Times are tough and money is tight for many residents of Wilmington, North Carolina, but there are still affordable entertainment options available, including the time-tested sport of bowling, which, according to the International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame in their “History of Bowling”, has been around in America in its current form since the late 1800s. Like many other entertainment options, the cost of a 10-frame game has risen exponentially. In the 1960s, it cost less than 50 cents a game to play. It’s now over 10 times that depending on the bowling alley. In the Wilmington area, Cardinal Lanes Shipyard and Cardinal Lanes North Beach Bowl continue to be the best choices in bowling in terms of cost, value, and friendly service.
While other bowling alleys in Wilmington split their rates between daytime and night time, both Cardinal Lanes have specials that vary per night and the time of day. This means a person can bowl for as cheap as $1.00 per game plus the cost of shoe rental depending on the day and time they choose to bowl. People can also choose to bowl per game or per hour. If a group is planning on bowling leisurely, the hourly plan will allow them to bowl at their own pace for as many games they feel like playing. In essence, a person could play at least five games and rent shoes for the same amount it would cost to see a movie at the local theater.
Bowling at the Cardinal Lanes is a quality activity that brings value to time spent with friends and family. As a sport, bowling has remained a popular hobby due to the entertainment it provides. It promotes healthy competition, helps people be active, and encourages public social interaction in an era of isolation created by computers, the internet, and video games. Both Cardinal Lanes provide an atmosphere that’s great for both adults and families through its no-smoking policies, well-maintained lanes, and full snack bars. People can come together in a public environment creating valuable interaction and lasting memories, especially in children.
The staff at both Cardinal Lane bowling alleys are some of the friendliest around. They enjoy the sport and work hard to keep the lanes running efficiently. They’re happy to help customers who need bumpers raised, correct sized balls located, and balls freed from the gutter. They’re quick to accommodate and quick to deliver food from the snack bars, and they always do it with a smile. They get to know their customers and after a few visits, it’s hard not to feel like one of “the regulars”.
It’s difficult to find something cheap and fun to do when every penny is being pinched, but Cardinal Lanes Shipyard and Cardinal Lanes North Beach Bowl make it possible to enjoy a trip out with friends and family. They have great rates, quality facilities, and a friendly staff. They remain to be two of the best local bowling alleys in Wilmington, NC.