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, itβs 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: $3,000β$5,000 for AV, set-up, and software
Space Requirement: 100β200 sq ft per room
Requirements: Private room(s), karaoke system, speakers, touchscreen interface, licensing (for music)
Download the free 30-Day Karaoke Room Launch Guide for step-by-step support on planning, building, and promoting your karaoke room. It is your complete roadmap to launching successfully with confidence.
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: $2,000β$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. Itβs a casual, social game ideal for adult guests.
Why it works: Itβs 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: $500β$2,000 per lane
- Space Requirement: 60β80 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: $3,000β$5,000 per table
Space Requirement: 150β200 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: $30,000β$100,000 depending on size and theming
Space Requirement: 1,500β3,000 sq ft
Requirements: Custom-built course, themed dΓ©cor, 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: $25,000β$75,000
Space Requirement: 400β800 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: $5,000β$10,000 per table
Space Requirement: 300β500 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: $20,000β$100,000 depending on system
Space Requirement: 200β400 sq ft per station
Requirements: VR gear, computers, tracked play area, dedicated staff
9. Axe throwing
Axe throwing offers a bold, physical activity thatβs 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: $15,000β$50,000
Space Requirement: 300β600 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 youβre 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.