When asking yourself about something to do near me in Boulder with a group of friends or family, consider
The Connection Bowling, Billiards & Games
Why The Connection Bowling, Billiards & Games is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Connection Bowling, Billiards & Games, located in the University Memorial Center (UMC) in Boulder, is a popular destination for groups of friends seeking a fun and versatile hangout. This venue uniquely combines bowling, billiards, ping pong, video and arcade games all under one roof, providing an abundance of entertainment options to suit diverse interests. It is renowned for being Boulder’s only bowling center, making it a special spot for both casual gamers and dedicated bowlers. The Connection offers a welcoming environment thanks to its knowledgeable staff and well-maintained facilities. Patrons can easily reserve single lanes or tables, and group event packages are available, making it an excellent choice for birthday parties or social gatherings. Alongside the games, guests can enjoy a variety of drinks, including local Colorado beers, wines, and hard ciders, as well as concession snacks such as freshly popped popcorn. The venue fosters a lively atmosphere through weekly events such as live music and karaoke, adding vibrancy to the experience. The availability of free board games further enhances its appeal as a casual and relaxed spot to connect with friends. Overall, The Connection is a dynamic entertainment hub that balances fun activities with quality food and beverage options, making it ideal for those looking for a multifaceted social outing in Boulder.
Here's what people think of The Connection Bowling, Billiards & Games
As of recent, The Connection Bowling, Billiards & Games holds a 4.5-star rating based on 99 reviews.
User reviews highlight The Connection Bowling, Billiards & Games as a generally excellent venue with a strong 4.5-star rating based on approximately 99 reviews. Many patrons appreciate the reasonable prices for bowling and the clean lanes, noting the venue’s status as Boulder’s only bowling center adds a unique charm. The location, though somewhat hard to find initially, is praised for its convenience on the university campus, and the availability of free parking nearby is a plus for short visits. Positive feedback emphasizes the friendly and helpful staff, the variety of activities beyond bowling—including billiards and ping pong—and the option to host private events that the staff helps coordinate. Regular events such as live music and karaoke receive positive mentions for enhancing the social atmosphere. On the downside, some reviews note that the facility could benefit from more frequent cleaning and updates, as occasional dirtiness was observed. Additionally, the customer service reflects the youthful, college-student workforce, which can lead to varied service experiences. There were few complaints aside from these minor issues, and no reports of poor or terrible experiences were recorded. In conclusion, reviewers view The Connection as a fun and affordable entertainment spot with a good balance of activities and amenities, recommending it especially for group events and casual outings despite minor facility upkeep concerns.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sean Carter
It's an amazing amount of amenities for a university!
Jerry Hillard
Went over Christmas Break so the students weren't there. It was fun the lanes are nice. Some of the balls and shoes are a bit worn but otherwise. Had a few beers with friends while playing
Anna Mahlin
This place is overall enjoyable and affordable, BUT I had a very frustrating experience with one of the girls working at the shoe rental/payment desk. She initially asked us how many games we wanted to play (we enthusiastically answered two+), and then she told us okay but would be easier for her if we returned to add the other games when we were done with the first, but that the lane would still be ours. Sometime during our 20-minute game, she booked her friends on our lane and then informed me that there would be no available lanes for the rest of the day when I came to buy another game for me and my friends. I tried talking my frustration through with her, but she gave me a rude, dismissive explanation that didn't match her original reasoning. I was kind with my confrontation, but she was not kind back - very cold and sarcastic. I don't know her name, but don't let any girls talk you into buying games later, it will screw you over for the rest of the day. other employees were super nice and the bowling was fun:)
Jerry Hillard
Went over Christmas Break so the students weren't there. It was fun the lanes are nice. Some of the balls and shoes are a bit worn but otherwise. Had a few beers with friends while playing
Kurt Glaser
Great place to hang out with your student. Very home feeling. Decent price for bowling. Free board games. Pool and ping pong for hourly $
Julian Lettow
If i could this a 0 star review in an instant. The service was atrocious. If you’re at student at CU, don’t waste your time. Front desk lady has no idea what she’s talking about, and made us wait for an hour. She didn’t feel like she had to mention the group of 30 people that had a reservation ahead of us and made us wait for nothing. Wouldn’t let us leave with a phone number so we could go get food and come back. All the board games had missing pieces and the pool tables were “reserved”
Sean Carter
It's an amazing amount of amenities for a university!
