Hello. I am very early on this post but I am a planner. My wife and will be in Cologne Germany for one night on December 10th (we'll be visiting Christmas market). I'd love to try 9 pin bowling in the basement of an authentic establishment but I'm nervous about being able to make reservations from a distance. Plus, with just the 2 of us, it appears we need more players. So, my trade offer is, I'll bring some desired beer from US in exchange for anyone willing to organize a bowling outing in Cologne. I'll pay for the bowling. I'm really just looking for a fun visit. If interested, please message. Cheers, Pat
Well, that's a new one, at least for me. In German, it's called "Kegeln" as opposed to Bowling and it's done at a Kegelbahn. Google is your friend and I'm guessing it will come down to the logistics of where you are staying and if anyone wants to meet you. But from what I know, it's usually done in groups. But, I don't think that will stop them from letting you kegel if no groups are using the bahn. I've been kegeln a few times and was disappointed in my ability. Looks harder than it is. Good luck and have fun!
It's a great idea trying this! Kegeln was very popular here in Germany when I was younger, but still many pubs habe their Kegelbahn. Normally you just reserve it for a fix amount of money - it used to be 20-25€/hour. And then it doesn't matter how many are there to play - but it makes fun with at least 6-8 people. Try @Snowcrash000 - he lives in cologne. I don't live far away, but already have an appointment that evening till 7pm. So depending on the location I might join you - but can't promise it now. I found this articles about Kegelbahnen in traditional pubs in Cologne: https://koeln.mitvergnuegen.com/2019/kegeln-kegelbahn-koeln/ https://www.ksta.de/freizeit/kegeln-ist-kult-elf-kegelbahnen-in-und-um-koeln-144367 And for a Saturday it would be necessary to reserve now - If you've chosen your location I can help you booking this, of course. Cheers
I've checked out a few of the places on @Erzengel 's list and it seems to be a little out of date, as some places have closed down. Also, Sunday is not ideal as some places are closed on Sundays. Some other places charge a 50€ deposit when booking, which is a little problematic. I'm also not sure if many places will even let you make a booking for just 3-4 people. I will check this in detail later, but my first pick so far would be Em Kölsche Boor. It's pretty central, serves Mühlen Kölsch and has that traditional Kölsch Brauhaus atmosphere that you are probably looking for, complete with rustic food. They are open Sundays, charge 15€ per hour for the kegelbahn and don't request a deposit as far as I can see. I'm a little worried that this is standard practice and just not mentioned for every place though.
