When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Highland Lanes
Why Highland Lanes is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Highland Lanes in Austin, Texas, is a vibrant bowling alley renowned for being a perfect gathering spot for families and friends looking for an enjoyable and affordable outing. Located conveniently on Burnet Road, it offers a warm, inviting atmosphere where people of all ages can engage in bowling, socializing, and fun activities. A significant highlight at Highland Lanes is its dedication to family inclusivity with numerous bumper lanes tailored especially for kids, ensuring younger bowlers experience the excitement of the game without the frustration of gutter balls. This thoughtful feature keeps smiles bright and spirits high among families visiting the venue. Beyond open bowling, Highland Lanes hosts various leagues across all ages and skill levels — including men, women, youth, mixed, adults, and seniors — fostering a community spirit and providing opportunities to improve bowling skills in a friendly competitive environment. Additionally, the alley organizes exciting special event nights and has several programs to engage youth and seniors alike. The venue's layout and service make it ideal for birthday parties, corporate events, or just casual meet-ups. Moreover, affordability is a core attribute, with prices designed to accommodate families’ budgets without compromising the quality of entertainment. This makes Highland Lanes not only a place for fun but also an accessible destination that encourages regular visits and community bonding.
Here's what people think of Highland Lanes
As of recent, Highland Lanes holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1428 reviews.
Users consistently praise Highland Lanes for its family-friendly environment, affordability, and the effectiveness of its bumper lanes, which make bowling accessible and fun for children. Reviewers especially appreciate the staff’s friendliness and helpfulness, as well as the overall welcoming atmosphere that makes it suitable for people of all ages and skill levels. Many positive reviews highlight the well-organized leagues that cater to various demographics, making it easy to join or form teams, which enhances the social and competitive experience. Customers also enjoy the specials and events that add value and variety to visits. On the downside, some reviewers mention occasional wait times during busy hours and suggest improvements in lane conditions or equipment maintenance. A few have noted that the snack bar menu could be expanded or upgraded, and parking can be tight during popular times. Despite these minor criticisms, the majority of feedback remains favorable, with visitors finding the experience enjoyable and worth returning to. Overall, reviews indicate that Highland Lanes is a beloved local establishment that balances fun, community engagement, and cost-effectiveness, making it a top choice for casual bowlers as well as league players in Austin, Texas.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Zachary Malitz
We had a get together of 8 join up for the Sunday Night unlimited bowl. We were treated like VIP and thoroughly enjoyed our 4 on 4 match on some previously used league lanes. Staff is great. Music is lit. We all had a great time! Cheers to Highland Lanes.
Oliver Paxton
Although I've seen this place slowly decline over the past 5 or so years that I've been coming, I can't give it anything less than 5 stars. There is really nothing to complain about. The only things that have been declining are unnecessary things that they have chosen not to replace like lights and stuff. However, every time I go the people are almost always nice, and if anything they're always at least competent. It's clean. The food is good. And, I mean it's bowling, so I always have a good time. Even though I am only 15, I hope to continue coming here for years to come.
Jennifer Kim
Great place for a fun night of bowling! Came to the location with my sister and friend and just bowled for about an hour and it was fun, as we usually never bowl! Also, looks like the food court has a $5 minimum (friend went to get a drink and had to buy a cookie with a large drink).
Mason Gray
Highland Lanes was a cool family-friendly bowling alley. The staff at the front were friendly and the lanes were decent. The only complaint I have is that I feel like they didn’t have a large enough ball selection so I had to play with a ball with smaller holes that didn’t fit my fingers, even though it was the 4th of July and it was pretty busy. Also the bartender that was working that day wasn’t very friendly. She told me that I had to bring an ID from everyone in my group even though I was only buying drinks for myself so that was a little annoying. In all it was fun and I would definitely consider going back.
Sam Pattnaik
I recently visited Highland Lanes in Austin, and I must say, it was an absolute blast! The pricing is quite reasonable with different rates depending on the time of day, making it accessible for everyone. I appreciated the hourly lane rental system, which was straightforward and allowed my friends and I to enjoy a good couple of hours of uninterrupted fun. The shoe rental at $4.25 was also a fair deal. The staff at Highland Lanes were incredibly friendly and helpful, ensuring our experience was smooth from start to finish. We also took advantage of the Sunday morning special, which included all-you-can-bowl for a very competitive price, adding even more value to our visit. The facility itself is well-maintained with a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for family outings or a fun night out with friends. A highlight was grabbing a bite at Lebowski’s Grill located inside the alley. The food was surprisingly good, offering a great selection to refuel and get back to the games. Whether you’re a serious bowler or just looking for a good time, Highland Lanes offers a great mix of fun, affordability, excellent service, and tasty eats at Lebowski’s Grill. Definitely a top spot for bowling and dining in Austin!
