13 Best Bowling Alleys in the Twin Cities
Let’s talk about the best bowling alleys in the Twin Cities! Whether it’s a rainy day or you’re planning a fun weekend outing, bowling is a fantastic way to get active and enjoy quality time with your kids. With several family-friendly bowling in Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and the greater Twin Cities metro, there’s no shortage of fun spots where everyone can roll a strike—or at least try!
This guide highlights the top 13 Twin Cities bowling alleys for kids, featuring bumpers, lightweight balls, and even arcades to entertain little ones. Perfect for indoor activities in the Twin Cities with kids, many of these alleys also offer great food, cozy seating, and special deals for families. If you’re wondering where to go bowling in the Twin Cities with kids, these bowling spots guarantee smiles and memorable moments for all ages. Ready to hit the lanes? Keep reading to discover the best places for family bowling fun in the Twin Cities!
Remember the Kids Bowl Free in Minnesota program! Click here to read more.
Bowlero, Multiple Locations
Bowlero, with six locations across the Twin Cities, is a top choice for where to go bowling in the Twin Cities with kids. From Blaine to Bloomington and Brooklyn Park to St. Paul, these venues combine classic bowling fun with modern entertainment and dining.
Each location offers premium lanes, online reservations, and more, making it one of the best bowling alleys in the Twin Cities for families. Some spots even feature arcades, laser tag, and billiards for extra fun. Need a break from all the action? The on-site restaurant serves up delicious bites for all ages. They even feature a dedicated kids’ menu! For indoor family fun or a special outing, Bowlero is a sure strike!
Town Hall Lanes, Minneapolis
5019 S 34th Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55417
For a mix of bowling and great food, Town Hall Lanes, located in the Nokomis neighborhood, is one of the best bowling alleys in Minneapolis with kids. This cozy spot features a modern ten-lane bowling alley alongside a full-service pub offering craft beers from the award-winning Town Hall Brewery.
Families will love the relaxed atmosphere. Plus, bumpers go up and down depending on the player, so parents can enjoy bumper-free play. Meanwhile, kids will be able to bowl with ease when the bumpers come up! Families can enjoy flatbreads, burgers, and more pub grub from the extensive menu. Plus, little ones can pick from the dedicated kids’ menu. You can eat alley-side, so there is no delay in gameplay. Whether planning a casual outing or celebrating a special occasion, Town Hall Lanes delivers a unique neighborhood vibe with all the fun of a traditional bowling alley.
Bryant-Lake Bowl, Minneapolis
810 W Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Located in the Uptown neighborhood, Bryant-Lake Bowl is a must-visit for family-friendly bowling in Minneapolis. This funky spot combines an eight-lane 1950s vintage bowling alley with a theater and restaurant, making it a hub for indoor activities for families in Minneapolis. This is a no-league bowling alley, so you’ll never have to compete with leagues for a shot at a lane.
Kids will love bowling on retro lanes with bumpers. Starting at just $4.50/game, this is also one of the most affordable bowling alleys for families in the Twin Cities. Of course, everyone will enjoy the locally inspired menu, which features a wide selection, including vegan and vegetarian options. Open all day, it’s a great place to grab a bite before or after a few rounds of bowling together. Whether you’re rolling strikes, savoring comfort food, or catching a live performance, Bryant-Lake Bowl offers a nostalgic yet modern twist on family fun.
Elsie’s, Minneapolis
729 Marshall St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413
Elsie’s in Northeast Minneapolis stands out among the best bowling alleys for families in the Twin Cities. This spot features 16 modern lanes with state-of-the-art scoring and a fun sound and light system just blocks from the Mississippi River.
Elsie’s offers a fun and welcoming experience for all ages. Families can enjoy bowling with bumpers and plenty of space. Afterward, celebrate the winner with a meal from the wide-ranging American menu at the on-site restaurant. Known for its friendly staff and clean, well-maintained facilities, it’s a local favorite for both casual outings and special events. Plus, there’s free parking. Finally, Elsie’s is 21+ after 10:00 pm daily.
Blainbrook Entertainment Center, Minneapolis
12000 Central Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55434
Blainbrook Entertainment Center is a go-to spot for family-friendly bowling near Minneapolis. It’s a haven for kids and parents alike, with modern bowling lanes and a massive arcade featuring over 40 pinball machines, virtual reality games, darts, and pool tables!
