AMF Marlow Heights Lanes

AMF Marlow Heights Lanes

Reviews Summary

Overall, reviews highlight a friendly and helpful staff, with many praising their professionalism and attentiveness. The atmosphere is generally lively and family-friendly, though some mention dated equipment, slow concessions, and occasional service hiccups. Food quality is mixed, with some enjoying it while others report inconsistencies. While most had positive experiences, a few noted issues like lane malfunctions, long wait times, or uneven service. The venue is popular for group events, with many willing to return despite minor drawbacks. Ratings skew positive (4-5 stars), with lower scores often tied to specific frustrations rather than overall dissatisfaction.

About This Listing

Has Arcade Cabinets
Has Food
Good for kids
Has Prizes
Wheelchair Accessible

Who Can Play?

Most arcades welcome all ages (some may have age restrictions for certain games)
Minors may need parent/guardian supervision (policies vary by location)
No gaming experience required - games range from beginner to expert level
Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes recommended for safety
Valid ID may be required for certain attractions or age verification
Groups and parties welcome (advance booking may be required)

*Note: Age restrictions and policies may vary by arcade. Check with your local facility for specifics.*

First-Time Visitors

First-time visitors may need to sign a waiver or register for a game card. Staff are typically available to help explain games and provide tutorials. Some arcades offer newcomer specials or free play sessions to help you get started.

Common Restrictions:

Age-Based Some games may have height or age requirements for safety reasons
Capacity Popular games may have wait times during peak hours

*Note: Policies vary by arcade. Confirm with your local facility.*

What to Bring

Cash or card for tokens/credits (some arcades are cashless)
Valid ID for age verification or membership signup
Phone to capture high scores and memories (check photo policies)

*Note: Payment methods and requirements may differ by arcade.*

Preparing for Your Visit

Check arcade hours and peak times online before visiting
Eat beforehand or check if the arcade has food options
Bring friends for multiplayer games and competitions
Wear comfortable clothes you can move freely in
Avoid bringing valuable items that could be lost or damaged
Check for special events, tournaments, or discount days
Set a budget for games and stick to it
Stay hydrated, especially during long gaming sessions

*Note: Tips may vary by arcade type and location.*

How to Get Started

Most arcades accept walk-ins, but call ahead during busy periods or for large groups. Check for membership deals!

Other Helpful Info

Most visits last 1-3 hours depending on games and group size
Popular games may have longer wait times during weekends and evenings
Many arcades offer unlimited play packages or time-based pricing
Some locations host tournaments and special events regularly
Prize redemption available at many arcades - save your tickets!

*Note: Policies, pricing, and features differ by arcade. Contact your local facility for details.*

How Arcade Prize Games Work

Dive into the excitement of arcade prize games! Expect claw machines, skee-ball, whack-a-mole, or basketball challenges where you test your skills or luck to win tickets or prizes directly. Claw games require precise joystick control to grab toys, while redemption games reward accuracy with tickets to trade for plushies, gadgets, or trinkets at prize counters. Modern setups boast colorful displays and smooth mechanics, blending nostalgia with fresh fun. The thrill of winning and the vibrant arcade vibe make prize games a captivating draw in 2025.

Features

Has Arcade Cabinets
Has Food
Good for kids
Has Prizes
Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

4717 St Barnabas Rd

Temple Hills, Maryland 20748

Hours

Monday 3-11PM
Tuesday 3-10PM
Wednesday 10AM-10PM
Thursday 12-11PM
Friday 3-11PM
Saturday 12-11PM
Sunday 12-10PM

Customer Reviews

Good times. Friendly staff. Lively patrons. My kinda place.

Great customer service. We made a reservation and paid for 6 bowlers but we ended up having 4. Manager helped us repurpose the funds. Food is tasty and the service was top tier. All male staff and everyone was smiling and kind. You can tell they enjoy their team members and their positions. We will def be back!

