Back to Blog

How to Get Started with Bowling

New to bowling? Here's a quick beginner's guide to get you rolling with confidence.

bowling tips
beginners
getting started

How to Get Started with Bowling

Bowling is one of the easiest sports to pick up — and one of the most fun to play with friends and family.
Here’s a quick beginner’s guide to get started.


🎟 Step 1 — Go to a Local Alley

Use the Locations page to find a bowling alley near you.
Most will have open lanes for walk-ins, especially on weekdays.


👟 Step 2 — Rent Shoes and Pick a Ball

  • Rent bowling shoes at the front desk (they help you slide safely)
  • Choose a ball that feels comfortable:
    • About 10% of your body weight
    • Snug finger holes, but not too tight

🎯 Step 3 — Learn the Basics

  • Each game has 10 frames (turns)
  • You get two rolls per frame
  • Knock down all 10 pins = strike
  • Knock them all down in two tries = spare
  • The goal is to get the highest score possible (300 is a perfect game!)

🤝 Step 4 — Go With Friends and Have Fun

Bowling is all about having a good time.
Celebrate strikes, laugh at gutter balls, and enjoy the experience.


🏁 Ready to Roll?

Now you’re ready for your first game.
Find a local alley on BowlingAlleys.io, grab your shoes, and get rolling.