No minds in the gutter here. Those who cast praise on falling pins are finding more local places to worship. Greenville’s experiencing a bowling renaissance, with the birth of two new facilities, while long-standing centers simultaneously complete upgrades. After a three-decade decline, the $4 billion-a-year-business is witnessing a turn-around nationwide with a younger, white-collar crowd bringing a new vibe to the sport. Blue-collar-based rec leagues have been replaced by Millennial happy hours, and multi-faceted entertainment. Bowling’s governing body reports 69 million people bowl at least once a year, and it’s the #1 participation sport in the States. Here’s where you can heave heavy resin and graphite balls in Greenville County.
BOWLERO GREENVILLE
740 S. Pleasantburg Dr, Greenville.
32 Lanes, Sports Bar/Arcade/Pro Shop
Scouting Report: The former AMF Star Lanes completed a renovation this past spring to become South Carolina’s first Bowlero. The 30,000-square-foot center now features floor-to-ceiling, hi-def video screens at the end of back-lit lanes, along with sleek seating, upscale food and an interactive arcade.
Don’t Miss: $2.22 Tuesdays when games, tacos, tall boys, and arcade cards are all $2.22.
GOLDEN LANES
108 Balcome Blvd, Simpsonville
32 lanes, Tiki Bar/Skate Rink/Pro Shop
Scouting Report: Bright colors and traditional pub grub anchor operations at this center with an 80s feel that includes a skating rink next door. The Tiki Bar is one-of-a-kind in the county, with grass-thatched roofs, big-screen TVs, and an outdoor deck.
Don’t Miss: Two hours of unlimited bowling, Sun–Fri, before 5pm. $11 includes shoe rental.
PEACH BOWL LANES
14515 E. Wade Hampton Blvd, Greer
12 lanes, Snack Bar/Pro Shop
Scouting Report: This bowling joint is family-owned, and old-school patrons return again and again as they “step back in time” to play. With Bronze Level certified coaching staff, junior bowlers and beyond fill a variety of leagues, including a Senior Fun Bowl every Monday afternoon, year-round.
Don’t Miss: Family Fun Pack that features two hours of unlimited bowling for six, and includes shoes, a large, single-topping pizza, and pitcher of soda, for $50.
SPARE TIME GREENVILLE
822 Congaree Rd, Greenville
22 Lanes (Includes 8 in elite suites), 3 Escape Rooms/Laser Tag/Overlook Bar/Restaurant & Lounge
Scouting Report: The new kid in town has upped the game, bringing swank and swagger to the sport with its 52,000-square-foot space. Spare Time is as much about the experience as your score, with hip tunes, tasty bites, and pro-show lights assaulting your senses.
Don’t Miss: Unlimited bowling with Spare Time After Dark, Friday and Saturday nights, when the “lights go down and the music goes up,” 11:30pm–2am. $20 per person for general area, or $25 in elite suites.
STONE PINE COMPANY
304 E. Stone Ave, Greenville
6 Lanes, Bar
Scouting Report: This locally owned boutique bowling alley, a stone’s throw from downtown, is intimate and funky with exposed brick, wooden beams, and metal pipe ball racks. Lanes are separated by a trendy bar set-up, serving a wide variety of craft brews and premium cocktails.
Don’t Miss: Grab three, or six lanes for a party. With the unique layout of lanes and lounge areas, it will feel like your own, private bowling alley. Be sure to order the fried Oreos.
