West Park Bowling is a Bowling alley located at 1205 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2Z8, Canada. It has received 487 reviews with an average rating of 4.1 stars.
Monday | 12PM-2AM |
---|---|
Tuesday | 12PM-2AM |
Wednesday | 12-9PM |
Thursday | 12-9PM |
Friday | 12-9PM |
Saturday | 12-9PM |
Sunday | 12-9PM |
The address of West Park Bowling: 1205 Wellington St. W, Ottawa, ON K1Y 2Z8, Canada
West Park Bowling has 4.1 stars from 487 reviews
Bowling alley
"When I arrived at the bowling alley I waited at the shoe counter for 10 minutes before realizing the guy on the other side of the rental area was pointedly ignoring me since I said "excuse me" out loud several times"
"So amazing! My niece had her birthday party here today and she had an absolute blast! Booking the party was incredibly fast, easy and simple, everything was explained very well beforehand too"
"Amazing!! We were there today for my daughters birthday party! I just have to say that I am extremely happy with this bowling alley! We had two lanes for the kids to play for an hour"
"First want to say how nice and friendly the management are"
"I had fun bowling at the West Park Bowling Alley"
When I arrived at the bowling alley I waited at the shoe counter for 10 minutes before realizing the guy on the other side of the rental area was pointedly ignoring me since I said "excuse me" out loud several times. So I went over to where you order food and I was also ignored for another 10 minutes even after calling out a bit louder for some assistance. A nice lady who was bowling with her kids informed me maybe I could try going into the restaurant to get somebody to help me and I finally found a waitress who agreed to help. I then waited for her for another 10 minutes. The actual bowling and snacks were fine but a bit pricey (2 iced teas, 1 fries, 2 games, 2 shoe rentals $60). But by the time I left, there was a lineup of people getting upset because they were not being helped. Some walked out. So if you want terrible service but enjoy bowling then you should go there.
So amazing! My niece had her birthday party here today and she had an absolute blast! Booking the party was incredibly fast, easy and simple, everything was explained very well beforehand too. The place has a cozy feel, a bit old school. Many would say that it's due for an upgrade but honestly, it makes the atmosphere so easy going. Speaking of easy going, that's exactly what this experience was! We were able to take our time. Take our time setting up, then an hour of bowling, had a meal, and then was able to take our time leaving. We never once felt rushed. I really wished I written down our server/hosts name, she was the greatest. So sweet and kind and looked like she genuinely enjoyed what she was doing. All together 10/10 ❤️
Amazing!! We were there today for my daughters birthday party! I just have to say that I am extremely happy with this bowling alley! We had two lanes for the kids to play for an hour. Lunch had a menu (hotdog, grilled cheese, burger, chicken fingers. All came with fries) serving size was fantastic, food was very good, and they set up a table just for the kids! We were not rushed out, there is no “party room” but that was just fine for us (we had the alleys by the wall) there was plenty room! The staff was very patient and polite, it was very clean! And the bowling shoes are in good shape. It also wasn’t busy we were there 12:30-245. Pricing was very reasonable. We cannot wait to visit again! Thanks West Park Bowling!
First want to say how nice and friendly the management are. Really pleasant, kind people! And very yummy fries. But the place is pretty run down and it's clear they haven't invested back into the infrastructure. I don't think there's a straight board in whole building, the boards in the lanes are bowed where ppl have been standing for decades. The balls all have significant chips in them and I'm pretty sure that (-) impacts your game. And the interior in general is dark and dingy, run down in general. It would be so great to see them fix the place up because they have a great location but also active competition, would hate to see this place shuttered.
I had fun bowling at the West Park Bowling Alley. The 5 pin alleys and vibrant sights and sounds of people enjoying themselves was great. West park bowling is fully licensed to serve beer and food to its patrons. It has been in operation since 1946 and is kept clean and is in reasonable shape, suitable for the whole family. I had a beer and their Ceasars chicken salad and it tasted much better than I thought it would be and both were reasonably priced. The bowling shoes in the shoe rental were in great shape and staff were very friendly. If you like my reviews, videos, or photos why not roll up your thumb and strike the like button.
