Chenoa’s newest venue space offers a little something for everyone.
“We want everybody to enjoy this space,” owner Tim Barlow said of The Depot in Chenoa.
Barlow went all out to make this a special destination for area residents. It all came to be a year ago when the space was initially intended for storing furniture for Barlow’s other business in town and maybe some cars.
“It didn’t start out being The Depot,” recalled Barlow. “As we progressed, we started kind of turning it into a much nicer building than what we had anticipated.”
When Barlow remodeled Barlow’s Furniture across town, people were impressed with the ceilings and beams which sparked the idea for a venue space. Plus, they wanted to explore possibilities for a game room.
“It kept getting nicer and nicer then pretty soon, I had it down to only a little section with storage.”
The Depot name came from the original railroad depot in town – something Barlow and his wife wouldn’t have minded getting their hands on.
“We just thought with the train tracks running behind, it would be great to have The Depot in Chenoa again,” noted Barlow.
The Depot in Chenoa is available for weddings, birthday parties, retirement events, Christmas parties and even special outings for teenagers. Seating is available for up to 130 guests with a small arcade and free DJ booth. A small bar area is inside along with scenic pictures and a rock fireplace.
Barlow even has ideas for his own events like a summer bash or an Urban Cowboy night since they have a mechanical bull.
“Everything is so stressful nowadays. You’ve got to find that exit sometimes,” observed Barlow.
Some of the proceeds raised from the new venue space will support local initiatives such as the Chenoa 4th of July and Route 66 Red Carpet Corridor. Games should be installed over the summer.
For space for just about any occasion, call or text 815-867-6819 or message The Depot in Chenoa on Facebook. The business is located at 500 North Division Street.
