About Brooklyn Bowl
Brooklyn Bowl is a one-of-a-kind Williamsburg music venue that combines a live concert club, a full-time bowling alley and a restaurant & bar under one roof. Co-founded by Peter Shapiro and Charley Ryan (formerly of the legendary Wetlands Preserve), it opened on July 7, 2009 (www.brooklynbowl.com ). The venue is housed in a 23,000-square-foot 19th-century Hecla Iron Works building (circa 1882) (www.aiany.org ) that was completely renovated with green construction (it was North America’s first LEED-certified bowling alley (www.aiany.org )). Signature sustainable touches include a wind-powered electrical system and a stage made of recycled truck tires (www.aiany.org ). Inside, the atmosphere is industrial-chic: weathered brick walls, hardwood floors and track lighting give it an authentic factory feel.
What makes Brooklyn Bowl truly unique is the seamless mix of bowling, dining and live music. The ground-floor “Bowler’s Lounge” (with leather Chesterfield couches) runs down the center of the lanes and even offers food-and-drink service at your lane (www.brooklynbowl.com ). The menu is crafted by Blue Ribbon Restaurants – expect gourmet takes on rock-and-roll comfort food – and the bar stocks many draft beers, including award-winning local brews from nearby Brooklyn Brewery (shorefire.com ) (www.brooklynbowl.com ). The venue bills itself as a “legendary music venue with 16 bowling lanes, a fantastic food menu by Blue Ribbon, and a fully stocked top-shelf bar” (www.brooklynbowl.com ). It quickly became a Williamsburg icon – dubbed “rock and roll heaven” by the Village Voice – and has even been praised as “one of the most incredible places on Earth” by Rolling Stone (shorefire.com ). In fact, Pollstar ranked it the #1 busiest club in NYC (and #7 in the world) in 2017 (shorefire.com ), and Zagat named it New York’s Best Music Club for three straight years (shorefire.com ).
The founders also infused Brooklyn Bowl with local culture and social purpose. For example, the venue exclusively serves on-tap drinks (no bottles or cans) – including beer from the adjacent Brooklyn Brewery (shorefire.com ) (shorefire.com ) – and even switched to paper straws for sustainability (shorefire.com ). It hosts community events (like voter registration drives) and family programs (the “Rock & Roll Playhouse” children’s concerts see Beatles or Bowie tributes for kids) (shorefire.com ) (shorefire.com ). Legends and stars have played here: Guns N’ Roses, Lauryn Hill, Paul Simon, Adele, Snoop Dogg and many more have all taken the stage at this intimate 600-capacity hall (shorefire.com ) (www.aiany.org ). Presidential trivia – Bill Clinton even sat in on stage twice (’09 and ’16) (www.brooklynbowl.com ) – shows the place’s quirky charm. In short, Brooklyn Bowl matters because it’s a self-styled “rock-and-bowl paradise,” marrying live music, local beer and bowling in a way no other NYC club does (www.cityrealty.com ) (shorefire.com ).
Events and Programming
Brooklyn Bowl hosts hundreds of events a year (well over 250–500 concerts annually (shorefire.com ) (shorefire.com )) spanning every musical genre and vibe. You’ll find everything from indie rock and country to electronic dance, hip-hop, jazz and folk. Major names and up-and-comers alike play here. The venue has spotlighted legendary performers – for example, artist lineups have included Paul Simon, Adele, Snoop Dogg, John Mayer, Stevie Nicks and Public Enemy (shorefire.com ) – as well as local/regional acts, tribute bands and themed nights. Recurring series include late-night DJ dance parties and Karaoke nights. Longtime drum legend Questlove hosted weekly “Bowl Train” DJ parties here (more than 150 shows over the years (www.brooklynbowl.com )). The calendar also often features special events: Halloween or New Year’s dance parties, benefit concerts, holiday fests, comedy nights and more.
