Jack and Jill Lanes A Legacy of Family Fun

  May 19, 2015, 8:23 pm

By Kimberly Bennett

When you walk into Jack and Jill Lanes in American Fork, you'd have a hard time believing that the bowling alley first opened over half a century ago. The booths and lanes are all clean and modern. This place offers state-of-the-art monitors and a slick dining area. (Owner Jack Wadley recommends the pizza, fresh cut french fries and homemade burgers!)

It's a place rich with family memories and history. Just ask Jack Wadley. He's been part of the bowling business for the last 57 years. For his achievements, Jack was inducted into the Utah Bowling Hall of Fame, and the National Hall of Fame in St. Louis back in 2001.

If you want to see a bit about the history of bowling, check out the photographs of women bowling in Victorian era dresses and children setting pins. There's also a glass display case with bowling balls through the decades, including one of pressed wood.

But Wadley keeps looking to the future. In a world where old alleys are closing all the time, he understands that keeping a bowling alley opens means upkeep, a job Wadley takes seriously. And to that end, he hasn't just kept his business, he's expanded it and made it a family affair. Jack's son, Wyatt Wadley, takes care of facility maintenance. While Jack spends most of his time in American Fork, another son, Sam Wadley, manages Jack and Jill of Lehi, which opened in 2010. Lehi Jack and Jill Lanes has additional options for fun and entertainment in the laser tag, large game room and a private bowling room with large screen TV's for movie and video viewing for fun and entertainment while bowling.

Both facilities host several different tournaments, and supports adult, mixed, junior, and senior leagues. It's a great place to have some good, clean fun. Wadley suggests that everyone come out and bowl for "camaraderie, companionship, and just meeting with people." For that reason, it's a great place for families, and for those just interested in learning a new skill. Summer and Family passes are on sale now, including laser tag packages in Lehi.

For a place that offers history, new experiences, and sportsmanship, check out this historical/modern bowling alley this summer, and bring the whole family. And, as Wadley says, "Love what you do, and do what you love." For more information, you can visit jackandjilllanes.com.