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So many of us used to enjoy bowling back in the day. Lots of us joined bowling leagues and thrived on the competition and the comradery that went hand in hand with it. Folks who didn’t know each other became friends due to participating in league competitions.
Bowling was also a fun family activity for many of us. Parents loved taking their kids to the bowling alley for an afternoon or evening outing together.
At one point, bowling was so popular in Redwood City had three bowling alleys – Mel’s Bowl at the south end of El Camino Real, Woodside Bowl across the street from Woodside Plaza, and Redwood Bowl on Broadway near downtown.
Under the roof of the local alley, one could enjoy a variety of activities. In addition to bowling, one might enjoy a game of pool, play pinball machines, and even enjoy a tasty meal while quenching one’s thirst.
Bowling was so popular that at its peak, over 4 million people were active members of the three major bowling league organizations: ABC, YABC and YIBC.
Like many things, its popularity hit a peak. Subsequently, these fun centers began to disappear from the local landscape. Why?
Everything else is just history
[To be continued….]
Hi Dan,
When my first son was a toddler, I bowled at San Carlos Bowl in the Pin Duster League (get it – pins – dust – housewives). Unfortunately, bowling alleys and miniature golf courses have gone by the wayside. It was always good, healthy and even family fun. I’d sure like to see a miniature golf place near by. We do have Top Golf in Burlingame – which is a lot of fun – but not necessarily as family friendly as mini golf and bowling. Sigh!