How to Start a Bowling Alley

A bowling alley business offers customers the equipment and facility to go bowling. Bowling alleys are great sources of entertainment for all age groups. Customers can bowl for fun or in competition through league play. The indoor locations offer activities during inclement weather, for work socials, or birthday parties.

Learn how to start your own Bowling Alley and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services.

Start a bowling alley by following these 10 steps:

  1. Plan your Bowling Alley
  2. Form your Bowling Alley into a Legal Entity
  3. Register your Bowling Alley for Taxes
  4. Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
  5. Set up Accounting for your Bowling Alley
  6. Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Bowling Alley
  7. Get Bowling Alley Insurance
  8. Define your Bowling Alley Brand
  9. Create your Bowling Alley Website
  10. Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your bowling alley. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas.

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

What will you name your business?

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Bowling Alley Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship, you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name, we recommend researching your business name by checking:

  • Your state's business records
  • Federal and state trademark records
  • Social media platforms
  • Web domain availability.

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Want some help naming your bowling alley?

Business Name Generator

What are the costs involved in opening a bowling alley?

As is the case with most businesses, location is key to success. For a bowling alley, a large amount of space is needed, just for the lanes and bowling equipment alone. Adding additional services and features will take careful planning and facility management. Building from the ground up will add to overall costs considerably. Finding an existing alley or structure to renovate will save some. Franchising is also a great option, as the planning and building will be a process between you and an experienced team.

Rental on an appropriate space can range from $4,000 to $10,000, depending on the number of lanes and other entertainment options. It’s advised that you consider the population density of your area to determine the number of lanes needed. For example, a population of 10,000 in a five mile radius would need approximately 5 lanes.

Once you have secured a location, the additional costs for equipment can range between $18,000 to $45,000. Some cost variation will occur, depending on if the equipment is used or new. Additional costs may include:

  • Re-designing the space, if it was not a bowling alley previously. Much of the space will be taken up by the lanes and equipment. Additional space should be planned for other activities and expansions or remodels, in the future.
  • A commercial kitchen and bar set-up, if offering these services. Newer bowling alleys are offering high-end food and drinks, in an attempt to raise the status of the traditional bowling experience.
  • Arcade and pinball games, ping pong tables, pool tables, dart boards, or any other additional entertainment. Some newer alleys are even offering batting cages or putt golf, as an all-inclusive entertainment design.
  • Rental shoes, balls, lockers, and bowling accessories.
  • Music and intercom systems, lighting, and seating
  • Insurance
  • Marketing plans
  • Website or social media presence

What are the ongoing expenses for a bowling alley?

Regular maintenance of the alleys, balls, shoes, and machinery, as well as any other entertainment systems on site, will be your primary expense. Factor in food and beverage costs, if that is part of your operation. These costs will fluctuate, depending on the business size and scope, but $3,500 to $5,000 is a fair estimate for monthly expenses. Payroll costs vary, depending upon the area and how many employees you have on staff.

Who is the target market?

Customers will range in age and experience level. Many will simply want to bowl, whereas some will take advantage of the various other attractions. Currently, bowling alleys are seeing a resurgence in popularity from a white-collar crowd, who want a wide range of amenities made available, including food, drinks, other arcade-style games, and even karaoke.

How does a bowling alley make money?

A bowling alley makes its money from the hourly rental fees on shoes, balls, and lanes. There can also be revenue generated from the use of other entertainment and food services. This will vary, depending on what your alley provides. Many bowling alleys also offer deals for parties or special events. Depending on the scope of your food and beverage department, this area may also generate a sizable amount of revenue.

How much can you charge customers?

The average cost per game in the U.S. is approximately $2.00. Factor in shoe rental and some food or drink sales, and a customer could spend anywhere between $15 and $50 per visit. Including other entertainment options will only increase your earning potential.

How much profit can a bowling alley make?

The profitability of a bowling alley will depend on your demographics and additional services you offer. Once you have covered your start-up expenses, much of the money will be spent on preventative maintenance, supplies, and payroll. Non-league revenue has been on the rise more recently amongst national bowling alleys, with almost one-third of the money coming from non-bowling activities. Annually, a successful bowling alley/entertainment complex can generate upwards of $300,000.

