Duckpin Bowling: Amsterdam’s new bowling experience

If you like tenpin bowling and you’re ready for a fun twist to it, then duckpin bowling could be right up your alley – literally! Think lighter balls, shorter lanes and a quicker pace, available at Amsterdam’s Hollywood Entertainment Center. With duckpin bowling, the focus shifts from perfect technique to a more relaxed, enjoyable experience.

What is duckpin bowling?

Duckpin is a bowling variant that’s built around smaller pins and a smaller ball, and it’s usually harder to get a strike than in classic ten-pin bowling. The ball is typically palm-sized and has no finger holes, which changes the technique: it’s less about power and more about aim and consistency. In standard duckpin rules, players also get three rolls per frame (instead of two), which gives players a better chance to clear the lane.

How is it different from “normal” ten-pin bowling?

• Ball: smaller and usually no finger holes (easier to hold, trickier to control precisely).
• Pins: shorter/lighter, so they don’t fly as dramatically, which means fewer strikes and tighter scoring.
• Pace: games feel fast and social, great for mixed groups where not everyone bowls regularly.

Duckpin bowling at Hollywood Entertainment Center in Amsterdam North

Hollywood’s Amsterdam Noord venue features duckpin bowling as one of its key attractions. Each lane is ideal for around 2 to 6 players, keeping the action lively without long waits between turns. Rates start at €34 per hour per lane, although prices can vary depending on the day, time, and level of traffic.

What makes duckpin here especially appealing is how naturally it fits into the multi‑activity format of the Hollywood Center, so you can do other activities such glow-in-the-dark golf, simulated Formula One racing and interactive darts. With a restaurant offering snacks, meals, cocktails and mocktails, it’s also a fantastic spot for parties and team-building activities.

Duckpin bowling good-to-knows

• Duckpin bowling isn’t necessarily harder or easier than regular bowling. The lighter ball makes it easier to start, but the smaller pins mean strikes are more difficult, which makes it a different kind of challenge.
• At Hollywood Entertainment Center, you don’t need to wear specific bowling shoes.
• Duckpin bowling is suitable for kids, and bumpers/rail guards can be raised to prevent kids from bowling into the gutter.

More bowling venues in Amsterdam

Beyond the duckpin lanes at Hollywood Entertainment Center, Amsterdam offers several other bowling spots, each with its own vibe. Whether you’re looking for a classic bowling experience or something with a tropical theme, you’ll find variety around the city, such as the ones listed below:

Aloha Amsterdam: party vibes

Aloha Amsterdam offers tenpin bowling with a strong party focus, combining LED-lit lanes, music and a playful Hawaiian theme. It’s less about perfect technique and more about atmosphere, making it a popular choice for birthdays, group outings and nights out with friends. With cocktails, shared food and other activities on offer, bowling at Aloha is designed to be part of a larger social experience rather than the main event.

Aloha is centrally located near Amsterdam Central Station. The address is De Ruijterkade 151, 1011 AC Amsterdam.

Knijn bowling: classic and familiar

Knijn Bowling offers a straightforward, classic ten-pin bowling experience in Amsterdam, with well-maintained lanes and a relaxed atmosphere that’s ideal for regular bowlers, families, and casual groups alike. It doesn’t rely on flashy themes or party lighting. Instead, it delivers a familiar bowling experience. Whether you’re planning a laid-back evening with friends or a fun family outing, Knijn is a great option for anyone who enjoys the more traditional form of bowling.

Knijn is located near the Amsterdam RAI convention centre. The address is Scheldeplein 3, 1078 GR Amsterdam

Silverstone Party Centre: bowling plus more

At Silverstone Party Center, bowling is part of a broader high-energy fun offering. The bowling lanes here come with disco-style lighting and upbeat music, creating a livelier backdrop than a purely classic alley. It’s especially popular for group celebrations and social outings where you want a bit more atmosphere – think bowling plus games, snacks, music and a party vibe. The setup here is ideal for those who want a great night out, rather than just a dedicated bowling experience.

Silverstone Party Center is located just west of Amsterdam in a small town called Zwanenburg. The address is Weerenweg 21-23, 1161 AE Zwanenburg.