What can I say about this place. I went there today with 3 other friends. - To start with, they only have 5 pin game and the rolling balls are small. - The food is over priced and its not even fine dine. There were only 2 servers serving around 40 people. - The game is rediculously priced. I paid 41 + shoes + taxes for 1 hour and could only play 1 game and if you play 1 game its 18 bucks. When I asked the server about it, all she said was, I am sorry there is nothing I can do, you chose 1 hour. - On top of that my friends ordered a platter which was so good that they had to go to popeyes after the game Never going there again.
Not a terrible place, had a fun time there. There were a few instances where my shots were not counted on the board or while resetting the pins, an additional pin would get knocked over. On another occasion, the balls didn’t make it all the way while rolling back and sort of piled up halfway down the alley. I was also a little turned off at the fact that only half the groups inside were actually wearing masks and the rule wasn’t necessarily being enforced. Other than all that, the staff was friendly enough and I had a fun time. I think I’ll try somewhere else next time though.
5 pin bowling, great location. They didn't ask for proof of Covid vaccination, which I wasn't happy to see. Unfortunately, as other places, they are out of staff. They had one lady taking care of everything, from the bowling to the restaurant. The cooker didn't help her in anything, he was more concerned with watching the Hockey's game. Because she was alone, took a long time to order, to renew the time on the lane and etc. I would be back but I really hope they find more staff. She mentioned the last ask for the kitchen would be at 8pm but 07:50 and we couldn’t order anymore.
We definitely had a great time during each visit! They seemed to be under staff though as I noticed that the same person behind the bar was often also in charge of the shoes so it could definitely take a while to get a drink or shoes during busy times. Arriving early is a good idea to make sure you are all set up before your game starts. This is a great place for kids and they have a device to assist the younger ones with the bowling ball. 3 different colours of bowling balls and the green one is the lightest, which is perfect for kids to carry.
Westpark bowling is an institution because they have been there forever. It is an older bowling alley and the Diner waitress also rents the shoes and lanes. She always has a smile on her face no matter how busy or frantic things get. It is a fun time and a great way to spend a couple of hours in the afternoon. It can get quite busy and filled to capacity. The other spots in the building are Fil's Diner and also Daniel O'Connell's Irish pub (which shares the same menu as the Diner). It gives one some options while waiting for a lane to free up.
Courteous, clean, well-lit, comfortable, cozy, bowling alley. Good food better than most bowling alleys. There are no bumpers for kids but they have a great little ramp that they can use to put the ball in and bowl the 4/6 olds in our group were fine snd loved it. One person working the front, renting the shoes, taking payment for lanes and working the bar taking food and drink orders. He did an excellent job in a very busy environment on a very busy sat. Great place for family and friend outings, will be back.
Five pin bowling is fun. The characters on the screen are really funny. It's very easy to walk in, grab a lane, and have fun for up to five per lane. Shoes included. We were there around 6:30 and it transitioned to music and party bowling with lots of flashing lights. There was a fun crowd but it wasnt too crowded. You can make a reservation, we did not have one and walked right in but you might do this at busy times. It is connected to Fil's diner so there is great food if you'd like to munch while you bowl.
I was looking for a fun & interactive place for my rehearsal dinner. We didn't need to do a traditional rehearsal but wanted to get both families and the bridal party together and interacting with each other. The team at West Park Lanes were super helpful and everyone had a great time! People could order food & drink when they wanted from a shortened menu the team prepared for us. Everyone left that night having had some good food, good drinks and lots of fun. Thanks again to the team at West Park Lane!