During the day on weekends Brooklyn Bowl becomes family-friendly. They offer “Family Bowl” – open bowling for all ages with no cover (just lane fees) on Saturday (12pm–5pm) and Sunday (12pm–6pm) afternoons (www.brooklynbowl.com ). The “Rock and Roll Playhouse” runs Sunday matinee shows where kids learn songs from The Beatles, Bowie, Motown, etc., with full bands and visuals (shorefire.com ). Evening events are generally 21+ (NY law mandates 21+ for alcohol-serving performances), so most Friday/Saturday night shows are adults only, though occasionally all-ages rock shows are scheduled.
Ticket prices vary widely by event. Small local shows or openers may run in the $20–40 range, more popular bands $50–80+, and big-name headliners occasionally $100–150+. A ticket typically covers bowling and the show if needed, or is just admission if you’re there for music only. (Bowling outside of concerts is extra.) Rumors of presales or VIP packages happen on ticket announcements, so it’s a good idea to follow the venue’s announcements for early access. Many shows include multiple ticket tiers (general admission GA or standing floor, plus limited “Bowler’s Lounge” or VIP seating). On a busy night, arrive early – popular shows often sell out, and the press advises fans there’s “something for everyone” but you’ll want to stake out your spot early for the best views (shorefire.com ) (www.brooklynbowl.com ).
Tickets and Booking
Most Brooklyn Bowl tickets are sold online through the venue’s official site or through authorized ticket outlets (avoid secondary tout sites when possible). The venue does operate a physical box office on-site where you can buy tickets on the day of the show if any are left; be aware there is an additional box-office service fee (traditionally up to $5 per ticket (www.brooklynbowl.com )). Typically, doors open 1–1.5 hours before showtime – for example, many listed shows have a 7pm door time for an 8pm performance. Tickets often go on sale months in advance, and big events might sell out quickly. The best approach is to sign up for the venue’s mailing list or stay on their social pages for presale codes. If you need last-minute tickets, try the door (same-day sales) or look for re-sale through trusted sources, but note again the extra box office charge. Paid tickets are required for all evening concerts (except truly free happenings). If you buy tickets at the door, remember the $5 fee (www.brooklynbowl.com ). For sold-out nights, some fans have found ticket release on the day-of show, so it can pay off to check the box office even late in the afternoon.
Seating and Layout
Inside Brooklyn Bowl the layout is open and ground-level. A stage lines one end of the hall, with most of the floor reserved as standing-room general admission. There is no balcony – the entire audience is on one level. Capacity is relatively intimate (~600 people total (www.aiany.org )). Along the sides of the room, 16 bowling lanes run lengthwise. Down the center is the “Bowler’s Lounge” – a long central island with leather chesterfield sofas and tables (www.brooklynbowl.com ). This lounge area can be purchased like VIP seating for a given show (food-and-drink service is provided to your lane). From here you still have excellent sightlines to the stage, and many fans love the option to sit or lie back in comfort between songs.
Most concertgoers stand on the floor in front of the stage. For the best view, try to get as close to the stage as possible; note that the far-back portions of the floor can be tightly packed. The venue uses large video screens above the lanes, so even if you’re at the rear or sides, you can see the action on monitors. Acoustically, the sound system is top-notch – in fact, The New York Times raved that Brooklyn Bowl has a sound and amenities no local club can match (shorefire.com ). (Multiple reviewers praise the clarity and volume for a room this size.) A tip from past visitors: avoid standing directly behind any large pillars or sound/lighting booths where your view could be blocked. Lighting trusses hang low near the stage, so be mindful of that if you stand at very front.
On each side of the club are bars and service stations. One bar sits immediately to the left of the entrance; another smaller bar is at the back of the hall. A large merchandise table typically sits at the rear or side of the venue for band T-shirts and souvenirs during shows. Two sets of restrooms (men’s and women’s) flank the sides by the bar area. A coat check is available for a small fee near the entrance/coat closet. Plan to enter at the main lobby/box office entrance, where tickets will be scanned. If you need an ATM or snack, the bar accepts credit cards (see below). Overall, the layout encourages everyone to mingle – even if you’re not bowling, you definitely feel on the dance floor with the crowd.
