Billiards

Best Billiards & Indoor Games Stores in the US: Where to Buy Pool Tables, Accessories, and Deals

Why buying a pool table is one of the best investments for your home

Thinking of turning a spare room into a game haven? A pool table does more than just look cool — it becomes the hub for family nights, friendly rivalries, and casual practice sessions. Unlike a trendy gadget that’s obsolete in a year, a well-chosen table can last decades. Think of it like furniture that invites motion, laughter, and skill-building all at once — an heirloom you use on weekends and brag about on holidays.

Top national retailers where you’ll find billiards essentials

When you start shopping, your first stop is often the big names that combine selection, return options, and competitive pricing. National retailers in the US offer everything from kid-friendly folding tables to full-size slate competition tables. Here are the most reliable places to browse and buy.

Walmart — affordable, family-friendly options

Walmart is a go-to for budget-conscious shoppers looking for quick solutions. You’ll find foldable and mid-size tables like the Goplus 6 ft Billiard Table and compact kid-sized models such as the Costway 47-inch folding pool table. If you want a low-commitment table for casual play, Walmart has a variety of foldable or plug-and-play options that are easy to set up in a basement or game nook.

Amazon — endless selection and customer reviews

Amazon strength is variety. Want a 7-ft brushed-wood table one minute and a beginner’s 6-ft felt table the next? Amazon lists brands from Hathaway to Brunswick plus independent makers. The reviews are gold: real-world feedback on assembly, playability, and durability. Prime shipping helps when you need cue sticks, balls, or replacement felt fast.

Target, Wayfair & Overstock — style-focused and designer-friendly

If aesthetics matter, check Target and online furniture specialists like Wayfair and Overstock. These retailers often carry tables designed to match contemporary living rooms — think convertible dining-pool tables or mid-century styles that don’t scream “game room.” They’re perfect when you want function wrapped in polished design.

Warehouse clubs: Costco & Sam’s Club

Warehouse stores sometimes offer bundled deals that include the table, cues, balls, and a cover. These packages can provide solid value if you’re furnishing a whole game room on a budget. Keep an eye out for occasional promotions on higher-end models too.

Sporting goods stores: Dick’s & Academy

These retailers typically stock beginner to mid-level tables and accessories — ideal if you want to try a game before committing to an expensive setup. They also carry cues, racks, and practice equipment suitable for players starting out.

Specialty billiards shops — PoolDawg, Pure Billiards, local dealers

If you want serious quality and expert advice, specialty shops are hard to beat. PoolDawg and Pure Billiards focus only on cues, balls, tables, and maintenance products. Local dealers and billiard shops can also provide professional installation, slate leveling, and re-felting services that major retailers don’t always include.

Understanding pool table sizes: which one fits your space?

Size matters. Pool tables commonly come in 6-ft, 7-ft, and 8-ft sizes for home play, with 9-ft being regulation for many tournaments. But how do you pick the right one? A practical rule is to add two cue lengths (most cues are about 58 inches) to the table’s length and width for comfortable play. That gives you the minimum room size where you won’t be constantly crouching or bumping walls.

Quick room-size examples

- 8-ft table: table footprint about 96 inches long by 48 inches wide. Add two 58-inch cues and you’re looking at roughly 212 inches (about 17 ft 8 in) by 164 inches (about 13 ft 8 in).

- 7-ft table: footprint around 84 inches by 42 inches; add cue clearance to get about 200 inches (16 ft 8 in) by 158 inches (13 ft 2 in).

- 6-ft table: footprint around 72 inches by 36 inches; add cue clearance to get about 188 inches (15 ft 8 in) by 152 inches (12 ft 8 in).

If your room is smaller, a folding or convertible table — like many 47-inch kid tables or 76-inch foldable models — might be the smarter choice.

Slate vs. engineered wood (MDF): what’s the difference?