Small and basic 5 pin bowling alley. I was here in the past, but my last experience was in March 2020. I had such a fun time; good craft draft beer selection, clean place, and very friendly staff. The combination of everything made it a very fun event. The alley is attached to Fils diner and you can order food from the diner. Basic pub food, but they do a good job. (This is basic pub food) Remember the combination of the food / bowling / beer/ staff makes this place an enjoyable fun place
West Park Lanes is da bomb. The bartender is a genuinely kind and happy character. The cashiers are always pleasant. The beer and snacks are well priced and the music is fun. Good times had by all, every time. Unless you're a party pooper of course, then nobody has fun. Second the call ahead. They only have around 12 lanes and it's popular with locals, so it fills up quick. P.S. the punks that rated 2 stars? For real? Why? You'll notice no description.
I have been here many times and have had fun on each occasion. This is not only a great place for a family outing, but also a good activity to go out with friends or work colleagues. For those who have not come here before, the bowling venue is connected to a diner, so you can order from a full food menu. You can also get beer and non-alcoholic drinks. On our latest outing, my family got a basket of fries, quesadillas, and veggie nachos to share.
Probably THE best bowling place I’ve ever been too. As it’s family owed, the staff is super friendly and ready to help when needed. I went there for a Saturday night with friends and it was packed. Good thing I made a reservation but the fact that it was so busy made the vibes in there perfect and the music was AMAZING. We were bowling and dancing. Definitely recommend and I will go again that’s for sure.
They don’t follow covid protocols (don’t ask for proof of vaccination, no screening questions or health checks, wearing masks not required or enforced). There was also only one employee doing everything, so if you wanted drinks you’d be waiting awhile. It’s a shame because it’s a convenient spot to go bowling, but won’t be going back since they don’t prioritize the health and safety of guests
Decent location! They have a good deal for Fridays and Saturdays which includes 2 hours of bowling for a group of up to 5 for 90$. Service was good, and the staff were quick to help out when needed. My only critique was that the bathrooms definitely needed cleaning. Otherwise, it was a fantastic place to bowl! I recommend going with a group of friends on Friday or Saturday!
No covid protocols followed at all... thought it would be just us..but after 2 fast games we left! Odered drinks and they never came, then the place started to got very busy. Only one, yes, ONE, lady on staff to manage shoes, lanes, drinks, bills, probably food to but we left quickly etc...she looked tired and could use some help and overall did not feel comfortable.
Overall, it’s an okay place. The best thing about it is its location. Staff were not particularly welcoming or friendly. We had some good times with friends. I would suggest some few improvements and renovations are done to the premises. Some alleys are wearing out. Would also be a great idea to upgrade the bowling balls, currently they only have the mini ones.
Went here with my coworkers. The bowling balls are super tiny. I guess that makes it easier for the whole family to play, including kids, but if you're going with friends, they're probably not going to like it. It took us quite some time to get our bowling shoes and to start playing, as the same guy who was managing the reservations worked at the bar.
Small Old Alley. Lanes are so chipped it's hard to keep the ball straight, not to mention that the balls are just as badly chipped and dented. Booked a reservation and was told on arrival that they over booked and it would be an hour wait, so why take reservations? Good thing they are attached to Fil's Diner or zero stars it would be.
Went on a Friday night with a large group of friends and had a great time! I believe it was the owner working behind the bar and he gave us wonderful service and ensured we had a great time. It is run down a bit as others say but it hasn't lost that old school bowling alley feel and atmosphere that we all love and go there to enjoy.
I usually love the place but this review will be based alone on my last visit. I went for dinner at the diner before bowling, asked what was on tap which the response was "lots of stuff". The waitress was very rude and passive, i didn't catch her name but she is definitely newer as i know most of the young ladies. Was disappointed.
The service was not good. When I went, there were maybe 2 other groups and we had to wait 10 minutes to get our shoes. We didn’t know how to start the game and thankfully a random man (not affiliated) helped us. Overall, we had a good time. I just felt like the service could’ve been better and the people weren’t very friendly.
The place itself is okay as long as you're not some kind of pro who needs the balls/alley to be in perfect condition. The employees are just plain awful though. Staff constantly in the back/outside, leaving both the desk at the door and the bar unattended. Saw multiple occasions of people waiting 5-10 minutes for service.