Getting There and Parking
Brooklyn Bowl sits at 61 Wythe Avenue (between North 11th & 12th Streets) in North Williamsburg (www.brooklynbowl.com ). The easiest way to get there is by subway or other transit. The nearest subway stations are Bedford Ave on the L train and Nassau Ave on the G train – both about a 10–12 minute walk from the venue (www.brooklynbowl.com ). That means if you’re coming from Manhattan you can take the L into Williamsburg (exit Bedford) and walk a few blocks north on Bedford to Wythe. Several buses also run nearby (for example, the B62 on Bedford Ave or the M14A on South 4th Street).
For a scenic option, the NYC Ferry’s East River route stops at North Williamsburg (11th & Berry Street), which is roughly a 10-minute walk south to Brooklyn Bowl. Taxis and rideshares can drop off right on Wythe Avenue; popular drop-off spots are just north of the entrance on Wythe or on adjacent side streets. Note that weekend late-night transit can be limited due to L train maintenance, so plan accordingly or have a rideshare app handy after shows.
Parking in Williamsburg is challenging after dark. There is no dedicated free lot for Brooklyn Bowl patrons, so you’ll likely need to use street parking or a garage. Street parking in surrounding residential areas is metered or permit-only (pay attention to posted signs to avoid tickets). Several private lots and garages exist within a block or two. For example, SpotHero lists a garage at 113 North 12th Street (just one block west on 12th) charging around $10 for an evening (spothero.com ). Another nearby option is the Kent Avenue Garage (82 North 13th Street) at roughly $15–20 for a concert slot (spothero.com ). In general, pre-book a parking reservation through an app if possible. If you can’t find parking nearby, you may need to park farther (e.g. near McCarren Park) and walk or Uber the last 10–15 minutes. Always allow extra time to find parking – on busy nights the lots can fill up early.
Inside the Venue
Once you arrive, you’ll pass through security screening. Brooklyn Bowl’s policy is to check all guests by pat-downs, metal-detector wands or bag searches (www.brooklynbowl.com ). Large backpacks or coolers are not allowed (stick to a small purse or clear bag). Any banned items (guns, knives, alcohol or food brought in, bulky tripods or large cameras, etc.) will be confiscated or you’ll be refused entry (www.brooklynbowl.com ). It’s best to leave most belongings at home or in a car.
The vibe inside is energetic and slightly gritty – part rock club, part sports bar. Décor features music posters, old bowling paraphernalia and string lights. If it’s your first time, know that the lighting can be dim during a show (flashing stage lights dominate), so be mindful of the steps and barriers. You’ll also notice multiple TV screens: in addition to stage monitors, smaller screens around the lounge might show behind-the-scenes camera feeds. This helps when crowds form, as people farther back can still see close-ups of the performance.
Two large bars serve drinks; each accepts credit/debit cards. As the venue advertises, they even offer “locally crafted beers” – you can enjoy a pint of Brooklyn Lager or seasonal brew on tap (shorefire.com ). There’s also a full cocktail menu and wine list. The Blue Ribbon kitchen stays open late: you can grab burgers, fries, wings, salads and sandwiches throughout the night. Many people recommend trying the “Rock & Roll Fries” (cheese fries with gravy) or a Blue Ribbon burger. The food isn’t cheap – expect to spend $15–20 on entrees – but it’s a handy way to have dinner while listening to music. If you want something quicker, there are counter-service snacks like fried pickles and hummus as well. Soft drinks and bottled water are also sold.
