Strike Up the Memories as We Reminisce on Bowling Alleys in the ‘Burgh

By Paula Green

“Bowling is a sport for people who have talent to spare.” – unknown

Ninety-four years is a long time to be in business, which is how long Forward Lanes was in operation. The 17-lane alley Squirrel Hill bowling alley was established in 1924. Sadly, it permanently shuttered its doors on March 24, 2018. The lanes were part of the Squirrel Hill community seemingly forever.

North Hills residents have fond memories of McKnight Lanes. The 48-lane alley was in operation from 1961-1997; it even offered bumpers for the inexperienced bowlers. In addition to bowling, the facilities also housed a few pool tables and a cocktail lounge. Despite the protest from local residents, McKnight Lanes closed in 1997, and Bed, Bath & Beyond now occupies its former space on McKnight Road.

Enix Lanes in Homestead opened in August 2018, and it was a hybrid brewery and bowling facility. The unique concept faded out, and it closed at the beginning of 2020, before the pandemic. Other local alleys that have shuttered their doors include – Brannan’s Bowling in McKees Rocks, Freeway Lanes in Zelienople, Games N’ At on Josephine Street in Pittsburgh, Hollywood Lanes in Dormont, Mystic Lanes in Valencia, and Rosedale Lanes in Verona. Carrick Lanes is also closed, it was slated to make a comeback in 2020, but the pandemic altered those plans. The new date for the unveiling is 2022 – so stay tuned for news on this facility.

There are plenty of alleys that are still in operation in our region. AMF Bowling has locations in Belle Vernon, Mt. Lebanon, Oakwood and West Mifflin. Lawrenceville has Arsenal Lanes, or if you’re feeling tropical, then head on over to Paradise Island Bowl & Beach in Neville Island.

In the northern regions – you can strike up excitement at Family Bowlaway Fun Center in Butler, Mars Lanes, Baden Bowl, Millvale Lanes, Pines Plaza Lanes in Ross Township, or Perry Park Lanes in McCandless Township. In the south, plan a visit to Legacy Lanes in Baldwin or Princess Lanes in Whitehall, Sports Haven Bowl in Bridgeville, or West Pike Bowl in Canonsburg.