When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Shatto 39 Lanes
Why Shatto 39 Lanes is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Shatto 39 Lanes in Koreatown, Los Angeles, is a beloved classic bowling alley that offers a vibrant and nostalgic atmosphere ideal for meeting up with friends. Established since 1954, this venue boasts 39 well-maintained bowling lanes that attract everyone from casual bowlers to groups seeking a lively night out. The retro vibe is accentuated by warm lighting and the familiar sound of pins crashing, creating an inviting environment that feels both authentic and energetic. Beyond bowling, Shatto 39 Lanes features a dedicated billiards room with ample pool tables, an arcade corner equipped with classic pinball and Pac-Man machines, and a full bar serving strong, affordable cocktails that complement the social experience. The snack bar offers classic comfort foods such as nachos, wings, burgers, and hot dogs, adding a greasy-spoon charm that pairs well with the casual setting. Practical amenities include on-site shoe rentals, a vending machine for socks, garage parking underneath the alley, and accessibility features, making it convenient for groups, families, and kids. The venue tends to be at its liveliest on Thursday through Saturday nights, staying open as late as 3 a.m. on weekends, which makes it a perfect destination for late-night outings. Overall, Shatto 39 Lanes combines a fun, casual atmosphere with diverse entertainment options and good value, ensuring a memorable social gathering place in the heart of LA's Koreatown.
Here's what people think of Shatto 39 Lanes
As of recent, Shatto 39 Lanes holds a 4.4-star rating based on 1999 reviews.
User reviews consistently highlight Shatto 39 Lanes as an entertaining and affordable spot for social bowling and nightlife. Many patrons appreciate the nostalgic ambiance and the balance of retro charm with a lively modern crowd. Positive reviews often praise the affordability of the lane rentals and drinks, noting the $7 games at night and strong cocktails as highlights. The extensive amenities including abundant lanes, billiards tables, arcade games, and a full snack bar with classic diner-style food receive favorable mentions. Reviewers also value the staff friendliness and convenience features like shoe rentals, ample parking, and the vending machine with socks. The venue’s long operating hours and casual dress code make it attractive for varied groups, from families and friends to date nights and coworkers. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to occasional complaints about noise levels and the no-refill water policy inside. A few users have noted that serious bowlers might find the lanes lacking professional-grade maintenance like factory waxing. Some also mention minor inconveniences such as paying extra for shoe rental and occasional crowding. Nevertheless, the overall consensus remains positive, with most reviewers indicating they would return for the fun and social vibe. In conclusion, Shatto 39 Lanes is well-regarded as a spirited bowling alley that excels in providing a social and nostalgic experience with good value and diverse recreational options, despite some minor drawbacks in amenities and noise.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jay Mamon
⭐ Overall Atmosphere Shatto 39 Lanes is a Koreatown classic, operating since 1954. Its 39 lanes come with a retro‑nostalgic charm—think vintage bowling feel, warm lighting, and that lively “pins crashing” energy . The vibe is casual, friendly, and oh‑so‑authentic. ⸻ 🎳 Bowling & Billiards • 39 lanes well‑maintained enough for casual play, though serious bowlers might notice lanes aren’t factory‑waxed . • Billiards room stocked with ample tables—a great addition for pool lovers . • Arcade corner: A few pinball and Pac‑Man machines still chime in nostalgic fun . ⸻ 🍹 Drinks & Food • Bar: Serves strong, affordably‑priced drinks—think $4–7 cocktails and $7 games at night . • Snack bar: Classic comfort‑food fare like nachos, wings, burgers, hot dogs and more—greasy spoon style with diner charm . • Extras: Forgot socks? No worries—the vending machine has you covered . ⸻ 💵 Pricing & Logistics • Lane rental (up to 5 people): ~$30/hr weekdays before 6 pm; ~$40–60/hr nights & weekends. Shoe rental is $5 each (). • Walk‑in games: About $6–7/game at night . • Parking: Free lot under the building, though tight—ideal for small cars . ⸻ 🙌 Crowd & Service • Mornings/Weekdays: Chill and laid‑back—perfect for a mellow afternoon outing (). • Weekends/Nights: Buzzing and social, especially with the bar crowd after 10 pm (). • Staff: Friendly bartenders and security add to the welcoming vibe. Occasional lane glitches get prompt attention . • Family‑friendly hours: Under‑21 guests welcome until bar opens . ⸻ 👍 Highlights & Considerations • What’s awesome: • Retro, no‑frills charm with lots of lanes and extras. • Affordably priced bowling and drinks. • Pool tables and arcade make it more than just a bowling alley . • Heads‑up: • Lane surface might not suit advanced bowlers . • Parking space is limited—plan accordingly. • Weekends are lively—expect crowds and possible wait times . ⸻ 📝 Final Verdict Shatto 39 Lanes is a beloved Koreatown institution that captures old‑school LA bowling culture. Whether you’re rolling strikes, shooting pool, gaming arcades, or sipping a stiff cocktail, it’s a fantastic spot for groups, dates, and families during the day. Expect a lively, energetic scene at night—a true throwback experience with modern perks. Score: 8/10 – A no‑holds‑barred retro gem offering entertainment, drinks, and nostalgia at a great value. ⸻ ✨ Tip Summary • Go weekdays before 6 pm for a chill vibe. • Visit weekend nights if you’re after top‑ tier energy and people‑watching. • Bring a compact car for that free garage parking. • Arrive early or expect a short wait on busy evenings.