Bowling is always fun, although it was obviously rigged to a small extent, and the shoes have no grips and floor is super slippery, but tbh I'm not a bowling expert so I'm not giving low stars just in case MFS come at me saying all places are like this I had a great time with my friends though and you will too!! …
Always had tons of fun here and loved the service. It's the first place I ever went for five pin bowling and I really enjoyed it. The place is big enough but can get very busy. If you're ever waiting for a lane, there is plenty of space to hang out, and you can even go next door. Really fun and the staff is very nice.
Had our 30th birthday here on a Saturday night. Rock n’ Bowl is a phenomenal time. Evan at the shoe counter was super helpful, friendly, and made sure our three lane reservation went off without a hitch. Would absolutely recommend you book a lane here if your looking for a fun night with friends and some beers!
Place was entertaining with music. I went with my husband on our wedding anniversary to had some fun playing bowling. It was fun. It was crowded enough. We ordered nachos and pizza. It was tasty. However, women's washroom should have been better than what it is. They need to improve polishing of lanes too.
As far as bowling alleys go, this is not a highly maintained location. That said, it is my favourite alley. The prices to play are fair, as are the drink prices. The playlist is nostalgic and energetic, and that classic "glow-in-the-dark" lighting with the music almost makes it feel like a place to dance.
There were several bugs and pins would randomly be knocked down. We had to go after the staff and ask for service. Good deal for 3 games, which was $16.00 but prices for food and drinks was absurd. How do you charge $24 for a regular pitcher (with plastic cups) when other pubs and lanes charge 15 max?!
good deal for 3 games. but pins while playing fell when shouldnt of , do not buy pitchers waste of money 24.95 for a pitch of average beer crazy deffently not worth it for the service . No care in having the pins fall over either all in all good time and laughs but for money your better else where .
We had a lot of fun. Got there at noon and had the whole place to ourselves for about 30 min then it filled up. It's a very used place that could use some sprucing up but it's easy to get into. Lots of available parking and lots of restaurants around if you don't want to eat at the canteen
Walked in here in the winter around Christmas and it was completely packed, you had to leave your shoes at the door which was incredibly strange. And even getting past that there wasn't a single employee available help put our name on a waiting list to play. Wouldn't really come back here.
Good location right near the parkdale market. Customer service was okay, but took a little while to come over to us. They dont really help you set anything up for your game either. Kinda disappointing that they dont sell food there on thursday evenings either. Not a bad experience though.
The music was blaring, and when I asked them to turn it down a bit, there was barely a difference. I made a reservation, and they didn't have me on the list when I got there. The bowling was fun, and they accommodated our big group of 8 at least, but it was very dark, and extremely loud.
Went in and left immediately after I saw how dirty the place looked . The chairs on the side were disgusting, such an unhealthy environment You have one person working there serving drinks then giving out the shoes Sorry but there should be more attention to sanitation and organisation.
Family friendly spot. A good option ever since McArthur lanes closed. It’s a 5 pin game location so it’s slightly easier and honestly more fun because you have faster results and the rounds keep you on your toes. People seem to like it so make sure you call to book a reservation.
I waited here for 45 minutes at the desk, and when someone finally showed up, I asked for a lane and he said no, you need to make a reservation. No where does it say to make a reservation, so this made my whole group waste 45 minutes, and got yelled at just for asking to bowl.
The bowling lane itself is so-so, absolutely nothing special, but dear God are the people who work there unpleasant. I don't know if they're understaffed and stressed out but I've had really unpleasant experiences dealing with their staff over the phone and in person.
Fun little hole in the wall! Had my friends not told me about it I would have never known! I must have driven past this place hundreds of times! The service was good and the bowling was fun. The balls are well used, but we aren’t pro’s so it didn’t matter much to us!
I tried going a few months ago and they were really busy, which is fine. They get only 2 stars because the employee was really rude when telling us this. We were greeted by a very irritated guy who by the end of the conversation basically said get out, I'm too busy.
