Did you know that yesterday was National Bowling Day? Always celebrated the second Saturday in August, bowling can be an excellent pastime, catering to fans of all ages, interest levels, and expertise (or lack thereof). But not all bowling alleys are created equal. This is especially true for those of us living in the greater surrounding DMV region. For many, it’s not just about bowling but spending the day at an all-in-one social hub complete with phenomenal dining and other outstanding amenities you wouldn’t expect from just any old bowling alley. Here are eight great examples of bold and bountiful bowling alleys in our region that truly succeed in upping the ante regarding A-Game standards.
Alley Oops
With two locations in Ocean City, Maryland, and an Express venue now in Chincoteague, Virginia, Alley Oops has already established its accolades as the ultimate all-in-one play and eat destination in only a few short years. Born out of a dream by one of the original owners of the Ropewalk Restaurants, all existing Alley Oops establishments go above and beyond as dining/arcade duos in every way possible. Topping things off is the accelerated food scene, dishing up delights far above typical bowling alley standards while featuring standout beachy-keen classics. Presentations include everything from fresh seafood to classic burgers.
As for their playful premiums here, guests of all ages can enjoy compilations of mini bowling and other in-house games. One of their most distinguishable callouts, however, has to be the massive onsite shark tanks featuring live blacktip sharks. Visitors may view live shark feedings daily during select times. www.alleyoopsoc.com.
Mustang Alley’s
Based in Baltimore’s own beloved Little Italy, Mustang Alley’s is the all-around go-to for locals of all distinctions. As a delectable dining destination, it showcases the exceptional standards of classic American-inspired cuisine with a personalized spin. Some are custom classics, like burgers done to a premium standard. Others are innovative, creative offerings, making this a perfect restaurant for family outings and date nights alike.
Guests have 12 lanes of bowling to delight in. Even better, as you bowl, you can enjoy popular brews and craft cocktails. The convenient location of this establishment from Baltimore’s most iconic downtown attractions is another plus. www.mustangalleys.com.
The Park RVA
This Richmond, Virginia-based indoor “park” is a pleasing option for the palate and for playtime-seekers alike. As the featured all-in-one venue to dine and play at, locals and visitors alike know this is the place to head to for an all-around grand time! They even offer weekly specials and Sunday brunch menus.
As for in-house entertainment, you have it all, including classic Duckpin Bowling. Other novelty callouts that set them apart include indoor mini and virtual golf, along with karaoke. All needed gear for all of the above activities is provided onsite. www.thepark.com.
Patterson Pins
This dine-and-play delight based in Baltimore, Maryland, boasts a fresh, updated vibe to the forever-immortalized rock ‘n’ roll scene that’s been such a part of Fells Point nightlife for more than a century. Touted first and foremost as a “Trendy” cocktail bar and entertainment hub, fans of all ages and distinctions may come out and enjoy the playful endeavors provided in-house.
Offerings include classic Duckpin bowling and a competitive arcade scene a cut above the rest. On that latter note, there are plenty of enjoyable video game-inspired cocktails to try out, for those over-20 kids at heart! Still, classic bowling remains the nostalgic all-time hit here, never going out of style and catering to crowds of all ages with each new generation. www.pattersonpins.com.
Pinboy’s at the Beach
Ruling the Virginia Beach scene is this ultimate go-to destination for delightful dining and in-house entertainment for all ages. While bowling is primarily what they’re all about, other onsite activities to enjoy include billiards, loads of optimal arcade games, and so much more. A full-service snack and drink bar is also onsite to keep you fueled and going.
Kids are welcome to come out and be a part of the fun. Many even choose Pinboy’s for hosting parties and special events. Take note, however, that Pinboy’s After Dark is exclusive to adults. ww.pinboys.com.
Pinstack
Sterling, Virginia is home to one of those famously massive Pinstack locations, renowned for phenomenal food and stellar entertainment all under one roof. First and foremost, they operate as a full-service restaurant specializing in modern American cuisine. Other callouts include a full in-house bar and private dining room, as well as select VIP lounges.
State-of-the-art bowling is what they’re primarily known for, although loads of other playful activities can be enjoyed here as well. Some of these include laser tag, rock climbing, bumper cars, a high ropes course suspended 20 feet above the arcade, video games with simulators, and plenty more. www.pinstackbowl.com.
Pinstripes
Having two locations in the DMV, one in Georgetown, DC, and the other in northern Bethesda, Maryland, creates twice the nice opportunity to get in on the viral fun and feastful food compilation Pinstripes is widely praised for. Whatever your age, play-style, or expertise, bowling is the beloved starring attraction to play along with. Bocce is another popular pursuit for fun-seeking fans.
As for the food, every Pinstripes location features a feast-worthy array of various menus at in-house resident bistros that can be attended to by folks of all designations. From dating couples to entire families, there are even full kids and vegan menus available as well as separate drink lists. While the set lunch and dinner presentations and specials alike are known to satisfy the ranks, their most amazing accomplishment via the existing food scene has to be their bountiful buffet brunch presentations every Saturday and Sunday. www.pinstripes.com.
These are just some of the countless bowling alleys that provide amplified experiences and elevated engagement to folks throughout the DMV. Search around locally, and you’re bound to find plenty of other options, guaranteed, although it may be impossible to top these eight great contenders!