Bowling alleys as we know them today were pioneered in the United States roughly 200 years ago. However, the game’s history spans even further – all the way to 3200 BCE.
So, join me on a journey through some fascinating information about these early alleys, which are a testament to the enduring popularity of bowling.
What began as a simple pastime has since evolved into a fully automated game. Imagine yourself transported back in time to a world of vintage lanes, unusual balls, and the satisfying clatter of toppled pins!
15 Oldest Bowling Alleys In America
Let’s explore the 15 oldest bowling alleys in America, uncovering the stories and traditions that have made them cherished landmarks in sports and leisure.
1. Roseland Cottage
Roseland Cottage is touted as the country’s oldest surviving indoor alley, opening in 1846. Roseland Cottage bowling alley is no longer open for play but is open for tours.
The bowling alley is in a carriage barn next to a Gothic Revival cottage built as a country retreat for New York merchant Henry Chandler Bowen.
The alley was visited by multiple presidents, including Ulysses S. Grant.
Today’s location includes a yellow pine plank alley, much like it appeared to President Grant in 1870, with original wooden bowling pins and various different-sized bowling balls, all made from lignum vitae or ironwood.
And don’t forget to check out Sawyer’s Landscape, which is proudly displayed in the dining room – a breathtaking sight!
2. Silver Dollar Saloon
The Silver Dollar Saloon Bowling Alley can be found in Leadville, Colorado. The alley has a cowboy movie theme, with wooden lanes spanning the room.
It has gained local fame due to the rock acts that have performed there. With a capacity of 600 patrons, thousands of bowling games have been played in the alley.
3. Holler House
Holler House is located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and was established in September 1908. In the early days, people had to roll the balls and set up the pins by hand since no machines were available.
One of the unique features of Holler House is the opportunity to witness bowling champions working as pinsetters. The walls of the establishment are adorned with historic images and artifacts, adding to its charm.
4. Garden Bowl
If you’re looking for a unique Detroit adventure, the 14th bowling alley established in 1913 is a must-visit. This alley is like a time capsule, serving as a communication medium with a colorful storybook of strikes and spares.
The Garden Bowl gained popularity in 1917 when a new bowling area with 22 alleys per floor was added. Interestingly, it also has a Majestic Theater Center that operates as a bowling alley.
5. Solvay Recreation Alleys
If you’re planning a trip to Syracuse, New York, be sure to check out Solvay Recreation Alley. This family-owned business features 14 charming wooden lanes reminiscent of a classic car dealership garage.
Surrounding the lanes are automated pinsetters, adding a touch of modern technology to the experience. Despite its lack of flashy features, Solvay Recreation Alley is well-known and loved by locals.
6. Mahall’s
Mahall’s is a well-known alley in Cleveland, which started as a dance hall with live music. It has 20 lanes, each becoming more impressive with every roll.
The lanes are equipped with vintage pinsetters and musical instruments, offering a variety of music genres with experimental noise effects.
This location also holds a special place in history as the longest-running restaurant and bowling alley, hosting various events.
7. Highland Park Bowl
Highland Park Bowl earned fame and was recognized as a prosperous alley in the 1920s. It is located in Los Angeles and operates as a leisure spot currently.
It was established as a bowling alley but later became a unique architectural masterpiece. The exterior walls are covered in various works of art, attracting tourists and visitors.
8. The Spare Room
The Spare Room is situated in Hollywood, California, and boasts beautiful landscaping. Initially a bowling alley, it has since been converted into a gaming business and cocktail lounge.
The alley features a unique blend of cultural and traditional games, along with unique decor.
9. Action Duckpin Bowl
This alley is situated in Baltimore, Maryland, and is known for its unique duckpin bowling.
Unlike regular bowling, it uses smaller pins and balls, providing a nostalgic experience for visitors drawn to this attraction.
10. Bryant-Lake Bowl
The Bryant-Lake Bowl is in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The history of this alley spans far and wide. It underwent a significant transformation from a bowling alley to a musical space.
Since then, it has been a popular destination for entertainment and artistic performances for visitors.
11. Bowlero Christown
This alley is located in Phoenix, Arizona. It is associated with the Corporation, which transformed the old cultural way of games into an extravagant and contemporary style.
It blended games, cultural art, and traditional experiences, lending to its popularity with people.
12. Rock ‘n’ Bowl
The Rock ‘n’ Bowl alley was established by combining bowling with a musical chord theme.
The primary aim of the alley was to create a party location and fun environment with various kinds of lights and bowling games. This alley quickly became a favorite spot for birthday celebrations.
13. Rohman’s Inn and Pub
Rohman’s is located in Ohio and has roots reaching back to the middle of the 20th century. It was a local spot for bowling and hosting local events.
Its establishment was welcomed because it addressed the needs of local people.
14. Lower Columbia Bowl
Lower Columbia Bowl is located in Washington State and is famous for being the bowling alley featured in the movie The Goonies. Originally built in 1946 as a car dealership and garage, it was converted into a bowling alley in 1956.
It is decorated with hand-painted murals of Astoria and the Columbia River on the alley walls to pay homage to the town’s waterfront. This alley quickly became a popular base for local bowling enthusiasts.
15. Boutwell’s Bowling Center
Boutwell’s Bowling Center, located in Concord, New Hampshire, offers candlepin bowling – a variation of bowling that’s popular in New England and Eastern Canada and features thinner pins and smaller hole-less balls.
The bowling alley opened in 1959 and has remained in the same family since 1972.
The venue has a retro feel, with shag carpet walls displaying the bowling alley’s name, rental shoes in red and blue, scoring screens from the 1990s showing dancing bowling pins, and an arcade with games from the 1980s.
FAQs
How Much Does It Cost to Play Bowling?
The cost of bowling can vary depending on location, time of day, and specific bowling alley. A bowling game can cost anywhere from $4 to $8 per person per game.
Some bowling alleys also offer special packages or discounts for groups or during certain hours, so checking with your local alley for exact pricing is recommended.
Does the Bowling Alley Charge a Specific Age Restriction?
Most bowling alleys do not have a specific age restriction for playing. Bowling is a family-friendly activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, from children to seniors.
However, some bowling alleys might have policies regarding children’s supervision during certain hours, so it’s a good idea to inquire about age-related guidelines when making arrangements.
How Much Could I Bowl for an Hour?
The cost of bowling for an hour can vary based on the factors mentioned earlier. You can expect to pay between $20 and $40 per lane per hour.
This typically covers the cost of the lane rental and shoe rental for all players. The number of games you can play in an hour depends on the speed of play and the number of players, as each game usually takes 10-15 minutes per person.
Conclusion
America has fallen in love with bowling alleys with charming pinsetters, reminiscent of the older version of the game.
Each alley has its own unique story, and each one provides the opportunity for adventure. Visitors laugh and create memories with friends in these locations, transporting them back to the old alleys lined with charming wooden lanes.