Tucked inside the massive Bass Pro Shops Pyramid in Memphis, Tennessee, The Fishbowl offers a bowling experience unlike any other. Instead of plain walls and boring lanes, you’ll find yourself surrounded by glowing ocean-themed decorations that make you feel like you’re rolling strikes at the bottom of the sea.
With 13 unique lanes, tasty food, and an atmosphere that transforms regular bowling into an underwater adventure, this spot has become a favorite destination for families, friends, and anyone looking for something different to do in Memphis.
Welcome to The Fishbowl at the Pyramid
Finding The Fishbowl is an adventure in itself since it’s located inside one of Memphis’s most recognizable landmarks. The Bass Pro Shops Pyramid towers over the Mississippi River, and once you step inside, you’ll discover this bowling alley tucked within the massive retail and entertainment complex. The entire building feels like a destination, with restaurants, shops, and even a hotel all under one giant glass roof.
Getting to the bowling lanes means walking through the impressive Bass Pro Shops store first. You’ll pass fishing boats, wildlife displays, and outdoor gear before reaching the entrance to The Fishbowl.
13 Ocean-Themed Bowling Lanes
The Fishbowl features exactly 13 bowling lanes, each designed to make you feel submerged in an underwater world. Blue lighting casts an oceanic glow across the entire space, while decorative elements like fish, coral, and sea creatures adorn the walls. The lanes themselves function like standard bowling alleys, but the theming transforms the whole experience into something memorable.
The atmosphere works perfectly for teens and adults who enjoy the nightclub-style vibe.
The Neon, Underwater Atmosphere
Walking into The Fishbowl feels like stepping into a nighttime ocean adventure. Neon lights illuminate sea creatures that seem to swim along the walls, while the blue-tinted lighting mimics the feeling of being deep underwater.
The darker atmosphere creates a unique bowling environment that stands out from typical bright, fluorescent bowling alleys. Music plays throughout the space, adding to the entertainment vibe. Just be aware that the combination of dim lighting and music creates more of a lounge or bar atmosphere than a traditional family bowling center, which some guests love while others find overstimulating.
Food, Drinks, and Full-Service Bar
You won’t go hungry at The Fishbowl since it operates as a full bar and grill alongside the bowling lanes. The menu offers typical bar food favorites like burgers, appetizers, and other casual dining options. There’s also Wahlburgers located right next door, giving you additional food choices if you want something different.
The full-service bar serves cocktails, beer, and other beverages for adults looking to enjoy drinks while they bowl.
Perfect for Families and Date Nights
The Fishbowl markets itself as suitable for various occasions, from family outings to romantic date nights and group celebrations. The unique underwater theme definitely provides conversation starters and photo opportunities that make any visit feel special. Groups particularly enjoy the setup since multiple lanes allow larger parties to bowl together while sharing food and drinks in the adjacent seating areas.
Date night couples often enjoy the unique setting, though making reservations early helps secure your preferred time slot since the limited number of lanes fills up quickly.
What Makes It Different From Other Bowling Alleys
Most bowling alleys feature bright lights, colorful lanes, and a family-friendly arcade atmosphere. The Fishbowl takes a completely different approach with its dark, oceanic theming and lounge-style environment. Instead of competing with traditional bowling centers, it positions itself as an experience destination where the atmosphere matters as much as the actual game.
The location inside the Bass Pro Shops Pyramid also sets it apart from standalone bowling venues.
The trade-off for this unique atmosphere includes some practical considerations. Several reviews mention equipment that needs updating, bumper systems that don’t always work properly for individual bowlers, and limited ball selections. The pricing runs higher than that of typical bowling alleys, reflecting the destination nature of the venue.
Why It’s a Must-Visit in Tennessee
Memphis attracts visitors for its music history, barbecue, and riverfront attractions, but The Fishbowl adds something completely different to the city’s entertainment options. The combination of the iconic Pyramid location and the underwater bowling theme creates a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t find elsewhere in Tennessee.
For tourists staying at the Big Cypress Lodge hotel inside the Pyramid, the convenience of having this entertainment option right in the same building adds extra value.
Whether you’re a bowling enthusiast or just looking for a memorable activity during your Memphis visit, The Fishbowl delivers something worth experiencing at least once. The Instagram-worthy setting, combined with the novelty of bowling inside a giant pyramid, makes it a talking point long after your trip ends.