How to reach Highland Lanes
None
Website: None
Why Highland Lanes may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Highland Lanes with your friends? Bowling is one of the best activities to bring people together because it offers a perfect blend of casual competition and social interaction, and Highland Lanes in Austin, Texas, stands out as an excellent venue for this experience. With a solid 4.3-star rating based on over 1,400 reviews, it has proven to be a favorite spot for groups seeking fun and entertainment without breaking the bank. The atmosphere at Highland Lanes is welcoming for all ages and skill levels, making it an ideal destination whether you want to have a relaxed outing or celebrate a special occasion. Its convenient location at the corner of Burnet Road and Research Boulevard makes it easy to get to, and the facility offers a range of amenities designed to cater to groups large or small. From bumper bowling options that keep younger kids engaged to adult leagues and special events, the venue ensures everyone in your group can participate and have a memorable time. The friendly staff, excellent food options, and automatic scoring systems help create an effortlessly fun environment that encourages laughter and camaraderie. In essence, Highland Lanes transforms a simple bowling night into a joyous rally point where friendships deepen and good times flourish.
What activities are available at Highland Lanes that make it perfect for group meetups? Highland Lanes offers 40 bowling lanes equipped with automatic scoring, which means you can focus on the fun and friendly competition without worrying about keeping score manually. For families with young children or groups seeking an extra level of excitement, there are dedicated bumper bowling lanes. These bumpers prevent gutter balls, ensuring that even novice bowlers and kids feel successful and included, keeping smiles wide and spirits high throughout the event. Beyond bowling, there's an arcade room for additional entertainment, so participants can switch gears if they want a break from the lanes. If your group enjoys socializing over drinks or food, Highland Lodge Lounge and Lebowski's Grill serve up tasty meals and refreshments to keep hunger at bay and conversations flowing. This combination of bowling, casual dining, and arcade games makes Highland Lanes a one-stop destination for diverse group interests, facilitating a dynamic experience that can cater to everyone’s tastes. Whether you're planning a birthday party, a company team-building event, or an informal get-together, the variety of activities ensures that all guests are entertained and engaged.
Why is Highland Lanes suited for your next birthday party or special event? One of the standout features of Highland Lanes is their flexible party packages designed specifically to accommodate groups from 10 up to 240 people. This makes it easy to tailor an experience that fits the size and vibe of your gathering. Every party package includes two hours of bowling with shoe and bowling ball rentals, which means your group can dive right into the fun with minimal hassle. The party coordinators work with you to customize packages, incorporating food, drinks, and lane arrangements that best suit your celebration. Having your event here means you don’t have to worry about logistics—Highland Lanes provides the space, the equipment, and the festive environment while you focus on enjoying the company of your friends and family. This dedicated party support ensures memorable events with streamlined planning. Coupled with their family-friendly atmosphere, they also offer bumpers and other kid-friendly options to keep younger guests happy. Overall, it is a convenient, enjoyable venue that takes the stress out of event hosting while delivering an unforgettable party experience.
What makes Highland Lanes a budget-friendly destination for group fun? Scottish or not, Highland Lanes truly lives up to its promise as a place where "you can have a great time at prices that won't break your family's budget." The cost structure for bowling at Highland Lanes is competitive, with shoe rentals and games priced to encourage multiple visits without financial strain. Moreover, the availability of weekday and off-peak discounts ensures that groups have opportunities to enjoy premium recreational activities affordably. With adult leagues, youth programs, and open bowl hours, there’s a range of cost options to suit different budgets and schedules. The combination of affordable bowling, food, and arcade entertainment under one roof adds substantial value, particularly for groups who want to do more than just bowl. Activities like bumper bowling mean parents don’t have to hire babysitters or look elsewhere for children’s activities, saving money and maximizing convenience. This accessibility makes Highland Lanes a popular choice among families, friends, and companies alike for regular social meetups and special occasions.
