Discover the Sunshine Laundromat in NYC
At first glance, Sunshine Laundromat in Greenpoint NYC might seem like any other coin-operated laundry facility. However, step through its doors and you’ll uncover a secret world. Beyond the rows of washers and dryers lies a hidden bar that doubles as a pinball arcade boasting over two dozen vintage and modern pinball machines. From classic hits like The Addams Family to modern favorites like an AC/DC Limited Edition, each game is a lovingly preserved relic from collector Peter Rose’s impressive assembly.
Not only can you challenge your friends to a pinball duel, but you can also enjoy a cold beer from a rotating selection of draft options. For those with an appetite for quirky surprises, the bar even features an unconventional vending machine that dispenses unusual treats—a perfect hint at the playful spirit of this venue.
The Allure of the NYC Speakeasy
The Sunshine Laundromat perfectly embodies the modern-day revival of the speakeasy culture—a trend that pays homage to the Prohibition era when hidden bars flourished in secret locations throughout New York City. These clandestine spots were originally designed to offer discreet access to alcohol when the law forbade it, often hidden behind unassuming storefronts or secret doors.
Today, while Sunshine Laundromat may not require a password for entry like its forefathers, its secret backroom bar echoes the charm of its historical counterparts. It serves as a reminder of the rebellious, underground spirit that defined the speakeasy scene, blending nostalgia with modern fun. Here, the focus is on enjoying life—a cheap, crisp Polish lager paired with a friendly game of pinball, all in an environment that celebrates New York’s rich cultural history.
To discover more speakeasies in NYC, click here: 20+ Best Speakeasies in NYC (As Loved by Locals) | CityDays.
Where in the World is Greenpoint?
Greenpoint, Brooklyn, is no stranger to creative surprises and diverse cultural influences. Just a short trip from Williamsburg, this eclectic neighborhood is known for its hipster vibe, vibrant street art, and a touch of old-world charm, courtesy of its strong Polish roots.
For many New Yorkers, hopping on the subway and venturing into Greenpoint is part of the adventure of seeking out the Sunshine Laundromat. The neighborhood’s unique mix of traditional and trendy establishments creates an ideal setting for innovative spots like this speakeasy—a place where doing laundry can turn into a full-blown outing.
The History of the Sunshine Laundromat
In its early days, the Sunshine Laundromat was just another coin-operated laundry facility known for its tongue-in-cheek slogans—like “Try our gourmet vegetarian washing machines and vegan dryers”.
But things took an unexpected turn when Peter Rose, a lifelong New Yorker with a deep passion for pinball, joined forces with Michael Medovoy, the building owner’s son. They bonded over a shared passion for pinball machines. Their vision? To infuse the laundromat with a treasure trove of classic pinball machines.
Before long, the pinball collection began to rival the number of washing machines. And when this happened, Peter decided it was time to chase his dream of a dedicated space for pinball playing.
The Pinball Upgrade: Creating a Hidden Bar
Taking a leap from laundry to leisure, the next phase of the Sunshine Laundromat’s evolution began with a bold renovation. A 1,000-square-foot storage area was revamped into a cozy bar with a glass atrium. With the paperwork completed in early 2016, Sunshine Laundromat became the only laundromat in New York City legally permitted to serve alcohol.
But wait, what about the pinball machines? Well Peter, who proudly maintains a collection of nearly 200 pinball machines and even services them around the city, carefully selected only the cream of the crop for the backroom. The result? A pinball haven where a fortune-telling chimp might be your first encounter, and rare titles like Safe Cracker and Big Bang Bar—the latter reportedly fetching around $20,000 on eBay—stand proudly among over 23 classic machines. As Peter likes to say, it’s not just a bar with pinball—it’s a pinball place that happens to serve beer.
What is it like inside the Sunshine Laundromat?
At first glance, Sunshine Laundromat looks like any other NYC laundromat with heavy-duty washers and tumble dryers. And it is! Open seven days a week the facility does cater to the 2.7 million residents of Brooklyn. But if you venture deep into the maze of machines, the subtle hints of its hidden life start to reveal themselves—the sound of pinball dings and clicks grow louder, and a secret entrance tucked behind a retro washer-dryer unit beckons.
Inside, the walls come alive with flashing pinball scores and vintage machines that cater to everyone—from regular league players to school kids who need a boost to hit the buttons. And keep an eye out for the canine theme: from quirky dog statues and mosaic table tops to merchandise featuring Peter’s two lovable chocolate labs (who might just be spotted lounging near the folding tables), this speakeasy brings a whole new level of fun to your laundry day.
The bar is well-stocked with local craft beers and traditional brews, giving you the perfect excuse to kick back and enjoy some friendly competition while your laundry cycles. Adding to the quirky atmosphere are some other unusual highlights, from vending machines dispensing unusual prizes (ever tried a vending machine with pregnancy tests?) to witty décor like an “ASSMAN” license plate and bacon stickers. It’s a place where everyday routines blend with delightful surprises, making laundry day something to look forward to.
How to Find the Sunshine Laundromat
Finding Sunshine Laundromat is all part of the fun. Head to 800 Manhattan Avenue in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, and hop off the G train at Greenpoint Avenue. Take a short stroll down the block until you spot the familiar sight of industrial washers and dryers. Amid the buzz of everyday laundry, keep an eye out for quirky signs and offbeat vending machines hinting at something more. Tucked away behind a stack of machines, a secret door awaits—just follow the cheerful dings of pinball machines to discover your hidden adventure.
Hours to Keep in Mind: The laundromat area operates during regular hours, while the hidden pinball bar is open everyday from 2:00 pm until late into the evening.
Explore Beyond Sunshine Laundromat with CityDays
Ready for more offbeat adventures? When you’ve had your fill of pinball wizardry and quirky laundry days, why not level up your outing with CityDays?
CityDays isn’t just about finding hidden gems; we’re all about making exploration a fun and engaging team-building experience. Join our epic scavenger hunt and treasure hunt tours—designed for team outings, corporate events, or just a spirited day out with friends.
These tours whisk you through the city’s hidden nooks and vibrant landmarks, challenging you with quirky clues and unforgettable surprises along the way.
Get ready to uncover the secret side of the city and create memories that last a lifetime!
