Bonami SpelComputer Museum
Overijssel
The Bonami Games & Computers Museum in Zwolle is a unique interactive museum dedicated to the history of home computers and video game consoles. Its extensive collection is arranged chronologically, allowing visitors to trace the evolution of computing from large business machines such as the DEC PDP and punch card systems, through iconic home computers like the Commodore 64, Atari ST, Sinclair ZX Spectrum, and Apple II, to modern personal computers. The museum also houses an impressive collection of game consoles, including the first ever console, the Magnavox Odyssey, classic Pong systems, and the latest gaming devices from around the world. A highlight is the arcade hall filled with classic arcade machines and pinball games, all freely playable by visitors, including rare analog cabinets like the 1970 Jet Rocket. Founded in 1998 by John and Naomi Groenewold, the museum evolved from a private collection to a public institution, moving through several locations before settling in a spacious 3000 m² venue in Zwolle's leisure area 'De Vrolijkheid'. The museum regularly hosts exhibitions, game tournaments, and retro computer fairs, making it a vibrant hub for gaming and computing enthusiasts. Its mission is to preserve, exhibit, and keep playable the history of game computers for the public.
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Tip: Visit on weekdays for a less crowded experience and to enjoy the fully playable exhibits. Consider checking the museum's website for information on upcoming tournaments, exhibitions, and retro fairs. Booking in advance is recommended for special events. Discounts may be available for groups, students, and seniors.
Interesting facts
- •The museum's collection includes working examples of early business computers like the DEC PDP and punch card systems.
- •It features the world's largest collection of big box PC games exhibited for several years.
- •The arcade hall contains playable classic arcade and pinball machines, including the rare 1970 Jet Rocket analog cabinet.
- •The museum has hosted exhibitions in prominent venues like the Grote Kerk in Zwolle and contributed to national museum tours.
- •Professor Willem Louis van der Poel, a Dutch computer pioneer, officially opened the current museum location.
History
The Bonami Games & Computers Museum began in 1998 when John and Naomi Groenewold started collecting game and computer systems.
Initially housed in their home in Epe, it opened to visitors by appointment.
In 2007, it was formalized under Stichting Bonami SpelComputers with a mission to collect, preserve, and exhibit game computers.
The museum moved to a former town hall in Epe in 2011, then to a larger 3000 m² location near Zwolle station in 2015.
Finally, in late 2018, it relocated to its current, more spacious site at the 'De Vrolijkheid' leisure area in Zwolle.
The official opening featured computer pioneer Professor Willem Louis van der Poel.
Place Guide
Chronological Computer Timeline
A walk-through exhibit presenting computers from large business machines to modern personal computers, all in working condition for visitors to interact with.
Game Console Collection
Displays the evolution of game consoles from the Magnavox Odyssey, the first ever game console, through various Pong systems to the latest consoles worldwide.
Arcade Hall1970
A dedicated area filled with classic arcade machines and pinball games, all freely playable by visitors, including rare analog arcade cabinets like the Jet Rocket from 1970.
Contact
Phone: 06 46423397
