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Chinook Student Center sports activity location in Pullman, WA
Photo: Peter Johnson
View of Chinook Student Center in Pullman, WA
Photo: Chinook Student Center
View of Chinook Student Center in Pullman, WA
Photo: Greg Salo

Chinook Student Center

4.7(146 reviews)$$Entertainment
🕑 2 to 3 hours👶 Best for ages 5 and up. School-age kids and teens especially enjoy the bowling and arcade challenges, while younger children can handle bowling with bumpers and simpler arcade games. A great multigenerational activity spot.

About

Located on the Washington State University campus, the Chinook Student Center offers families an affordable and fun indoor recreation experience with a bowling alley and arcade games. With its impressive 4.7 rating and extensive operating hours, it's a reliable option for families looking for entertainment rain or shine in the Pullman area.

Highlights

  • Full-service bowling alley with bumpers available for young children
  • Variety of arcade games appealing to different ages and skill levels
  • Clean, well-maintained university facility with family-friendly atmosphere
  • Extended hours seven days a week for flexible scheduling
  • Affordable pricing compared to commercial entertainment centers

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Visit on weekday mornings or early afternoons to avoid the college student crowds, especially during the academic year when evenings get busy.
  2. 2.Bring quarters and small bills for the arcade games, though card readers may be available at some machines.
  3. 3.Request bumpers for younger bowlers to keep the game fun and avoid gutter ball frustration.
  4. 4.Parking is easier on weekends when campus lots are less crowded. Look for visitor parking near the student center.
  5. 5.The facility opens later on weekends (9 AM vs 5:30 AM), so plan accordingly if you're early risers.

Best Time to Visit

Weekday afternoons or weekend mornings are ideal for families, offering a quieter experience before college students arrive in the evening. Summer months may be less crowded when fewer students are on campus.

What to Know

As a university facility, it welcomes community visitors and offers moderately priced entertainment. Food options and restrooms are available on-site, and the indoor location makes it perfect for Pullman's cold or rainy days.

Seasonal Notes

Open year-round with consistent hours. May have reduced hours or closures during university breaks and holidays, so call ahead during Thanksgiving, winter break, and spring break periods.

Nearby Eats

Ferdinand's Ice Cream Creamery, also on the WSU campus, is a must-visit for families, serving award-winning Cougar Gold cheese and delicious ice cream. For a quick meal, head to downtown Pullman (about 2 miles away) where you'll find several family-friendly pizza and burger spots.

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Clearwater Drive

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Clearwater Drive offers families a peaceful escape into nature right in Pullman. This community park features gentle walking paths perfect for strollers and young explorers, along with natural areas where kids can discover local plants and wildlife. It's an ideal spot for a relaxed afternoon of nature walks, bird watching, or simply enjoying quality time together in a calm outdoor setting.

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Sunnyside Park Disc Golf Course

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Sunnyside Park Disc Golf Course offers a fantastic, budget-friendly way to introduce kids to the fun sport of disc golf while enjoying Pullman's beautiful natural scenery. This free public course provides a low-pressure environment where families can learn together, get active outdoors, and spend quality time without breaking the bank.