![Bowling Alley: how to post engaging content [content idea list]](http://onlineyougrow.com/cdn/shop/articles/cov-marketing-plan-1_843b959c-5623-49df-94a3-6203be0b19c5.png?v=1715865612&width=1100)
Facebook and Instagram are not just for likes and fun—they're powerful tools that the best bowling alleys in the world use strategically to attract customers.
We know you're busy running your bowling alley and the thought of managing social media might feel like another burden.
But here's the deal: you don't need to be a marketing expert or spend a fortune to make it work. Just a few minutes a day can bring a couple of new bowlers to your lanes.
To help you out we have built a free list of content ideas - also, for a full action plan, please check our strategy pack for bowling alley owners.
Get the content idea list made for bowling alley owners
A lot of bowling alleys manage to post engaging content on social media. Here is a free tool to to get you started.
Content that always work well for a bowling alley
We have studied dozens of bowling alleys’ social media accounts when building strategy pack for bowling alleys - here is what seems to always work.
| Content Type | Why It Works to Get New Customers in Your Bowling Alley |
|---|---|
| Action Shots of Bowling | Dynamic images of people bowling can capture the excitement and fun, encouraging potential customers to visit and experience it themselves. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Videos | Showcasing the maintenance of lanes, the technology behind scoring, and staff interactions builds trust and creates a connection with the audience. |
| Customer Testimonials | Positive reviews and testimonials from real customers provide social proof and encourage others to try the bowling alley. |
| Specials and Promotions | Announcing limited-time offers, discounts, and special bowling nights can attract new customers looking for deals. |
| User-Generated Content | Sharing content created by customers (photos, videos) engages the community and adds authenticity. |
| Local Collaborations | Partnering with local influencers or businesses can introduce the bowling alley to a broader, local audience. |
| Event Announcements | Promoting upcoming events, tournaments, or themed bowling nights can attract new visitors interested in unique experiences. |
| Seasonal and Holiday Posts | Highlighting seasonal events or holiday-themed bowling nights can attract customers looking for special activities during those times. |
| Interactive Content | Polls, quizzes, and Q&A sessions engage followers and create a sense of community, encouraging them to visit. |
| Bowling Tips and Tricks | Sharing tips and tricks for improving bowling skills can intrigue enthusiasts and motivate them to practice at the alley. |
| Daily Specials Updates | Regularly updating followers with daily specials keeps the bowling alley top-of-mind and encourages spontaneous visits. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Staff Stories | Featuring stories about the staff members creates a personal connection and humanizes the brand. |
| Maintenance Tips | Sharing tips on how to maintain bowling equipment can engage followers who are bowling enthusiasts and home bowlers. |
| Sustainability Initiatives | Highlighting sustainable practices or community involvement appeals to environmentally conscious consumers. |
| Customer Spotlights | Featuring regular customers creates a sense of community and makes others want to be part of that group. |
| Contests and Giveaways | Running contests and giveaways can increase engagement and attract new followers, many of whom may convert into customers. |
Some bowling alleys make 5x more profit than you!
We have studied the strategies of the best bowling alleys in the world. Replicate them now!
How can bowling alley owners make great content on social media?
What to Prioritise
You probably know it already, but high-quality photos and videos of your bowling alley are essential.
People are drawn to visuals first. Make sure the lighting is good, the lanes look clean, and the atmosphere is inviting.
Also, post regularly to keep your audience engaged. It doesn’t have to be daily, but find a schedule that works for you and stick to it. We have prepared a free social media planner for you.
Of course, respond to comments and messages quickly. People appreciate interaction and it makes them feel valued. Don’t just be another “bland” account.
Show the real side of your bowling alley. Behind-the-scenes photos, staff stories, and customer shoutouts can create a personal connection with your audience.
If you want to keep your potential customers excited, highlight any special offers, events, or league nights. Make sure your followers know what’s new and exciting.
Finally, share positive reviews and testimonials. Social proof is powerful and can help attract new customers.
What Doesn’t Matter as Much
Overly polished content does not really matter. Your posts don’t need to be perfect. Authenticity can be more engaging than highly produced content.
Also, don’t feel pressured to jump on every social media trend. Focus on what fits your bowling alley’s “image” and what your audience likes.
If you have a low budget to conduct marketing for your bowling alley, don’t immediately go for paid Ads. Organic reach can still be effective with good content and engagement. You will find tons of tactics and strategies in our strategy pack for bowling alley owners.
How to Do It Fast and Efficient
First, spend a few hours once a week taking photos, recording videos, and drafting posts. This way, you’re not scrambling daily.
Use Scheduling Tools - tools like Buffer or Hootsuite can schedule posts in advance, saving you time.
Repurpose and use the same content across different platforms. A photo on Instagram can be a post on Facebook or a tweet on Twitter.
Encourage customers to share their own photos and tag your bowling alley. This is what we call “User-Generated Content”. Reposting these can save you time and build community.
