National Pinball Museum Headed to Baltimore

Less than a year after opening, the National Pinball Museum (NPM) is leaving the and setting its sights on Baltimore's Inner Harbor. Vornado Realty Trust for the museum which opened in December 2010.

"The fact is we are a small, non-profit with ambitious dreams of enriching the lives of children and adults in our community through unique cultural, educational and job development programs," said Board member VerNitta Tyson told City Biz. "We simply can't afford the high market rents in the DC area, and we haven't had any luck in convincing realtors, community leaders or other organizations to help us out."

The museum received a letter May 18 from the mall owner Vornado Realty telling the non-profit that its lease would expire in 60 days. The move, though a surprise to the museum, was within the legal boundaries of its lease.

NPM received an extension on its lease to stay in Georgetown through Labor Day. Monday was its last day.

The museum is now moving to Baltimore, although the owner is not saying exactly where yet.

"It took a long time to find a great space," said museum Founder David Silverman.

When Vornado took over ownership of the mall, the tenants signed a lease that stipulated that the mall ownership could revoke a license agreement at any time as long as they are given 60 days notice.

The non-profit leased 1,400 square feet of space where it housed some 200 pinball machines and various exhibits on arcade games.