Burlington's only bowling alley is hidden in a church basement

Ryan Mercer | Burlington Free Press

The answering machine at St. Mark Parish on North Avenue in Burlington's New North End gives a few options.

Dial #1 for mass times, #2 for the holiday schedule, so on and so forth.

What it doesn't mention is that, in the basement of the church, is a eight-lane bowling alley.

If you go to the church's website, it doesn't really mention it there either. But a quick entry of "bowling" into the site's search bar and, boom. You're in.

The only physical indication to be had is a small sign, appropriately displaying "Bowling," that hangs above an entrance to the church's youth center. The lanes, which got a face lift last year, can be rented for $75 and hour for four lanes or $100 an hour for all all eight, according to the website. That includes shoe rentals and access to pool tables, air hockey, foosball and ping-pong, a small theater and kitchen.

In 2017, Burlington High School's new varsity bowling team discovered the church lanes, according to the BHS Register, and has been practicing there ever since.

Dan Barnes of Winooski visited the alley with his family last week, something they do nearly every year around the holidays, and tweeted about it. Architect firm Freeman French Freeman replied with their own photo of the alley dating back to 1960.

Reactions ranged from awe to childhood remembrances of bowling after Sunday school.

@metallidan We at FFF have known about this for a long time...a very long time (photo circa 1960) pic.twitter.com/CEmxTm4h6D — FreemanFrenchFreeman (@FFF_Architects) December 2, 2019

To go, you just have to make a reservation through the church first, either by calling 802-864-7686 or booking online. All are welcome. They allow an hour before and after for set up and clean up if you are bringing food or other stuff.

Contact Ryan Mercer at rmercer@freepressmedia.com or at 802-343-4169. Follow him on Twitter @ryanmercer1 and facebook.com/ryan.mercer1.