Other amenities include: a coat check (around $3 per item) to stash jackets or bags near the front lobby; several restrooms on both sides of the hall; and a merchandise area with band shirts and Brooklyn Bowl gear. The venue does not offer free Wi-Fi (it’s usually unavailable), so assume cellular service only. If you want to plug in your phone, note that outlets are scarce in the audience area. Many guests recommend bringing earplugs if you plan to be near the stage – for reference, reviews mention it gets loud (in a good way) but ear protection is smart. For parents: there is no special mother’s room, so plan accordingly. For anyone with mobility needs: ramp access is available at the entrance and staff can assist – just ask a manager on duty. Overall, entering Brooklyn Bowl means stepping into a casual, energetic space where concerts, bowling and bar life all collide.
Nearby Amenities
Pre- or post-show, you’ll find plenty to do in Williamsburg. Immediately next door is the Wythe Hotel (with its open-air rooftop bar and event space) – a convenient spot for a cocktail or late-night snack with skyline views. A short stroll away on Bedford Ave is Roberta’s Pizza (famous for wood-fired pies) and the craft beer brewery Other Half . Within a block or two of the venue are dozens of restaurants. For example, Afuri Ramen (at 61 N 11th St) serves creative ramen bowls; Sungold Buffalo Wings (96 Wythe Ave) offers fried chicken and wings; and Meili Bazaar (160 N 12th St) is a well-known Sichuan spot. If you prefer a quick sandwich or burger, try the corner coffee shop Oregano or check out the food hall at Smorgasburg on weekends in nearby East River State Park.
There are also many bars and cafes for pre-show drinks. Little Ruby’s (an Australian-style cafe two blocks south) has good coffee and burgers. If you want craft cocktails, bar hop to Terminal 5 (not the NYC one — it’s a speakeasy upstairs on Metropolitan Ave) or Brooklyn Bowl’s basement bar . For casual beer, Brooklyn Brewery is literally a block east (tours and sampling). Party spots like Bodega (NYC’s rowdiest dive) are also nearby. If you plan to arrive early, many concert-goers grab a bite on Wythe itself: there’s a diner, pizzeria, and even a modern Mexican taqueria (Cuchifritos) within walking distance.
Hotels in the area are plentiful. The Wythe Hotel (mentioned above) is literally across the street at 80 Wythe Ave. The luxurious William Vale is about 2-3 minutes north on N 12th St – its stylish rooms and rooftop bar (Westlight) are popular with music fans (www.tripadvisor.ie ). Another buzzy option is The Hoxton Williamsburg (around the corner on Berry St), which has a lobby bar and “jazz brunch.” If those book up, Pod Brooklyn near McCarren Park offers smaller rooms at a lower price. For any hotel, allow extra time: Williamsburg is busy nightlife territory, so always factor in some walking time or rideshare for late arrivals/departures. (Note: on-site parking is rare at most hotels; better to use rideshare or park in city as needed.)
What Makes This Venue Special
Brooklyn Bowl’s reputation comes from more than just concerts – it’s become a cultural landmark. The fusion of bowling lanes with a concert club was unprecedented in NYC. Rolling Stone’s hyperbole (“one of the most incredible places on Earth” (shorefire.com )) and The New Yorker’s playful bowling analogy (“like nailing a spare on a four-ten split” (shorefire.com )) both capture why people love it. Industry press often cites Brooklyn Bowl as a “must-play” intimate venue – even Billboard, VH1 and the New York Daily News have showered praise on it. Its design by Tristam Steinberg (interiors) and NY Design Associates (architecture) cleverly preserves the warehouse character while adding comfortable, modern touches (www.aiany.org ). Eco-friendly details (wind-driven lighting, reclaimed cork floors, etc.) reflect a Brooklyn hipster sensibility as much as the live music ethos.