Christian Andre Campos
Decent pricing for bowling. Security’s around the parking and establishment. Definitely cool vibes and great ratio. If you’re a decent or pro bowler, the lanes aren’t made to curve the balls. They aren’t waxed to perfection, unless you bring your own bowling ball, for better curves. They have a bar, great nachos and Pool tables too. Cool spot.
Kevin Chen
This bowling alley seems to be a longstanding location in Koreatown for bowling. Hugely popular on weekend nights so you might have to sign up for a waitlist to get a bowling lane. There is free parking underneath the building but it is very tight so you should have a smaller car and check all your mirrors and cameras to adjust. They check IDs at the entrance because there is also a bar there. Lots of families with small kids here during peak hours. For bowling, shoe rentals are $5 per person and you can rent the lane by number of games or by the hour. Machines are intuitive to use and work well, staff are helpful when there are any further issues. Very straightforward and fun to bowl here. There are snacks if you’re hungry and small arcade games here too if you’re looking for other smaller activities.
carlos herrera
Great placed to be with friends or family. Free parking it's classic
Jonathan Friedman
Great atmosphere and well-maintained lanes. Staff was friendly and service was smooth. Good music, decent drink selection, and a fun place to unwind without the crowds or chaos. Would definitely return for a relaxed night out.
How to reach Shatto 39 Lanes
None
Website: None
Why Shatto 39 Lanes may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Shatto 39 Lanes with your friends?
If you're looking for a vibrant, lively, and nostalgic spot to gather with friends or family, Shatto 39 Lanes in Koreatown, Los Angeles, offers an unbeatable experience that combines the fun of classic bowling with a buzzing social atmosphere. With its retro charm dating back to 1954, this venue lets you evoke feelings of good old-fashioned arcade and bowling alley fun infused with modern touches. From the moment you step up a cascading flight of red metal stairs into the warm glow of 39 well-maintained lanes, you are transported into a world where pins crash, arcade games blare, and the energy of lively night outings permeates the air. It’s a space designed not just for casual bowlers but for groups eager to enjoy each other’s company in a relaxed, non-pretentious setting. Whether your group is competitive, looking to unwind over drinks, or just hoping for a night full of laughs, Shatto 39 Lanes delivers a well-rounded, authentic social experience that is not easy to find elsewhere. The venue’s blend of affordability, accessibility, and downright fun creates the perfect rallying point for any group outing. It invites all to relive cherished pastimes while making new memories amid a friendly and easygoing crowd.
What activities can groups enjoy at Shatto 39 Lanes?
Shatto 39 Lanes is more than just a bowling alley; it’s a hub of diverse entertainment aimed specifically at groups looking for variety and engaging activities. Naturally, bowling is the main draw with 39 lanes available, providing ample space for large groups to split up or compete head-to-head. The lanes maintain a classic, vintage look that reflects the mid-20th-century bowling era, lending a nostalgic charm while ensuring a smooth, enjoyable game for all players, from beginners to casual bowlers. Shoe rentals are affordable at $5 per person, and lanes can be booked by the hour, accommodating groups of up to five players per lane. This makes it ideal for birthday parties, work meetups, or casual hangouts, with flexible pricing options that work around your schedule.
Beyond the lanes, Shatto 39 offers an exciting billiards parlor stocked with multiple pool tables. This addition is perfect for groups with varying interests, allowing those not bowling to engage in competitive or social pool games simultaneously. The billiards area complements the bowling lanes by providing a quieter, skill-based game option while maintaining the fun, communal atmosphere.
For those who love arcade games, two video game rooms filled with classic machines like pinball and Pac-Man add an element of arcade nostalgia to the experience. These machines offer fun distractions between bowling rounds or a chance for the crew to challenge each other to an old-school gaming showdown. The presence of foosball tables further compliments Shatto’s range of games, enriching the activity selection and encouraging friendly rivalries within your group.
