Historic Milwaukee Landmark Reopens as “Bob-E-Lanes Still” Under New Local Ownership

MILWAUKEE, WI — December 26, 2025 — After a brief hiatus, a piece of Milwaukee history is returning. The iconic bowling center formerly known as Bob-E-Lanes will officially reopen its doors to the public on January 1, 2026, under the new name Bob-E-Lanes Still.

The center is entering a new chapter under the ownership of John and Sheryl Ernst, long-time local bowlers dedicated to preserving the sport in Milwaukee. Joining them to lead daily operations is General Manager Justin Lockridge, formerly the Kitchen and Banquet Manager at the Root River Center in Franklin.

A Name Rooted in Resilience
The shift in name is a deliberate choice by the new ownership. “Bob-E-Lanes Still” serves as a tribute to the venue’s resilience as one of the state’s oldest continually operating bowling centers. It signifies that while the business is growing and evolving, the core of what makes it special remains: it is still standing, still serving the community, and still home to the classic bowling experience Milwaukee loves.

“We wanted the name to respect the incredible history here while signaling that we are moving forward,” said Sheryl Ernst, co-owner. “We are honoring where we’ve been, but we’re also excited about where we’re going.”

Returning to Roots: Open Bowling & The Neighborhood Tavern
For years, the center operated primarily as a league-only destination. The Ernsts are thrilled to announce a major operational shift to bring back the beloved “neighborhood tavern” atmosphere. Starting January 1st, Bob-E-Lanes Still will offer open bowling every day.

The goal is to restore the daily community vibe where neighbors can walk in, grab a lane, and enjoy a cold drink without needing to be part of a competitive league.

Classic Lanes & Gold Standard Leagues
While the vibe is becoming more accessible, the standards remain elite. Bob-E-Lanes Still is widely recognized for having some of the best-maintained lanes in the city. The new ownership is committed to preserving these classic lanes. This dedication to quality is reflected in the fact the center proudly maintains a USBC Gold Level Certification—a mark of excellence in the sport.

A Smooth Transition
To ensure the legacy continues without interruption, former owner Jim Rydzewski will remain on board to assist with the transition. Long-time patrons will still see a familiar face behind the bar, as Jim will continue to bartend for several of the leagues.

Grand Reopening Details
The festivities kick off on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2026. Doors will open at 11:00 AM, welcoming guests to experience the new era firsthand.

About Bob-E-Lanes Still
Located at 2932 S. 13th St., Bob-E-Lanes Still is one of the oldest continually operating bowling centers in Wisconsin. Serving Milwaukee’s South Side for over a century, it blends a rich history with a revitalized tavern atmosphere, offering USBC Gold Certified conditions for serious bowlers and open lanes for the community.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.