Bowling Date

Bowling is one of those classic date ideas that feels like it’s straight out of a movie. It’s tried and tested, a bit nostalgic, and works perfectly for a first date when you’re just starting to get to know someone. Read on for our ultimate bowling date guide.

First dates can be tricky—you want to be original without trying too hard, while also making sure you can actually speak to the other person. Bowling ticks all these boxes, for a variety of reasons.

First off, it’s in a public place, which we always recommend when meeting someone for the first time. A bowling alley or amusement center will mean there are plenty of other people around, making it a safe and fun environment for a first date. 

The fact that bowling is an indoor activity means you aren’t dependent on the weather. When you’re planning a first date, you don’t want to worry about whether or not it’s going to rain. A bowling date makes perfect sense for these cozy fall months, especially when it’s dark by 5 p.m.

It also gives you and your date an activity to focus on. When you’re meeting someone for the first time, it’s natural for there to be pauses in conversation. Playing a game together gives you something to talk about and center the evening around. 

On a bowling date, there’s also the opportunity to continue the fun post-match. There are often arcade games and other activities within a bowling alley, so you and your Bumble date could play a round of air hockey or try your luck on a pinball machine. You could also grab some drinks or a meal together or go and see a movie. And if sparks aren’t flying while you’re knocking down pins, then you can easily end the date once the game is over. It’s a really flexible first date idea. 

Bowling is also a cost effective date idea. One game can cost around $8 and shoe rental generally runs at $5. Prices, however, can vary depending on your location, so always research your local area ahead of time. 
If you’re used to bowling with a group, you might be wondering: can two people go bowling? Definitely. It can be just as fun—if not more so—for a couple. It makes the game more intense, and it can bring out your competitive side. It also means you’ll get plenty of opportunities to talk one-on-one. If you race through the game quickly, you can always make it a best-out-of-three situation—meaning more time to chat and more chances to win!

Knowing what to wear on any first date can be difficult. Here are our top tips for what to wear on a bowling date.

Remember, you’re going to have to take your shoes off! If you’re a bowling pro (which we imagine you aren’t, or you wouldn’t be reading this article), you’ll have your own bowling shoes, but us regular folk rent ours at the bowling alley. Remember this when choosing your footwear at home, and also your socks. Opt for shoes that are easy to get off and on (so probably not strappy stilettos) and clean socks free of holes since your date will be able to peep them.

You need to be able to move comfortably. Bowling isn’t a hugely physical activity, but you will be throwing the ball and walking around. It’s best to avoid any clothes that are too tight or constricting. You also want to ensure you feel comfortable bending down to pick up the ball, sit at the bench etc., so short skirts and low-cut tops aren’t recommended.

Don’t try too hard. Bowling alleys are usually humble, family-oriented places. If you wear a tie, you’re going to stand out. The best outfit to wear on a bowling date is one you feel completely yourself in—as with any date, there’s no point trying to be someone you’re not.

Still stuck? Go for wardrobe staples like jeans, T-shirts, sneakers, loose-fitting dresses and pants, and sweaters. As with any first date, tracksuits or loungewear are best left at home—there’s a difference between being casual and making zero effort.

Planning a bowling date night is easy—it’s a relaxed, casual first date. But you still need to plan in advance. Here are some of our top tips:

We hope we’ve convinced you why bowling makes for one of the best first date ideas. Find a local bowling alley, invite your Bumble match and, hopefully, the rest will be history.