As you walk into your local bowling alley, you notice that it seems pretty empty. Where is everyone? It’s not in your head. Recreational bowling is on a downfall as other activities gain popularity. It used to be the ideal birthday spot, but now, activities like rock climbing and trampoline parks have taken 10-year-olds by storm, leaving bowling out in the dust.
One factor that may make the activity less appealing is inflation: our local economy is uncertain, so it can be hard to justify the $30+ to go bowling for a few hours. It’s much easier and hassle-free to just stay home and do something you enjoy for free.
Another reason for its decline is that bowling doesn’t seem so appealing compared to the excitement of laser tag, the adrenaline of rock climbing and the exhilaration of roller skating. Regardless, don’t let its simplicity fool you. Bowling can be surprisingly skill-oriented, unlike laser tag and jumping on trampolines.
Because of this, there’s an element of hope that comes with it; you can get better if you focus on your technique. Other popular recreational activities, like laser tag and trampoline parks, have some technique, but aren’t easy to get better at in one session. This is unlike bowling, where noticeable improvement can occur after just one game.
Bowling is also unique in that it facilitates social interaction. For example, Punch Bowl Social and Pinstripes, both popular local bowling places, have booths at the end of each alley where you can hang out with friends and eat. This freedom allows both pros and amateurs alike to have fun.
It’s especially fun for birthday parties, where friends typically want to interact with each other while having fun, as opposed to rolling around a roller skating rink alone, and then quickly inhaling pizza when you have to go.
Another positive element of bowling is that it’s not stressful. With laser tag, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with all of the lights and sounds, whereas with bowling, it’s usually dim and quiet. Additionally, there’s no significant physical aspect of bowling. It doesn’t require running and jumping like other activities do.
In the same vein, it involves a certain level of leisure; you don’t need quick reflexes or intense concentration to have fun or do well. This means that almost anyone can do it. This flexibility is what makes bowling America’s favorite pastime.