It was a spur of the moment decision to return to the AMF Lanes. There were memories of league bowling and watching people enjoy competing and Having FUN at the same time...all ages and the new toddlers ...Yup any way When your granddaughter is celebrating year 9....Well the TV was still on when I went home a

DO NOT GO BOWLING HERE!!! I tried this place out a few days ago. I took advantage of their buy 2 games get 1 free deal. I also tried their food. Unfortunately, I was only able to semi-enjoy one full game. The group next to us were rather rowdy and crowded our space. They took chairs from our section and made us uncomfortable. The staff, while sweet, don't keep it safe there. The second group was even more rowdy and sat all around us, forcng us to be wedged right up against the wall. They had a guy with them

It was my birthday I haven't been bowling in years,We had the best time the lady's that work at the food stand was so nice to me and my family that definitely made sure I had a great birthday

Horrible experience! I purchased 2 games and after running to the bathroom, my lane was shut off and my bowling balls were taken away. Aside from the actual place, a group came in and kept stealing my balls while I was trying to get situated with my 2 year old. Not surprised with bowling in this ghetto-ass area.

Great time! Staff was wonderful, especially Tori! The pizza was hitting! My nephews enjoyed big boy bowling!

I actually like this bowling alley. I've been several times and haven't really had any problems. Can get a bit crowded on the weekends. Prices seem to have increased but that's normal I guess with the economy

I just had my daughters 12th birthday party here. We had an absolutely wonderful experience. From the moment we walked in until the party was over they took care of us. Every staff member from the front desk to those preparing our food were friendly and accommodating to our every need. Management checked on us multiple times and made sure we were happy with their service. I can say they exceeded my expectations and made the experience carefree and wonderful.

Unmotivated staff, glitchy lanes and the typical greasy food but bowling is about family and fun. We were able to have that and still timely service when we had any issues.

Very friendly staff Looks like it got renovated which is a plus Will comeback for sure

Went on a Saturday night and able to get 2 lanes even tho it seemed packed. It was fun and great music. Had a good deal that includes shoes. It was a total vibe

Cool spot. When I arrived there were no lanes available. However, the attendant took my number and called me when a lane became available. There were ample amounts of balls, and we did not have any issues with the scoreboard. I did not purchase any food only drinks, but the menu was fairly priced. It had sharable plates and your basic finger foods.

Unmotivated staff, glitchy lanes and the typical greasy food BUT bowling is about family and fun. We were able to have that and still timely service when we had any issues.

Had a great time here. Everyone is friendly and the staff is helpful. Here on a Thursday early afternoon. Per game 5.99. Not sure on the price of the shoes. Great food as well. Pizza was extra cheesy and delicious!

The price is the problem. Everything just seemed so expensive. I had fun playing though. It's clear that they are doing some work to modernize the spot because I see some changes from the last time I went.

Had a great time here. Everyone is friendly and the staff is helpful. Here on a Thursday early afternoon. Per game 5.99. Not sure on the price of the shoes. Great food as well. Pizza was extra cheesy and delicious!

Good bowling alley we took my boyfriend hear for his birthday

I just spoke to the staff. They were quite knowledgeable and very helpful.

First of all, the food was good and I appreciated the change in my fruit punch. The only drawback was having a group next to us who didn't understand lane courtesy. I just wished they could have been assigned to other open lanes.

Great service!! My party host was excellent. Nothing bad to say about this establishment

Having guests in town, I sought out entertainment for our group and decided to contact AMF Marlow Heights Lanes. Initially, I encountered some difficulty with the reception from the young lady who answered the phone. However, upon arrival, I was pleasantly surprised by the assistance provided by Matt. He promptly added us to the waiting list, personally notifying me when a lane became available, and later checked in to ensure everything was going smoothly with our group. Matt's attentive and proactive appro

I came here for date night with hubby. It wasn't packed at all for a Friday. The manager Matt came to greet us and ensure we had a good time. Over all its decent and clean environment. The music is good, in my opinion. I like the oldie but goodies. When our game had stopped early, Matt was close by to help us out. The food was pretty good too, but came out kind of late. Over all it's a nice, family friendly place for a Friday night.

