The Alley, downtown’s sports bar + bowling alley, announced its last day of operation will be Saturday, June 1, making room for a hotel development.

The 17,000-sqft entertainment venue at 131 Columbus St. opened in 2012. It was the first public bowling alley to open downtown since the 1960s, and includes:

Eight bowling lanes
Three bars featuring craft beers
A full kitchen serving up American classics
Retro arcade games
Two projection screens and multiple TVs

“In our final weeks, we will work to ensure our people are taken care of to the absolute best of our ability and to serve many familiar faces. It has been a remarkable journey," owner + operator David Crowley said on social media. "Despite the sadness we feel during this final chapter, we hope that we have created positive memories that will last a lifetime.” See the full statement.

What’s next?

In 2021, the building’s owners received approval from the Charleston Board of Zoning Appeals to replace the site with the 175-room Lowline Hotel.

Blueprints and renderings include a first-floor bar and dining space, underground parking, a meeting space, a fitness center, and an outdoor terrace with a rooftop restaurant.