Bowl Haven Lanes

Bowl Haven Lanes

Reviews Summary

Bowl Haven generally receives positive feedback for its friendly staff, clean environment, and family-friendly atmosphere. Many praise the well-maintained lanes, fun arcade, and good food, especially the cheeseburgers and wraps. The pro shop is highly regarded, and events like mom/son bowling are highlights. However, a few negative reviews cite rude employees, strict policies (like outside food restrictions), and occasional maintenance issues like warped lanes or roof leaks. Most visitors enjoy their experience and plan to return.

About This Listing

Has Arcade Cabinets
Has Food
Good for kids
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.*

Features

Has Arcade Cabinets
Has Food
Good for kids
Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

3003 Washington Ave

Alton, Illinois 62002

Hours

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

Customer Reviews

This place was packed of course it was the weekend. The whole family had a good time. our grand babies had a great time. The food and drink was good, stadium prices are the only drawback. Lol

Great family place to Bowl. The food is okay for snacking. The lanes are excellent. The games are great and use a new card system. Clean place great staff. The Lanes are well maintained.

Very courteous employees and state of the art equipment and facilities.

Great place to bring the family. Good food.

These misleading coupons I received after booking a bday party & not receiving all the perks of my package really makes me upset. If you want ppl to buy a game to get a free game specify that on the coupon. And also inform ppl upfront if they aren't getting what's fully advertised in the party packages or give them a discount.

We love going there! The staff is awesome!

I love the mom/son bowling put on by parks and rec every year

We had my daughters 9th birthday here, and we were an absolute mess. We had no idea how many of our huge party (26 people) wanted to bowl and what packages worked best for us. Employees were very helpful and patient with us even though we were a very lively bunch, lol. We had a wonderful time. Definitely will book another party here.

We had a great time yesterday at Bowl Haven watching our grandson and his high-school team!!

Nice house, new lanes installed in 2022. High quality pro shop. The staff is very friendly and helpful. The lounge/bar area is cozy. Would be 5 stars if they didn't have the typical bowling alley occasional roof leak.

Very nice bowling alley! Good food too!

People are super nice here, the lanes have a speedometer and the bumpers can be put up electronically if you ask.

Had a good time at our team building meeting. Pizza was pretty good. Fried mushrooms were very good. Very nice place. Good staff.

Thanks so much. We had a great time celebrating my sons birthday. All of the grandchildren were so excited and can't wait to go again. Not to scare the staff... but, we WILL be back

Had a fun time. It's wasn't very busy for a Saturday night, I was really surprised but it was nice not having alot of ppl there. Food and drinks are reasonable. Good for a night out with family and/or friends. Will return

Same bowl haven I used to bowl at for years. GREAT bowling ally with the same great staff.

you'd think they would be a little nice, I called to introduce myself and click, they hung up on me, no worries I'll gladly take my business somewhere else.

Amazing people. Bowling ally way more up to date than others in the area. Nice bar, gaming area, out door patio. Again, the people there make you wna too come back.

Not recommended for visiting on a holiday. MLK day the lanes weren't packed, but the service was extra slow at the kitchen. Over an hour and a half for burger and the order was not what was ordered.

Love their free bowling program for kids in summer. Older bowling alley but very well kept. Staff friendly

This place used to have great food and service, but I recently stopped in to grab some food and I noticed that they are very unsanitary! The kitchen staff didn't wash their hands or change their gloves once!!! They touched the food, register, and the microphone, and the girl actually was playing with her hair with the gloves she never changed!! Also, they got my order wrong, and they aren't wearing any hair nets, so I won't be back!! I hope the owner will see this and try to make some necessary changes!! W

Bowl Haven Lanes really rocks!!! (Specially the Pro-Shop.Bill is *very*knowledgeable,skilled,and helpful. It's the only shop around here that isn't covered in dust and full of "equipment" from the 70's) (And they don't hold back on the booze when mixing a drink!)

The boring past lights and lanes are too dim have a hard time adjusting to the lighting but they have beautiful bowling balls. The bar and game room is nice and good food

Place is a great place for your family or just a date. Food is amazing (especially the wraps). Into craft beers? They have a surprising good selection too. Also, for the gambling adults, they have video gaming slots. All around, well rounded, great place.

The brunette hair young lady made me the best cheeseburger and sweet potato fries she did her thing on that grill. That cheeseburger was ?? fire and I will be going back again before I go back to Kansas!!