Two times we arrived and can not bowl because of "League Bowling." So my five year old who has been asking to bowl for the first time in her life can not bowl because League Bowling that is everyday. Why on earth is League Bowling everyday? They reserve the lanes for hours and no one is in there. BS to all AMF bowling alleys that does't reserve lanes for common folk. Best time the clerk said to come in during work hours. Horrible experience

Staff was nice, pizza was good, bathroom was horrible

Awesome place to go with family and enjoy yourself

The atmosphere was quite inviting and the the overall experience was pleasant. The food was decent, but not to the level I was hoping for. Still a great time to have amongst friends and loved ones. I would go back if the opportunity presented itself!

Really expensive Terrable customer service!!!! I have been in a lot of bowling Alley in different states and cities!! This is the worst!! They were very clean! They do have a lot of regulars. And are more friendly to them!!

Just had my son?s 4th Birthday Party here. It was really great. Music was fun an appropriate for the kids (even though it was on the later side 7-9:30pm) The manager who was an older white lady(sorry wish I knew her name) was very helpful! She made sure we had everything we needed and continued to check on us throughout the party. I was worried there wouldn't be enough food in the package I purchased but there was Plenty. The FOOD WAS GREAT. Didn't taste like ?bowling alley food? at all. They sent up the ta

This was our first time visiting. Matt and his staff were awesome! Will definitely return

My boyfriend and I were having a great time until one of the employees came to us and told us that we have to have ?lane courtesy? we both were confused as to what we did wrong. He explained that we can't stand so close to the lane but literally EVERYONE was standing close to the lanes. We were singled out and I'm not sure why. We will not be returning to this location.

Brought my my family out on a Sunday, only food available was tenders & fries. Only small cups available. Highly dissatisfied in that aspect. Staff was cool, completed they're job with a smile. Location was hot as hell. No A/C on a 90? day?

Had a big crowd with us and the staff was very accommodating. Haven't been here in years, but I'll definitely be back more often. Would've been 5 stars, but they gave us an order of chicken quesadillas with NO chicken in most of them.

The bathroom was filthy! And, the customer service was ridiculous from the young black lady serving us (with gloves she did everything with and didn't want to change and got rude when we said something about her handling our food) to the white older lady who said she was the manager (even more rude and uncaring about the unsanitary conditions and actions of the establishment). Enjoy at your own risk!

GREAT EXPERIENCE!! We reserved 4 lanes for a work party along with catering and from beginning to end everything was awesome. The staff were VERY friendly, accommodating, professional and the food was really great! I wish I would have gotten a few names of the employees we interacted with so I could recognize them and recommend them... Either way,. EVERYONE was on point and I highly recommend!

Nice time..good food

It's okay. Like it's fine if I need to come back here and it's close to the house! Super close for me. They're smaller than other AMF?s. Like there's only one row of lanes. Which is ok if it's not busy. So just be mindful call ahead if need be. but Their floors aren't as nice and when I went 5/21/23, some of the registers didn't work. I ordered food from the same spot that I paid for the shoes. SWhich I mean is ok. But maybe have some signs because I was standing over by the snack bar for a bit and this guy

We came on a Friday night at about 9pm. The good: 1)The Staff that assisted us were kind. The bad: 1) The place was very very DIRTY. Food and trash all over the tables. 2) They pulled the bowling chairs up, so there were random chairs scattered all over the alley. It looked very cluttered and overwhelming. 3) No music at all. No cool lights. No graphics on the screens. It was just a very dry experience. Sadly, I wont be back.