Use apps like Canva for quick and easy graphic design, or Lightroom for photo editing. These tools can make your content look professional with minimal effort.
Low-budget content ideas for bowling alleys on social media
Our team has crafted this list featuring very specific, low-budget content ideas tailored for bowling alleys, with practical tips to keep costs down and effectively use social media.
You might want to incorporate some of these ideas in the marketing plan of your bowling alley.
| Content Type | Tips to Make It More Affordable |
|---|---|
| Smartphone Action Shots | Capture dynamic bowling action using natural light. Enhance photos with free apps like Snapseed or VSCO. |
| Customer Testimonials | Ask happy bowlers to leave a quick video testimonial on their phone. Offer a free game or snack as a thank-you. |
| User-Generated Content | Encourage customers to share their bowling photos by offering a monthly raffle for those who tag your bowling alley on Instagram. |
| DIY Bowling Tips Videos | Film short, simple bowling tips using a smartphone and a basic tripod. Use free editing software like iMovie or OpenShot. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Stories | Use Instagram Stories or Facebook Live to give a real-time look at your daily operations or introduce the team during slow hours. |
| Daily Special Posts | Design simple, eye-catching graphics for daily specials using free tools like Canva. Include a brief description and a fun photo. |
| Staff Spotlights | Feature staff members with a casual photo and fun facts about them. Use your smartphone and a natural setting in the bowling alley. |
| Simple Polls and Questions | Engage followers with free Instagram or Facebook polls about their favorite bowling games or suggestions for new events. |
| Local Event Promotions | Collaborate with local events by offering a small discount or coupon. Cross-promote each other's content to reach a wider audience. |
| Community Involvement Posts | Post photos and short stories about your participation in local charity events or partnerships with community organizations. |
| Customer Spotlights | Highlight loyal customers with their favorite bowling moments. Take a quick photo and share a short story about their experience at your bowling alley. |
| Homemade Snack Photos | Create attractive table settings using inexpensive items like tablecloths, napkins, and props from dollar stores. |
| Sustainability Tips | Share eco-friendly practices such as recycling or using energy-efficient lighting. Create simple infographics with free tools like Canva. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Prep | Record short clips of the alley prep work, such as oiling lanes or setting up pins. Compile them into a quick video using free tools. |
| Simple Contests and Giveaways | Run social media contests where participants like, share, or tag friends to win a free game. Use prizes that are cost-effective like a free snack. |
| Seasonal Event Posts | Highlight seasonal events and promotions using natural light and your smartphone camera. Share the story behind the event to add interest. |
Copy the tactics of the best bowling alleys in the world!
There are bowling alleys that make way more money than you do. We have studied their tactics. Get them now!
Exceptionally creative and innovative content ideas specifically for bowling alleys
Investing in top-notch social media content for your bowling alley might be worth it because many other places won't bother, giving you a chance to really stand out, grab people's attention, and build a loyal crowd.
| Content Type | Why It Could Bring a LOT of Customers |
|---|---|
| Live Bowling Tutorials | Hosting live or recorded bowling tutorials where your pros teach viewers how to improve their game can create a sense of community and attract a global audience. |
| Interactive 360° Alley Tours | Offering virtual 360° tours of your bowling alley, including the lanes, arcade, and lounge areas, can provide a unique behind-the-scenes experience and entice people to visit in person. |
| Limited Edition Bowling Events | Creating buzz with limited edition or seasonal bowling events available for a short time can generate excitement and urgency, attracting new and repeat customers. |
| Pro Bowler Meet & Greet | Offering an exclusive experience where customers can meet and bowl with professional bowlers can create a memorable experience and word-of-mouth. |
| AR Bowling Scoreboards | Implementing augmented reality (AR) technology in your scoreboards where customers can see 3D animations and effects can enhance the bowling experience and attract tech-savvy customers. |
| Themed Bowling Nights | Hosting themed bowling nights, such as cosmic bowling or 80s retro nights, can provide a unique and immersive experience, attracting groups and special occasions. |
| Bowling Challenge Contests | Organizing bowling challenge contests (e.g., highest score in a single game) can create viral moments, attracting competitive bowlers and spectators. |
| Collaborative Pop-Up Events | Partnering with other local businesses to host pop-up events can introduce your bowling alley to new audiences and create a buzz in the community. |
| Story-Driven Social Media Posts | Sharing in-depth stories about the history of your bowling alley, the journey of your staff, or the local community can create an emotional connection with customers. |
| Interactive Game Selection | Allowing customers to choose game formats or special rules via social media polls can make them feel involved and eager to try the games they helped design. |
| Eco-Friendly Initiatives | Launching and promoting eco-friendly initiatives, such as recycling programs or energy-efficient lighting, can attract environmentally conscious consumers and media attention. |
| Mobile Bowling Alley | Operating a mobile bowling alley in different locations or at local events can expand your reach and attract new customers who may visit your main alley later. |
| Bowling League Subscription Service | Offering a subscription service where customers receive monthly tips, exclusive event invites, and league updates can create a loyal customer base. |
| Immersive Bowling Workshops | Hosting workshops where customers can learn advanced bowling techniques from your pros can attract bowling enthusiasts and create a sense of exclusivity. |
| Flash Mob Bowling Events | Organizing flash mob bowling events in unexpected locations can create viral content and attract adventurous bowlers looking for unique experiences. |
Content that never works well for bowling alleys on social media
Don't waste your time and resources on these ideas. We've seen many bowling alley owners make these mistakes, and they won't help you stand out from the crowd or bring in new visitors to your lanes.
