Bowling Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better? Per game, or renting the lane per hour?
This one doesn’t have a clear-cut answer! Typically, renting a lane by the hour tends to benefit single bowlers looking to shoot a few quick games, or smaller groups of 2-3 bowlers. The more people your group has, the more the gap closes between the two, in terms of savings. If you’re looking to come in and relax without worrying about being charged while you socialize, then per game is the way to go.
How long does it take to bowl?
On average, it takes 10 minutes per person to bowl a single game. If you have a group of 5-6 people, it would, for example take them approximately 50-60 minutes to complete ONE game.
Why do I need rental shoes?
Bowling shoes are a necessity for both adults and children! They come equipped with special leather soles that allow a bowler to slide on the approach as they release the ball. Bowling shoes are also required by us to protect the approach from outside dirt and debris that would otherwise create an unsafe bowling environment. We carry shoe sizes from toddler 6 all the way to adult size 16!
Can I bring my own food/drink?
All food and drink must be provided through our Spare Time Bar & Grill.
Can we make a reservation?
You can reserve a lane for our Xtreme bowling Friday and Saturday nights through our website. You may also reserve lanes by booking one of our birthday packages, or our Group Rate packages if you have 20 or more guests. For regular open bowling it is first come-first served.
What sort of lead time do reservations require
Online reservations must be booked at a minimum of 24 hours prior to the event.
Can anyone have bumpers?
Bumpers are reserved for children 10 and younger, or special needs bowlers.
How many lanes do you have?
We have 24 lanes.
How many bowlers can fit on a lane?
We can fit up to 6 bowlers per lane
If we have more than 6 bowlers, will our lanes be together?
Absolutely! We make sure that groups are not split up.
Do you sell socks?
Yes, we sell men’s, women’s and children’s socks in our vending machine.
Do we offer discounted rates?
Monday through Friday 9-5 PM we offer senior and military rates. We also offer several bowling specials throughout the week when lanes are available. St. Charles Bowl league bowlers also benefit from discounted rates!
Do we provide lessons?
We do not provide lessons ourselves outside of our winter junior program and their coaches. You can arrange lessons through the Sure Fit Pro Shop located on premises or at proshop@stcharlesbowl.com.
Do we have pool tables?
Yes, we have two pool tables in our lounge for adults 21 and over.
What types of payment do we accept?
We accept Apple Pay, all major credit/debit cards and cash, of course!
What is lane courtesy?
Lane courtesy is paying attention to the lanes on either side of you. If somebody is up bowling, then it’s considered courteous to wait until they have thrown their ball before you take your shot, and as always, only one person should be on the approach at any given time.
How can I join a league?
If we are not currently promoting upcoming leagues on our website or in center, that doesn’t mean we don’t have any room left! You can always ask one of our friendly staff to help you find the league that is perfect for you.
Do we have youth programs?
We do! St. Charles Bowl hosts the largest Summer Junior Program in the state of Illinois, and we also have a sizable Winter Program on Saturday morning. Our Junior bowlers benefit from weekly coaching in the winter program, and 3 free practice games per day for the duration of the Summer Program!
How do coupons, free passes work?
Coupons, or free game passes are limited to one pass per person, per visit unless explicitly stated otherwise. All passes must be current and not expired. Passes or free games are not accepted on holidays or during school breaks, so if there is doubt, always call ahead. We do not accept competitor coupons.
Can we drop off the kids while we run errands?
Children under 12 must always be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian.
Do you have an arcade?
We have an assortment of games geared towards kids in our arcade. All games operate on quarters, so no need for tokens here! We also have six video gaming machines located in our lounge for patrons 21 and over!
I have a question that isn’t on this list. Who do I contact?
You may contact info@stcharlesbowl.com or you may also reach us directly at the center (630) 584-9400.