Forget everything you think you know about your typical neighborhood bowling alley or arcade. Tucked away in Glendale is a sprawling entertainment wonderland that feels like it was beamed directly from downtown Tokyo. It’s a place where the familiar sounds of crashing pins and joyful shouts mingle with the electrifying music of Japanese rhythm games and the tantalizing aroma of authentic ramen.
Imagine a single destination where you can roll a strike, challenge your friends to the latest Japanese crane games, belt out your favorite tunes in a private karaoke room, and then refuel with a delicious meal and a cold drink. It’s a high-energy, neon-lit paradise that offers a dizzying array of activities under one roof, making it the perfect spot for a date night, a family outing, or just a fun escape with friends. This isn’t just an arcade; it’s a full-spectrum entertainment experience.
Get ready to level up your leisure time at Round1 Bowling & Arcade – Glendale. This place is a playground for all ages, combining classic American pastimes with the unique flair of Japanese entertainment culture for a truly unforgettable visit.
What We Love
Bowling with a Twist
The bowling here is a full-sensory experience. The lanes are sleek and modern, complete with massive screens at the end of each lane playing music videos and animations, turning every frame into a mini-party. It’s a far cry from the quiet, dimly lit alleys of the past.
You can reserve a lane for your group, order food and drinks right to your spot, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Whether you’re a serious league bowler or just looking to have some fun, the vibrant setting makes every roll of the ball feel like an event.
Japanese Arcade Heaven
The arcade is the heart and soul of Round1. Beyond the classic American games you know and love, you’ll find an incredible selection of exclusive Japanese arcade cabinets. This is your chance to try out the rhythm and music games that are wildly popular in Japan, alongside intense fighting games and unique multiplayer experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
They constantly update their collection, so there’s always something new to discover. From Dance Dance Revolution to intricate rhythm-based drumming games, it’s a colorful and exciting world of interactive fun that will keep you engaged for hours.
More Than Just Games
If you need a break from the digital world, Round1 has you covered with a host of other activities. You can shoot some pool on one of their well-maintained billiard tables, challenge a friend to a game of darts, or even try your hand at ping pong.
This variety is what makes Round1 such a great all-in-one destination. It ensures that everyone in your group can find something they enjoy, whether it’s a game of skill, a test of rhythm, or a classic friendly competition.
Private Karaoke Rooms
Unleash your inner rock star! Round1 offers private karaoke rooms that you can rent by the hour for your group. These cozy, comfortable rooms are equipped with everything you need to sing your heart out without having to perform for a room full of strangers.
With an extensive songbook featuring hits in both English and Japanese, you can curate the perfect playlist for your party. It’s an ideal activity for birthdays, celebrations, or just a hilarious night out with friends.
The Claw Machines
Prepare to be mesmerized by the sheer volume and variety of crane games, or “UFO catchers,” as they’re known in Japan. These aren’t your standard county fair claw machines with loosely packed stuffed animals. Round1’s prize games are a serious business, filled with high-quality, exclusive plushies, figures, and merchandise, often imported directly from Japan.
Mastering the claw is a skill, and the thrill of finally maneuvering that perfect prize into the drop-zone is unmatched. It’s a challenging and rewarding part of the experience, and you might just go home with a unique souvenir.
Atmosphere & Setting
Step inside and you’re immediately hit with a wave of exhilarating energy. The space is massive, bathed in the glow of countless screens, neon signs, and flashing lights from the arcade games. The sound is a constant, happy cacophony of music, game jingles, laughter, and the satisfying crash of bowling pins.
Despite its size, the layout is intuitive, with clear sections for bowling, arcade games, billiards, and dining. It’s clean, modern, and vibrant. The vibe is pure, unadulterated fun, appealing to everyone from kids on a sugar rush to adults looking to let loose and feel like a kid again.
Value (Is It Worth It?)
Absolutely. While a day at Round1 can add up, the value comes from the sheer diversity of entertainment packed into one place. You operate on a card system, loading it with credits to swipe at each game, which makes managing your spending easy. They often run specials and package deals for combinations of activities like bowling and game credits, which are worth looking into. Given that you can easily spend an entire afternoon or evening here without a moment of boredom, the cost feels entirely justified for the amount of fun you’ll have.
Other Considerations
Food & Drink: Don’t skip the food court! You can grab classic American fare like pizza and burgers, or go for something more unique like Japanese ramen and katsu. There’s also a full bar serving beer, wine, and cocktails for the 21+ crowd.
Age Policy: While it’s an all-ages venue for most of the day, be aware that after 10:00 PM, all guests must be 18 or older, and after midnight it’s 21 and up. This makes it a great spot for both family fun and adult nightlife.
Location & Parking: Round1 is located inside the Arrowhead Towne Center, so there is ample free parking available in the mall lots. This makes access incredibly easy.
Peak Times: As you can imagine, Friday nights and weekends can get very busy. If you prefer a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds, try visiting on a weekday afternoon or evening.
Whether you’re planning your next birthday party, looking for a fresh date night idea, or simply want to find a place where every member of your family can have a blast, Round1 is a top-tier choice. It’s a place built for making fun memories.
So next time you’re looking for an escape, gather your friends, charge up a game card, and dive into the vibrant, exciting world of Round1. You’re guaranteed to leave with a smile on your face and probably a cool prize from a crane game.
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