For most of us who grew up in the states, the thought of bowling conjures up nostalgic memories; day trips with family and friends, ugly shoes, stale bar food, and strange characters in matching bowling leagues shirts ripped from classic films like “Kingpin” or “The Big Lebowski.” It had been a while since we bowled and we didn’t know what to expect- especially because it was in Hollywood. I figured this might be weird so we have to step our game up.
How you ask? By really becoming part of our environment. And what does that mean? Well...cheesy matching Hollywood souvenir t-shirts you get from a grocery store for $6, of course! I called ahead to reserve a lane, Holly grabbed her Grandmother's bowling shoes (which I’m pretty sure is her secret bowling weapon) and we headed out. As soon as we walked through the doors of this hidden gem, we quickly realized....this isn’t your grandparent's bowling alley.
In the same complex the Academy Awards are held, just steps away from the corner of Hollywood Blvd. and Highland Ave., is the Lucky Strike bowling alley. It's a classic bowling alley with a rock-n-roll edge. Lucky Strike has it all, including a friendly staff (shout out to Chancy and her people!) who went out of their way to help us out.
Cool bits of Hollywood history are scattered throughout the venue; like the bar top which is the actual lane #7 from the iconic movie “The Big Lebowski,” and the red neon Hollywood sign that lights up all the lanes. Music from live bands or a house Dj playing the hottest new music sets the soundtrack for that upcoming strike.
If you build up an appetite or thirst during your game, craft cocktails and gastropub cuisine are available and will satisfy even the biggest food critic amongst us.
So grab a lane, put on a pair of ugly rental bowling shoes (some things never change), pick a ball, and have a blast. This place is definitely worth a visit when you are in the Hollywood area!
P. S. Just remember not to let your partner wear their grandmother's bowling shoes and definitely don’t place any bets if he/she does. Otherwise, you have to do this:
HOLLY THOROUGHLY KICKED MY BUTT! BEATING ME TWO OUT OF THREE GAMES! SHE IS THE WINNER! HOLLY IS THE CHAMP! SHE IS THE BEST AND I AM THE LOSER! CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR VICTORY!
THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW
Where does it take place
Lucky Strike Bowling Alley
6801 Hollywood Blvd., Ste 143
Hollywood, CA 90028
Prices
Sunday - Thursday
Before 8pm $7 per person per game
After 8pm $8 per person per game plus $5 shoe rental
Friday - Saturday
Before 5pm $7 per person per game
After 5pm $75 per person per game plus $5 shoe rental
Specials and Group rates are available. Contact for days & rates.
Group Tours (20 or more)*
Hours
Sunday - Thursday 12pm - 1am
Friday - Saturday 12pm - 2am
Things I Wish Someone Had Told Me
It can be expensive. While the weekday prices are reasonable, Friday and Saturdays after 5pm are pricey so plan accordingly.
There is a dress code after 8pm. They ask that you wear neat, casual, and fitted attire. Basically, keep it classy not trashy.
Not a place for the kiddos. 21+ after 8pm
It can be really loud. Between the live music, the pins crashing, and the DJ, you might have to yell to each other a bit.
Things You Will Need
Money All vendors accept credit cards and cash.
Some bowling shoes These fashionable icons of bowling are available for rent.
A camera You can bring in any camera that you’d like. My phone worked perfectly for this. Make sure you get a photo with the rusted tractors...pretty cool.
How many strikes can you get?
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