Photo: Jack Crouch
Photo: Andrew
Photo: Peter Morris
Bowlero Santa Barbara
★4.2(837 reviews)$Bowling
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 4 and up. Younger kids (4-7) enjoy bumper bowling and simple arcade games, while older children and teens appreciate the full bowling experience, competitive arcade challenges, and the social atmosphere. Even toddlers can participate with bumpers and lightweight bowling balls.🧡 Saved by 100+ families
About
Bowlero Santa Barbara offers classic bowling fun with modern family-friendly features that make it perfect for kids of all skill levels. With bumper bowling for little ones, an exciting arcade filled with games, and tasty food options on-site, families can easily spend an entire afternoon enjoying entertainment under one roof in a fun, nostalgic atmosphere.
Highlights
- ✓Bumper bowling lanes perfect for young children learning the game
- ✓Large video arcade with classic and modern games
- ✓On-site food and drinks so families don't need to leave for meals
- ✓Birthday party packages available with dedicated lanes and party hosts
- ✓Cosmic bowling with lights and music on select nights
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on weekends (right at 11:00 AM opening) to snag lanes before birthday party groups fill the venue
- 2.Book your lane online in advance, especially for Friday and Saturday evenings when walk-in wait times can exceed an hour
- 3.Bring socks for everyone,they're required for bowling and purchasing them on-site adds extra cost
- 4.Load up an arcade card with extra credits as bulk purchases often come with bonus game play
- 5.Request bumpers for younger bowlers at check-in, and ask about lightweight 6-pound balls perfect for small hands
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday afternoons (Tuesday-Thursday 3:00-6:00 PM) or Sunday late mornings (11:00 AM-1:00 PM) for the smallest crowds and best lane availability. Weekend evenings fill quickly with birthday parties and teen groups, making weekdays ideal for a more relaxed family experience.
What to Know
Bowling rates vary by day and time, with shoe rentals required for all bowlers. The venue offers a full menu including pizza, burgers, and appetizers, plus a bar area (separate from family bowling). Plenty of parking is available in the shopping center lot.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with consistent hours. Check their website for special cosmic bowling nights, holiday-themed events, and summer vacation deals that offer discounted rates for families during daytime hours.
Real Experiences
@bowlerobowl
View on TikTok
Nearby Eats
Rusty's Pizza Parlor and Santo Mezcal are both within a mile and offer kid-friendly menus, though Bowlero's own food menu is convenient for keeping the whole outing in one location.
More Activities Near Santa Barbara
Adventure
Rattlesnake Canyon Trail
Free
Rattlesnake Canyon Trail offers families an accessible introduction to Southern California wilderness with a rewarding waterfall destination. This moderate 3.5-mile roundtrip hike winds through shady canyon terrain with gentle stream crossings that kids find thrilling, making it perfect for families ready to graduate beyond basic nature walks to more adventurous outings.
Cafe
Sama Sama Cafe
$
Sama Sama Cafe is a laid-back beachside gem in Santa Barbara that makes dining with kids stress-free and enjoyable. With a dedicated kids' menu, healthy options for the whole family, and relaxed outdoor seating where little ones can move around without worry, it's the perfect spot to refuel after beach play or start your coastal day with a casual meal.
Theater
PCPA - Pacific Conservatory Theatre
★4.9$$❤️273
PCPA - Pacific Conservatory Theatre brings professional-quality family-friendly musicals and plays to life in an intimate community theater setting. With year-round productions ranging from beloved classics to modern favorites, this highly-rated venue offers children an engaging introduction to live theater with performances that captivate audiences of all ages.
Farm
Canzelle Alpacas
★4.9$$❤️61
Canzelle Alpacas offers an unforgettable experience where families can hike alongside gentle alpacas and llamas through the scenic Santa Barbara foothills. These adorable animals carry your supplies while kids learn about camelid care and enjoy hands-on interaction with these friendly creatures. With an exceptional 4.9-star rating, it's a unique outdoor adventure that combines nature, education, and animal encounters in one memorable outing.