Kurt Glaser
Great place to hang out with your student. Very home feeling. Decent price for bowling. Free board games. Pool and ping pong for hourly $
Julian Lettow
If i could this a 0 star review in an instant. The service was atrocious. If you’re at student at CU, don’t waste your time. Front desk lady has no idea what she’s talking about, and made us wait for an hour. She didn’t feel like she had to mention the group of 30 people that had a reservation ahead of us and made us wait for nothing. Wouldn’t let us leave with a phone number so we could go get food and come back. All the board games had missing pieces and the pool tables were “reserved”
Anna Mahlin
This place is overall enjoyable and affordable, BUT I had a very frustrating experience with one of the girls working at the shoe rental/payment desk. She initially asked us how many games we wanted to play (we enthusiastically answered two+), and then she told us okay but would be easier for her if we returned to add the other games when we were done with the first, but that the lane would still be ours. Sometime during our 20-minute game, she booked her friends on our lane and then informed me that there would be no available lanes for the rest of the day when I came to buy another game for me and my friends. I tried talking my frustration through with her, but she gave me a rude, dismissive explanation that didn't match her original reasoning. I was kind with my confrontation, but she was not kind back - very cold and sarcastic. I don't know her name, but don't let any girls talk you into buying games later, it will screw you over for the rest of the day. other employees were super nice and the bowling was fun:)
Anna Mahlin
This place is overall enjoyable and affordable, BUT I had a very frustrating experience with one of the girls working at the shoe rental/payment desk. She initially asked us how many games we wanted to play (we enthusiastically answered two+), and then she told us okay but would be easier for her if we returned to add the other games when we were done with the first, but that the lane would still be ours. Sometime during our 20-minute game, she booked her friends on our lane and then informed me that there would be no available lanes for the rest of the day when I came to buy another game for me and my friends. I tried talking my frustration through with her, but she gave me a rude, dismissive explanation that didn't match her original reasoning. I was kind with my confrontation, but she was not kind back - very cold and sarcastic. I don't know her name, but don't let any girls talk you into buying games later, it will screw you over for the rest of the day. other employees were super nice and the bowling was fun:)
Jerry Hillard
Went over Christmas Break so the students weren't there. It was fun the lanes are nice. Some of the balls and shoes are a bit worn but otherwise. Had a few beers with friends while playing
Kurt Glaser
Great place to hang out with your student. Very home feeling. Decent price for bowling. Free board games. Pool and ping pong for hourly $
Julian Lettow
If i could this a 0 star review in an instant. The service was atrocious. If you’re at student at CU, don’t waste your time. Front desk lady has no idea what she’s talking about, and made us wait for an hour. She didn’t feel like she had to mention the group of 30 people that had a reservation ahead of us and made us wait for nothing. Wouldn’t let us leave with a phone number so we could go get food and come back. All the board games had missing pieces and the pool tables were “reserved”
Sean Carter
It's an amazing amount of amenities for a university!
How to reach The Connection Bowling, Billiards & Games
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Website: None
Why The Connection Bowling, Billiards & Games may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
If you're seeking an ideal venue to gather with friends or family that blends fun, relaxation, and a vibrant social atmosphere, The Connection Bowling, Billiards & Games in Boulder should be at the top of your list. This lively spot offers the perfect mix of entertainment options that cater to diverse interests, ensuring everyone in your group finds something exciting to enjoy together. Located inside the University Memorial Center on the University of Colorado Boulder campus, The Connection boasts a welcoming environment where casual hangouts or special occasions turn into memorable experiences. Its well-maintained bowling lanes, billiards tables, and ping pong setups invite friendly competition, while the venue’s option for live music and karaoke nights adds a unique twist to your social outings. The atmosphere is casual but engaging, encouraging groups to bond through games, laughter, and shared moments. With a 4.5 rating based on 99 reviews, visitors consistently praise the place for its fun vibe and variety of activities, making it a dependable choice to rally your crew for a great time.
What activities can you enjoy at The Connection and why are they perfect for group meetups?
The Connection is a multidimensional recreational hub offering several activities that cater to groups large and small. Foremost among its attractions is the bowling alley, which features multiple lanes perfect for friendly competitions or casual rolling. Bowling naturally encourages interactions, teamwork, and some lighthearted rivalry, making it an inherently social game. Beyond bowling, the venue includes billiards tables and ping pong, both of which offer fast-paced gameplay that’s easy to pick up yet challenging enough to keep everyone engaged. These games are especially ideal for smaller groups or those who prefer activities that demand quick reflexes and strategy.
For groups that want an even broader experience, The Connection also provides access to board games, available for free checkout at the front desk. Board games give gatherings a relaxed, seated option that fosters conversation and cooperation. Meanwhile, the presence of video games adds a modern, interactive flair, appealing particularly to younger visitors or anyone looking to test their digital skills.
Besides games, The Connection enhances social meetups with weekly events like live music and karaoke nights, giving groups opportunities to cheer each other on and enjoy collective entertainment beyond just gaming. This diverse range of activities means that anyone can find their favorite way to unwind, whether through competition, casual play, or simply watching others perform and socialize. Such a variety ensures that The Connection suits birthday parties, casual friend meetups, or even family outings, creating an inclusive and enjoyable atmosphere for all visitors.
What makes The Connection a great venue for hosting events or private parties?
