Watch CBS News

Best Bowling Alleys For A Night Out In OC

15th Asian Games Doha 2006 - Bowling
(credit: Julian Finney/Getty Images)

When you think about bowling, any number of things might come to mind: a smoke-filled room (now a thing of the past), shirts with names stitched on them and maybe even "The Big Lebowski." A bowling alley can also be a really cool place to spend an evening, particularly if it has a full menu and bar. If you're hosting a party, or just want to do something different than going to the movies or dinner, here are some of the best places to go for an evening of bowling - and more.

bowlmor.jpg
(credit: Bowlmor)

Bowlmor
321 W. Katella Ave.
Anaheim, CA 92802
(714) 783-2810
www.bowlmor.com

When you think about bowling alleys, you probably think about formerly smoky and dark places where you could find a mix of people from high school kids to the regular league bowlers. You'll get something completely different when you go to Bowlmor. It looks less like a place where people would smoke too much and drink cheap beer and more like a nightclub. Bowlmor not only has you covered witha great bowling experience, but also with food and a full bar to help you enjoy your evening as much as possible.

Related:Bowling With The Perfect Ambiance At Bowlmor Anaheim

lucky strike outlets at orange
(credit: lucky strike)

Lucky Strike
The Outlets at Orange
20 City Blvd. W., Suite G-2
Orange, CA 92868
(714) 937-5263
www.bowlluckystrike.com

Ask yourself how long it's been since you attendeda party at a bowling alley. For most people, that probably predates driving. However, Lucky Strike is a great place to host a party no matter what the occasion. From the atmosphere to the food and drinks, you and your guests will have a truly enjoyable time. And in case you're wondering what kind of food you can get at a bowling alley, Lucky Strike offers short rib tacos and a quesadilla made with brie, among many other things.

IrvineLanes (Irvine Lanes)
(credit: Irvine Lanes)

Irvine Lanes
3415 Michelson Drive
Irvine, CA 92612
(949) 786-9625
www.irvinelanes.com

Irvine Lanes is the place to go if you're looking for a place that focuses more on the bowling aspect. Irvine boasts 40 lanes, an excellent bar and an arcade.Don't expect a full menu here. Irvine Lanes only has a snack bar. However, you can still organize a party for you and all of your friends. On the second floor of Irvine Lanes, you will also find private rooms where you can have a catered event.

Related:Best Bowling Alleys In Orange County

Nightlife & Music Hipsters, Bowling
(credit: Thinkstock.com)

Fountain Bowl
17110 Brookhurst St.
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 963-7888
www.fountainbowl.com

One of the big drags about going to a bowling alley is finding out that no lanes are available. With 60 lanes, Fountain Bowl can accommodate you even when league games are taking place. Fountain Bowl can also accommodate your birthday party. If you do set up your birthday party here, a full catering menu will be available to you and your guests. Also, if you go here on Friday or Saturday evening, you can bowl and sing karaoke - and that seems like a pretty good night out.

Bowling Balls Resting in Bowling Ball Return In Bowling Alley
(credit: David Nevala/Getty Images)

Saddleback Lanes
25402 Marguerite Parkway
Mission Viejo, CA 92692
(949)586-5300
www.saddlebacklanes.net

Like it or not, when you're looking to have a night out, cost is a consideration. At Saddleback Lanes, the costs are reasonable enough to make this a good destination. The normal costs are less than $4 per game plus $4 for shoes. It's an even better deal if you go on Wednesday or Thursday after 9 p.m. when each game is only $2. Saddleback can also accommodate your party, with extras like pizza, soda and kids meals.

Gary Schwind is a freelance writer covering all things Orange County. His work can be found on Examiner.com.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.