History and lore add to the mystique. Its founders’ connection to Wetlands (a legendary '90s club) meant many touring jam and “Phish affiliate” bands flocked here. Ever since opening, Brooklyn Bowl has hosted premiere events that feel special: for instance, the late-night “Bowl Train” series by Questlove, which became literally the longest-running DJ residency in town (www.brooklynbowl.com ). The ballroom-like vibe also attracted big acts; Guns N’ Roses did a multi-night residency, and artists like Lauryn Hill and Elvis Costello have said it’s a favorite spot to reconnect with fans. Even local broadcast media will turn up – news crews often cover its big concert announcements or philanthropic concerts.
Brooklyn Bowl is as much a neighborhood fixture as it is a nightclub. It’s backed NYC magazines in calling it a quintessential part of the Williamsburg scene. The venue’s community impact is real: every year it brings in roughly 350,000 visitors (according to venue stats) (shorefire.com ), which helps nearby restaurants and bars. The Brooklyn Nets basketball team even held private events here, and several New York mayors and other elected officials have popped in (including Bill de Blasio and Michael Bloomberg) (shorefire.com ). In summary, the venue matters because it’s not just a place to see bands – it’s a place where music, dining, sport and local culture collide in a uniquely Brooklyn way. It offers fans and artists an “epic” night out (www.cityrealty.com ) that you can’t find at a generic arena or bowling alley.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Brooklyn Bowl is ADA-accessible. The building has wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (www.brooklynbowl.com ). Staffers are trained to assist guests with special needs – if you have any issues getting around, simply ask a usher or manager for help.
What to Bring/Not Bring: You’ll need a valid ID if you plan to drink or attend a 21+ show (acceptable IDs are government-issued licenses, passports or U.S. military ID (www.brooklynbowl.com )). After 6pm all shows are 21+ (NY State law), so anyone under 21 must be accompanied by an adult only during designated all-ages events (Family Bowl and Kids’ concerts). The venue’s rules prohibit large bags, backpacks or outside food/beverages (www.brooklynbowl.com ). Cameras with removable lenses and professional audio/video gear are also prohibited (phone pictures/video are okay if security doesn’t think they’re being abused). Don’t plan to bring cooler, food or personal alcohol – it will be confiscated. Dress is casual clubwear (jeans, tees, sneakers or boots; some people like to come in bowling-theme outfits, but it’s not required). Important: the venue does implement bag searches and metal detectors (www.brooklynbowl.com ), so factor a few extra minutes at the door.
Before the Show: Ideally arrive 30–60 minutes early. Getting in line early means a better chance to see the stage (especially for general admission shows) and less rushing through security. Note that on event nights the building can be chilly right at opening, but sweltering later when full. Bringing a light jacket or sweater that you can check at the coat desk is recommended. The box office usually opens around an hour before showtime. Food and drink lines can get long mid-show, so if you have dinner orders to make, consider doing it upfront to avoid missing music. Tipping bartenders 15–20% is customary.
During the Show: Pay attention to the crowd (keep your phone away from intense mosh areas). If you plan to dance, remember you’re in bowling shoes – step carefully to avoid slipping. Drinks are only served in plastic cups (no glass allowed). For the best acoustics, standing near one of the center house speakers usually yields a clear sound mix. If you want to use the Bowler’s Lounge seating after you buy those tickets, enjoy your laneside drinks and food as the band plays – you can still see and hear very well from the back of the lounge. If you get overheated or need a moment, step out to one of the side lounge areas or near the bar (they often open the back doors on a hot night). Bathrooms are located just beyond the main bar. A quick tip: find the bathrooms early in the set so you don’t have to weave through the crowd later.
Other Tips: The venue is mostly cashless: bars and concession stands take credit/debit cards everywhere (www.brooklynbowl.com ). (“Loading cash onto a prepaid card” is actually an option at the bar.) The coat check and box office sometimes accept cash-only, so have a few singles handy. Peak concert times see cell reception slow, so consider downloading tickets or maps in advance. It’s recommended to turn off flash photography in concerts (to respect performers and other fans). Most shows are in the dark with bright stage lights; night vision in your phone or camera will struggle. Lastly, public transit options vary by night – the Bedford L train runs later on weekends, but on weeknights it shuts around midnight. If you need a ride after closing, walking a block or two to a taxi stand on Bushwick Ave or calling Uber/Lyft are good alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I buy tickets for Brooklyn Bowl shows?