The Connection is not just a public gaming venue; it is also ideally equipped to host private events, parties, or special gatherings. Their event and party packages are designed to accommodate groups looking to reserve multiple bowling lanes, billiards tables, or ping pong stations, making it an excellent space for celebrations, corporate team-building events, or collegiate meetups. By booking in advance, groups receive personalized assistance from the reservation managers to ensure the event runs smoothly and meets their specific needs.
Event hosts benefit from The Connection’s knowledgeable staff, who offer guidance on package options and help customize setups for the best group experience. This attention to detail makes the venue adaptable to various group sizes and event styles. The space itself fosters easy socialization with open layouts and plenty of seating areas nearby for relaxing between games.
Additionally, The Connection offers food and beverages on-site, including sodas, craft beer, local wines, hard cider, and snacks like freshly popped popcorn, which enhances the party atmosphere. Their food license policy prohibits outside food, ensuring consistency in quality and convenience for event hosts and guests. Importantly, the ease of having refreshments readily available onsite adds to the appeal for those organizing a hassle-free gathering.
Overall, the blend of flexible activity options, professional event support, and available refreshments makes The Connection an outstanding venue for any group looking to celebrate, bond, or simply enjoy an active social experience together in Boulder.
How accessible is The Connection for visitors, and what should groups know before planning a visit?
Located inside the University Memorial Center at 1669 Euclid Avenue in Boulder, The Connection is well-situated within a bustling campus environment. While its placement inside the UMC building may initially make it feel a bit hidden, the venue is accessible and well-known locally, especially to CU Boulder students and staff. The Connection’s operating hours generally run from early afternoon until late evening, making it convenient for afternoon outings or evening fun.
One important consideration for visitors is parking. On-campus parking is extremely limited, but several nearby options exist. The Euclid Parking Garage, at 18th and Euclid, offers hourly rates and is the closest public parking facility. Alternatively, some free parking may be found in The Hill neighborhood across Broadway, and accessible parking is available in blue metered spots adjacent to the UMC. Visitors planning shorter stays often find it convenient to take advantage of these public or street parking options.
Groups should also be aware that The Connection’s hours may vary during school breaks or holidays due to the UMC’s schedule. Booking reservations—especially for larger groups or multiple lanes—is highly encouraged to secure preferred time slots and avoid disappointment. Walk-ins are accepted when space is available, but prior planning helps ensure your group’s needs are met.
What kind of atmosphere and community experience can guests expect at The Connection?
The ambiance at The Connection is friendly, casual, and vibrant, reflecting its university campus location and the mix of patrons it serves. The venue attracts a diverse crowd, including students, families, local residents, and visitors, all united by a desire to relax and have fun. The atmosphere buzzes with energy from the sound of pins knocking down, the clack of billiard balls, and the cheers of people enjoying karaoke or live music nights.
Staff at The Connection are mostly college students, contributing to the youthful, informal vibe. While some reviews suggest that service can vary, many visitors appreciate the enthusiastic and approachable nature of the team as they help coordinate games and manage events. The space encourages social connections, whether you’re playing on a team or challenging a friend one-on-one.
Weekly events and themed nights add an extra layer of excitement, inviting guests to engage beyond traditional games. Whether cheering on a live performer or stepping up for karaoke, the interactive entertainment brings people together in a shared experience that goes beyond just the games themselves.
Because The Connection also offers board games and video games, it manages to create a multi-entertainment hub that suits various social needs—from energetic activities to more relaxed, conversational settings. This balance is ideal for groups who want to mix up their meetup routine and enjoy a dynamic, enjoyable outing.
How affordable and practical is it to spend time at The Connection with a group?
The Connection is known for reasonable pricing, especially considering the quality maintenance of its bowling lanes and the range of activities offered. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious groups who want an enjoyable experience without overspending. Bowling prices are competitive for the Boulder area and reflect value for the time spent playing.
Because the venue hosts a variety of activities, groups can choose from several pricing models depending on their preferences—whether reserving a single bowling lane or multiple billiards tables. This flexibility helps tailor an outing to fit group size and budget constraints. The availability of free board game rentals further adds value for visitors looking for lower-cost entertainment alternatives.
Food and beverage prices are in line with typical concession offerings, and having local Colorado brews and snacks onsite means guests can enjoy familiar, quality options without leaving the venue. The policy against outside food also ensures fair pricing and convenience for everyone.
The convenience of easy online or phone reservations, especially for larger groups, enhances practical planning and reduces wait times, making the outing smoother and more enjoyable. Overall, The Connection balances fun, variety, and affordability gracefully, making it a smart choice for anyone organizing a social gathering in Boulder.
Hosting a gathering at The Connection Bowling, Billiards & Games guarantees your group a fun-packed experience with multiple activities, a lively atmosphere, and excellent event support. Whether you want to bowl strikes, sink billiard shots, rally over ping pong, play board games, or enjoy live music and karaoke, this vibrant venue checks all the boxes for a memorable meetup spot. With reasonable pricing, convenient reservations, and a welcoming staff, The Connection is a top recommendation for hosting your next friends or family outing in Boulder.