I REALLY NJOYED MY EXPERIENCE HERE ON SUNDAY NOVEMBER 5TH. I WAS ABLE TO USE 3 GROUPON VOUCHERS FOR 17 PEOPLE AND THEY WERE HONORED. THE STAFF WAS VERY PROFESSIONAL AND EVEN RESERVED 3 LANES FOR ME. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS LOCATION AND THE MANAGER MATT WAS AWESOME. HOWEVER THEY SERVE FOOD BUT PLEASE BE PATIENT FOR YOUR ORDERS. THAXS MARIE

The food was ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS... When got it. The wait was CRAZY .. Especially for a Saturday night that was as empty as it was. I was part of a party of about 30.... The reservation was made weeks ago and they had 1 server servicing 3 tables... By HERSELF! Trays were dropped... Orders were missed. It took over an hour just to get water... Longer than that for tea. I got my soup when we were ready to go...got it in a to-go cup. Another member at my table NEVER DID get her food even after asking severa

I had a nice time. It was clean. But the lady with red dreads was not particularly nice. I waited for 15 minutes just to get a soda refill. The guy who was waiting for his food reminded her of what his food was. She cooked then plated his food before I got a refill. Also they didnt really social distance either. They did if you call every two lanes space apart.

Fairly standard suburban bowling alley, perhaps a little in the dates end. The staff was friendly, but it the selection of balls was pretty slim. We went on a Saturday night. It was quite crowded when we arrived (probably around 8 pm) but had cleared out a lot by the time we were finished. I don't bowl much but there's no reason I wouldn't go back if the occasion arose.

Long line to pay, but it moved rather quickly. Music was not terrible and was kinda old. It was danceable though. $24 and some change for 3 games and shoes; so not too expensive. Some people may be put off by the crowd as it was primarily black folk up in there

I reserved a lane at 6 but someone was on it until 630. I also ordered a pizza at 6 when I arrived. The staff at the food stand was not nice about us asking at all. One of them had a nerve to be flirting with my 13 year old daughter and her friend. Not to mention I NEVER GOT MY PIZZA. Although I did get a refund (after waiting for 2 hours) there was no valid reason why I didn't get my food. We were given an extra half hour due to a late start. I just truly wish the experience was better after spending $200

For date night decided to take my wife bowling. Had a great time the place was packed which was a good sign. I was pleasantly surprised at the atmosphere after reading some of the other comments and knowing the area. This place was a lot of fun saw a lot of families out together which is awesome. Food was quite tasty especially for being in a bowling alley. Can't wait to go back with some friends. Great fun great food Date night was a success.

The furniture needs to be upgraded, the c hairs are rough, but I must admit that I do admire the staff,and hope for an upgrade soon

nice place ... nice staff ... decent lane conditions

Machines weren't working properly which was frustrating but the manager helped us right away when he noticed we were having issues, which was great. He apologized and explained that they were about to undergo renovations. The staff was pleasant as well no issues with customer service. Just the equipment.

Lanes we're great. Management was excellent. But the snack bar girl has a serious attitude and respect problem. Piss me off so bad I left my wallet on the counter to go get the manager. He handled the situation professionally

They were so courteous. They help us with everything. It was my husband birthday get together & they took really good care of us. We'll definitely return.

The staff was very helpful and friendly. The food was so so and the bowling balls were very old. However, we enjoyed ourselves and had a wonderful time. Again the staff was great!

They only had 3 things on the menu to order. The ac was off and had fan on but it was just circulating hot air. Only had kids cup to drink out of. Forgot half my order and then said I didn't order it at all when he still had the ticket and I saw because he checked the ticket before handing me my order.

The staff was very friendly and helpful. Even the other patrons were friendly. Very nice to go to an establishment and feel welcomed. The group now wants to have a monthly outing. We enjoyed ourselves.

Had a goodtime and it wasnt crowded as usual. The concessions stand was slow to order, they need more thsn 1 register open and it wasnt even crowded, but 6 people in line and all I wanted was beer. Then when zwe ordered 2 burgers it took 30 40 mins after bei g told 15 20 mins and had to pickup ourselves??after told they would bring it over

To no fault of the employees, the lanes malfunction more than any other house in the area. You have to always wipe the dirt and sand off of your feet before you bowl because you may slip. The ATM machine NEVER works. The only thing pleasant about this place is the hard working staff and the bowlers who make the most out of our time there. This place needs a major face lift before bowlers and leagues go elsewhere.

