Photo: Cassandra Carlson
Photo: Travis J.
Photo: Joseph Strohmeyer
AMF Southtown Lanes
★4.1(857 reviews)$Bowling
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 4-14. Younger kids (4-7) love the bumper bowling that guarantees they'll knock down pins, while older kids and tweens enjoy the arcade games and the challenge of improving their bowling skills. Toddlers under 4 may struggle with the weight of bowling balls, even with ramps.🧡 Saved by 9 families
About
AMF Southtown Lanes offers classic family bowling fun with kid-friendly amenities that make it easy for even the youngest bowlers to enjoy the game. With bumper lanes to keep balls out of the gutters, an arcade packed with games, and a full bar and grill serving comfort food, parents can relax knowing there's entertainment and food all under one roof for a complete family outing.
Highlights
- ✓Bumper bowling lanes that help young kids experience success and keep the game fun
- ✓Video arcade with modern and classic games for between-frame entertainment
- ✓Full bar and grill with kid-friendly menu items delivered to your lane
- ✓Cosmic bowling sessions with black lights and music on weekend evenings
- ✓Birthday party packages with dedicated party hosts and private lanes
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on weekends (right at noon opening) to snag lanes before the birthday party rush hits around 2-3 PM
- 2.Ask about bumpers when you check in,staff can turn them on for just the kids while adults bowl without them on the same lane
- 3.Bring socks for everyone as bowling shoes are required, and purchasing socks on-site adds to the cost
- 4.Load up an arcade card with extra credits on Tuesdays when they often run game specials and bonus deals
- 5.Request a ramp for very young bowlers (ages 4-6) to help them roll the ball down the lane without dropping it
Best Time to Visit
Tuesday through Thursday afternoons (after the noon opening) offer the lightest crowds and best lane availability. Avoid Friday and Saturday evenings when cosmic bowling events and teen groups fill the venue. Sunday afternoons right after opening are surprisingly calm for families.
What to Know
Expect to pay per game per person plus shoe rentals (typically $5-7 per person for shoes). The on-site bar and grill serves pizza, burgers, and chicken fingers that can be delivered right to your lane. Parking is plentiful in the Southtown Center lot.
Seasonal Notes
Year-round indoor facility with no seasonal closures. Summer weekday mornings sometimes feature special kids bowl free programs. Holiday weeks (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring Break) tend to be busier than usual, so book lanes in advance.
Real Experiences
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Nearby Eats
The Mall of America is just minutes away with an enormous food court and restaurants like Bubba Gump Shrimp or Rainforest Cafe. For a quick family meal closer by, Southtown Center has several casual dining options within walking distance.
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