PEABODY — The city’s favorite bowling alley is changing ownership after 50 years.
The Leo family has sold Metro Bowl on Foster Street to Ryan Family Amusements, a Bourne-based company that operates 13 other family entertainment centers across Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New Hampshire, along with game rooms in hotels, campgrounds and restaurants.
The company grew out of an eight-lane bowling alley in Needham that was opened by James A. Ryan in 1958.
“Ryan Family Amusements is taking ownership and will continue to operate the facility as a bowling and tavern venue with the same care and concern that we have conducted operations,” the Leo family wrote in a recent Facebook post.
“We would like to express our thanks to all our friends and customers for your loyalty over the many years. We have been privileged to know and engage with all of you.”
Bob Leo Sr. bought the Metro Bowl with his brothers, Tony and John Leo, in 1977 after the trio had run a bowling alley in Lynn for 30 years.
Leo Sr. later ran the Peabody business with his son, Bob Leo Jr. For five decades, the Leos helped other local families create lasting memories over one of America’s favorite pastimes.
“My family and I spent many years bowling in leagues and work-sponsored teams,” Jim Troisi commented on the Leos’ post, which saw many others share their memories of the business. “The hours spent bowling turned into friendships, and employers that formed into our families gathered on weekends as well as holidays.
“Thank you to the entire Leo Family for sharing the laughs, tears and memories,” he wrote.
The 38-lane candlepin bowling alley has seen major renovations over the decades to expand its arcade, billiards room and dining facilities, all features that make the Metro Bowl a “premier hub for community gathering, competitive bowling and multi-generational family fun,” according to a statement from Ryan Family Amusements.
“We are thrilled to welcome Metro Bowl into the Ryans family and expand our footprint onto Massachusetts’ North Shore,” Ryan Vice President of Operations Zack McCaul said in the statement. “The Leo family built a wonderful tradition of hospitality, league play, and community engagement in Peabody.
“Customers can expect that same friendly service they’ve come to know, alongside some exciting updates as we elevate the guest experience while honoring the venue’s rich history.”
The new owner plans to add new arcade games, digital scoring for the bowling lanes and cosmetic updates throughout the venue in the coming months, according to the statement.
Contact Caroline Enos at CEnos@northofboston.com .