Philadelphia Magazine writer Laura Swartz donned proper Lysol-sprayed bowling shoes to compile her list of the best alleys in the region. Two of them, she found, are in Montgomery County.

Nationally, bowling as a sport has been drifting toward a gutter since the late 1990s, according to a USA Today. The biggest lane losses have been driven by dissolution of league play, tamped down by economic pressures.

To continue to woo casual players, alleys went one of two ways: remaining decidedly retro. Or glamming up play with elaborate lighting, themed nights, improvement in food, party rooms for kids, and animated scorekeeping.

The market steadied somewhat, but COVID-19 was no turkey. As an indoor pastime, recreational players stayed away in droves.

They’re now drifting back. And for players looking to roll through a night locally, the two local recommendations are very accessible.

Wynnewood Lanes, Ardmore, takes the classic old-school route. The family run business has been around since 1962 and retains that feel. The lanes are current with tech, but the overall vibe of the site is whimsical retro.

Arnold’s Family Fun Center, Oaks, is in the bowling-as-hook-for-other-recreation camp. It has 20 lanes, as well as a huge arcade, bumper cars, mini-golf, laser tag, and food galore.

More on details on area bowling alleys are pinned down at Philadelphia Magazine.