Milwaukee (CBS 58) — From the outside, it looks like a modest, ordinary bowling alley, but once inside, down the carpeted steps, Landmark Lane opens up to reveal the unexpected. Masu – a kind of underground city full of history and entertainment.
Landmark Lanes General Manager Kevin Glass said:
Landmark Lane is 24,000 square feet and includes an arcade, 3 bars, darts, pool table, foosball, karaoke, live music and comedy stages.
“It’s definitely a pillar of the East Side,” said Amy Westrup, a customer and cast member of Voyager, a local comedy troupe performing at Landmark Lanes.
First opened on September 24, 1927, the venue was an instant hit. It has earned a reputation as a ‘hangout spot’ in pre-war Milwaukee.
“A guy named Sachs from Chicago who came over here built Lane. He built a theater upstairs that was bought by Pritchett a few years later and is now owned by Throbber and is still going strong,” says Glass. said.
The Underground City was originally called Bensinger’s Recreation. It was built on the site of an old tram barn. This year, the building was designated as a National Historic Landmark.
Patrons like Debra Guy have been enjoying Landmark Lane for decades.
“When I came in the 70s, we were just playing pinball. have gathered here,” said Guy.
Guy now enjoys shooting in the pool with her husband and makes sure to visit their favorite locations at least once or twice a week.
“The neighborhood appreciates it. Everything about it is good and all the people gather here. It’s like family,” Guy said.
It has also become a platform for local comedians. Voyager shows once a month with comedians and improvisational artists who patrol the Moonroom stage.
“But it’s a really unique venue, and a lot of stand-up comedians come from all over the Midwest to play their set. They love this room, and the atmosphere throughout the Landmark is just unbelievable.” Westrup said.
Voyager co-founder Tim Higgins said it was special to have the opportunity to play with Landmark Lanes, especially as a long-time customer.
“I remember when I was growing up, I would go to the sidebar and sit with my friends in a big old booth and spend the night there. It’s been great to do that, and I’ve spent so much time there,” Higgins said.
It has been visited by many politicians, celebrities and athletes.
“We had a lot of Bucks players and admirals,” Glass said.
And now, more recognition – last month, Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson declared September 26th as Landmark Lanes Day citywide.
“The city recognizes its status as one of the oldest and longest-running bowling alleys in the nation and an icon of Milwaukee’s East Side and will continue to be successful for years to come,” Johnson said. I hope that
The Landmark recently added a new arcade game and underwent several renovations, including replacing the marquee above the front door. Don’t worry if you miss the old marquee. You can still see it by the pool table area.
“I think[Landmark Lanes]will be a staple in the area for a long time,” Glass said.
“It’s been 95 years and it’s still going. It will probably take a few more years. I am,” said Guy.
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