Listen its bowling and they keep it clean and keep it moving, they have a decent arcade ,I didn't see a pool table but I didn't go into the bar. Great food good handmade pizzas. Clean restroom . Good family night or great bowl n beer with the group

I was very disappointed in the staff at bowl haven lanes today. A few weeks ago, February 22nd to be exact, I called to reserve a couple lanes to celebrate my sons 3rd birthday and my daughters first birthday for March 26th, 2023 at 1 pm. The lady on the phone I spoke with went over party packages and how many people I would have in my party. I informed her about 15 people but not all would be bowling but we would do the package that included the pizzas and I would purchase extra pizzas if needed, she ensur

Nice place to roll a few balls down an alley. Had an issue with our lane but they switched us over a lane and I actually bowled a couple of my best games. We will definitely be back again. Thanks for the great service.

Clean, friendly, and accomodating. Has a pro shop. I am enjoying league bowling there.

I do not understand why they close at five. Pretty ridiculous. They really need to edit the times when they open and close when you look it up. Very disappointed. I used to absolutely love this place, but now is a three star for me

The workers exapecially the lady working the food area and bar was so very sweet and kind they all were I recommend this place it's very laid back and comfortable atmosphere I'll definitely be going back sometime soon

People are great. The pro shop altho small, is fantastic! Things are ordered and recieved pretty fast. Haven't ordered food in a while, but others say it is really good.

Was very friendly enjoyable time out. Hoped they didn't have wooded lanes but seen to be in good condition. Just moved into the area looking forward to having some fun, meeting new people, joining a league this fall.

Having my daughter's birthday here again for the 5th time.prices aren't too bad, Fun, great in door space especially in bad weather, also had great arcade room.

Great place to take the kiddos for a family night of fun. They have bowling of course but also have a little fun arcade. Good, yummy, food . had a great time with the family. Also even though we didnt make a reservation they still did what they could to get us on a bowling lane as quickly as possible. Great place!!

Great place! Me and my 3 year old boy, go few times a week, with the family pass.

Lanes are excellent and clean. Quiet bar area and little game room. Nice selection of balls and clean shoes. But, take your wallet if you are thir$ty or hungry. It is good eats though!

It's always a great and fun place.

This was my first time coming here. The place was clean. The employees were friendly and helpful. The lanes were old and seem like they were warped. Other than that, I had fun.

Same price for kids as adults. I think should be a little less for kids. Lady behind counter a little dismissive to people there just to bowl. I was alone at counter when others came up and was ignored while she waited on 3 people stepping in front of me to get money for colored pins. I have found bowl haven to be friendly for many years 30 or more but lady at counter today was rude and not a very friendly perdon. She may have been overwhelmed with all that was going on. I hope that's what was but if she ha

Good lanes but horrible service, a few relatives and I waited an hour and a half for one lane. There were atleast 5 lanes open but we couldnt use them until they were cleaned. Which took another 20 minutes and the man behind the counter took their time cleaning the lanes while ignoring the other costumers at the counter.

Always a blast. Food is good. Clean area to sit and eat. The lanes are very nice. The only downfall is the organization of the balls. It's like a mad hunt at times. But, in the end It is worth it

Bowl Haven is always great. I've been coming here since the 1970's and it's a really good place to bowl, eat and they have a first class pro shop.

Looked nice and clean in good condition..I was only there for a few minutes, though I'm sure I'll end up going back.

Love going there... it was where my DQ Christmas party was and we all had a laid back fun time!! Plus even if you're not a pro-bowler you can have a good time and not be judged!!

Food is good and great drink prices. Friendly staff and clean. Great environment. Only thing was that they only carry bowling balls up to 14 pounds.

Visited 3/30/19 they were fairly busy, which is fine and understandable. But, was met at the counter by an older gentlemen, who just stared at my girlfriend and her younger sister, and myself with out saying anything. When we asked about getting a lane, he stated that we would have to wait until a lane opened up and that we would only have an hour to play. Again, fine. So, we sat at the tables next to the counter and as soon as we sat down a family behind us was told a similar story but followed up with bei

Yesterday my boyfriend, little sister, and I wanted to go bowling. I've been to bowl haven plenty of times and always had a great experience. When we arrived I walked up to the front desk. There was a older, thick, man with white hair and facial hair at the desk. I think he may have had glasses but can't 100% remember if he did or not. He was on the phone so I patiently waited. He noticed me but kept talking on the phone. I didn't think anything of it of course. Once he got off the phone he continued to act

If you are looking for Bowl Heaven this is not the place for you. Haven and heaven are different words. Period. This is a nice bowling alley all the same. Not shabby at all. They just got new lanes and they are solid. Like wood I think. Highly reccomend checking it out. #WhatTheBowl

Always a good time. I'm two weeks into my time bowling in a serious league. So far so good. They have great boneless wings.