Slate is the gold standard for billiards. It’s dense, flat, and provides the true roll that serious players expect. The downside? Slate is heavy — it often requires a professional delivery and someone to install it on site. Engineered wood or MDF tops are lighter and cheaper, making them a great choice for casual play or smaller budgets, but they won’t match a slate’s long-term stability or bounce consistency.

Popular models and examples to consider

If you want a quick shortlist, here are representative models you might encounter while shopping: the Goplus 6-ft foldable pool table (often listed as 76 inches), kid-focused folding tables around 47 inches, classic 7-ft home tables from Hathaway, and mid-range 8-ft options from brands like Brunswick or Hudson Furniture. Specialty brands like Brunswick and Riley are known for their higher-end pieces, while Goplus and Costway offer entry-level, portable solutions.

Must-have accessories: what you really need

A table is only as good as the accessories you use. Essentials include a set of balls (standard balls are 2 1/4 inches in diameter), a quality cue or two (most adult cues are around 58 inches), a triangle or diamond rack, chalk, and a table brush. A sturdy light fixture over the table improves visibility and atmosphere. If you want to protect the table when not in use, a custom cover is a smart investment.

Cues and cue care

Cues vary by material and feel. Beginners can get a reliable wood cue for under $50, while serious players choose hardwood or layered fiberglass cues that cost more but last longer. Regularly clean the shaft and replace tips as they wear to keep shots consistent.

Assembly and delivery: what to expect

Some tables arrive in a few boxes and can be assembled by two people. But anything with slate usually requires professional delivery and installation because slate slabs can weigh hundreds of pounds. If you’re buying from a national retailer, check whether installation is optional or included. Specialty shops often offer installation packages that include leveling and calibration for peak playability.

How to score the best deals without sacrificing quality

Looking for bargains? Time your purchase around major sale seasons — spring refreshes, Black Friday, and holiday promotions can yield discounts. Consider open-box or floor models from big retailers for a reduced price, or look for refurbished tables from specialty dealers. Warehouse club bundles can also be economical if you need both a table and accessories. Finally, keep your eyes on manufacturer rebates and coupon codes from online marketplaces.

Setting up your home game room: lighting, seating, and flooring

A proper game room enhances the experience. Center a fixture that hangs about 32 to 36 inches above the playing surface to avoid shadows and glare. Comfortable seating along the perimeter provides resting spots between innings, and hard flooring or low-pile carpet makes cueing around the table easier. Add a small storage area for cues, chalk, and racks to keep clutter out of the way.

Maintenance tips to keep your table playing true

Regular maintenance extends the life of your table. Brush the felt to remove chalk and dust, keep food and drinks away from the cloth, and check the level every few months — an out-of-level table can ruin the roll. Re-felting is typically needed every few years on a heavily used table; specialty shops provide that service. For minor cushion or pocket issues, replacement parts are widely available from both national retailers and specialty suppliers.

Big retailers vs. specialty shops: which should you choose?

If convenience, price, and breadth of choice matter, major chains like Walmart, Amazon, and Wayfair are excellent. If you prioritize performance, custom options, and professional setup, specialty stores or local dealers are worth the extra spend. Think of it as choosing between a multi-tool and a craftsman’s chisel — each has its place depending on how serious you are about the craft.

Final thoughts before you buy

Buying a pool table is equal parts practical decision and personal taste. Measure your space, decide how serious you’ll be as a player, and set a budget that includes accessories and potential installation. Whether you opt for a compact 47-inch kids’ table from a national retailer or invest in an 8-ft slate table from a specialty shop, the right purchase will turn your home into a center of friendly competition and lasting memories.

Ready to shop? Start by comparing models from Walmart, Amazon, Target, Wayfair, and specialty shops like PoolDawg to find the mix of price, style, and performance that fits your home.

Conclusion: A well-chosen pool table transforms a room and a routine. Take your time to measure, compare, and prioritize what matters most — size, material, or style — and you’ll be rolling balls and breaking racks in no time.