Ball types: We included bowling alleys that offer lighter balls, best for kids and for beginners.
Ambiance: We checked if the bowling alley has a welcoming atmosphere. Plus points for bowling alleys that offer glow-in-the-night themes.
Availability: We included bowling alleys with quick turnaround time. We also checked if we can easily reserve a lane ahead of time.
Lane condition: We assessed if the management keeps the bowling lanes clean. We also checked if the lanes are well-oiled but not too sticky or slippery.
Back in the day, we weren’t really a big fan of bowling. In fact, whenever our friends would invite us to play, we would always end up making excuses—maybe because we were expecting that the bowling ball would still end up in the gutter.
But after a few weekends of exploring the best bowling alleys in Vancouver, we’re finally getting the clean strikes that we wanted. Plus, the neon lights are so inviting too!
So if you’re also not into bowling, these spots we’ve found in the city might change your mind. Continue reading and find the best bowling alley that can make you strike on repeat!
In Vancouver, the bowling rates on weekdays range from $2 to $6 per person, per game. Meanwhile, weeknights and weekend rates can go as high as $9 per person, per game.
Address: 2195 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5N 4B3
Contact Details: +1 604-253-2747
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Friday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM; Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Consumer Rating: B
Google review
4/5
Total reviews score
4/5
Score consistency
5/5
Our Rating: B
Ball types
4.5/5
Ambiance
4.3/5
Good lighting
4.3/5
Great playlist
4.3/5
Availability
4/5
Accommodates walk-ins
4/5
Short waiting period
4/5
Lane condition
4/5
Traditional bowling alleys are still alive in Vancouver, and Grandview Lanes is one of them! Since 1947, this bowling alley has been the go-to for 5-pin and 10-pin bowling game nights in the city.
This bowling alley actually gives that vintage retro feel. Whenever we visit this place, we feel like we’re on a set of a movie or series filmed during the 1970s.
While the establishment is old, this place still gets fully booked most of the time. So we really suggest booking for a lane ahead of time to avoid disappointments.
But, what’s also great about this old school bowling alley is that they have glow-in-the-dark lanes. So if you’re down for a different vibe, consider going late at night when the neon lights are on.
You’ll also love that they remain open past midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, which makes them a great spot to celebrate the end of the work week with friends or colleagues.
They also serve comfort snacks such as french fries, sausages, BLTs, and even pizza here! And in case you’re wondering, they serve plenty of drinks too—wine and beer for the adults, and slushies for the kids (and the kids-at-heart).
Pros
Open late during weekends
In the business since 1970s
Ideal for those who prefer a vintage or retro bowling center
Serves food and drinks
Cons
Online booking isn’t available
Some lanes require frequent resetting
Has an automatic scoring
“First visit – staff really welcoming and friendly. Great automatic scoring systems and choice of 5-pin or 10-pin (small or large ball). Great fun for all. Place has a real vintage feel yet it’s lovingly maintained.”
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Friday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Consumer Rating: B
Google review
3.8/5
Total reviews score
4/5
Score consistency
5/5
Our Rating: B
Ball types
4/5
Ambiance
4.5/5
Good lighting
4.5/5
Great playlist
4.5/5
Availability
4/5
Accommodates walk-ins
4/5
Short waiting period
4/5
Lane condition
4/5
For the arcade lovers out there, Commodore Lanes is the best bowling alley to visit. Even if you have to wait for bowling lanes to open, you can still enjoy your time by playing billiards, foosball, and virtual darts.
They also blast some good music here. And when we say blast—yes, they could be really loud. So if you have someone in the group who gets overstimulated, here’s a little fair warning to you!
Because this place is huge, it has become a go-to venue for parties. Imagine booking a package of up to 250 people—all enjoying their time playing billiards and bowling!
However, we noticed that the bowling balls here are smaller than usual. Nonetheless, we still had fun since the game got a bit more challenging (also harder to score!).
While there’s a bar inside the bowling center, there aren’t too many food options here. So make sure to grab dinner somewhere else, especially if you’re planning to stay longer.
Additionally, you can’t have your drinks in the bowling area! So if you’re really planning to drink with your friends, make sure to do it before or after your game.
And here’s a pro tip: make sure to bring cash as they don’t accept card payments as of the moment.
Pros
Has arcade games and billiards
Ideal for big parties
Cons
Alcoholic beverages aren’t allowed in the bowling area
Cash payments only
Busy, but not overcrowded
“We stumbled upon this place during a long weekend trip. It was adorable! Like a walk back in time. Super nice people. Busy, but not too crowded. Who knew candlepin bowling could be so fun!! And I won. So there’s that.”
“A work fun get-together, turned into an awesome experience. The building is old and full of memories posted around the walls. Washrooms are good, and the staff were wonderful and kind. The shoes were is excellent shape and didn’t turn anyone off as usually happens in so many bowling places. The best part for me was seeing so many young people at the pool tables and darts. Nice to see wholesome fun.”
As soon as we heard that the bowling lanes here at King Pins Bowling are well-maintained, we knew we had to check it out right away. The moment we entered, we immediately noticed that their floors aren’t sticky, which we really appreciate.
Another thing that we like about this bowling alley is that they have upgraded monitors, which means they don’t flicker like the old ones!
We enjoyed ordering their nachos and pepperoni pizza. And while you’re there, don’t forget to pair it with the crowd-favorite whiskey sour.
The only downside is that their service is a bit slow. The bartender took a very long time to craft our drinks, we were almost done with half of our game when the drinks arrived.
Also, take note that you can’t have your alcoholic drinks in the pool and bowling areas. Nonetheless, there are designated tables around the place so you can enjoy your food and drinks while your game is rolling.
If you’re planning to play bowling or even billiards, you’ll love that you can easily book for a slot online.
