One of our dear friends was in town and we wanted to do something local and fun. We hadn't been to the bowling alley here in several years, so we figured we'd give it a shot!
When we first walked in, I didn't even recognize the place. In the past two years, they've remodeled, and it looks spectacular. Most bowling alleys in the area are stuck in the 70s, but Brad Angelo's is now modern and inviting. Beautiful wood-look flooring and gray walls add a contemporary and inviting feel to the alley.
We were greeted at the desk and ordered our game and shoes for those who needed them. The lady who got us set up was super friendly! She also had the insight to set us up on two lanes at the very end of the building (even though there were only five of us) so our kids could bowl on one lane and we adults could be on the other one. This ended up being brilliant, since the kids decided later on that they wanted the bumpers pulled up and they were able to have that on just their lane. She also made sure we were several lanes apart from the league bowlers so we wouldn't bother them.
The kids immediately had so much fun. I couldn't believe how well they bowled for a five- and seven-year-old. We requested a ramp for the younger one since his first ball did not make it to the pins (whoops). A staff member witnessed it and retrieved the ball for us right away. Instead of rolling it to the pins to complete the turn, he actually handed it back to my boy so he could try again! We thought that was very considerate. We adults had a ton of fun bowling as well. None of us are league material, but skill doesn't matter when you're having a good time.
At one point, a few frames in, the lady from the front desk came by and asked how everyone was doing. She told me that my older son reminded her of when her boy was that age and we chatted for a bit. There's definitely a home-like feel here. It was so comfortable and friendly.
The restrooms were clean and well kept. We did not order food, so I can't comment on the resturant but you can bet that we'll be back soon with more friends to try it out. When we left, we walked through the bar area. It looked relaxing, contemporary and clean. Not what I'd expect from a bowling alley bar!
An honorable mention goes to their ball room. Other bowling alleys display their house balls in racks all throughout the alley, which can give a cluttered look and crowd the walkways. Brad Angelo's actually made a little room to the side with all the balls available so you can go to one area and choose a ball instead of wandering through the alley cherry-picking.
Also worth mentioning, the scoring computers are still old-school, but I wouldn't change that! They were all in great working condition and gave a nostalgic feel to an otherwise modern environment. That is one element that does not need updating.
There is a shop/repair facility by the front doors, which is a must when you're a serious bowler, and we also noticed a small arcade area for when you've missed your fifth spare in a row and need to blow off some steam.
All-in-all, I was very impressed with this bowling alley. It is above and beyond what I expected. Every single one of us had a fantastic experience here and I honestly cannot wait to go back, whether it's just a fun evening outing with the kids or bringing a big group of friends for a parents' night out! Brad Angelo's is going to become our new favorite place to be! read more