We brought our school here. Kindergarten through 2nd grade. They had a blast! Staff was great! Pizza was great and served quickly for all our lttle ones.

Only a 3 because I got told aggressively a grape gatorade was a blue gatorade by one of the workers there. I dont know why he was mad at me for not wanting a grape gatorade... other than that, the manager gets a 10/10 stars because she was nice from the beginning. 3 stars based off the unecessary attitude over a gatorade

Seems like a kool environment. Nothing negative to say. Standard bowling alley.

They need to bite the bullet and do a complete remodel. This place is pretty bad. The leagues are fun as hell cause the people are amazing but this entire house needs an upgrade with a full bar and new lanes.

I used a groupon. Laid back crowd and good priced food. Staff is nice and the facility is clean. I would go again.

Balls kept getting Stuck. Had to walk to the front a couple times to ask for a reset because the speakers are not working. Fun night though

The most ghetto staff I ever encountered in any establishment in all my travels worse then Chicago, the bronx, Paterson, Oakland combined its mind boggling, i was almost terrified to ask questions they get super annoyed when anyone who isn't african American attempts to spend money here u get over looked and ignored and risk your life when u speak up and attempt to make purchases BE CAREFUL AND GOOD LUCK

Very clean in the staff make it fun to be there I love it.

Horrible customer service, they said they going to closed at 8:30 and the time in internet said 10pm ,and the person in the front desk was acting like she don't want nobody else there ??

My family and I stopped by last minute and we really enjoyed ourselves the staff were all polite and friendly....the only downside would be they need better shoes I know they probably go through a lot of wear and tear but some need to be replaced

Save your money! My family and I had the worse experience. The lanes malfunctioned, the staff was unprofessional. One guy was about to fight a customer. Another staff mental abandoned their shift and left customer in line waiting for their food and drinks. It was horrible!

Worst Experience Ever Today is my birthday and I decided to take my family out bowling. This was not my first choice but it was the only one open before 4 pm. They only had two workers. The female who did the register was the only person who could also do the kitchen. She refuse to make food even when she was doing nothing else. Do not go here, paid for 2 games but only played once due to lack of food.

AMF Marlow Heights bowling experience could have been so much more enjoyable if there was more staff. The cleanliness was not 100%, too many birthday parties planned, and not enough staff. There were long lines and long waits for food. The bowling alley could have had five stars if there was adequate staff.

Upgrades would help. Bathrooms, tables and chairs are old. Thr lines are nice and the backdrops. The staff is ok. Food is good.

Nice bowling alley. Way better than what i expected. The soda machine behind the counter was not working and they were using off brand sofa and juice for name brand price. If that's fixed, a good place to bowl

Had a great time. The balls kept getting stuck at the end of the lane and would not return without assistance. But other than that the facility is nice. The staff was friendly and funny.

This place was "just okay", in my opinion. Went here for a party. After having pre-paid for everything via one of their party packages, they were 35 minutes late making our lanes available and getting us set up. So we stood around with nothing to do for that time. They did give us the time on the back end, but honestly I don't think it was worth the money we were charged. The food was typical bowling alley food (pizza, chicken wings, etc.). The chicken wasn't good. The lanes are okay, but the equipment need

Love this location b/c of how well kept it is! For that alone they need 4 stars and up. But the over abundance of league play has turned of away more times than not. The ONLY reason this last adventure was worth the 1hr and 45 min. wait was b/c we were attending a birthday party and my daughter was too young to participate with the older birthday crew. So i asked for another lane so she could bowl. She waited patiently but didn't forget what mommy promised her so i had to stick it out. After all that waitin

Bowling is fun but the grill service is sucks. Bowlers orders should be taken immediately, not after the waiter finishes cooking another order. Hire more help or someone who is not ignorant to service.

