When it comes to planning a first date, bowling is an idea that often comes up. With over 4,500 bowling alleys in the U.S., it’s also an idea that tends to be pretty accessible no matter where you live, even in small towns. Today, we want to look at whether or not bowling is a good first date.
The short answer is yes, it’s a good first date idea.
The goal of a first date is to get to know the other person and see if there is enough chemistry for a second date. Ideally, you want a date that gives enough space for this to happen, but also has enough ‘going on’ to help curb shyness and promote interaction.
Bowling, for the most part, covers these bases. You are not constantly engaged knocking down pins like you might be if you were white water rafting or driving go karts, both examples of first date ideas that might be too engaging and dominant of your time. Additionally, you aren’t required to carry the entire conversation like you might be if you just grabbed dinner or coffee, which can be nice for people who might be nervous.
After each roll of the ball, you have time to chat, make comments, and connect. There are also no people ‘behind you’ waiting on you to play if you decide you want to stop and talk for a while or grab a snack and get to know each other. If you were playing something like mini golf, you’d probably have groups waiting to play behind you that would limit that as an option.
Additionally, most people know the rules of bowling and have played at least once in their life. Even if your date isn’t very good, you can always get the bumpers out to make it more enjoyable.
Bottom line – yes, bowling is most likely going to be a great first date.
If you do want something more creative, though, we’d invite you to check out hundreds of free ideas on the LoveTrack app, the ultimate date night planning app that’s perfect for first dates. Spoiler, there is a bowling date on there that gives you really fun ideas to take this date up a notch.
Other Reasons Bowling is a Good First Date
In case you’re still not sure, here are a few more reasons that bowling would be a good first date.
- It’s easy to learn. – If one of you hasn’t bowled before, you don’t have to worry about the whole first date getting swallowed up in learning the rules.
- It’s genuinely inexpensive. – For the most part, bowling is fairly inexpensive compared with other date night ideas. Additionally, you can usually find discount nights and deals if you look.
- You can find unique themed nights. – Many bowling alleys offer unique themed nights like glow in the dark bowling or 80s night. These can make a date night a lot more fun, especially if there is a shared interest.
- It’s a very public place. – Here’s the reality. First dates are often with someone you don’t know very well (and someone who doesn’t know you very well). By having a first date in somewhere very public like a bowling alley, you can protect yourself and make sure your date feels comfortable as they get to know and trust you.
Reasons Bowling Might Not Be a Good First Date
Now, this all said, there are a few instances where bowling might not be the best first date idea. Here are a few of those reasons.
- You’re very competitive. – If you’re someone who struggles with being too competitive, a simple date like bowling could turn into a challenge for you where you have to expend a lot of mental energy to keep your competitive nature in check.
- Your date has a physical limitation. – While bowling isn’t an intense physical sport, it does require some physical elements. Make sure your date doesn’t have any limitations that might make this a challenge. If your date happens to be in a wheelchair, good news, most lanes have equipment to help them bowl! Just call ahead to make sure they have it available for you.
- The bowling alley has a league night going on. – Generally, this happens midweek, but you want to make sure that there isn’t a league night or other special event going on that means no empty lanes. Check your bowling alley’s calendar before the first date or call ahead to check. Some alleys also let you reserve a lane, which we’d highly recommend.
- You’re very good at bowling. – It can be a little intimidating to your date if you are exceptionally good at the activity. It can also give off the impression that you chose the date because you’re trying to impress them. Even if this isn’t the case, you have to remember that most likely your first date is with someone who doesn’t know you very well yet. This means perception is really all they have to go off of.