What's Happening?
Rec Haus, a new game bar in downtown St. Charles, has officially opened its doors to the public. Owned by Erik Gilly, the bar features a variety of games including pinball, shuffleboard, darts, foosball,
and bocce ball. Gilly, who is also the director of North American sales for Stern Pinball, aims to share his passion for pinball and other group games with the community. The bar offers a self-pour beer wall and a traditional bar, along with food options like paninis. The venue, which was initially planned for downtown Aurora, is located at 12 N. Third St. in St. Charles. Gilly hopes to create a space where people can enjoy games and plans to host leagues and tournaments.
Why It's Important?
The opening of Rec Haus signifies a growing trend in entertainment venues that focus on interactive and group activities. This development could boost local tourism and provide a new social hub for residents, potentially increasing foot traffic and economic activity in downtown St. Charles. The resurgence of pinball and arcade games reflects a broader cultural nostalgia and interest in retro gaming, which could attract diverse age groups. For the local economy, such venues can create jobs and support local artists, as seen with the murals by Joshua Schultz and Rebekah Axtell. The success of Rec Haus could inspire similar ventures in other suburban areas.
What's Next?
Gilly plans to expand Rec Haus by opening additional locations in the Chicago suburbs. The bar will also focus on establishing itself as a community entertainment center by hosting leagues and tournaments for various games. This could lead to partnerships with local businesses and increased community engagement. The venue's unique offerings, such as the self-pour beer wall, may set a trend for other bars and entertainment venues in the area.
