Under the Big Top closes in St. Charles

ST. CHARLES – A family entertainment center that billed itself on over-the-top fun has closed in St. Charles.

Under the Big Top – which had featured indoor go-karts, laser tag and arcade games at 731 N. 17th St. – announced the closure on its Facebook page Monday.

In a lengthy, online farewell to its guests, the business addressed why it closed.

“Strong efforts were made to save Under the Big Top, leading up to a potential buyer on the very last day,” according to the post, which indicated the closure was effective Dec. 31. “Due to the limbo of this potential sale, we couldn’t risk losing future business that we hoped would belong to the new buyer. This is why our messaging abruptly changed from open to ‘closed for the New Year holiday’.… Unfortunately, that potential buyer did not wish to further pursue the purchase.”

As owners Laurie Walters and Frank Kuzel prepared to open the 30,000-square-foot facility in 2012, they said they intended to provide a safe, clean place for families, church groups, corporate events, date nights and kids of all ages.

Attempts to reach the owners Wednesday were unsuccessful, as the business phone number had been disconnected and emails were not immediately returned.

The farewell message indicated the Under the Big Top team hopes the space will reopen someday as a family entertainment center. It also thanked the customers for their support.

“As guests each and every one of you were more than just customers, you were the reason this journey was worth it,” the post reads.