There’s something magical about a trip to the bowling alley. Maybe it’s the cool shoes, maybe it’s the top-tier fashion… whatever the case, we’ve yet to meet a person who wasn’t down for a few frames when asked. So, we think it’s only fair that we share a list of our absolute favourite retro and modern bowling alleys around Vancouver for you to check out. Really lean into the experience, you know?
Retro
Commodore Bowling & Billiards
Fun fact- did you know that Vancouver is home to Canada’s oldest operating bowling alley? Opened in 1930, Commodore Lanes offers 12 lanes of 5-pin bowling, plus some billiards tables for in between games!
Where: 838 Granville Street, Vancouver
Grandview Lanes
While not jump into the second oldest spot in the city! What’s more, you got two options here, with 10-pin bowling on the main floor and 5-pin (with glow-in-the-dark times) on the second. That’s a win-win no matter what you’re after.
Where: 2195 Commercial Drive, Vancouver
Alder Alley
Taking a day trip to Fort Langley this spring? You want might to stop in at the Aldergrove spot. Open since 1962, Alder Alley has really leaned into the retro aesthetic, with vintage furniture, murals, and that classic checkerboard floor we all know and love.
Where: 27070 Fraser Highway, Aldergrove
Scottsdale Bowling Lanes
The last of our retro picks is in Surrey! Also boasting over 60 years in operation, Scottsdale bills itself as a family-friendly 5-pin centre. Of course, that doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself to a brew or two when you head down there with some pals.
Where: 12033 84 Avenue, Surrey
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Modern
REVS Bowling
The oldest of the modern picks, which just happens to be Western Canada’s largest as well! This Burnaby behemoth offers a whopping 48 lanes of 10-pin bowling, making it a perfect choice if you get a last-minute desire for a game or two. And of course, that 90s vibe does have it practically on the retro side anyway.
Where: 5502 Lougheed Highway, Burnaby
King Pins Bowling
And so, we come to the truly new options in Metro Vancouver. First up is King Pins, which only opened in 2021, and boasts modern equipment alongside more ‘upscale’ food and drink options. Like Alder Alley, this is a great add-on to a day trip, just this time in the North Shore.
Where: 1312 Lonsdale Avenue, North Vancouver
Lucky 9 Lanes
We might have to say this is our favourite name on the list. Having opened in 2016, Lucky 9 Lanes offers a mix of both 10 and 5-pin bowling options, alongside a full arcade and a dedicated brew pub. Go go-karting in the morning, then unwind with a trip here for a full day of fun!
Where: 150-14200 Entertainment Boulevard, Richmond
There you have it, bowling buddies! Our top picks for the best retro and modern bowling alleys around Vancouver, representing almost a century of the area’s bowling history. Who knew, hey?
