Koz’s Mini Bowl in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Koz's Mini Bowl is a renowned dive bar in Milwaukee famous for its miniature duckpin bowling, a sport unique to the bar. The bar has been home to the last original mini duckpin bowling alley in the US for almost a century. Wisconsin's duckpin bowling is distinct from other regions, with mini bowling using 16-foot lanes and 3-pound balls, making perfect games common. At Koz's, everything remains as it was in the 1940s, including manual pinsetters and no computer scoring. The bar was established in 1887 by a Prussian immigrant and has had several owners and additions over the years. The duckpin bowling lanes were added in 1947, and the bar sport took off in the 1960s. Despite interest waning, the bar has remained in the Kosakoski family since 1976 and is now operated by Justin Kosakoski. Today, Koz's Mini Bowl is a classic Milwaukee corner bar with a rich history, offering a unique experience for tourists and locals alike. The bar has received numerous accolades, including being named one of the best bars in America and a historic landmark. Justin Kosakoski decided to hold on to the bar for its sentimental and historic value, preserving a beloved Milwaukee institution.