We bowl here on a league, it is family friendly. Food is a little expensive but they do have a gaming area for kids and a gaming area for adults only. This is good for a night out with friends.

Staff is super friendly!! Whether I'm there for league bowl or a day of fun with the family we always have great service.

Wonderful place great staff nice place very friendly 10/10

Went on a afternoon/weeknight. It was fun, food was GOOD & FRESH. Customer service is good. It was fun and affordable.

I usually come here with my husband and kids but as of today never stepping a foot in here . My daughter is autistic and she will only eat certain food and they were like you can't bring outside food which I completely understand but the fact is that I'm not gonna force my 3 year old eat their food and I even told him the situation that my daughter has a disability and he didn't even care . Never again will they receive my service and it's not about the food it's how there discriminating her and it's sad th

Bravo for hosting the IL Special Olympics 2019. Staff was very friendly and prompt with lane issues. Concessions staff were on the ball and quick to serve.

Great place to bowl. Staff is nice. They took good care of me when I bought a new ball. They watched me bowl then got the ball drilled right for me.

Took our kids here on a rainy day. We all had a great time. Can't wait for the kids bowl free program to start back up again.

The place was clean, food was tasty, especially the fried pickles. Granddaughter and I played airlock for the first time.

Great food and friendly service most of the time. Bartender was nice and made the drinks very well.

Food was not very good but my grandson loved his birthday party here.

Was there for a birthday party and they were seriously so sweet! Can't wait to go back!

They've updated the bowling area and I think I saw something about getting new lands in April. It's a wonderful, homey, atmosphere and I love bowling here when I get the chance.

The name on the building says Spectators Bar and Grill. Great service and friendly staff. We will definitely be back.

I went to Spectators Bar & Grill to eat. (The bowling lanes are great). The food is good there. I had forgotten that they do charge for each refill on drinks.

Good lanes. Bring your own shoes, theirs are worn as hell. Good beer, good staff, good food. Portions are kinda small, but still good times.

I have so much fun when I come here the arcade and bowling the food is good!

Clean, friendly, and respectful staff. Great time and memories made!

It was actually better than I remember it from some 40 years ago.

Plenty of snacks to choose from. Bar and soda available. Lots of leagues so have to watch out when you come

terrible place bad service!! my children asked to leave because of the poor attitude of the "manager " on duty when all they were trying to to was tell him about lane problems, they were ignored and talked down to. I have always frequented this establishment but after this incident I would drive a MILLION miles to bowl before I go back. I'm totally disappointed

Good food and excellent mixed drinks!

Fun and friendly atmosphere. Great place to take the family to pass the time.

This is a great bowling alley. Great food. Great drinks. GREAT service. Always hosting some kind of league or tournament. Would give 10 stars.

Nice up to date bowling alley. Service was great, employees are pleasant. Good place for a birthday party.

Fun place with a nice lounge and good food, like the St. Louis Style pizza and homemade ranch salad dressing.

We just went there to get a bite to eat.... food is pretty damn good

The staff was friendly. The whole house was clean and welcoming.

bowl haven is an awesome place I love it there the food is great the workers are very friendly and starlight is awesome on Saturday night. I would highly recommend going there if you want to bowl.

A bowling alley. It was non-smoking. Pizza looked overcooked so I didn't order any. My kids and grandchildren had fun and in the end that is all that matters.

Rude employees. Unclean. It was once a nice place to go but it has really went downhill.

Great place for family fun! Even arcade games

It was great but crowded. Tables are kinda close together. But still had a good time...

Clean, friendly and fast service. We played pinball and some of the other arcade games and had some good food!

Family friendly bowling. Went with a school group. The kids had a great time.

It's really good blowing and you can get drink if your older than 16 and theres kids drink and adult. Drinks if you over 16 and dout drink

Everyone who works here is amazing! Constant smiles and always willing to help! I'm always there with my buddies going bowling.

My daughter Bowled a tournament here. Nice facility. Lanes played nice for old wood. Great snack bar.

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.”