Buffalo Lanes Inc

Buffalo Lanes Inc

Reviews Summary

This bowling alley offers a mixed experience with many praising its fun atmosphere, friendly staff, and family-friendly vibe, especially for parties. Positive reviews highlight cleanliness, helpful service, and good value. However, recurring complaints include malfunctioning equipment, high prices, and occasional unprofessional staff. While some find it a great spot for casual bowling, others criticize outdated facilities and poor maintenance. The bar and arcade add to the appeal, but drink prices and lane issues are noted downsides. Overall, it’s a popular local spot with room for improvement.

About This Listing

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

Wheelchair Accessible

Contact Information

Address

905 7th Ave SE

Jamestown, North Dakota 58401

Hours

Monday 4-10PM
Tuesday 4-10PM
Wednesday 4-10PM
Thursday 4-10PM
Friday 4PM-12AM
Saturday 1PM-12AM
Sunday 1-8PM

Customer Reviews

Honestly didn't have their stuff together. Staff stumbling over words and prices and was very unclear. I don't understand how they get away with charging $80 for 2 adults and 2 kids for 2 hrs knowing other places way better than this give deals for late night bowling Fridays and Saturdays for the lane. Music was way too quiet, couldn't hear it. Staff was very uninviting and even though they did come check to see if we were all doing well, it felt like a push to leave. Only got one ball for three kids on lan

The staff were extremely uninviting. We were told it was $35 USD for 1 hour of bowling. We are originally from Canada and thought $35 is a lot for one hour converted thats almost $50 CAD. The place was fairly empty for a Saturday evening which I am guessing is reflected because of the cost to play. The night before we bowled in Fargo for close to 2 hours for under $35, so it boggles my mind as to why they would charge $35 per hour. We will not be back.

Our Son and his girlfriend took me and his dad out bowling for his birthday on 1/09/2025. His girlfriend daughter and her boyfriend also came with us. Me and his dad have not bowled in many years and on our team was me,dad & our son and of course dad won on our team!!! We had an amazing time bowling there,we will definitely be back!!! Our sons job owns the establishment and you guys did an AMAZING JOB on redoing the whole inside!! IT WAS VERY CLEAN AND THE YOUNG GENTLEMAN THAT WAS WORKING THAT NIGHT WAS ABS

Our family and family friends had a blast tonight. The kids got to bowl in one lane with bumpers and the adults in the other lane. Patrick was working and he is very helpful! State employees get a discount so make sure to ask for it! And lastly the kids and adults had a blast in the arcade!

My disabled daughter had a blast using the roll of ramps for the bowling balls. She even got a few strikes!

Pretty sweet spot especially for a small town. I like the newer chill vibes there

We had a great experience with our daughter's birthday party today. We showed up and our space was all ready for us with balloons and tablecloths all set up. The lane attendant was super responsive if we needed anything and did a great job helping 9 first graders get set up for their game. We even had a small spill of some party snack mix and she was there with a broom before we even had to ask. The scoring sensors didn't work very well when the balls were rolled as slowly as some of our kids were able to

Nice and clean with attached bar but also with a family atmosphere.

I give 3 stars only because this lace is fun and the kids love it! The guy behind the counter however made it clear that he didn't like his job nor did he want to help us retrieve the bowling balls that got stuck. If you bring your kids be prepared for rude remarks and no help when you need it! The most work I saw him do was watch videos on his cell phone repeatedly

Good place to have a party. Staff is quick if you have an issue. (One ball got stuck a few times) it can get a little crowded on the end that has bumpers. Also if you have small children they keep lighter balls at register.

We had a birthday party here last Saturday the 10th and both guys working behind the counter were respectful and helpful even though there was 2 other birthday parties and the bowling alley was packed!

It was great! Few places offer a way to gather, so it was even more appreciated! People plenty distanced, masks on, and clean! Take the time to check this place out!!!

Bowling alley was falling apart. We had to switch lanes 3 times due to malfunctioning equipment. We were mostly upset that we did not get our time extended for the inconvenience.

Enjoy my experience every time I visit. The kids also have a great time. The arcade is also great.

Had daughters bday party there overall good pizza provided was bad and burnt and greasy controls for the bowling lanes are difficult to figure out. Typical Jamestown type of place.

Great price, friendly staff, and excellent environment. My fiance and I are bowlers for a league so when we swing by Jamestown, definitely coming back.

Decent enough, but stay clear of the lounge for their drink prices are absurdly high - $3.75 for a small 12 oz. Budweiser can!

Lots of fun nice people run this place. Only thing I would change about this place is it would have a credit card machine on the vending machine.

We had to switch lanes three times and we had to wait for machinery to be fixed numerous more times. It was frustrating and clear that the alley needs to be updated.

Hade a grat time with the kids son loved having he's bday there

Always fun. Usually pretty relaxed atmosphere

Super fun. Small quiet ally...was perfect

Great little bowling alley. We always have fun there. There is also a bar.

Excellent bowling facility.

Fun place for a late night hangout

Great place to have a birthday party.

Service was ok. Nice open place too bowl.

Great alley, staff are friendly and helpful.

Always had a good time here!!

Uhhhhhhh the ball was broken and I kept getting gutter balls

Only fun thing to do here in Jamestown

Had a super fun time!

Nothing bad to say about the place

Love the gals when bowling

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.”