How can you make your business more profitable?

As we have mentioned above, a successful bowling alley business will be wise to offer multiple options for entertainment, other than just bowling.

  • Food and drinks can constitute a good percentage of your revenue. Give options which appeal to all ages and tastes.
  • Create an environment which attracts more than just bowlers. Many modern bowling alleys are multifaceted in their approach to entertainment, which keeps customers coming back.
  • Karaoke nights may be great marketing tools for the other-than-bowling crowd.
  • Have special theme nights and offer price specials for the less busy hours of operation. Midnight bowl specials on weekends, for example, have proven very successful.
  • Advertise for birthday parties and social or business gatherings.
  • Sell balls, shoes, and bags, and offer embroidery services for league shirts and bags. Capture the extra revenue while the customer is at your establishment.
  • Offering instructional classes in bowling can also be a great way to grow a business, as well as offering league play nights. This kind of regular crowd will help attract other customers.
  • Rent out nights for other than bowling events, if you have the space in your building.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), and corporation.

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your bowling alley is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services. You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website. If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil.

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

  • Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
  • Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

  • Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
  • Build your company's credit history, which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a Bowling Alley business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits.

In addition, certain local licensing or regulatory requirements may apply. For more information about local licenses and permits:

  • Check with your town, city or county clerk’s office.

Get assistance from one of the local associations listed in US Small Business Associations directory of local business resources.

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses.

Certificate of Occupancy

A bowling business is generally run out of a large building. Businesses operating out of a physical location typically require a Certificate of Occupancy (CO).  A CO confirms that all building codes, zoning laws and government regulations have been met.

If you plan to lease a location:

    • It is generally the landlord’s responsibility to obtain a CO.
    • Before leasing, confirm that your landlord has or can obtain a valid CO that is applicable to a bowling alley business.
    • After a major renovation, a new CO often needs to be issued. If your place of business will be renovated before opening, it is recommended to include language in your lease agreement stating that lease payments will not commence until a valid CO is issued.
  • If you plan to purchase or build a location:
    • You will be responsible for obtaining a valid CO from a local government authority.
    • Review all building codes and zoning requirements for your business’ location to ensure your bowling alley business will be in compliance and able to obtain a CO.

Music Licensing

In order to play music in a business setting, permission must be acquired from the composer or license holder. Typically, it is possible to obtain a “blanket” license allowing a businesses to play music owned by a large catalog of artists and recording studios. Such licenses can be obtained from Performance Rights Organizations, such as ASCAP or BMI. Learn more about music licensing requirements.

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance. This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance. If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Bowling Alley needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Bowling Alley.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners, we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended: Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker.

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator. Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a bowling alley

Initially, you will want to focus on families and individuals who are looking for multiple entertainment options, with bowling being the main draw. You will be wise to contact any bowling leagues in the area to advertise your business as a new and modern option. Some league teams will be pleased to have other options in the area, as some like to claim local lanes as their “home turf” in matches with other league teams.

As your business’ reputation grows, market to anyone interested in wholesome, family fun. Many league bowlers are now bringing their families to the lanes, as other entertainment options become more readily available. The families will, in turn, start frequenting your establishment for all of your offered amenities. This is also the time to reach out to social, school, or church groups, who are looking for exciting meet up locations. Offer your group specials and become a destination for all kinds of parties and events.

A new and emerging group of casual bowlers is also on the rise. These 30-somethings are looking for food, drinks, and entertainment in a setting which is clean and modern, yet not too upscale to feel uncomfortable or stuffy. These entertainment and efficiency enthusiasts see the bowling alley complex as a way to get all of their evening fun in one tidy package under a single roof.

Finally, network with other alley owners across the country and world. Find out what’s working and what needs adjustments through other entrepreneurs. Visit The National Bowling Association or The Bowling Proprietor’s Association of America for more information about these industry organizations.

