In the past, Lilac Lanes had been pretty good to our groups. We regularly utilize the Kids Bowl Free program for our low income, underprivileged students and families, which is a really cool community opportunity. Unfortunately, all three days that we brought our groups this year (2024) staff were irritated with us from the start, short and snappy with the kids and our staff, and all around unwelcoming. The kids were following all the rules too, being respectful of other parties and bowlers, and not misbehaving. I (as an adult) even got the brush-off when asking for help from the front desk.
And before anyone says “maybe they were frustrated with an unannounced, large group“. I called the week before (which is what Lilac Lanes requested of us) and let them know the size of each group on each day and our time of arrival. Nobody is perfect, and yes, all people have off days. But a smile and some patience can go a long way in making the customer experience a great one. Not sure if we will be coming back next year.