Parkside Lanes in Aurora marked a significant milestone by celebrating 70 years in business. The bowling alley, located at Route 30 and Montgomery Road, is currently managed by Kurt Frieders, a fourth-generation general manager and proprietor. Discussions about the anniversary began several years ago, focusing on remodeling and improvements to honor this landmark year.
Frieders said, “We aimed to complete several upgrades for our 70th year and cap it with a celebratory weekend for our customers.” The celebration attracted longtime patrons like Joey Becker, who has frequented Parkside Lanes for over two decades. Becker described the venue as having a homey feel, saying, “It feels like a mom-and-pop shop, not commercialized. The staff is friendly, making everyone feel at home.”
The anniversary weekend featured special offers, with hot dogs, soft drinks, and bowling games priced at 70 cents. Another longtime customer, Dylan Melgosa, shared his experience, noting he had been a familiar face at the lanes for over ten years. “My parents were bowlers, and the leagues here are fun,” Melgosa said.
One of the most devoted attendees was Ramon Rodriguez, who has visited Parkside Lanes for 60 years. Rodriguez recalled his father bowling at the venue when he was just five years old. He continues to come for the friendly staff and enjoyable bowling times. “My personal best is a perfect 300 game,” Rodriguez noted, having achieved it 20 to 30 times.
Frieders remarked on the robustness of the bowling industry, stating, “Bowling remains popular even as many centers have closed. We’re currently thriving and busier than ever, thanks to our returning customers.” The bowling alley sees over 6,000 weekly visitors, according to operations manager Stephanie Bonczyk.
Reflecting on changes over the years, Frieders highlighted the significant shift to automatic scoring in 1989. “We were the first in the Fox Valley area to adopt it,” he said. This innovation eradicated the need for manual scorekeeping. The introduction of bumpers, a minor modification, has also encouraged participation from younger bowlers by preventing gutter balls.
Frieders expressed optimism for the future of Parkside Lanes. “My great-grandfather founded this venue in 1956, and it has remained a family-run business,” he stated. Long-term employees like Stephanie Bonczyk, who has worked there for 49 years, exemplify the family-oriented nature of the business.
Parkside Lanes is committed to maintaining its prominence in the community, reflecting a proud history of family management and customer loyalty.
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