During our visit to Modern Pinball, owners Steve Epstein (former proprietor of NYC's famous Broadway Arcade) and Steve Zahler (a highly ranked pinball pro) talked about the many virtues of pinball playing for children, and why these machines shouldn't be lumped in with video games. In fact, a little bit of pinball is the perfect antidote for too much screen time. Up to four people can play at once, making it a social affair. It's more physically engaging than most video games and helps kids hone their eye-hand coordination. Plus the games are open-ended and nonviolent (take that Skylanders!). While different pinball machines have unique features, there isn't a steep learning curve—just pull the plunger and play. My son, who had never played pinball before, figured it out right away and improved quickly. Now he's begging to go back.

While Modern Pinball is a showroom that sells machines to clients, there's no pressure to purchase. (Could you imagine? That would be some impulse buy!) It is truly an arcade that's super-kid friendly. There are step stools for kids who need them, the staff is always happy to help and Modern Pinball even hosts children's birthday parties and one-on-one lessons.

Unlike a typical arcade, you don't have to keep stuffing the machines with quarters or swiping a game card. Modern Pinball charges in increments: one hour, three hours or all day, and game play is free with admission. Parents don't even have to pay if they don't intend to play (but after a few minutes there, you'll probably want to). Need to break for lunch? Show your Modern Pinball wristband at the Mad Hatter Pub & Eatery next door and you'll save 10% off your check.

Modern Pinball is located at 362 Third Avenue between 26th and 27th Streets. Admission is $12 per hour, $19 for three hours, $29 for the whole day. Students save 10% and children ages 3-7 pay $10 per hour, $15 for three hours, $19 for the whole day.

Looking for more game play? Check out our posts about family-friendly NYC arcades and the Silverball Museum Arcade in New Jersey. You can also find other offbeat places to romp indoors in our Inside Activity Guide.