UPDATE - 2ND YEAR PHYSICAL THERAPY... LOL! The 2022-2023 Tuesday A.M. Mixed League IS STILL FUN (for ME)! I AM STILL smiling and laughing until I am hoarse; a very, very GOOD thing!! I LOVE meeting NEW people, I am bowling WITH EARBUDS (drowning out the laughter, etc.) - my Games are improving slowly. 135 Average/75 Handicap. I've ONLY fallen once (NO MAJOR DAMAGES/INJURIES!) and that Game ended with my Score of 196 (9/27/2022)!! #SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL AMF BOWLING CENTERS! #GoTeam1O - THE TRUTH! THANK

We Hannibal ball a great time food was good we both we laughed we enjoyed ourselves

Everyone is helpful and friendly. Food is good... i will be back

The bowling alley is very boring. No music and the line keep needing a rest. Other than that the food is good , place is clean, and good customer service.

I post my reviews about AMF Marlow Heights but will say it does not take away from the personality and the kindness that the staff possess and show to the people everyday.

My daughter birthday with the family

The attendant helping us was really nice. She seemed to have developed a rapport with some of my coworkers from a previous trip.

Our lane kept getting stuck. I took my children for a Sunday Funday of unlimited bowling but our lane kept freezing after about the 6th time we just left. On the plus side the manager did offer us a couple of free games on our next visit

It was an enjoyable atmosphere. We had fun. The machine kept messing up that was taking score. The hamburger was good!

Amazing friendly atmosphere. Went on a Sunday to take my Neice and polish up on my throw. Thank you Matt.

This place would be so much better if you'd get rid of Bonnie, Snake, and the young, heavy set chick with the bad attitude ??

This bowling alley has plenty of lanes and they do support parties. Kid friendly and good music is played at all times. This place can get packed but that just adds to the environment.

Fred and Shirley were amazing took great care of us they offer police one game makes date night amazing. Any Leo brothers out here or in dmv Mrs Shirley and Fred will be here to take care of you.

I enjoy coming here. I love ms. Tonya. She is friendly. Attentive. She always ensure my stay is a good one..

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s it like visiting an arcade today?

It’s a mix of nostalgia and high-energy fun! Many arcades blend retro classics like Pac-Man and pinball with modern VR games, racing simulators, and rhythm challenges — often with music, lights, and a social vibe.

Is it better to go alone or with friends?

Both can be great! Solo visits let you focus on your favorite games, while going with friends adds competition, teamwork, and laughs. Many people plan arcade meetups as a casual hangout or even date spot.

What should I bring to an arcade?

Usually just yourself and a way to pay (some arcades still use coins, others use cards or apps). If you're competitive, bring your A-game. If you're social, bring friends or meet new ones over multiplayer games.

What’s the best time to visit an arcade?

Weekdays or early afternoons are usually less crowded — perfect for focused play. Evenings and weekends bring the buzz, especially at barcades or venues with DJs, tournaments, or themed nights.

Can I meet new people at arcades?

Absolutely! Arcades attract a mix of casual players and serious gamers. Whether you're jumping into a four-player co-op or chatting between rounds, it's a fun, low-pressure way to connect over shared interests.

Are arcades still just for kids?

Not at all. While many arcades are family-friendly, there are also adult-oriented ones with full bars, 18+ nights, or vintage nostalgia themes. Arcades today cater to everyone — from first-timers to lifelong gamers.

Are there events or tournaments I can join?

Yes! Many arcades host regular competitions, retro nights, cosplay parties, and more. Whether you're into high scores or just want to watch and vibe, events add an extra layer to the experience.

What if I’m not great at arcade games?

No worries — arcades are about having fun, not being perfect. Try a variety of games, ask others for tips, and remember: the vibe is more “let’s play” than “let’s win.”

Why are arcade prize games so exciting to play?

Arcade prize games are a thrilling highlight in 2025! Claw machines, skee-ball, and ticket-redemption games like basketball offer a rush of skill and chance, with rewards like plushies, toys, or electronics up for grabs. Modern machines feature vibrant lights, digital scoreboards, and responsive controls, amplifying the fun. The lively arcade atmosphere, with cheering crowds and buzzing energy, makes every win feel epic.