How to keep customers coming back

Since bowling is a well-known and popular sport, much of your marketing and retention efforts will be directed towards creating an enjoyable experience for more than just bowling fans. Offer specials for bowlers and a variety of other entertainment for the more casual bowling crowd. If you’re offering food, consider what regional eats are most popular. Finally, make sure the customer knows you care. Ask your customers what they like or would like to see change. Involving the customer is a great way for the public to become invested in their pastimes and your business.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business.

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

  • All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
  • Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
  • Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended: Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders.

Other popular website builders are: WordPress, WIX, Weebly, Squarespace, and Shopify.

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

If you enjoy bowling, interacting with customers, and are well-versed in the business of entertainment, a bowling alley can be a great opportunity. Customers are looking for a clean, family-friendly environment, where they can find lots of entertainment options. This is just what a bowling alley can provide. Your professionalism, attention to detail, and positive personality will be a driving force in the success of the business.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a bowling alley?

Bowling alleys are not just for bowling anymore. Most successful lanes offer expanding varieties of entertainment and food services. Therefore, day-to-day activities can include a number of tasks not entirely related to the sport of bowling, depending on the specifics of the location.

Tasks or duties can include, but are not limited to:

  • Answering and returning calls for lane rentals and party space rentals.
  • Cleaning and maintenance of rental shoes, balls, and lanes.
  • Maintaining pinsetter systems and ball return tracks.
  • Regularly contacting equipment vendors for both bowling and any other entertainment equipment, such as arcade games, pinball machines, food service, pool tables, or karaoke machines.
  • Meeting and building relations with bowling league organizers.
  • Marketing for the business and planning promotions or related business strategies
  • Organizing and inventorying bar and food supplies
  • Hiring, training, and communicating with employees to ensure great customer service and experience.

Administrative or management duties, such as paying bills, performing safety checks, ordering supplies, and calling in maintenance will also fill your days. It is advisable, once the business is up and running successfully, to hire a person specifically for managing these aspects of the business.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful bowling alley?

In today’s competitive entertainment market, you will be wise to offer a niche service that is missing for your particular area. The bowling alley business is different than it has been in the past, yet is still highly profitable. Get to know your potential clientele and what they are looking for in family and personal entertainment. For your dedicated bowlers, you will want to offer services, such as shoe repair, custom ball orders, and bowling related equipment. Make sure your bowling customers know they are top priority. Then, offer other services which draw crossover customers. These customers may come for bowling initially, but return for other attractions. Conduct research to see what other entertainment and services will draw additional customers

What is the growth potential for a bowling alley?

Bowling alleys have held their popularity for decades and are still regular destinations for fun seekers. Although league bowling is not as popular as it once was, many working professionals are choosing to frequent alleys, which have numerous options for entertainment. If your alley can provide options for food and drinks as well, you will find a greater market share passing through your doors. There are also numerous franchising opportunities for bowling alley/indoor entertainment multiplexes. When a customer feels they have an all in one package for their entertainment, they will often return and pass the good word amongst their friends and colleagues. Make sure you research the levels of competition currently in play in your area.

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Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

  • Funding
  • Events
  • Guides
  • Support

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a bowling alley?

Here are some tips from successful bowling alley entrepreneurs:

  • Strive to keep your establishment clean and welcoming. You’re looking to attract all types of customers and appearance goes a long way.
  • A well-lit parking lot and strictly enforced rules are also important.
  • Make your inside environment family-friendly. The music should be appropriate and patrons should be given helpful customer service at all times.
  • Preventative maintenance is critical to make sure your alley is up and running smoothly. You will save money this way in the long run.
  • Keep aware of industry trends and changes in the needs and wants of your customers. Small, affordable changes, which represent current societal trends can make a big difference in the public perception of your business.
  • Make the rules of your establishment clear and easy to follow. Enforce the rules and you’ll maintain the reputation of your establishment

How and when to build a team

You will need an initial start-up team for the business to get going. Consider hiring those who have customer service experience and are mechanically capable, as they may be called on to do minor repairs or maintenance, in addition to talking to the public. If you are buying into a franchise, there may be a team in place to help with the setup and opening. If you are starting independently, choose employees who demonstrate the ability to manage and work with others. Your team won’t be very large to begin with, so hiring competent and responsible employees is critical.

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