Photo: Chris Schutte
Photo: Sarah Aupperlee
Photo: Peter Malone
Center Bowl
★4.2(596 reviews)$Bowling
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 4-14. Younger kids (4-7) love the bumper bowling that keeps their balls out of the gutters, while tweens and teens enjoy the arcade games and the challenge of improving their bowling skills. Toddlers can participate but may need help with the heavier balls.🧡 Saved by 50+ families
About
Center Bowl is Anchorage's go-to family bowling destination, offering the perfect combination of kid-friendly bowling with bumper lanes and an exciting arcade area to keep everyone entertained. With food service on-site and a welcoming atmosphere that caters to families, it's an ideal spot for birthday parties, rainy day activities, or just casual weekend fun with the kids.
Highlights
- ✓Bumper lanes that ensure kids experience bowling success and stay engaged
- ✓Arcade games with prizes ranging from classic favorites to newer attractions
- ✓On-site food service with kid-friendly menu options
- ✓Birthday party packages available with dedicated party areas
- ✓Extended weekend hours (open until 1:00 AM Fridays and Saturdays) for special family late-night outings
Pro Tips
- 1.Book a lane in advance on weekends and Friday evenings when families pack the alley,walk-ins can face long waits.
- 2.Ask for the lightweight bowling balls (6-8 lbs) for younger children to prevent arm fatigue and keep the game fun.
- 3.Bring socks for everyone as bowling shoes are required, and purchasing them adds to your costs if anyone forgets.
- 4.Load up an arcade card with extra credits during special promotions,they often run bonus deals on weekdays.
- 5.Request a lane closer to the arcade area if you have kids of varying ages so non-bowlers can play games within view.
Best Time to Visit
Visit weekday afternoons (Tuesday-Thursday, 12:00-4:00 PM) for the quietest experience with shorter wait times and a more relaxed atmosphere. Weekend mornings right at 10:00 AM opening are also good for families wanting to avoid the evening rush and party crowds.
What to Know
Center Bowl offers full food service including pizza, burgers, and snacks, so you can easily make it a complete outing without leaving for meals. Ample parking is available in their lot on Minnesota Drive, and rental shoes are included in lane pricing.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round and particularly popular during Alaska's long winter months when indoor activities are essential. Great refuge from summer rain or winter cold, making it a reliable family entertainment option regardless of weather.
Follow Center Bowl
Nearby Eats
Fred Meyer on the same stretch has a deli section for quick snacks, or head to Moose's Tooth Pub & Pizzeria (about 10 minutes away) for Anchorage's famous pizza after your bowling session.
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