If you’ve lived in Hartford County for more than a few years, you probably still call the massive building at 129 Ella Grasso Turnpike "Bradley Bowl." Honestly, it’s hard not to. For decades, that name was synonymous with Friday night leagues, cheap pitchers of beer, and the rhythmic thwack of pins echoing through a cavernous space.
But if you punch "Bradley Bowl Windsor Locks" into your GPS today, you might get a slightly different result. In 2018, the venue underwent a massive identity shift. It was bought by the Vermont-based Corley family and rebranded as Spare Time Windsor Locks.
It wasn't just a name change. It was a total overhaul of what it means to "go bowling" in Connecticut.
The Evolution of Bradley Bowl Windsor Locks
Walking into the building now feels light-years away from the wood-paneled nostalgia of the 1990s. The transition from Bradley Bowl to Spare Time was basically an attempt to save the bowling industry from becoming a relic of the past. Let's be real: traditional bowling alleys were struggling.
🔗 Read more: Richard Goodall: What Really Happened to the America’s Got Talent Janitor
The new owners didn't just paint the walls; they gutted the soul of the old-school alley and replaced it with a high-octane "Family Entertainment Center."
What stayed and what went?
The core of the experience—the lanes—is still there. You have 25 luxury lanes now, featuring massive HD video walls that play music videos and sports. It’s loud. It’s bright. It’s a vibe.
But they also added:
- A massive Game Zone arcade with over 80 titles.
- Two different Escape Rooms (Bunker 57 and Gold Rush).
- A state-of-the-art Laser Tag arena.
- Axe Throwing, because apparently, we all need to throw sharp objects to de-stress.
Why This Spot Still Matters in 2026
Even with the "Spare Time" logo on the door, the spirit of Bradley Bowl Windsor Locks persists because of its location. It sits right in the shadow of Bradley International Airport. This makes it a weirdly perfect crossroads for locals and travelers alike.
I’ve seen business travelers killing a four-hour layover by throwing a few frames, right next to a 10-year-old’s birthday party. It works because it’s one of the few places in the North Central CT area that actually stays open late.
The "After Dark" Factor
On Friday and Saturday nights, the place transforms. They call it Spare Time After Dark. The lights go down, the blacklights come on, and the music gets cranked. It’s basically a nightclub where you happen to be wearing rented shoes.
✨ Don't miss: Why Based On A True Story Episodes Still Hook Us (And What They Leave Out)
If you’re looking for a quiet, focused environment to work on your hook shot, Saturday at 9:00 PM is not your time. Go on a Tuesday morning. You’ll have the place to yourself, and it’s way cheaper.
Breaking Down the Costs
Bowling isn't as cheap as it used to be. You can’t just walk in with a five-dollar bill and expect much. Here is the current reality of the pricing (though these fluctuate based on the season):
- Weekdays (Monday–Thursday): You’re looking at roughly $5.99 per person, per game. This is the best value for actual bowlers.
- Weekends (Friday–Sunday): The model shifts to hourly lane rentals. It’s about $43.99 per lane, per hour. If you have a group of six, it’s reasonable. If it’s just two of you? It’s pricey.
- The Extras: Laser tag is usually around $9 per mission. The Escape Rooms run between $18 and $28 depending on whether you choose the 30-minute or 60-minute version.
Pro-tip: Check their "Strikes & Slices" specials. Usually, on Thursday nights, they offer unlimited bowling, shoes, and unlimited pizza for a flat fee (around $11). It’s the closest thing to the old Bradley Bowl deals you’ll find.
Is the Food Actually Edible?
We’ve all had "bowling alley pizza" that tasted like cardboard and sadness.
The restaurant here, which they’ve branded more as a bar and grill, is actually decent. They serve stuff like hand-tossed pizzas, wings, and burgers. It’s not fine dining, obviously. But compared to the old days of Bradley Bowl Windsor Locks where the "kitchen" was a microwave and a dream, it’s a massive upgrade. The bar is well-stocked, and they usually have a solid rotation of local Connecticut craft beers on tap.
Making the Most of Your Visit
If you’re planning to head down to the old Bradley Bowl site, don’t just wing it.
First, reserve a lane online. Nothing kills a night faster than standing around for two hours waiting for a lane to open up while "Baby Shark" blares from the arcade. Their online booking system is actually pretty slick.
📖 Related: Is Jimmy Kimmel Coming Back on the Air: What Really Happened with the ABC Suspension
Second, watch the clock. The kitchen often closes earlier than the lanes. On weekdays, the kitchen usually opens after 4:00 PM, so don't show up at noon expecting a burger.
Third, bring socks. I shouldn't have to say this, but you’d be surprised. Renting shoes is mandatory, and buying a pair of generic white socks at the front desk for five bucks is a tax on the unprepared.
Actionable Next Steps
- For Families: Aim for Sunday mornings. It’s quieter, and the "After Dark" crowd hasn't woken up yet.
- For Groups: Book the VIP Elite Suite if you have a larger party. It gives you a private area and a bit more of a "lounge" feel away from the main chaos.
- For Budget Seekers: Hit the Monday–Wednesday late-night window (usually after 9:00 PM). They often run unlimited bowling deals for under $10 per person.
- Verify Hours: Call (860) 623-2597 before you head out, especially if there's a holiday, as lane availability changes fast.
The name might be different, and the neon might be brighter, but the spot where Bradley Bowl Windsor Locks stood for decades remains the undisputed champion of local entertainment. Whether you're there for the nostalgia or a round of axe throwing, it's still the heart of the Turnpike.