Photo: Aditya
Photo: Brad Dugas
Photo: Symon Warr
Westside Lanes & Fun Center
★4.3(1,605 reviews)$Bowling
🕑 2-4 hours👶 Best for ages 4-14. Younger children (4-8) love the bumper bowling that prevents gutter balls and keeps the fun going, while tweens and teens gravitate toward the arcade games and competitive bowling. Toddlers under 4 may struggle with the weight of bowling balls, even the lightest ones.🧡 Saved by 150+ families
About
Westside Lanes & Fun Center is Missoula's go-to family entertainment destination, combining classic bowling with bumper lanes perfect for little ones and an exciting arcade that keeps kids entertained for hours. The family-friendly atmosphere makes it ideal for everything from casual weekend outings to birthday parties, with enough variety to satisfy different age groups all under one roof.
Highlights
- ✓Bumper bowling lanes that guarantee success for young bowlers
- ✓Extensive arcade with modern and classic games
- ✓On-site food service with pizza and snacks
- ✓Birthday party packages available
- ✓Comfortable seating areas for parents to relax between turns
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on weekday afternoons (especially Monday-Wednesday) for the quietest experience and easiest lane availability without reservations
- 2.Ask for the lightweight 6-pound bowling balls at the counter,they're perfect for younger kids and not always visible on the racks
- 3.Bring socks for everyone! They're required for bowling and will save you the rental fee
- 4.The venue transforms into more of a bar scene after 9 PM on weekends, so plan family visits for earlier in the day or early evening
- 5.Load up an arcade card with a set amount before starting,it helps manage kids' expectations and your budget
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons between 2-6 PM offer the best family experience with minimal crowds and a calmer atmosphere. Weekends before 5 PM are also good, but arrive early or call ahead for lane reservations, especially during winter months when bowling is a popular indoor activity.
What to Know
The center has a full snack bar with kid-friendly favorites like pizza, nachos, and soft drinks, so you can easily spend several hours without leaving. Parking is available on-site, and the facility is accessible, though it's worth noting the atmosphere becomes more adult-oriented late evenings with its bar and nightclub aspects.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round and especially popular during Montana's cold winter months as a reliable indoor activity. Summer sees slightly lighter crowds as families opt for outdoor activities. Check their social media for special holiday promotions during Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks when extended families often gather.
Follow Westside Lanes & Fun Center
Nearby Eats
Mackenzie River Pizza is just a few minutes away and offers a full kids menu with excellent pizza and pasta options. For a quick bite, Five Guys Burgers and Fries is nearby on Reserve Street and always a hit with children.
More Activities Near Missoula
Playground
Dragon Hollow Playground
Free
Dragon Hollow Playground is a beloved community treasure in Missoula, featuring an enchanting castle theme that sparks imagination and adventure. With its unique wooden structures, creative climbing towers, winding slides, and whimsical design elements, this playground transforms ordinary playtime into a medieval quest that keeps kids engaged for hours.
Restaurant
Garcias Incorporados
$$
Garcias Incorporados is a beloved Missoula establishment serving up authentic Mexican cuisine in generous family-sized portions that make dining with kids both easy and affordable. The vibrant, colorful atmosphere and welcoming vibe create a relaxed environment where children feel comfortable, and parents appreciate the quick service and menu options that appeal to even picky eaters.
Adventure
Riverfront Trail
Free
The Riverfront Trail offers families an easy, scenic outdoor escape right through the heart of Missoula. This well-maintained paved path winds alongside the Clark Fork River for miles, connecting multiple parks, playgrounds, and picnic spots that make perfect stopping points for kids. Whether you're biking, scootering, walking the dog, or pushing a stroller, the flat terrain and beautiful river views make this a stress-free adventure for all ages.
Restaurant
Sonora Shack
$
Sonora Shack is a beloved Missoula breakfast spot that hits all the right notes for families. Known for creative pancakes and generous kid-friendly portions, this casual eatery combines Mexican-inspired flavors with breakfast classics in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where parents don't have to stress about noise or mess.