First, What Is Galloping Ghost?
Galloping Ghost Arcade is located at 9415 Ogden Ave in Brookfield, a small suburb just due west of Chicago for those unfamiliar with the area. Opened in 2010 by Doc Mack, a lifelong arcade enthusiast and game developer, the arcade started with a few dozen games. It now features over 900 arcade machines and is still growing. That’s right—more than 900. It’s not just the largest arcade in the USA; many argue it’s the largest arcade in the world.
From legendary titles like Donkey Kong, Space Invaders, and Pac-Man, to rare prototypes and one-of-a-kind machines you won’t find anywhere else, the Galloping Ghost is the kind of place that makes you feel like a kid again—even if it’s your first time picking up a joystick.
So, What Can You Expect At Galloping Ghost? Let's Dive In
Free Play All Day
One of the biggest draws of Galloping Ghost is the pricing model. Unlike coin-op arcades where you’re constantly fishing for quarters, this place runs on a flat admission fee. For $25, you get unlimited free play for the entire day. No tokens. No swiping cards. Just walk in, pay once, and game as long as your heart desires.
This means you can bounce between pinball machines, vintage Sega cabinets, classic arcade machines, and rare indie finds without ever reaching into your pocket again. For serious gamers and casual visitors alike, it’s an incredibly cost-effective way to experience one of the most unique attractions in the Chicago area.
A Retro Arcade Lover’s Dream
The vibe inside Galloping Ghost is unlike anything else. The walls are lined with endless games in tight rows, creating a visual experience that’s equal parts retro and immersive. The faint hum of electronics and the flashing lights combine into a kind of sensory time machine. The moment you walk in, you’re hit with the glow of CRT monitors and the clang of pinball machines. It’s a little chaotic—in the best possible way.
You’ll find an impressive collection of games from every era. There are classics like Mortal Kombat, NBA Jam, Street Fighter II, and Time Crisis, but also hundreds of hidden gems, imported titles, and rare one-offs that even seasoned gamers might not recognize.
There are also modern video games and newer arcade cabinets sprinkled throughout, creating a mix of the old and new. Whether you're a hardcore gamer, a casual button-masher, or just someone tagging along for the vibes, there’s something here for everyone.
High Scores and World Records
This isn’t just a place to mess around—Galloping Ghost is home to dozens of world records. In fact, many players visit with one goal in mind: getting their name on the high scores board. You’ll often see skilled players focused in the corner, setting records on games you didn’t even know existed.
The arcade even hosts tournaments and live streams gameplay for fans around the country. So if you’ve got the chops, you might just find your name in the record books.
By the Way, Who Is Doc Mack?
The man behind it all is Doc Mack, a gaming legend in his own right. Not only is he the founder and operator of Galloping Ghost, but he’s also the creator of Dark Presence, a still-in-development fighting game known in arcade circles as something of a mystery game legend. Doc’s passion is evident in every part of the arcade, from the way the games are maintained to the ever-growing collection of arcade cabinets.
Let's just say you might hear his name while you're in there.
Tips for Visiting
1. Come Early, Stay Late: Galloping Ghost is open every day from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.—yes, you read that right. You could literally spend 15 hours gaming if your hands can handle it.
2. No Food or Drink Inside: Leave the snacks outside. But there are plenty of restaurants and cafes in Brookfield and nearby La Grange if you need to refuel mid-visit.
3. Dress Comfortable: It might not be physically demanding like a hike, but spending a day at the largest arcade in the USA is definitely a marathon.
4. Parking Is Easy: There’s ample parking available along Ogden Avenue, making it a stress-free stop on your gaming road trip.
More Than Just an Arcade
The Galloping Ghost experience goes beyond just gaming. They also run Galloping Ghost Pinball, a separate facility just down the street with over 40 vintage pinball machines. And if you’re a collector or interested in restoring your own machine, their on-site forums and community resources are a gold mine of information.
There’s also a strong retro arcade culture that surrounds the Ghost. Fans come from all over the USA, and you’ll often find people chatting about high scores, arcade game history, or planning their next visit. It’s a community as much as it is a destination.
Bonus: Galloping Ghost vs. Funspot
While Funspot in Laconia, New Hampshire has long held the Guinness World Record for the "largest arcade in the world," many now give that title to Galloping Ghost Arcade based on playable cabinets and floor space. While the debate continues, one thing’s for sure: if you’re near Chicago, you don’t have to go far to experience the biggest arcade on the planet.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It? We Say, A HUGE "Yes"
If you're even slightly into gaming, Galloping Ghost Arcade is a must-visit. Whether you're chasing Donkey Kong scores, reliving your youth with Sega classics, or just introducing your kids to the joys of arcade games, this place delivers a memorable day of fun. It’s easily one of the best arcades in the Midwest and a destination worthy of a weekend road trip.
Plus, how often do you get to say you’ve been to the world’s largest arcade?
So grab your friends, fire up your nostalgia, and head to Brookfield, Illinois for a day at The Galloping Ghost Arcade—where the games never end, and your next favorite title is just a joystick away.
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