concern.
Salvation came unexpectedly when Scot Greig, the building manager of the East Liberty Street location, reached out to Arnold with an offer for a space previously occupied by a hair salon. Upon meeting Greig and the building’s landlord, John Carver, Arnold felt a sense of destiny. He described the opportunity to relocate Pinball Pete’s to this new spot as “meant to be,” signaling a positive turn in what initially seemed like a daunting situation.
The new Pinball Pete’s will occupy both the ground floor and the basement of the Carver-Gunn Building, expanding to approximately 12,000 square feet. This represents a significant upgrade, offering a couple thousand square feet more than the current location. Arnold has ambitious plans to completely transform the space, envisioning a revitalized arcade experience. These plans include demolishing interior walls, redesigning the front entrance, and constructing basement access stairs reminiscent of the beloved South U Neon. The front windows of the new Pinball Pete’s will be brightly illuminated and adorned with antique signs and classic arcade games, promising an eye-catching and inviting facade.
“It’s going to be super bright and super eye catching,” Arnold enthused. “The look of this arcade is something I’ve dreamed about, and it’ll be the fruition of a lot of my thoughts and desires.” The layout for the revamped Pinball Pete’s is thoughtfully planned. The upper level will house familiar favorites like the prize counter, quarter machines, air hockey tables, and a selection of other engaging games. The basement will be transformed into a pinball paradise, featuring the arcade’s signature pinball machines, alongside basketball games, pool tables, and a wide array of video games. The increased space also allows for the introduction of even more games, including vintage machines from the 1960s and 70s that will offer nostalgic gameplay for just a quarter.
Arnold emphasized that the essence of Pinball Pete’s will not only be preserved but enhanced in the new location. “Everything that made Pinball Pete’s cool and unique is going to be repeated here, but magnified and better,” he stated, assuring loyal patrons that the spirit of the arcade they love will thrive in the new setting. While site plans are in development, they are yet to be submitted to the city of Ann Arbor. The construction timeline is estimated to be around six months in the best-case scenario. Reassuringly, Arnold confirmed that Pinball Pete’s will not experience any closure during the transition. He intends to keep the South U location operational while simultaneously preparing the new space, suggesting a period where fans might even have the luxury of visiting both Pinball Pete’s locations.
Arnold expressed immense gratitude for the overwhelming community support Pinball Pete’s has received, particularly during the relocation process and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. He recalled the crucial role of loyal customers who rallied to support the arcade through a GoFundMe fundraiser during the pandemic. “If the people hadn’t done those things, then we might not even be having this conversation,” Arnold acknowledged, underscoring the vital contribution of the community to the arcade’s continued success. Although the move was unexpected, Arnold is genuinely excited about the prospects of the new Pinball Pete’s. “All this happened for a reason, and it’s going to be the coolest arcade anybody’s ever been in if I have it my way,” he concluded, painting a promising picture for the future of Pinball Pete’s as a premier entertainment destination in Ann Arbor.
