Bowlero opens Nov. 19 in Naperville with 40 bowling lanes and so much more – arcade games, a billiards room and bumper cars.
Formerly Brunswick Zone XL Naperville Lanes, 1515 Aurora Ave., the facility has undergone more than $1 million in renovations to become a hip locale complete with antler-shaped sconces and Edison lighting.
Screens play music videos and sports above the lanes, and all the bowling balls and bowling shoes are new. If bowling’s not your style, try the more than 50 arcade games and a ticket counter with items signed by players for the Blackhawks and Cubs. A new game, special to Bowlero called Ballin’, asks competitors to use a football to try and knock down bowling pins.
A billiards room behind the bowling alley’s bar lounge has a speak-easy theme, and will incorporate a mural of old Chicago mobsters. There are plans to add shuffleboard into the mix as well.
Bowlero’s laser tag arena is double the size of what was in the former alley, said Adam Ptaszynski, director of sales, adding that five events, each with 100 or more people, are booked for December.
“It’s a one-stop shot for family, friends and co-workers,” said Julia Skobeleva, regional sales and marketing manager for the Midwest region of Bowlmor AMF, the parent company. The Naperville location is the first in Illinois, though three others will open in the next six months.
The variety of entertainment can appeal to a younger and more family-oriented crowd during the day, and to adults in the evening, she said.
The city welcomes the revamped facility.
“We’re excited when a new business concept comes to Naperville,” said Linda LaCloche, communications manager. “It fits here because of the size of the city and the tourist aspect of the city.”
The bowling alley’s kitchen will offer patrons the chance to eat the Behemoth, a 14-inch burger weighing in at five pounds.
Bowlero’s grand opening event will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 19, and attendees will receive a complimentary game of bowling and a $5 arcade card. Former Blackhawks player Tony Esposito will be present.