Bowlocity Grows to Meet Rochester’s Rising Entertainment Demand

As Rochester continues to grow, so does one of its most popular entertainment spots. Bowlocity Entertainment Center is undergoing a major $3 million expansion, with construction well underway and set for completion in early 2025. The 6,000-square-foot addition is designed to keep pace with the increasing demand from families, sports teams, and social groups across Southeast Minnesota.

Despite the scale of the project, Bowlocity will remain open throughout the renovation process, ensuring uninterrupted access to its core attractions, including its signature 24-lane bowling alley 16 lanes original to the 1963 center and 8 added during a 2014 remodel. Today, more than 700 league bowlers visit Bowlocity each week.

General contractor overseeing the current expansion is Benike Construction

More Space for More Fun

The expansion splits into two key sections: an approximately 4,400-square-foot east wing and a nearly 1,900-square-foot west wing. The east addition will house a relocated and expanded laser-tag arena, modernized arcade space, and several new private party rooms. On the west side, guests can look forward to an enlarged kitchen and additional seating for the bar and restaurant, setting the stage for an upgraded dining experience.

Meeting Rochester’s Growing Appetite for Entertainment

With Rochester’s population booming and group bookings on the rise, Bowlocity’s owners recognized a clear need for more flexible and spacious facilities. From youth sports teams to dance troupes and retiree socials, demand has surged across all age groups. In response, the arcade area is being overhauled to feature a dedicated prize redemption store, allowing guests to select their winnings like they would in a retail shop no more waiting in long lines at a single counter.

Food, Drinks, and a Fresh Look

Beyond the games and entertainment, the kitchen upgrade will allow for a more expansive menu, while the bar and restaurant areas are also getting a facelift to better accommodate casual diners and partygoers alike. Updates to the bathrooms and bar are also part of the remodel, maintaining the balance between nostalgic charm and modern convenience.

Looking Ahead: A Bigger Team and Bigger Vision

Bowlocity currently employs around 40 team members and plans to add about 10 more as the new spaces come online. And this expansion may not be the last according to the owners, they still hold land on Rochester’s west side for a potential second Bowlocity location down the road.

What’s Coming in 2025

• 📍 Expanded, immersive laser-tag arena

• 👾 Larger arcade with modern prize store
  

• 🎉 More private party rooms
  

• 🍔 Upgraded kitchen and dining/bar experience
  

• 🎳 Continuous access to all 24 bowling lanes

As the buildout continues, Bowlocity isn’t just growing in size it’s evolving to remain a cornerstone of Rochester’s family fun and entertainment scene.