| Content Type | Why It Never Works for Bowling Alleys | Do This Instead |
|---|---|---|
| Generic Stock Photos | They lack authenticity and can make the bowling alley appear unoriginal or untrustworthy. | Use real photos of your lanes, staff, and happy bowlers to create a genuine connection with your audience. |
| Overly Promotional Posts | Constantly pushing promotions can feel spammy and turn off followers. | Mix in engaging content like behind-the-scenes stories, customer testimonials, and interactive posts to keep your audience interested. |
| Unrelated Content | Posting content that has nothing to do with bowling or your alley confuses followers and dilutes your brand. | Keep your content focused on your bowling alley, events, leagues, and related topics to maintain relevance and interest. |
| Low-Quality Videos | Poorly shot or edited videos can reflect badly on your bowling alley's quality and professionalism. | Invest in basic video equipment or hire a local videographer to produce high-quality videos that showcase your alley positively. |
| Political or Controversial Posts | These can alienate parts of your audience and lead to negative backlash. | Stick to neutral, positive content that focuses on bowling, community, and your alley's unique offerings. |
| Too Many Hashtags | Overusing hashtags can look desperate and reduce engagement by making posts look cluttered. | Use a few relevant, targeted hashtags to increase visibility without overwhelming your audience. |
| Automated Replies and Messages | They can come off as impersonal and frustrate customers looking for genuine interaction. | Respond personally to comments and messages to show that you care about your customers and value their feedback. |
| Overly Staged Photos | Photos that look too perfect can seem inauthentic and less relatable. | Use natural lighting and casual settings to make your photos feel more genuine and inviting. |
| Constant Self-Promotion | Only talking about your bowling alley can bore followers and reduce engagement. | Share user-generated content, collaborate with local businesses, and highlight community involvement to diversify your content. |
| Negative or Defensive Responses | Responding poorly to criticism can damage your reputation and discourage potential customers. | Address negative feedback calmly and constructively, showing that you are willing to improve and value customer input. |
| Ignoring Social Media Trends | Being out of touch with current trends can make your bowling alley seem outdated and unappealing. | Stay updated with social media trends and incorporate them creatively into your content strategy to keep your audience engaged and excited. |
| Excessive Posting | Posting too frequently can overwhelm your followers and lead to unfollows. | Maintain a consistent but moderate posting schedule, ensuring each post adds value and keeps your audience looking forward to your updates. |
| Complex or Confusing Promotions | Promotions that are hard to understand can frustrate customers and deter participation. | Offer simple, clear, and straightforward promotions that are easy for customers to grasp and engage with. |
| Ignoring Comments and Messages | Not engaging with your audience can make them feel undervalued and reduce their loyalty. | Regularly respond to comments and messages to build a strong, interactive community around your bowling alley. |
Make your bowling alley more profitable
We have studied the strategies of the best bowling alleys in the world. All their tactics are explained in our pack!
Why social media can be a big pay-off for your bowling alley
We understand that as a bowling alley owner, you might feel hesitant about diving into social media marketing.
The world of social media can seem foreign and filled with confusing jargon. You might believe that it's more suited for big corporations rather than small businesses like yours.
The day-to-day demands of running a bowling alley are already overwhelming, leaving little time for additional tasks like social media.
It's common to think that social media marketing is an expensive endeavor, one that your tight profit margins can't support. Plus, the sheer number of social media platforms can lead to indecision and skepticism, especially if previous efforts haven't yielded the results you hoped for.
That's why we've created a "marketing pack" specifically designed for bowling alley owners like you.
Our pack addresses all the issues you might face, offering simple, cost-effective strategies that don't require a marketing expert or a big budget for your bowling alley. These documents are straightforward and easy to understand, cutting through the jargon and focusing on what really works for small bowling alleys on social media.
We provide clear, actionable steps for creating engaging posts, building a loyal following, and boosting your bowling alley's visibility online.
With our marketing pack, you can invest in your bowling alley's growth without feeling overwhelmed or uncertain.
Your bowling alley could make more money!
Most bowling alley owners don't know how to grow their business. Let us teach you the right strategies.
