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Pins Mechanical Co. bar in Lewis Center, OH
Photo: H N (supersonic027)
View of Pins Mechanical Co. in Lewis Center, OH
Photo: Pins Mechanical Co.
View of Pins Mechanical Co. in Lewis Center, OH
Photo: Ross H Porter

Pins Mechanical Co.

4.5(3,122 reviews)$$Entertainment
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 6 and up. The duckpin bowling format is ideal for elementary-aged children who might struggle with traditional bowling, while tweens and teens gravitate toward the vintage arcade games. Younger kids (4-5) can participate with parental help, though the evening bar atmosphere may be less suitable for toddlers.

About

Pins Mechanical Co. in Lewis Center offers a unique blend of retro entertainment that appeals to both kids and adults. This spacious venue combines duckpin bowling (smaller balls and pins perfect for little hands), classic arcade games, and outdoor lawn games, creating a nostalgic yet family-friendly atmosphere where everyone can find something fun to do.

Highlights

  • Duckpin bowling with smaller, kid-friendly balls and pins
  • Classic vintage arcade games including Pac-Man, skee-ball, and pinball machines
  • Free outdoor lawn games like giant Jenga, cornhole, and ping pong
  • Full-service dining so families can eat while they play
  • Nostalgic atmosphere that parents enjoy as much as kids

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive right when they open at 11:00 AM on weekends for the most family-friendly atmosphere and minimal wait times for bowling lanes
  2. 2.Request a bowling lane near the arcade area so kids can alternate between activities without parents losing sight of them
  3. 3.Bring hand sanitizer and consider cash for the arcade games, though many games now accept cards
  4. 4.The outdoor patio games (cornhole, ping pong) are free to use and often overlooked, great for letting kids burn energy between activities
  5. 5.Birthday party packages are available and highly rated, book well in advance for weekend slots

Best Time to Visit

Sunday mornings between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM offer the most family-oriented experience before the venue transitions to its adult bar scene. Weekday late afternoons (4:00-6:00 PM) are also less crowded, though be mindful that the atmosphere shifts significantly after 8:00 PM on all days.

What to Know

Casual dining options are available on-site including pizza, burgers, and shareable appetizers at moderate prices ($$). While primarily a bar venue for adults in evening hours, families are welcome during daytime and early evening hours. The venue can get loud and crowded on weekend nights.

Seasonal Notes

The outdoor patio and lawn games are seasonal and most enjoyable spring through fall. Indoor activities are available year-round. Check their website for special family events during school breaks and holidays, though note that evening hours remain 21+ focused even during holidays.

Nearby Eats

The venue is located in Columbus's Arena District, within walking distance of Condado Tacos (build-your-own tacos kids love) and North Market (a food hall with diverse options for picky eaters). However, Pins has a solid food menu, so many families choose to dine on-site.

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