Support Us Button Widget

The Alley, a downtown entertainment venue, will close after 12 years

The Alley, a downtown entertainment venue, will be replaced with a hotel.

A woman bowling, about to release the ball down the lane.

The Alley has been part of the Charleston community since 2012.

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.

When to visit:

There’s still time to enjoy The Alley before it closes. It’s open Monday and Wednesday, from 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. and Thursday-Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.

Do you have a favorite memory at The Alley? Share it with the team.

More from CHStoday
Courier Square is a mixed-use Planned Urban Development project that aims to provide new housing, retail, and office space to upper King Street.
The market is a Park Circle favorite serving everything from breakfast and wines to unique gifts, all while supporting local brands.
Make your voice heard, nominate your favorite local biz and they could win CHStoday’s Best Competition.
Whether you’re a history buff, art aficionado, or music fan, these 12 museums in Charleston have it all.
Biscuits, Bloodies, Brunch + Boats is an all-inclusive experience that features a bountiful brunch spread and a boat ride around the waters of Charleston.
This list of volunteer opportunities in Charleston includes everything from lending a hand at the hospital to donating to a local cause.
In addition to offering a plethora of books, the new independent bookstore Ladybird Books will host events, readings, and conversations.
To celebrate 20 years of serving seafood and southern favorites on the Charleston Harbor, Fleet Landing has released its first cookbook.
Make the most of good weather by taking your meals al fresco on one of Charleston’s many beautiful patios.
GrowFood Carolina, which now represents 80+ SC farmers, helps them put their produce in grocery stores and local restaurants.