Top revenue-boosting activities for bowling centers: 9 entertainment ideas to upgrade your venue

Are you a bowling center owner looking for entertainment ideas to boost foot traffic and grow your business? With the growing popularity of family entertainment centers (FECs), adding interactive attractions to your venue is no longer just a trend. It has become a necessity.

In this blog, we explore 9 high-impact activities you can add to your bowling alley to attract new customers, increase spend per guest, and stay ahead of your competition. From karaoke rooms to virtual reality, we break down the pros, cons, cost, setup time, space needs, and general requirements for each.

1. Karaoke rooms

Private karaoke rooms are a fun and profitable way to diversify your entertainment They're especially effective at bringing in group bookings and can extend guest visits. They pair exceptionally well with birthday parties and are often booked alongside group bowling events. Additionally, karaoke rooms provide an enjoyable post-activity option for regulars or participants in bowling tournaments who want to keep the fun going. You can easily convert an unused room, or add in karaoke as an add on to existing party rooms.

Why it works: Karaoke is a popular social activity that pairs perfectly with a night out at the bowling alley. With solutions like Singa Business, it’s easier than ever to manage music licensing and offer a premium singing experience.

Pros:

• High profit margin per room
• Appeals to a wide age range
• Available as pay-per-use or party packages
• Minimal staff involvement

Cons:

• Requires soundproofing
• Moderate initial investment

Setup Time: 2 to 4 weeks

Cost: $3,000–$5,000 for AV, set-up, and software

Space Requirement: 100–200 sq ft per room

Requirements: Private room(s), karaoke system, speakers, touchscreen interface, licensing (for music)

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2. Arcade and redemption games

Arcade and redemption games have long been a staple in bowling centers, offering instant fun and steady revenue. They're easy to rotate and scale, but interest can wane over time without regular updates.

Why it works: These games generate steady incremental revenue and increase dwell time. Ticket-based games support upsells via prize redemption.

Pros:

• Wide audience appeal
• Modular and scalable

Cons:

• Games require maintenance and updates
• Staff time dedicated to redemption
• People can lose interest over time if games aren't refreshed

Setup Time: 2 to 3 weeks

Cost: $2,000–$10,000 per machine

Space Requirement: 50 to 100 sq ft per machine

Requirements: Electrical access, prize/redemption counter for ticket games, floor management system

3. Darts

Darts offer a compact and affordable entertainment option that pairs well with food and beverage sales. It’s a casual, social game ideal for adult guests.

Why it works: It’s easy to install, inexpensive, and well-suited for league play or casual drop-in use.

Pros:

• Minimal space and investment
• Good for repeat business

Cons:

• Limited revenue generation on its own
• Less appealing to families and kids
• Setup Time: 1 week
• Cost: $500–$2,000 per lane
• Space Requirement: 60–80 sq ft per lane
• Requirements: Wall-mounted dartboard, scorekeeping system, safety signage

4. Billiards

A classic leisure activity, billiard or shuffleboard tables are perfect for casual socializing and offer steady income with minimal maintenance.

Why it works: Billiards has enduring appeal among adults and provides great lounge-style entertainment.

Pros:

• Low maintenance
• Durable and long-lasting

Cons:

• Requires significant floor space
• Moderate hourly return

Setup Time: 1 to 2 weeks

Cost: $3,000–$5,000 per table

Space Requirement: 150–200 sq ft per table

Requirements: Pool table, cues, racks, adequate lighting

5. Minigolf

Indoor mini golf provides family-friendly fun and is a great way to engage kids and multi-generational groups.

Why it works: Its visual appeal and casual gameplay make it ideal for group outings and birthday parties.

Pros:

• Family appeal
• Custom theming options

Cons:

• Large footprint required
• Initial buildout cost

Setup Time: 6 to 12 weeks

Cost: $30,000–$100,000 depending on size and theming

Space Requirement: 1,500–3,000 sq ft

Requirements: Custom-built course, themed décor, lighting

6. Escape rooms

Escape rooms are immersive puzzle experiences that appeal to groups, families, and corporate outings. They offer a unique type of entertainment that sets your venue apart.

Why it works: Themed escape rooms add a unique, immersive experience ideal for group events and parties.

Pros:

• High return on investment (ROI)
• Strong appeal to team-building and party groups

Cons:

• More complex setup
• Requires frequent updates to keep experiences fresh

Setup Time: 4 to 8 weeks

Cost: $25,000–$75,000

Space Requirement: 400–800 sq ft

Requirements: Custom theming, technology (locks, puzzles), staffing for oversight

7. Shuffleboard

This retro-style game is experiencing a resurgence in adult social venues. It's ideal for open lounge areas and food-and-beverage-heavy spaces.

Why it works: Shuffleboard encourages relaxed, extended stays and social interaction.

Pros:

• Low maintenance
• Stylish and on-trend

Cons:

• Long footprint
• Less engaging for younger guests

Setup Time: 1 to 2 weeks

Cost: $5,000–$10,000 per table

Space Requirement: 300–500 sq ft per table

Requirements: Long shuffleboard table, level floor, wax/sand supplies

8. Virtual reality (VR) gaming

VR gaming offers cutting-edge, immersive experiences that attract tech-savvy guests and younger demographics. It's a bold addition that can command premium pricing.

Why it works: This type of experience draws in younger demographics and tech enthusiasts thanks to its immersive and high-tech nature.

Pros:

• High-tech "wow" factor
• High hourly revenue potential

Cons:

• Expensive setup
• Requires supervision and support

Setup Time: 3 to 6 weeks

Cost: $20,000–$100,000 depending on system

Space Requirement: 200–400 sq ft per station

Requirements: VR gear, computers, tracked play area, dedicated staff

9. Axe throwing

Axe throwing offers a bold, physical activity that’s a hit with adults and works well for themed nights or competitions.

Why it works: It is a trendy activity that appeals to adults and corporate events.

Pros:

• High price-per-session
• Great for themed nights

Cons:

• Requires significant safety planning
• Higher insurance costs

Setup Time: 4 to 6 weeks

Cost: $15,000–$50,000

Space Requirement: 300–600 sq ft per lane

Requirements: High ceilings, secure lanes, safety barriers, staff training

Final thoughts: Picking the right fit

Not every activity will suit every venue. Factors like space availability, target audience, local competition, and budget will heavily influence the best fit. Start small, measure performance, and scale from there.

If you’re looking to increase revenue in your bowling center, the key is creating an entertainment-rich, all-in-one experience that keeps customers longer and encourages repeat visits.

Consider solutions like Singa Business to simplify implementation of high-margin experiences like karaoke. It is a turnkey option designed for bowling centers, bars, and other entertainment venues.