And for senior citizens out there, consider playing from Mondays to Thursdays. Rates are at 50% discount for you from 1 in the afternoon until 8 in the evening.
Pros
Has online booking
Discount offers for senior citizens on certain days
Modern monitors
Cons
Service is quite slow
Food and beverages are not allowed in the pool and bowling areas
Ideal party place
“We had a wonderful birthday party today. The kids had a great time. Everything was organized and prepared for perfectly and with the party package everything was included so we only had to bring the cake 😊 Kids enjoyed the food and drinks. Staff was very kind and friendly and took care of all our needs. Highly recommended.”
“I had an amazing time at King Pins Bowling! The atmosphere is lively and fun, making it a great spot for friends, family, or even a casual night out. The lanes are well-maintained, and the staff is super friendly and helpful. I also loved the variety of food and drinks available—it really adds to the experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, King Pins offers a fantastic bowling and billiard experience. I’ll definitely be coming back!”
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 AM; Friday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 AM; Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Consumer Rating: B
Google review
3.8/5
Total reviews score
4/5
Score consistency
5/5
Our Rating: B+
Ball types
4.5/5
Ambiance
4.8/5
Good lighting
4.8/5
Great playlist
4.8/5
Availability
4.8/5
Accommodates walk-ins
4.8/5
Short waiting period
4.8/5
Lane condition
4.8/5
After finishing up a few sets at the fitness center, we decided to end the night here at REVS Bowling. This place is really big, so expect it to really get noisy during peak hours—especially on a Saturday night.
So if you prefer a quiet game, consider visiting on a weekday.
If you didn’t reserve your bowling lane during weekends or even week nights, you should be ready for a longer waiting period. But don’t worry, their front desk crew is pretty organized, so you won’t need to wait for hours before the turnover.
You also don’t need to bring your own bowling shoes, as the rentals are maintained properly. There are also no weird smells, if that’s what you’re worried about.
The bowling lanes and scoring monitors were working perfectly too. However, we noticed that the bumpers were a bit problematic—maybe because they’re not being used as much!
If you’re going here with the kids, you can let them play at the arcade area which is also just within the facility.
And if you guys get hungry or thirsty, there’s plenty of lounge food and drinks to order. The lounge is just located behind the bowling area—and it’s pretty huge, so you’ll surely secure a table for your group.
Pros
Well-maintained shoe rentals
Bowling lanes and scoring monitors are working properly
Lounge food and drinks are available
Arcade area for the kids
Cons
Can get really noisy
A few reports about bumpers not working properly
Has plenty of bowling lanes
“Burnaby’s famous Rev’s Bowling is operating for its last full year this year. Memories of going here and enjoying a wonderful and competitive game of family bowling. Many lanes, family friendly and fun. Have to get in as much bowling here before another historic landmark disappears. Located walking distance from Holdom SkyTrain station and offers a large free parking lot.”
“Had the place to ourselves on a friday in the afternoon, which was really nice. Short walk from the skytrain station. Simple to get started. Had fun!!”
Address: 14200 Entertainment Blvd #150, Richmond, BC V6W 1K3
Contact Details: +1 604-262-3718
Operating Hours: Sunday – Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Wednesday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM; Friday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Consumer Rating: B
Google review
3.9/5
Total reviews score
4/5
Score consistency
5/5
Our Rating: B+
Ball types
4.7/5
Ambiance
4.8/5
Good lighting
4.8/5
Great playlist
4.8/5
Availability
5/5
Accommodates walk-ins
5/5
Short waiting period
5/5
Lane condition
5/5
Whenever we wanted a VIP treatment, we always considered bowling here at Splitsville Riverport. Even when you’re just calling in to reserve a lane, they will treat you like you’re right there with them in the building.
We also love that they’re also transparent with the prices from the get-go. We didn’t even have to ask for them—it’s part of their initial briefing, which we really appreciate.
When we got in, they immediately double checked our reservation in the system and gladly assisted us soon after. Aside from checking if we rented out the correct shoe sizes, they also made sure that we’re comfortable in the lane provided.
Even better, before officially starting the game, the staff checked the monitors. They also told us to inform them if there are glitches in the scoring system.
Another thing that we like about this bowling place is that it has been recently renovated. So aside from the upgraded touchscreen system, expect to see better lighting and more comfortable seats here at Splitsville.
And oh, each player can also upload their own picture, which makes the whole gaming experience more personalized.
Pros
Newly renovated bowling alley
Upgraded scoring and touchscreen systems
Great communication skills
Very accommodating staff
Cons
Premium rates
Restaurant service could be better
Great food
“Just celebrated my daughter’s birthday at this bowling place, and it was incredible! We had a large group of 24 kids. Despite being super busy on the weekends, the staff team were amazing—hardworking and accommodating to all our needs, ensuring the party ran smoothly. Both kids and adults had a blast. The food was great too, but be sure to preorder online. We’ll definitely be back!”
“It was really fun. Quite a noisy place with lots of black light/flashing lights. They let us wear street shoes as long as they were clean and not sandals, boots, or heels. Not too expensive, and lots of food and drink available. Lots of free parking too”
We recommend making reservations, especially on weekends or weeknights, to secure a lane. Nonetheless, you can still opt to walk-in, just be ready to wait for quite some time especially during peak days and hours.
Are there glow-in-the-dark bowling alleys in Vancouver?
Yes, there are some bowling alleys with glow-in-the-dark features. Just make sure to check the schedule as they normally offer it during weekends.
Are there food and drinks available in the bowling alley?
Yes, several bowling alleys in the city have in-house restaurants.
Do I need to bring my own bowling shoes?
Bowling alleys in Vancouver generally offer bowling shoes rentals. Nonetheless, you are still allowed to bring your own gear.
Kelly Rainier