How does Highland Lanes accommodate different skill levels and ages for a seamless group experience? The beauty of Highland Lanes lies in its inclusivity. Whether your group includes seasoned bowlers or complete beginners, children or seniors, the environment supports everyone’s fun without pressure. Their auto scoring system removes the complexity of tracking scores, so players can focus purely on the experience. For children or those new to bowling, the bumper bowling lanes provide the perfect safety net to keep games engaging and frustration-free. In addition, Highland Lanes hosts leagues catering to various skill levels and ages, allowing bowlers to grow with the sport if they choose. Many groups find this mix of casual and competitive fun keeps the mood light and energetic. The friendly staff is known for assisting guests, sometimes offering tips or helping with equipment, which enhances the group dynamic and encourages social bonds. In short, Highland Lanes manages to balance fun for all by offering features that allow every group member to participate fully, creating a welcoming space for memorable gatherings.
Why is Highland Lanes a great place to combine food, drinks, and entertainment with bowling? Socializing is an integral part of any group meetup, and Highland Lanes understands this profoundly well. The Highland Lodge Lounge and Lebowski's Grill serve up a menu that complements the recreational vibe perfectly. From classic American grill fare to refreshing beverages, the dining options keep everyone satisfied without needing to leave the venue. This seamless integration of food, drink, and entertainment makes it easy for groups to extend their visit beyond just bowling. Whether you want a casual snack or full meal, the availability of quality food and drinks enhances the overall experience, making your time there more relaxed and enjoyable. Additionally, the lounge area provides a place to unwind or catch up between turns, allowing for meaningful social moments alongside the physical activity. For many visitors, the combination of great bowling and solid culinary options in one spot makes Highland Lanes a preferred destination for group outings and celebrations.
How does Highland Lanes stand out compared to other bowling alleys in Austin? Highland Lanes offers a unique blend of affordability, family friendliness, and comprehensive amenities rarely matched by other venues in the area. Its 40 well-maintained lanes provide ample space for multiple groups simultaneously, which is ideal for hosting sizable parties or company events. The investment in modern advantages like automatic scoring systems contrasts with the welcoming, somewhat nostalgic ambiance that attracts both new and regular visitors. The location is central and easily accessible from major Austin roads, making it a natural choice for local gatherings without the headache of long travel or hard parking. Moreover, the emphasis on youth programs and inclusive leagues demonstrates a commitment to community involvement beyond casual entertainment. The consistently positive reviews highlight not just the quality of facilities but the warmth and professionalism of the staff, who make guests feel valued and cared for. When combined, these factors make Highland Lanes more than just a bowling alley—they make it a hub of social enjoyment and community spirit.
Why should companies and organizations consider Highland Lanes for their team events? Highland Lanes specializes in hosting company events and team-building activities, offering packages designed to encourage bonding through fun physical activity. The environment helps break down formal barriers by putting colleagues in a relaxed setting where laughter and shared challenges bring teams closer together. Facilities support groups of various sizes, from small breakout teams to large corporate gatherings, and staff assist with customization to meet specific event goals or themes. Beyond bowling, the arcade and lounge spaces allow for varied interactions, making the event appealing to diverse personalities within any organization. Many companies appreciate the affordability combined with convenient services like food and beverage catering, which allow them to organize memorable events without extensive planning overhead. By choosing Highland Lanes for work gatherings, employers can provide a genuinely enjoyable experience that fosters communication, morale, and lasting connections among employees.
What do customers love most about Highland Lanes? According to numerous reviews, customers particularly appreciate the combination of excellent customer service, clean and well-maintained lanes, and the quality of food. The staff at Highland Lanes frequently receive praise for being friendly and attentive, which enhances the overall experience. Visitors also highly value the automatic scoring system, which simplifies the game and makes it more fun for all ages. The availability of ample bumper lanes is a recurring favorite feature for families, ensuring that even the youngest players can enjoy the game. Many reviewers mention the great value for the price, noting that Highland Lanes keeps entertainment accessible while maintaining high standards. Regular patrons return for the welcoming atmosphere and the ease of organizing group events. In summary, customers find Highland Lanes to be a warm, engaging, and affordable destination, ideally suited for creating great memories with friends, family, and colleagues alike.