There are 24 automatically scored lanes to enjoy. Not to mention automatic bumpers for the kids! The arcade’s game card system makes reloading and saving points easy. After hours of fun, refuel at the full-service restaurant offering everything from pizzas and burgers to handhelds, plus a dedicated kids’ menu. Whether you’re striking it big on the lanes or racking up arcade points, Blainbrook combines excellent food and endless entertainment, making it a perfect day out for the whole family.
Memory Lanes, Minneapolis
2520 26th Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55406
Memory Lanes in South Minneapolis is a great option when searching for the best bowling alleys with kids. This retro-inspired yet modern bowling spot offers 30 lanes, with bumpers and cosmic bowling nights for extra family fun. Open for bowling every day, it’s a perfect place for casual play or an exciting outing.
The on-site restaurant features an extensive menu with something for everyone, including a dedicated kids’ menu. This way, you can easily enjoy a meal before or after your game. Memory Lanes expands the fun during the summer with outdoor sand volleyball courts, neighborhood block parties, and concerts.
While it transforms into a 21+ venue with live music on weekend nights, families will find plenty to love during the day. Friendly, laid-back, and full of activities, Memory Lanes is a local favorite for bowling and family-friendly fun. Finally, Memory Lanes is also 21+ after 10:00 pm daily.
Sun Ray Lanes, Saint Paul
2245 Hudson Rd, St Paul, MN 55119
When asked about the best bowling alleys in the Twin Cities, Sun Ray Lanes in Saint Paul is a top pick for many families. With features like automatic scoring, bumpers, ramps, and kid-friendly balls, it’s designed to make bowling fun for all ages and abilities. For added entertainment, there’s a game room packed with arcade fun. Between the 24-lane bowling alley, on-site dining, and game room, Sun Ray Lanes covers you when searching for indoor activities with kids!
Sun Ray also stands out for its adaptive bowling programs, which provide inclusive, non-competitive outings for people with disabilities and their families. With online reservations and a convenient location near I-94, Sun Ray Lanes combines accessibility, family-friendly amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere for an unbeatable day of fun.
Finally, parents will also appreciate Pub 300’s full-service menu, which offers everything from appetizers to pizzas alongside lane-side service. They even have a Small Appetite’s menu that is perfect for littles.
Bogart’s Entertainment Center, Apple Valley
14917 Garrett Ave, Apple Valley, MN 55124
One of the best Twin Cities bowling alleys for kids, Bogart’s Entertainment Center in Apple Valley is a family-owned venue with 24 modern lanes. Each lane includes automatic scoring, plus bumpers and ramps, which are available upon request. From open bowling to hosting birthday parties or special events, Bogart’s is packed with family-friendly options.
In the summer, kids can also enjoy the Kids Bowl Free program. This program usually runs from the end of May to early September. It provides two free games daily for children 15 and under, making it a perfect spot for affordable fun.
Beyond bowling, the center offers a full dining experience at the Back Alley Tavern. The menu includes a kids’ menu to keep everyone happy and fueled. The fun doesn’t stop there—Bogart’s also hosts arcade games, live music, and outdoor sand volleyball. Whether planning a family outing or just looking for a great place to play and dine, Bogart’s delivers entertainment for all ages.
Cedarvale Lanes, Eagan
3883 Cedar Grove Pkwy, Eagan, MN 55122
Located in Eagan, Cedarvale Lanes offers 32 well-maintained lanes perfect for open bowling as a family. In fact, Cedarvale pairs bowling fun with excellent amenities, including a full-service pro shop for all your gear needs. Families love the Incred-A-Bowl music and light show, which adds an exciting flair to the experience.
On-site dining at Fitz’s Bar and Grill includes various menu options, daily specials, and a dedicated kids’ section, ensuring everyone is satisfied before or after your games. Beyond bowling, the entertainment options include pool tables, darts, and arcade games. Whether you’re planning a birthday party or a casual outing, Cedarvale delivers a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of activities for all ages. No wonder this Eagan hot spot is considered one of the best bowling alleys in the Twin Cities for families!
