(03-06-2018 01:52 PM)Dog Fan Wrote:  It seems like DeKalb/Sycamore has lost SO much in recent years. Bars, small shops, larger retailers, etc. Carson's is in the process of closing now. The only department store left is Kohl's. Smaller clothing stores have disappeared. While a lot of this is a national tend, it's pretty sad to see in DeKalb/Sycamore. For sure, they REALLY went downhill when the Grotto closed.

Grotto still open just changed names. Classier. There's a few bars downtown but not targeting college. Rosatis is real nice but not a traditional bar. Fattys still the best IMO. There are a few more developments planned so hopefully that will jump start growth. Only events at convo that are popular are country shows. I'm guessing niu doesn't have budget to attract big acts. One other bright spot downtown is the Egyptian theatre. They're bringing in lots of entertainment and they are expanding their lineup. I'd recommend you check it out.