Fun Bowling Alleys Near DC for Kids and Families

Bowling is one of my family's favorite ways to hang out and have some friendly competition, especially on those days where the weather keeps us inside. And with loads of family-friendly bowling alleys throughout the DC area, you're sure to find one near you.

These bowling alleys in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia feature kid-friendly amenities like bowling bumpers and ball ramps, making it the perfect activity for bowlers of all ages and skill levels. Some of them even offer a Kids Bowl Free deal during the summer, through which children get two free games every day of the summer.

For more indoor activities with kids, check out our Guide to Indoor Playgrounds and Play Spaces, which includes our lists of everything from laser tag arenas to trampoline parks.

Get ready to roll a strike! Photo courtesy of Bowlero

Bowling Alleys Near DC for Families and Kids

1. Bowlero — Multiple Locations in Maryland & Northern Virginia

With nearly 20 locations throughout the DC area, Bowlero provides bowling, arcade games, and tasty sports bars. Pre-pay for bowling lanes (up to six people) to ensure availability and request bumpers and ball ramps at no extra charge. Check for weekly specials, Kids Fest, availability of cosmic/glow-in-the-dark bowling, and birthday parties. Some Bowlero locations fall under the Bowl America name.

2. AMF — Hyattsville & Temple Hills, MD

Part of Bowlero, AMF operates two locations close to DC with bowling, arcade games, and options for food and drink. These are also some of the largest bowling alleys in the area, featuring more than 40 lanes. Reserve lanes online and check for weekly specials or to arrange a birthday party.

3. Lucky Strike — Bethesda, MD

More lounge than bowling alley, Lucky Strike has 12 lanes with black lights, video walls, and comfy seating. There's even an arcade with classic video games and giant Jenga to extend the fun. Reservations may be made online for both bowling and kids' parties for ages 4 and up.

4. Main Event — Columbia, MD

It's hard to know what the main event is at Main Event as it features bowling, an arcade, billiards, and laser tag. Families can spend an entire day enjoying all the fun or host a birthday party to make the day extra special.

RELATED: Teen Birthday Party Ideas in DC: Cool Party Places for Teens

 
Pinstripes has a great Kids Club on the first Saturday of each month. Photo courtesy of Pinstripes

5. Pinstripes – Washington, DC & Bethesda, MD

Pinstripes is equal parts restaurant, bowling alley, and bocce court. Food is served by waitstaff in the bowling alley except during weekend brunch, and each lane has access to a sofa or a high-top table. One of the best features of Pinstripes is that shoes and socks are included. On the first Saturday morning of each month from June through December, the Kids Club features children's activities like crafts and live music.

6. Uptown Alley — Manassas, VA

While it features 24 high-tech bowling lanes, Uptown Alley is more than just a bowling alley. It also houses an arcade with over 70 games, laser tag, billiards tables, and a bar and grill. Kids' birthday parties are available.

7. Rinaldi's Riverdale Bowl — Riverdale Park, MD

Rinaldi's features 32 lanes where families can enjoy a game, host a party, and enjoy the on-site bar and grill. The bowling alley also participates in Kids Bowl Free, which offers free games to registered kids throughout the spring and summer.

8. Suitland Bowl — Suitland, MD

Duckpin bowling used to be all the rage in DC, and now the area is down to its last few duckpin bowling alleys. Suitland Bowl is one of the oldest and still maintains its retro charm. Make reservations online or drop in during open bowl. The facility also has party space for birthday parties. Follow its events calendar for seasonal activities like breakfast with Santa and more throughout the year.

9. White Oak Bowling Lanes — Silver Spring, MD

White Oak Bowling Lanes is another classic place for duckpin bowling near DC. With 24 lanes, this popular spot features cosmic bowling on Saturday nights, spaces for parties, bowling leagues, and food and drink options for everyone. Fans of the alley appreciate the old-school scorekeeping using paper and pencil.

10. The Branch — Leesburg, VA

This restaurant and bar features 16 bowling lanes and a classic arcade, making it the perfect place for families to spend an afternoon or evening. Even better, it participates in the Kids Bowl Free program during the summer. Bowling shoes and shoe covers are available for use, and kids' and teen birthday party packages are offered.