Why is Shatto 39 Lanes perfect for a group meetup?
Planning a meetup can be tricky, especially when trying to accommodate various tastes and energy levels within a group. Shatto 39 Lanes handles this challenge effortlessly by blending multiple entertainment forms into one convenient location. Its central Koreatown location is easily accessible with free parking, a critical factor for groups wanting a hassle-free venue. This feature eliminates the stress of finding parking in busy Los Angeles, allowing everyone to arrive relaxed and ready to have fun.
Furthermore, the venue operates with generous hours, open every day of the week including holidays, from early afternoon until 2 AM. This flexibility means groups can meet for an afternoon activity, a late-night outing, or anywhere in between. No need to rush or reshuffle plans, making it easy to coordinate around everyone’s schedules.
The bar scene at Shatto 39 Lanes greatly enhances the social aspect of a meetup. With affordable yet strong cocktails priced around $4–$7, it strikes a great balance between value and quality. The drinks complement both the bowling and arcade games, adding an extra layer of fun and relaxation to the night. A snack bar features classic comfort foods such as nachos, wings, burgers, and hot dogs, catering to appetites after energetic games or casual hangs.
The venue’s casual, friendly, and lively ambiance is exactly what you want for a group gathering; it is not pretentious or overly polished but warmly authentic. The retro decor paired with the soundscape of pins crashing and arcade bells ringing helps foster a sense of camaraderie and shared joy. Groups can laugh, compete, reminisce, and bond in an environment that encourages letting loose and having a good time.
Can I expect good value and convenience at Shatto 39 Lanes?
Absolutely. One of Shatto 39 Lanes’ standout features is its excellent value for money, especially considering its prime location and range of offerings. Bowling lane rentals are reasonably priced, generally around $30 per hour per lane before 6 PM on weekdays, increasing modestly after 6 PM and on weekends. Shoe rentals are a minimal extra cost, and the facility even caters to small forgetful moments with vending machines selling socks onsite.
The bar’s drink prices are another highlight, being strong and well-crafted yet budget-friendly. This affordability encourages longer stays and a more relaxed, festive vibe without the burden of heavy spending. The menu’s diner-charm comfort foods also keep things easy and satisfying, avoiding the hassle of waiting for or finding food off-site.
Free parking in a dense urban area like Koreatown is a huge convenience, removing one of the biggest headaches when planning group outings in Los Angeles. Its location also means it's close to other local attractions, dining, or after-meetup options, adding to itinerary flexibility.
In sum, Shatto 39 Lanes combines great activities, a welcoming atmosphere, convenient logistics, and cost-effectiveness, making it an excellent choice for hosting memorable meetups with friends or family.
What kind of atmosphere and crowd can I expect at Shatto 39 Lanes?
Visitors to Shatto 39 Lanes often remark on its nostalgic, retro vibe that manages to remain lively and casual without feeling outdated. The aesthetic harkens back to the 1950s era with warm lighting, vintage signage, and a maintained old-school bowling alley feel. The soundscape contributes significantly to the ambiance—think pins crashing, classic arcade noises, and upbeat music all contributing to an environment buzzing with energy.
The crowd is diverse but tends towards a friendly and open social mix. Regulars and newcomers alike come for the experience, with many using it as a go-to spot for weekend nights or after-work gatherings. It's common to see groups of friends, families, coworkers, and couples making the most of the venue’s varied offerings. The non-pretentious setting encourages inclusivity and comfort across different age groups and skill levels.
Staff are known to be courteous and helpful, providing a smooth check-in and supportive service throughout the visit, enhancing the overall welcoming feel of the place.
Are there any special features or tips for visiting Shatto 39 Lanes?
To make your meetup as seamless and fun as possible, consider booking your lanes in advance, especially on busy weekend nights when the venue is popular. The staff’s efficiency and the venue’s layout support easy group management once you arrive.
If your group includes people who might forget essentials like socks for bowling shoes, rest assured that this is covered by on-site vending machines. Additionally, extended hours until 2 AM mean your group has plenty of time, whether you start early or like to linger late.
Many visitors appreciate the affordability of late evening packages and specials, like unlimited bowl nights during the week, which could be ideal for large groups or recurring meetups.
Finally, keeping an open mind and bringing a playful spirit will ensure that everyone in your group, regardless of age or skill, enjoys everything Shatto 39 Lanes has to offer—a perfect blend of vintage bowling culture and contemporary social fun.
By choosing Shatto 39 Lanes for your next meetup, you are selecting a classic yet vibrant venue rooted in decades of Los Angeles culture, offering a full spectrum of activities under one roof with excellent value and convenience. It’s a spot designed to connect people through timeless fun and friendly competition, making every gathering a memorable one.