Looking for some old fashion, wholesome fun this weekend? Whether you’re the competitive type or are just looking to have a ball, bowling can be anyone’s game. We’ve put together a list (in no particular order) of 8 of the best bowling alleys in the city. Get your strike on.
1. Gutter Bar
Part bowling alley, part dive bar. What more could you expect out of Brooklyn? This place sports eight hardwood lanes and a quite a few American craft beers as well as a pool table. Two for one bowling happy hour happens Monday- Friday from 5 to 7 pm.
Address: 200 N 14th Street, Brooklyn
Hours: Monday- Thursday 4 pm- 4 am, Friday 2 pm- 4 am, Saturday-Sunday 12 pm- 4 am
Price: $7 per game per person or $40 per lane per hour
More info: their website.
2. Astoria Bowl
Good old fashion bowling at its finest. Astoria Bowl is a family owned alley that hosts birthdays, league games on Sunday, and a full service kitchen and bar. With 28 lanes, you shouldn’t have to wait too long for your game, especially on weeknights.
Address: 19-45 49th Street, Astoria
Hours: Monday-Wednesday 10 am – 12 am, Thursday 10 am- 11 pm, Friday- Saturday 10 am- 1 am, Sunday 12 pm – 11 pm
Price: Monday – Thursday: $5, Friday – Sunday: $6 or hourly Monday – Thursday: $10, Friday – Sunday: $12
More info: their website.
3. Melody Lanes
Melody Lanes in Brooklyn is a family friendly bowling alley with all the amenities you can ask for. Their special prices throughout the week make it worth it for a game or two after work.
Address: 61 37th Street, Brooklyn
Hours: Sunday- Thursday 9 am – 12 am, Friday- Saturday 9 am- 3 am
Price: various special prices throughout the week.
More info: their website.
These lux lanes in Midtown west have a bit of everything; bowling, billiards, ping pong and karaoke. It’s a bit on the expensive end but it’s worth it to have everything in one spot. After 8 pm from Monday- Saturday the locale is 21+ but on Sundays, all ages are welcome.
Address: 550 9th Avenue
Hours: Monday- Thursday: 12 pm- 11 pm, Friday 12 pm- 2 am, Saturday 11 am- 2 am, Sunday, 11 am- 11 pm
Price: Walk-ins welcome, based on availability. $60 per hour, lane rental before 5 pm $75 after 5 pm.
More info: their website.
5. Shell Lanes
Tournaments, leagues, youth games, this spot in Brooklyn has a bit of everything. Keep an eye on their weekly specials as you can find a good deal for 2 hour games, individual games and more.
Address: 1 Bouck Court, Brooklyn
Hours: Monday- Thursday: 9 am- 12 am, Friday- Saturday 9 am- 1:30 am, Sunday 9 am- 12 am
Price: price specials vary per day
More info: their website.
6. Lucky Strike
Lucky Strike is probably the most famous bowling alley in Manhattan. It’s expensive but convenient and their exclusive suite with 4 personal lanes is great for lavish events. The food isn’t half bad either. Note: there is a dress code and entrance is restricted to 21+after 7 pm.
Address: 670 W. 43rd Street
Hours: Sunday- Wednesday, 12 pm- 12 am, Thursday 12 pm- 1 am, Friday- Saturday, 12 pm – 2 am
More info: their website.
This Queens bowling alley is one of the best deals in the city starting at $5.50 for a game depending on the time of day you stop in. The place is intense with 48 lanes and a bar. Think birthday parties, league games and date night. It’s good for it all.
Address: 30-05 Whitestone Expressway, Flushing
Hours: 6 am – late
Price: Monday-Friday until 6 pm $5.50, after 6 pm, $8.50. Weekends, $8.50
More info: their website.
8. Van Nest Lanes
This vintage inspired gem in the Bronx is a great place for a quick game. The pin-setting system is pretty old but the charm of the place makes it a must see.
Address: 1756 Bronxdale Avenue, Bronx
Price: $30 per hour, including shoes.