STRIKE Bowling Alexandria

We recently took the kids for a day out at STRIKE Bowling in Alexandria, and it’s so much more than just a bowling alley! Located inside the Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq venue on O'Riordan Street, it's a full-blown entertainment hub. Besides the bowling lanes, they have laser tag, karaoke rooms, and even escape rooms, all wrapped up in a vibrant, almost carnival-like atmosphere. It’s one of those places that feels like a special treat, with bright lights, upbeat music, and a general buzz of activity that gets the kids excited the second you walk in.

Age Appropriateness

This is a spot that works for a surprisingly wide range of ages, but you need to pick your activities. For the little ones (say, 4-7 years old), bowling is the main event. They have lightweight balls and ramps to help them push the ball down the lane, so they can fully participate and feel successful. The older kids (8-12) will absolutely love the laser tag arena. It’s a decent size and has lots of places to hide. For the teens, the escape rooms offer a fantastic challenge that requires teamwork and brainpower, making it a great option for a group of friends or a family activity with older kids. The whole venue is licensed, but it maintains a family-friendly vibe during the day.

The Highlights (Pros)

The biggest pro is the sheer variety. If one child gets tired of bowling, you can easily pivot to another activity like laser tag, which is a lifesaver. The atmosphere is a huge plus; it's clean, modern, and the staff are generally friendly and helpful with getting shoes sorted and lanes set up. The Alexandria location is conveniently situated within the Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq, which means you also have access to a huge array of arcade games, adding another layer of fun. The online booking system is straightforward, which makes planning your visit much easier.

The Watch-Outs (Cons)

Be prepared for a sensory experience – it can get quite loud, especially during peak times like weekends and school holidays. The combination of music, bowling crashes, and arcade game sounds can be a bit overwhelming for very young children or those sensitive to noise. The cost can also add up quickly. Each activity is paid for separately, and when you add food and drinks on top, it can become a pricey day out. While there's a food and drinks menu, it's more focused on classic fast-food style options like pizza, burgers, and fries, so don't expect a gourmet meal.

Practical Survival Tips for Parents

• Book Everything Online: Don’t just show up, especially on a weekend. Book your bowling lane, laser tag session, or escape room well in advance to avoid disappointment and long waits.
• Go Off-Peak: If you can, visit on a weekday afternoon. It's significantly quieter and less crowded, making it a much more relaxed experience for parents and giving the kids more space to enjoy themselves.
• Parking: The venue is located in a busy area. Look for parking at the Homemaker Centre nearby or be prepared to find street parking, which can be tricky. Arrive a little early to give yourself time to find a spot.
• Budget for Extras: The arcade games are a huge draw for kids. Set a budget beforehand and load up a game card to avoid constant requests for more money.
• Check for Deals: Keep an eye on their website for school holiday deals or family packages that bundle a few activities together for a better price.