Tickets can be purchased online via Brooklyn Bowl’s official website or app, or through authorized ticket partners. There is also an on-site box office that opens before each show where you can buy tickets if the event isn’t sold out (for box office purchases expect a small handling fee) (www.brooklynbowl.com ).
Is there a box office at Brooklyn Bowl, and is there a fee for on-site tickets?
Yes, Brooklyn Bowl has a street-level box office at the venue entrance on concert nights. Tickets bought at the box office are subject to a service fee (typically up to $5 per ticket) (www.brooklynbowl.com ). If tickets are still available, you can usually buy them there on the day of the show. Note that popular concerts may sell out online in advance, so arriving early is advised if you plan to purchase at the door.
What forms of payment does Brooklyn Bowl accept?
Inside the venue (bars, concessions, etc.), major credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are accepted. The box office and coat check also accept cards, but if you need cash, there may be an ATM in the lobby. The venue is largely cashless – as their FAQ notes, you can load cash onto a venue card – but having a card ready when ordering inside is easiest (www.brooklynbowl.com ).
What is the address and nearest subway stop for Brooklyn Bowl?
Brooklyn Bowl is located at 61 Wythe Avenue in the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn. The closest subway stops are Bedford Avenue (L train) and Nassau Avenue (G train), both about a 10–15 minute walk away (www.brooklynbowl.com ). If coming from Manhattan, taking the L to Bedford and walking north on Bedford/Driggs Ave to Wythe is a common route. Several local buses also stop on Bedford nearby.
Is there parking available near Brooklyn Bowl and how much does it cost?
There is no dedicated on-site parking for Brooklyn Bowl patrons. Street parking is limited and metered, so many visitors use nearby garages. For example, a garage at 113 North 12th Street (one block west of Wythe) often charges around $10–$15 for the evening (spothero.com ). Other lots within a few blocks may be $10–$20, depending on demand. It’s wise to reserve a spot through an app in advance if possible. Additionally, consider using public transit or rideshare to avoid parking hassles.
Are rideshare or taxi drop-offs available near Brooklyn Bowl?
Yes. Rideshare or taxi drop-offs can be made on Wythe Avenue or nearby side streets (e.g. North 11th or 12th Street). There is usually space for drop-offs just south of the venue on Wythe. Did note that the area can be busy on concert nights, so it may be easier to drop off a block away or arrange a meeting point if needed.
What items are prohibited at Brooklyn Bowl?
Brooklyn Bowl’s policy follows standard concert rules: no weapons of any kind (firearms, knives, etc.), no illegal substances, and no outside food or alcohol. In addition, large bags, coolers and cases are not allowed. Video cameras, GoPros, selfie sticks or any camera with a removable lens are prohibited (www.brooklynbowl.com ). Only small personal items are permitted. The staff will search everyone entering to enforce these rules (www.brooklynbowl.com ).
Are cameras allowed inside Brooklyn Bowl?
You may use a regular smartphone or compact camera for personal photos/videos, but professional camera equipment is not allowed. Any camera with a detachable lens or any audio/video recording gear is prohibited by venue policy (www.brooklynbowl.com ). Flash photography for quick snapshots is permitted unless specifically requested not to by security, but large DSLRs and video cameras must stay at home.
What forms of ID are accepted for entry at Brooklyn Bowl?
Brooklyn Bowl strictly enforces 21+ admission after 6 PM (for alcohol). Acceptable ID includes U.S. state driver’s licenses or non-driver IDs, passports (U.S. or foreign), or U.S. military ID (www.brooklynbowl.com ). (Note: City-issued IDs like a NYC municipal card are not accepted.) If you look younger than 40, please bring your ID for every evening show. During daytime family events the venue is all-ages, but after dark you will be checked.
