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Cal Bowl bowling alley in Long Beach, CA
Photo: Tracy Everett
View of Cal Bowl in Long Beach, CA
Photo: A_Nose
View of Cal Bowl in Long Beach, CA
Photo: Chuck Wood

Cal Bowl

4.3(2,058 reviews)$$Bowling
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 4-14. Younger kids love the bumpers and lightweight balls that help them succeed, while tweens and teens enjoy the arcade games and the social atmosphere. Toddlers 2-3 can participate with parental assistance.

About

Cal Bowl is a classic family-friendly bowling alley in Long Beach that makes it easy for kids of all skill levels to have fun with bumper bowling lanes. Beyond the lanes, families can enjoy an arcade packed with games and prize redemption, making it a complete entertainment destination where kids can bowl a few frames and then play games while parents relax nearby.

Highlights

  • Bumper bowling lanes perfect for beginners and young children
  • Full arcade with classic and modern games plus prize redemption counter
  • Lightweight bowling balls sized for small hands
  • Family-friendly atmosphere with accommodating staff
  • Combination of bowling and arcade entertainment in one location

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Visit on weekday afternoons (Monday-Thursday) for the best lane availability and shorter waits - weekends can get crowded with leagues and parties
  2. 2.Sunday mornings starting at 9 AM are ideal for families with young children, offering a quieter atmosphere before the crowd arrives
  3. 3.Bring socks for everyone - they're required for bowling shoes and it's cheaper than buying them on-site
  4. 4.Set aside extra cash or load an arcade card for games - kids inevitably want to play after bowling
  5. 5.Consider calling ahead to reserve lanes, especially for larger families or during peak evening and weekend hours

Best Time to Visit

Sunday mornings (9 AM opening) or weekday afternoons (1-4 PM) offer the best experience for families. These times typically have fewer league bowlers and party groups, meaning more lane availability and a calmer atmosphere for kids learning to bowl.

What to Know

Cal Bowl offers on-site food and drinks with typical bowling alley fare like pizza and snacks. With a $$ price point, expect to pay moderate rates for bowling and shoe rentals, plus additional costs for arcade games.

Seasonal Notes

Open year-round with consistent hours. This indoor venue is perfect for rainy days or hot summer afternoons when outdoor activities aren't ideal. Holiday periods may feature special promotions or extended hours.

Nearby Eats

The venue is located on Carson Street with various family dining options nearby, including chain restaurants and casual eateries within a short drive in the Lakewood shopping district.

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