Southport Lanes had been in business for nearly a century.
On Sunday, September 27, the historic Southport Lanes Bar and Bowling Alley will close for good after 98 years of service. [Featured image via Southport Lanes’ Facebook]
The Schlitz Brewery built Southport somewhere around the 1900 marker among a number of brew houses located throughout the city. At that time, it was known as “The Nook”, until 1922, when the bar underwent a name change and added four hand-set bowling lanes. It was also around that time when Southport Lanes became a speakeasy, complete with an upstairs brothel.
In 1991 and later in 2003, Southport Lanes underwent further renovation and remodeling holding the intention of preserving “the timeless feel of a Chicago institution.”
Earlier this year, Southport Lanes was forced to close whilst the mandated stay-at-home was in effect. In mid July, the bar opened with an extended sidewalk cafe to serve food and drinks, unable to yet offer their signature bowling and billiards.
After two months, unfortunately, Southport Lanes became victim to the coronavirus-caused economic downturn, and will close their doors indefinitely September 27.
Fans can still visit Southport in the meantime on Wednesdays – Sundays from 4pm – 10 pm, 12 pm – 11 pm, 12 pm – 10 pm, accordingly.