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How Much Is Bowling at Main Event: Cost per Person Explained

The bright and colorful lights create a fun and memorable bowling alley experience.

Thinking about bowling at Main Event? You’re in for a fantastic time! The entertainment center is the perfect setting to roll a few, have some great food, and make memories with family and friends.

But before you book your bowling day, it’s important to consider how much you’ll need to pay. So, how much is bowling at Main Event? That’s where we can help.

In this article, we’ll outline Main Event’s pricing for bowling.

How Much Is Bowling at Main Event

The price at Main Event varies. Typical bowling alleys charge per game in most cases, but that’s not how it goes at Main Event. Main Event bowling cost is different; they require you to book bowling lanes by the hour. You’ll pay a set price that will give you access to one or more lanes for one or more hours – it’s your choice as to how many.

On average, you can expect to pay about $25 – $40 per lane per hour. You’ll then need to pay a one-time fee for shoe rentals for each adult ($4.25) and child ($3.25). 

Key Takeaways

  • Main Event Bowling Pricing: Charges by the hour, not per game, with rates averaging $25-$40 per lane. Shoe rental is extra, costing $4.25 for adults and $3.25 for children. Prices vary based on the day and time, with weekends and evenings being more expensive.
  • All You Can Play Card: Offers significant savings for avid players, priced at $21.99 from Sunday to Friday and $24.99 on Saturdays, though availability may vary by location.
  • Online Booking Available: Check and book lane prices in advance through Main Event’s official website, allowing customization based on the number of lanes, hours, and attendees.
  • Bowling Birthday Parties: Main Event offers affordable birthday packages starting at $11.99 per person, including a private space, a party host, and event planning services.
  • Entertainment Beyond Bowling: Main Event features a wide range of activities, including arcade games, virtual reality, mini-golf, and more, though additional fees apply for these entertainment options.

Main Event bowling prices for reserving lanes are not exact because the price of bowling at Main Event varies based on a couple of factors, including:

  • The day of the week. You can expect to pay more per game on a Saturday night or Sunday than you would on a weekday. The most likely reason for this is that more people tend to go out on the weekends, so demand for those days is higher. That means Main Event can charge more for those days.
  • The time of day. Rates are also often higher in the evening or during prime-time hours than they are at off-peak hours. You may pay more for a weekday afternoon game than you would for an evening game, however.

Consider getting an All You Can Play Card if you want to get the most bang for your buck. It costs $21.99 Sunday through Friday and $24.99 on Saturday. Just know that not all chains offer this activity pass, so check Main Event’s website to confirm.

FeatureDetails
Pricing ModelCharged by the hour, not per game
Average Lane Rental$25 – $40 per lane per hour
Shoe Rental FeeAdults: $4.25, Children: $3.25
Peak TimesHigher rates during evening peaks and weekends
All You Can Play Card$21.99 (Sun-Fri), $24.99 (Sat)
Bowling Party PackageStarts at $11.99 per person
Additional EntertainmentArcade, VR, mini-golf, etc., available at extra cost
BookingOnline booking available to check and reserve lanes

Get a Preview of Main Event Pricing by Booking Online

If you’re not quite ready to commit to a day at the bowling alley, you can always get a preview of pricing by booking online at their official booking page. Simply enter the below information:

  • Your location (they are located in at least 18 states)
  • Your desired date
  • Number of adults
  • Number of children
  • Number of hours you’ll want to rent the lane for
  • How many lanes

Then, you’ll be able to see exactly how much you need to pay for the bowling session. You can also book your lane(s) right then and there if you’d like. And we recommend you do so if you want to guarantee your spot. 

Bowling Birthday Party Prices Vary

Did you know that you can book bowling birthday parties at Main Event? If you’re looking for a unique and fun way to celebrate your child’s next birthday, this could be the perfect option. And the best part is that it’s super affordable: as little as $11.99/per person.

When you book a bowling birthday party at Main Event, you’ll get:

  • A bowling party host
  • A private, decorated space for your party guests
  • A tailored experience planned out with the help of an event planner
The parents holding the bowling balls enjoyed their spring fun pass friday play because it included bowling shoes.

Is Main Event Bowling More Expensive Than Regular Bowling Alleys?

Main Event’s pricing is a bit on the higher end when compared to typical bowling alleys. On average, bowling costs about $5 or less per game or $15 – $20 per lane per hour, not including the bowling shoe rental fee.

This is less than you can expect to pay at Main Event. But if you consider the fact that Main Event gives customers a unique playing experience, you’ll likely come to the conclusion that the price is worth it. 

