Does Splitsville Strike out, or Should You Spare the Time?

Nestled between Disney Quest and the AMC mega-theater complex is the latest addition to Downtown Disney’s West Side, Splitsville.  This 2 story building is home to 30 bowling lanes, drinking, dining and of course, a souvenir shop.

I must confess, I already had it in my mind that I would not like Splitsville. Why pay some high price to bowl when I can do it at home for $1.50 a game? At Splitsville, Monday through Friday before 4pm, lane prices (including shoes) are $15 per person, $20 after 4pm or on Saturday and Sunday. But, my son loves bowling and he wore down my resolve, so in we went.

First we had to get a good look around and take it all in. This was like no bowling alley we had ever seen before. A group of lanes here, a few more lanes over there, and a giant escalator to more lanes upstairs… pretty crazy, but a seemingly perfect fit for Disney.

At noon on a Wednesday, even though it was spring break, it was not very crowded. We checked in at the front desk, gave them shoes sizes, and from then on, we were catered to.  A cast member put our bowling shoes (no laces, all Velcro) into a basket and led us to our lane. Each lane has a wide selection of bowling balls ready for use.  For those unsure of their size, there are 4 balls on display with finger holes drilled in small, medium, large and extra-large.

From there you can pick your poundage and off you go. Since we had 2 bowlers, our lane timer was set for 65 minutes, giving us an extra 5 minutes to get shoes on and pick a ball. Be mindful of the timer, the clock starts ticking once you are put on your lane, not when the first ball is thrown. Bowling time is based on the number of people in your party:

1 – 3 bowlers……......60 minutes

4 bowlers……………75 minutes

5 bowlers……………90 minutes

 6 – 8 bowlers…….....105 minutes

For the non-bowlers, each lane has it’s own padded booth and stools that can easily seat 8. A cast member will be by to take your food and drink orders if you so choose.  Splitsville does not serve your typical bowling alley grub. The menu is quite varied, serving such items as salads, burgers, pulled pork and even sushi! For the younger bowlers there is a normal kid’s menu, and Slurpees available in souvenir cups. Each level also  has a bar for an adult beverage or two, as well tv screens to catch up on your favorite sports teams. If you prefer not to eat on your lane, or just stopped by for the food, there are plenty of booths away from the alleys as well as outdoor seating.

When our timer hit zero, we had just completed four games each, which was more than enough.  Comparing that to our normal bowling alley at home, Splitsville cost about $5 more per person, but with the services and amenities they provide, I think it was well worth the price.

For your convenience, it is possible to make reservations to assure yourself of a lane. Priority bowling is also available. It’s kind of like a Fastpass to get placed on a lane before others that have been waiting. However, it does come with a fee, $80 per hour before 4pm and $125 per hour after. Shoe rental is $4 more per bowler. Splitsville can also accommodate large groups, corporate events and private parties.

Want to know more? Visit Splisville online at by clicking here.