What is the age policy at Brooklyn Bowl?
Most concerts and events after 6 PM are restricted to ages 21 and up (even if the show itself isn’t explicitly alcohol-focused). Brooklyn Bowl notes that it is “usually 21+ after 6pm” on weekdays and weekends (www.brooklynbowl.com ). However, during weekend daytime hours they host all-ages events (like Family Bowl bowling sessions and Rock & Roll Playhouse kids’ concerts) where minors are welcome. Be sure to check the event listing: some special events (e.g. certain festivals or kids’ shows) are labeled all-ages.
Is Brooklyn Bowl wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Brooklyn Bowl was built according to ADA guidelines, with wheelchair ramps, accessible seating/viewing areas and accessible restrooms (www.brooklynbowl.com ). The staff is available to assist guests with disabilities. If you need any assistance (e.g. help seating in an ADA section or operating the elevator), just ask the security or a manager at the door.
Does Brooklyn Bowl have a coat check?
Yes, Brooklyn Bowl generally offers coat check (and storage for any small items) at the entrance for a nominal fee. It’s a good idea to check a bulky jacket or extra bag to keep your hands free. The coat check station is typically open when the venue opens and by the bars, and it accepts cash or card (cards are accepted everywhere inside except that desk) (www.brooklynbowl.com ).
Does Brooklyn Bowl serve food and drinks inside?
Absolutely. The venue has two full bars serving cocktails, wine and many draft beers (including local craft options from Brooklyn Brewery) (shorefire.com ). The on-site kitchen is open as long as shows are running; it offers a full menu by New York’s Blue Ribbon restaurants. You can order burgers, sandwiches, salads, fried appetizers and more at any time during a show. All food and drink is purchased inside – no outside food/drink is permitted.
Can I bowl at Brooklyn Bowl outside of concert hours?
Yes. When live events are not happening, Brooklyn Bowl operates regular bowling sessions. Bowling is typically managed by the hour or half-hour, with group lanes available for reservation. For example, weekday rates have been around $30 per lane per half-hour (www.brooklynbowl.com ). You can walk up for casual bowling (first-come, first-served) or book private lane events for parties. On concert nights, the lanes are used for show seating instead, so sign up for bowling times well in advance.
Are there family-friendly Bowling sessions and events?
Yes. On weekends, Brooklyn Bowl holds family-friendly bowling from noon until late afternoon (Saturdays 12–5pm, Sundays 12–6pm) with no cover charge – you just pay for your bowling lane and shoes (www.brooklynbowl.com ). These sessions are open to all ages. In addition, the Rock & Roll Playhouse provides musical performances for kids (The Beatles for kids, etc.) on Sunday afternoons, which require a show ticket. Outside of these times, concerts return to 21+ policy.
What is the Rock and Roll Playhouse at Brooklyn Bowl?
The Rock and Roll Playhouse is a family series of kid-friendly concerts hosted by Brooklyn Bowl on weekend afternoons. Each Playhouse show features a live band playing music of a famous artist (e.g. The Beatles, Bowie, Motown), along with visual projections and dancing to keep young children entertained. These events generally require tickets (even though they are all-ages) and often sell out – they start shortly after noon on Sundays (shorefire.com ). It’s a great way to introduce kids under 10 to live music in a fun, age-appropriate setting.
What is the "Bowl Train" at Brooklyn Bowl?
“Bowl Train” is the name of the regular DJ dance party series that runs at Brooklyn Bowl, famously hosted by Questlove of The Roots. These are late-night all-ages dance parties (usually 11pm–2am) featuring soul, funk and hip-hop tracks spun live. Almost every weekend had a Bowl Train session for many years, making it a fixture on the local nightlife scene. Questlove alone played over 150 Bowl Train nights here (www.brooklynbowl.com ). Check the schedule – Bowl Train often has tickets or a waitlist via the website when it’s running.