Every bowler at Main Event gets access to a stimulating bowling environment with an eye-catching atmosphere, surround sound, HD TV music videos, and lane-side food service. 

Food at Main Event – Optional Add-on

You’re not required to purchase food and drinks from Main Event, but let’s be honest – you’re probably going to want to. After all, what’s a day at the bowling alley without snacks? The good news is that Main Event has an extensive menu of food and drink options to choose from, including appetizers, pizza, burgers, sandwiches, salads, desserts, and more.

However, the exact menu will depend on the Main Event location you choose. They also have a bar so adults can have a little extra fun. 

Friends gathered on a friday night enjoying food and drinks from the bar menu.

Why Bowling at Main Event Is Different

Main Event isn’t your typical bowling alley. It’s an entertainment center that offers much more than just bowling but a private seating area as well. And that’s one of the reasons why their prices are a bit higher. When you go to Main Event, you’ll find:

  • An arcade with HD screens
  • Virtual Reality experience with surround sound entertainment system
  • Mini Golf
  • Gravity ropes
  • Escape rooms
  • A laser tag arena
  • Billiards
  • Rock climbing

You will have to pay to take part in other activities at Main Event, so keep that in mind. 

Main Event Wesley Chapel 🎳

What Payment Methods Are Accepted?

Most Main Event locations accept cash and major credit cards. They may also accept PayPal. It’s always a good idea to call ahead to find out what the payment policy is at your desired location.

There would be nothing worse than arriving at your local Main Event and finding out that they don’t accept your payment method. All it takes is a phone call. 

Is Main Event a Good Place to Go Bowling?

Main Event is a great place to go bowling, especially if you’re looking for a unique and fun experience. Sure, it’s a bit more expensive than your typical bowling alley, but you get so much more than just bowling. 

Customer reviews are a bit divided when it comes to Main Event. Some people have a great experience and leave 5-star raving reviews, while others state that their experience left much to be desired.

Happy reviewers state that their children enjoying bowling games are great memories, and the food and service were amazing. On the other end of the spectrum, some experienced bowling lane malfunctions and less-than-enjoyable food. 

Know that your individual experience will depend on your expectations and the location you go to. Since Main Event is a franchise, reviews vary from one location to the next.

Do your research and read customer reviews before heading to your local Main Event. That way, you’ll have a good idea of what to expect. 

The lady in the blue shirt rolled the ball using the bowling tips from her friends.

Alternatives to Main Event

If Main Event isn’t quite what you’re looking for, there are other options. Dave & Busters, for example, is another popular entertainment chain that offers bowling (in certain locations), arcade games, and a full-service restaurant and bar.

And it’s actually a bit cheaper to bowl at Dave & Busters than at Main Event. On average, you’ll spend $15 to $35 per lane per hour there. So, if you’re looking for some cost savings, this is an option. 

There are also many local bowling alleys that are much cheaper than Main Event – so if you’re looking for a bowling-only outing, your local alley may be sufficient.

What Is Main Event?

Main Event is a popular entertainment center that offers a unique and fun-filled experience for families and friends. Established in 1998 in Lewisville, Texas, Main Event is not just a bowling alley but a comprehensive entertainment hub. It features a variety of activities, including bowling, laser tag, arcade games, billiards, gravity ropes, and more, all housed under one massive roof. The center is designed to provide an inviting and exciting environment, far removed from the traditional, dusty bowling alleys of the past.

Who Owns Main Event Entertainment?

Main Event Entertainment is a part of Ardent Leisure, an Australian-based leisure company. Ardent Leisure owns and operates various entertainment assets, including theme parks, marinas, and family entertainment centers. Main Event is one of their prominent holdings in the family entertainment sector.

What Is the Quest Cube at Main Event?

The Quest Cube is an exclusive immersive game platform introduced by Main Event, developed in collaboration with Pure Imagination Studios. It offers players a unique and engaging gaming experience. One featured game, “Luck Randomizer Rush,” allows players to enter the Land of Luck and embark on a mission to save the world. This innovative gaming experience is part of Main Event and Pure Imagination Studios’ commitment to providing family-friendly entertainment and is available in select Houston centers.

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My Final Words

Bowling costs at Main Event vary, with evening peak hours and weekends typically commanding higher rates due to increased demand. For a more budget-friendly experience, consider visiting on Sunday or Saturday during the daytime when prices may be more accommodating. The center allows booking lanes accommodating up to six people, ensuring a fun time enjoying each other’s company under ambient lighting and high-definition screens.

To save money, inquire about exact prices for specific times or explore options like the All You Can Play Card. Whether planning a visit for a few hours or an eight-week league, Main Event promises an engaging, diverse entertainment environment beyond just bowling.