Flying Pins travel guide

Flying Pins, a unique and iconic sculpture in Eindhoven, has become a symbol of the city’s innovative spirit and artistic flair. Created by sculptors Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, the installation was unveiled in 2000 to celebrate the city’s dynamism and creativity. This monumental artwork features a collection of oversized bowling pins and a bright yellow bowling ball, seemingly frozen in a moment of dramatic action as if they were just struck by the ball.

The installation is strategically located at the Kennedylaan and Fellenoord intersection, a bustling area that embodies the vibrant energy of Eindhoven. The choice of bowling pins is a playful nod to the city’s recreational culture, while the striking colors and dynamic composition reflect Eindhoven’s forward-thinking and innovative ethos.

Flying Pins has since become a beloved landmark, attracting both locals and tourists who are eager to capture its whimsical charm in photographs. Its presence in Eindhoven underscores the city’s commitment to fostering a rich cultural landscape, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Netherlands.

Flying Pins, an iconic sculpture in Eindhoven, stands out for its sheer scale and vibrant colors. The installation features a dynamic arrangement of ten bowling pins and one bowling ball, giving the impression of a frozen moment in time, just as the pins are being knocked over. This sense of motion is a testament to the artists Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen's mastery of capturing kinetic energy in static form.

The bright yellow color of the pins contrasts sharply with the green surroundings of the area, making it an unmistakable landmark. Furthermore, the oversized dimensions of the pins, each standing at around eight meters tall, provide a surreal experience, dwarfing visitors and offering a playful perspective on everyday objects. The placement of the pins and ball is meticulously designed to convey chaos and motion, inviting viewers to walk around and experience the sculpture from multiple angles.

Additionally, the choice of a bowling theme is a nod to popular culture and leisure activities, which resonates with a wide audience, making the artwork both accessible and intriguing. These unique features collectively contribute to Flying Pins' status as a must-see attraction in Eindhoven.

Flying Pins, an iconic sculpture in Eindhoven, is more than just a quirky piece of urban art. Created by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, it is one of their largest public works in Europe, boasting a height of 8.5 meters. The sculpture's vibrant yellow hue was inspired by the striking colors of traditional Dutch tulips and the region's famous Philips company, synonymous with Eindhoven. Each pin weighs approximately 1,800 kilograms, ensuring they remain grounded despite their dynamic appearance. Interestingly, the positioning of the pins mimics the trajectory of a real bowling strike, capturing a moment of action and energy. The sculpture has also found its way into popular culture, being featured in various local events and even serving as a landmark in video games. Its playful design and monumental scale make it a must-see for visitors seeking to experience Eindhoven's innovative spirit.

Located in the dynamic Eindhoven, the popular Flying Pins is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Eindhoven or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through the Netherlands.

Eindhoven is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Eindhoven offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Eindhoven and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable DAF Museum, Philips Museum, Stadswandelpark, Van Abbemuseum, and Henri Dunant park.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Eindhoven has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Eindhoven, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in the Netherlands!

The best time to explore Flying Pins in Eindhoven is during the spring and summer months, from April to September. During this period, the weather is generally mild to warm, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Springtime, particularly April and May, offers blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures, enhancing the vibrant colors of the Flying Pins installation. Summer months, especially June through August, provide longer daylight hours, allowing more time to appreciate the artwork and take memorable photographs.

Visiting during the annual Dutch Design Week, held in October, can also be a unique experience. This event attracts design enthusiasts from around the world and adds an extra layer of excitement to your visit. Although October temperatures are cooler, the creative atmosphere and numerous design-related activities in the city make it a worthwhile time to explore Flying Pins.

To avoid large crowds, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening, particularly during weekends or peak tourist seasons. This ensures a more relaxed and intimate experience with the artwork. By planning your visit during these optimal times, you can fully enjoy and capture the essence of Flying Pins in Eindhoven.

Flying Pins is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Eindhoven, the Netherlands. If you're flying in, Brussels Airport is approximately 57.2 miles (92.1 km) away from Eindhoven. From there, you can easily reach Flying Pins by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Eindhoven, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Flying Pins, which is located 0.4 miles (0.7 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Flying Pins, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is John F Kennedylaan 2, 5612 AB Eindhoven, Netherlands.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Flying Pins!

With a rental car, discovering the popular Flying Pins and the Netherlands's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Brussels Airport and the city of Eindhoven, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in the Netherlands cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Eindhoven and beyond.

Conveniently explore Flying Pins and plenty more captivating attractions in Eindhoven by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Flying Pins and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Eindhoven has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Flying Pins below.

Aside from Flying Pins, Eindhoven is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Eindhoven, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely DAF Museum, Philips Museum, and Stadswandelpark.

DAF Museum is a bucket-list museum and top attraction in Eindhoven, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,200 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of DAF Museum is Tongelresestraat 27, 5613 DA Eindhoven, Netherlands.

Another appreciated attraction in Eindhoven is Philips Museum. Like DAF Museum, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars among 3,100 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Emmasingel 31, 5611 AZ Eindhoven, Netherlands.

Stadswandelpark is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Eindhoven. This park and top attraction in Eindhoven has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,900 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Parkeerplaats, 5615 EB Eindhoven, Netherlands.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Eindhoven below.