Pinstripes, Edina
3849 Gallagher Dr, Edina, MN 55435
Pinstripes in Edina is the perfect spot to combine bowling, delicious food, and family fun. This sprawling venue offers Italian-American dining alongside bowling and bocce, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. Families can enjoy a full day of entertainment, from rolling strikes on the bowling lanes to playing bocce (an easy-to-learn Italian lawn game that’s fun for all ages).
The on-site dining menu also caters to everyone. It features wood-fired pizzas, hearty pasta, and gourmet dishes like blackened ahi tuna. Kids will love their dedicated menu and sweet treats, like seasonal gelato. Meanwhile, parents will appreciate the high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.
Reservations are recommended for bowling or bocce, making it easy to plan ahead for a seamless outing. They can even be made online! Pinstripes offers great food and kid-friendly interactive activities in a welcoming atmosphere, whether it’s a special occasion or a casual family night out.
Park Tavern, St. Louis Park
3401 Louisiana Ave S, St Louis Park, MN 55426
Park Tavern has been a go-to spot for family fun and entertainment in St. Louis Park for nearly 60 years. This Twin Cities bowling alley for kids features 20 lanes, an arcade, and a full-service restaurant, making it a great choice for a spectacular family outing. Open bowling is available daily at 11 am, and there is plenty of space for casual games or group events.
Parents will appreciate the venue’s convenience, including complimentary valet service during winter months. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick game or planning a birthday party, Park Tavern’s friendly atmosphere and commitment to keeping the experience fresh ensure everyone has a good time. Add in weekly events like bingo and a diverse on-site dining menu, and you’ve got a family-friendly destination that truly has something for everyone. To make it even better, the restaurant menu features a section for those under 12 and over 65. Talk about a great spot for family bowling in the Twin Cities!
Tuttle’s Eat Bowl Play, Hopkins
107 Shady Oak Rd, Hopkins, MN 55343
Tuttle’s Eat Bowl Play is a family-run venue that’s a favorite for many families in Minnesota. It is located in Hopkins and features 24 lanes with fully automatic scoring and bumpers. As one of the best bowling alleys in the Twin Cities for families, it’s perfect for bowlers of all ages. Throughout the year, families can even enjoy cosmic bowling. Plus, kids will love participating in the summer “Kids Bowl Free” program.
Beyond bowling, the arcade is packed with classic and modern games like air hockey, skeeball, and Guitar Hero, adding extra fun to your visit. When hunger strikes, Tuttle’s on-site restaurant serves up a full menu, including prime rib, gourmet burgers, and plenty of kid-approved options. Whether stopping in for open bowling, hosting a birthday party, or grabbing a family meal, Tuttle’s combines entertainment, great food, and a welcoming atmosphere to create an unforgettable experience!
PINZ Bowling Center, Oakdale
7520 32nd St N, Oakdale, MN 55128
PINZ Bowling Center in Oakdale is a top choice for families seeking indoor fun in the Twin Cities. With 34 lanes featuring automatic scoring, bumpers, ramps, and kid-friendly balls, this modern bowling alley ensures a great time for all ages and abilities. Families can also enjoy Galaxy Bowling with vibrant lights and surround sound, creating an exciting atmosphere.
Beyond bowling, PINZ offers laser tag and arcade games. Make the experience extra special with a VIP bowling suite for parties or special occasions. Plus, their summer “Kids Bowl Free” program provides two free games daily, making it an affordable way to keep kids active.
The in-house chef serves a delicious menu, including burgers and sandwiches, pizza, and hearty entrées, available in the sports bar or delivered right to your lane. The Small Appetites menu is perfect for little bowlers. Finally, with accessible facilities, adaptive programs, and lane-side service, PINZ ensures everyone in the family feels welcome and entertained. With so many unique features and amenities, PINZ is undoubtedly one of the best bowling alleys in the Twin Cities for families!
Have Fun With Your Kids at These Bowling Alleys in the Twin Cities!
Whether looking for the best bowling alleys in the Twin Cities for families or simply a fun way to spend time together, these spots offer something for everyone. From bumper lanes and cosmic bowling to arcade games and kid-friendly menus, you’ll find plenty of options for family-friendly bowling in Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and the greater Twin Cities metro. Next time you’re wondering where to go bowling in the Twin Cities with kids, try one of these top picks for guaranteed family fun!
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