Had a great outing with friends. Really like their Covid policy there. It is 5 pin bowling and I went here because my usual (and closer) place is currently closed. Loses 1 star because attendant was missing for 10 minutes when we wanted to start our second game.
Had a nice time here with a large party. Staff were accommodating in setting us up in some lanes and making sure we had everything we needed. Beer was great and the food was good too. Fun way to spend the evening and then head to the bar for a drink afterwards!
Over priced. Horrible food. Not a regular bowling ally. Ac doesn't work. Food was served by fils diner. Used old oil for food. Chicken fingers cost 16 $ for 5 pieces and we had bottom of the barrel left over mini fries. Had a weird smell. Forced to pay 15% tip.
Their Rock and Bowl is lots of fun, and their prices are pretty reasonable for a spot near downtown. Be aware that they only have 5-pin bowling, and their kitchen closes earlier than the actual alley if you're looking to bowl late. Would definitely go again!
If I could give this zero stars I would. We went around 11:45pm, when they close at 2 am and they had "just closed as it was one guy working and he was over it" I work at a restaurant and last time I checked I dont get to change the hours because I'm bored.
Westpark kindly hosted our end of year staff party this past weekend and did a fantastic job! From the planning to the execution of the event, couldn’t be happier. Staff was kind, patient, and helpful. Everyone had a great time. Thank you again!
The beer on tap tastes like they haven't cleaned the lines in a very long time, service doesn't exist and there was broken glass on the floor the entire time we were there. The place is in decent shape but the quality does not exist.
Large group of kids next to us were messing around with the balls, walking on the lanes etc. Staff (and the parents) did nothing to stop them. Aside from this, it's a regular bowling alley and I would go again because bowling is fun.
It's like a classic old school bowling alley. If it was for competitive bowling I would not recommend it as the lane was not perfectly level. The place is old and has ambiance but that also means old lanes that are not perfect level.
A completely imperfect bowling alley with some warped wood lanes and chipped bowling balls that I wouldn't change for anything. It is the perfect first date venue, or great for a non electronics night out. Leave your phone at home!
This is a cool little alley that can get quite full, so you may have to add your name to the list. It's just a five-pin, but lots of fun regardless. We went for a kids birthday bash, and it was a big hit with all the younger one's.
Great 5 pin bowling. The best part is that it is connected to a diner and a pub so the food is great and they have a good selection of beer. This is not your ordinary bowling spot - a great place to hang out with friends.
This bowling alley is pretty beat up, but there aren't many left so we still go here. The glow bowling on Friday is fun and the music is usually good. They serve beer and other liquor on par with prices at pubs nearby.
We had a party of 5, and played two games in our lane. The bar service was quick and prompt, and the atmosphere was full of shrieking laughter and people enjoying themselves. A great 5 pin experience all around!
Fun alley. Quite full. Lots of different events and birthdays going on. It's 5 pin. Some of the balls got stuck and wouldn't come back down the track but overall a fun night. It was music and blacklight after 8.
What a gem! This vintage bowling alley looks like it would have 50 years ago and that is, indeed, its charm. It is connected to Fil's classic diner, for a day or evening of affordable bowling and good eats.
Great spot for casual 5-pin bowling. Fun place for a birthday party. It's clean & simple, they serve the full menu from Fil's Diner, and for better or worse, the blowing computers have all been modernized.
I hosted a small group get together at West Park Lanes and it was great. The staff is friendly and it was a good chance to have a team building activity that put us all on a level playing field.
Nice spot. We came in on a Saturday night and the place was booked. Will know for next time to make a reservation. The place looked clean and well maintained. Will come again to play the lanes!
Went there, expected to stay a while, played two games and left. Atmosphere was okay, the lanes had problems (the bowls weren't coming back on the rack). Customer service was inexistent.
Last night was my 2nd visit to West Park Lanes with a group of friends and we always have a great time here. Great fun atmosphere and great service. I will definetely be back again.
It’s a nice and friendly place, but it does not offer the regular 10-pin bowling! Instead, it offers the so-called Canadian 5-pin bowling, which I found it unsatisfying, haha!
