This time of year brings on a heavy dose of nostalgia as I remember the restlessness my teenage self and my classmates would feel during the blurry line between winter and spring in Wisconsin. Summer still felt far away, yet sometimes the sun was just warm enough to convince us otherwise. My class was able to get our wiggles out when we left Elkhart Lake Lake-Glenbeulah High School during our afternoon gym class. Even if it was a little slushy and still cold outside, I felt nothing but freedom as we stretched our legs on the sidewalk. After a quick journey up to Anchor Lanes, we were transported into a round of bowling and laughing with friends. To this day, I thank those gym class hours spent at my hometown alley for why I can throw a strike from time to time.
The local alley has come a long way since my afternoon gym classes, Friday nights of galactic bowling, and post-prom games in the back banquet hall. While the spirit of the place remains, it’s been taken up a notch under new ownership. Born and raised in Sheboygan County, Tyler Luedtke knows how to make the most of each Wisconsin season. In recent years he’s been committed to the bowling and golf industries – two very important pastimes in Elkhart Lake and the surrounding area! His local knowledge and passion for year-round recreation inspired the newest part of the business– The Approach at Anchor Lanes. In what was once the back banquet hall of the bowling alley is now sleek and fully renovated with Elkhart Lake’s first ever state-of-the-art golf simulators!
Whether winter or summer, rain or shine, beginner or expert – locals and visitors can come show off (or practice) their swing and challenge friends to a round of golf. Simply choose your favorite world-famous course and start exploring the holes on screen. After a round on the simulator greens, keep the comradery going with the specialty cocktails and bar snacks at The Approach Bar. Whether you come this spring for bowling or to get some swings in before the local golf courses are green again, it’s best to book your lane and simulator in advance. And if you’re feeling extra sporty, why not plan an afternoon featuring both activities?
If you do choose a multi-sport day, may I suggest the steak sandwich sourced from Salchert Meats in St. Cloud. The smashburger is another crowd-pleaser on the menu. The Anchor Lanes kitchen does a great job of rotating specials so that locals have something new to look forward to year-round. And with March Madness right around the corner, you can expect additional specials as the games start airing.
Once the March lion leaves as a lamb and the sun returns to Elkhart Lake in full force, the local alley will start gearing up for their volleyball league and first annual cornhole league! Between the lanes, the golf simulators, and the outdoor sports, Anchor Lanes is the perfect place to gather with family and friends every season, even when the weather can’t make up its mind. And in true Elkhart Lake fashion, you’ll feel at home as soon as you’re welcomed by the owner and wonderful staff. For additional information on reservations for bowling, golf simulators, private events, and leagues, head over to www.anchor-lanes.com and stay tuned on Facebook.
Meet The Author
Kate Vollrath was born and raised in Elkhart Lake. Although she now spends most of her time in Northern California, Wisconsin will always be home. The incredible local culture, extraordinary community, and Sundays spent floating on the water are what keep her rooted and returning to her favorite freshwater shoreline.
