Northgate Bowl — Attraction in Salem

I use to love bowling here with friends. It was a cheap night out with friends (we would go cosmic bowling). Went just this past week after not having been there in about a year or so. The alley is dated, but that has never been a problem; however it appeared that the staff had oiled recently and oiled more than the lanes. The shoes are also more worn out compared to the past. Ended up tripping up the steps on landing on my arm and hurting it. While there, my group also saw three other bowlers fall in attempts to bowl. The staff was also not noticing the people falling. It took me asking for ice to let them know I fell (despite tripping up the steps next to the cash register). Even then, it took at least 20 minutes for an employee to approach me to write an incident report that she has never even filled out before. Come here with caution and with your own bowling shoes if possible. I am young so thankfully the fall didn't cause any broken bones, but I could only imagine the damage it could cause to an...

This is a museum quality shrine to family culture and indoor sports circa 1950-60. One glance and DECADES of undying commitment to cleaning and maintenance are clear. Staff are friendly and helpful, but will not suffer any fools. The coffee and ice cream vending machines are Smithsonian-level preserved and WORKING. Bathrooms are clean. Pay attention to the Brunswick 2000 details all over the place, the silver frames for league standings, the old lockers, the concession counter, fair prices for food and beer and above all else, do no damage!! Follow basic bowling sportsmanship and good behavior. Smile and introduce yourselves to those bowling in the lane next to you. Put down your phone. Enjoy your family/friends and even just for an hour, experience the best parts of life...

One of my hobbies is visiting bowling alleys that hearken back to the golden age of the sport. I have visited lanes all over the country and have to say that Northgate Bowl is one of my favorites. You won't find huge walls of tvs, blacklight discos, or laser tag here and that is what makes this place so special. It's getting increasingly hard to find a bowling alley that isn't filled with gimmicks (especially after covid). Northgate is an absolute gem. All of the employees are very friendly and the lanes are clean + well maintained. Even though these lanes are about an hour south of my home in Portland, I still make time to drive here because it is that special. I would recommend bowling here to anyone who is looking to step back in history and enjoy a classic...