Was great. We rented out the whole place for a work event . Super funn but weird having to walk through the washrooms to get a drink from the bar next door but will be back
Great place for a date night it's not too busy and the food/drink options are decent. They only offer 5 pin bowling though now, I think they used to have 10 pin before.
The place is lots of fun! Great bowling. Not too expensive and easily accessible from downtown. Though it gets too hot inside with all the lanes full on a summer night.
Nice place, good folks, good service. Rock and bowl Fridays/Saturdays turn things up a notch, a great neighborhood too only makes it better. Go check it and you'll see
Great 5 pin game, nice and cozy place. Beer on top with food. Tons of free parking around. Came with some work colleagues, we all had a great time! Will come again :)
Very clean and welcoming environment. I took some clients from my work place and west park bowl was an amazing experience and outing for everyone. Thanks again …
Things were really hoping for rock and bowl. All lanes were full. Fun family night out where you can get nibles and drinks. Finger food from the diner was quite good.
Great 5 pin bowling alley! Super friendly staff, great food selection and very affordable. Great place to go with your family, friends or even for work events.
Came here for a date. Small balls. Didn't realize that. Service was nonexistent. Waited a long time for counter service for shoes. And no one attended the bar.
Laid back in a cool area. Ok prices. Unfortunately I have called before to check their hours, go there only to be informed they later decided to close early.
My favourite bowling place in the city. Been coming here since I was a kid, never cease to be kind, friendly and the catering from Fils next door is delish.
Really enjoyed my first time bowling here. I may not be a pro, but nevertheless I had fun playing here. It's a good place to go bowling on a Friday night.
One of ottawa's smaller bowling alleys but the prices cannot be beat. The Friday bowl deal is amazing and the place doesn't try to be anything it isn't.
There aren’t many places in the city to go bowling anymore. This place is casual and unfussy, not too expensive. Makes for a good old school afternoon.
17 years in Ottawa and I didn't know these lanes existed until today. Bright nice automated bowling lanes. Friendly staff. Good eats. I would go back.
Small bowling alley, but still fun. Cute little diner attached with good poutine. Don't go on a busy Saturday, but during the week should be fine.
Just an old-school alley with reasonable prices, and well maintained facilities. Probably won't appeal to the pros, but great for taking the kids.
Lived near this place for years but never went. Had a great time 5 pin bowling here. Computer during makes it easy and accessible for newbies.
The bowling balls are kind of small but the workers are pretty friendly. There is a restaurant attached to it also some snacks and sweets.
Great spot. Had a blast listening to 80s and 90s tunes while having a good time with friends. Oh ya and there's glow in the dark bowling
Affordable and fun!! Great for groups and dates, has a great laid back vibe. Also this place is really cute and vintage looking.
Fun place to play some five pin. Beer on tap. Can get food from the restaurant next door. Hours seem a bit random, call ahead.
An amazing date place for fun couples rounds. It's 5pin bowling but connected to a restaurant and bar. Will come back again.
Lanes were a little beat up and the place seemed a little dirty but the food was good and the staff took care of us well
Great service. Bowling alleys needs a little love but every else was awesome. My daughter had a wonderful experience
Had a few hours at this tiny spot on a quiet afternoon. Very old school. I think it's from the 1940s. I'll be back.
Wonderful atmosphere, great music, very enjoyable and fun! Had an amazing time! Friendly staff and great service!!
Not enough lanes. Children bowling balls only. Very loud music is always playing but a good place nonetheless.
If you are a university student you have to check out their Friday and Saturday nights rock and bowl special
Great place & amazing staff! I came here a few months back with my team from work, and we all had a blast!
Bowling was lots of fun. Your employee Evan was very helpful and was fast. I hope to go again soon.
Decent. Basic place, small but staff were responsive to issues. Great place for family, kids etc..
Great place to bowl. Service is slow when it's busy though because there aren't enough employees.
Rick & team do a great job of running these lanes in the West End. Highly recommend! A true 5/5