SIZE DOESN'T MATTER
WHEN YOU'RE DUCKPIN BOWLING
It's not the size of the balls, It's how you use them!
At Pins Mechanical Co., trade in your big balls and B.Y.O.S. (bring your own shoes)! In duckpin, it's not just knocking down pins; it's about the swagger in your approach, the twinkle in your toes, and the thrill of a nostalgic night out with the people you love most.
Sorry! NO RESERVATIONS. Our duckpin bowling is first-come, first-serve.
WHAT IS DUCKPIN?
Duckpin is a unique test of precision and dexterity, and it'll have you hooked from the very first roll! The rules are similar to traditional bowling, but with a twist — you get 3 rolls per frame instead of 2. Instead of sturdy pins and heavy balls, duckpin bowling uses lightweight, shorter pins (on strings) and palm-sized balls (with no finger holes) that are trickier to handle and control. Even the lane is shorter than a regular bowling alley! You'll need to be accurate as your ball curves its way towards those tiny pins.
THINK YOU GOT WHAT IT TAKES? COME SEE HOW WE ROLL!
Our duckpin bowling is perfect for kids, groups, family time, special occasions and creative date nights. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-timer, the challenge of mastering the game of duckpin will keep you coming back for more.
Come see why PiNS is the ultimate destination for a nostalgic night out! There's tons more games and activities to explore in our space, plus a full bar of delicious libations to enjoy while you play.
THE HOUSE RULES
- STAY OFF THE LANES
- NO UNTANGLING OF STRINGS
- NO LOBBING OR OVERHAND THROWING THE BALL
- NO IMPROPERLY THROWING THE BALL (backwards, between the legs, two balls at once, etc.)
- ONLY ROLL WHEN THE LIGHT IS GREEN
Feel free to act like a kid again, just keep our stuff intact. And be safe. Obviously.
TIPS ON HOW TO PLAY DUCKPIN
- GET A GRIP: hold that duckpin ball like a pro, making sure it fits snug in your hand.
- EYE ON THE PRIZE: aim for the head pin, release smoothly, and let momentum do the rest.
- KEEP IT SMOOTH: bend those knees, keep good posture and follow through with your arm.
- CHILL OUT: relax, breathe, and let your instinct guide your game.
- HAVE FUN: it's all about the good times, so loosen up and enjoy every roll with your crew!
DUCKPIN BOWLING FAQS
Can I reserve a duckpin lane?
PiNS does not offer reservations for lanes. Duckpin lanes are first-come, first-serve. Lanes can only be reserved as part of a booked event. Learn more about booking your next event at PiNS.
Our waitlist is different from a reservation. You must sign-up in person at The Cage to get on the waitlist (if one exists). Typically, our wait times for duckpin bowling are short, especially during off-peak hours and weekdays. However, during busier periods such as weekends or holidays, wait times may vary.
How do I sign up to play duckpin?
You must be in person to sign up to play duckpin. Go to The Cage and a team member will assign you to a lane. In the event all lanes are full, you will be added to our waitlist and you'll receive a text when your lane is available.
What are the duckpin bowling game prices at Pins?
Monday - Thursday: $7 per duckpin game, per person
Friday - Sunday: $8 per duckpin game, per person
SHORTY SUNDAYS: Kids 12 and under bowl FREE
- 3 kids per every 1 adult, all minors must be accompanied by an adult (18+)What are the typical wait times for duckpin bowling?
Duckpin bowling games are first-come, first-serve — we do not offer reservations. Games are typically 45-60 minutes depending on the number of players.
We strive to keep wait times for duckpin bowling to a minimum, ensuring you can enjoy your experience without unnecessary delays. Typically, our wait times for duckpin bowling are short, especially during off-peak hours and weekdays. However, during busier periods such as weekends or holidays, wait times may vary.
When you’re ready to play, you can check in at The Cage and a team member will assign your group a lane. Heads up! If you’re already on a waitlist, you can only purchase 1 game at a time while a wait exists.We understand our guests are excited to get on the lanes and our crew works hard to keep the good times rollin’.
How many people can play duckpin?
Our duckpin bowling lanes cater to groups of varying sizes. Each lane can accommodate up to 6 players comfortably, making it perfect for a fun-filled outing with friends, family or colleagues.
Whether you’re planning a small get-together or a larger gathering, our duckpin bowling experience ensures everyone can join in on the excitement. Games are typically 45-60 minutes depending on the number of players. NOTE: If there is a waitlist for games, guests can only play 1 game at a time.
Can kids play duckpin bowling?
All ages can play duckpin, there is no age restriction. With lighter balls and shorter lanes, duckpin can be easier to play than traditional bowling.
Don't miss SHORTY SUNDAYS! Kids 12 and under bowl free every Sunday (3 kids per every 1 adult, all minors must be accompanied by an adult 18+).
Do I have to rent shoes or equipment?
No smelly shoe rental here! At PiNS, there’s no need to worry about renting bowling shoes or equipment. Come as you are and we’ll provide the fun.
NOTE: We do not allow outside duckpin balls to be used on our lanes. And while we don’t provide wrist braces or gloves, you are welcome to wear them if it helps your game.
How many duckpin lanes does Pins have?
Our number of duckpin bowling lanes varies by PiNS location:
- Downtown Columbus: 8 lanes
- Easton Columbus: 16 lanes
- Dublin Columbus: 14 lanes
- Cincinnati: 10 lanes
- Cleveland: 12 lanes
- Indianapolis: 12 lanes
- Pittsburgh: 16 lanes
- Nashville: 16 lanes
- Charlotte: 12 lanes
Can I join a duckpin bowling league at Pins?
YES! We offer annual bowling leagues from January through March. Teams of 6 players each compete for 8 weeks, and the top 4 teams face-off in end-of-season playoffs. Start thinking of your team name!
Registrations for our 2025 Winter League will begin in November. Sign up for our email list or follow us on social media so we can notify you when duckpin bowling league sign-ups start.
How do I book an event at Pins?
If you are looking to host an event for a corporate gathering, birthday, celebration, or any other type of special get-together, we’ve got you covered! We offer a variety of space options for groups of 15–100+ people and can customize the activities based on the size and needs of your group. Book your event here.
Are the duckpin bowling lanes wheelchair accessible?
Pins Mechanical Co. is committed to providing accessibility for all our guests, including those with disabilities. All of our locations and duckpin bowling lanes are wheelchair accessible.