Why Bago Lounge Is Saying Goodbye to Winnebago and Hello to Loves Park

A beloved business in Winnebago, Illinois will soon be closing its doors, but this is one goodbye that comes with a silver lining.

Living in Pecatonica, Winnebago is a town where we go to run quick errands or grab a bite to eat often. My family has checked out many of the businesses in Winnebago, but the one we haven't gone to yet, and people always rave about, is Bago Lounge at 817 N Elida Street.

What is Bago Lounge?

In case you're unaware, Bago Lounge specializes in "craft drinks, mouthwatering eats, and unforgettable nights with friends." Here's just one of the specials they are offering this June:

Bago Lounge is highly involved with the community, and they always seem to be hosting fun events that people love going to, but the other day they shared some bummer news; Bago Lounge will permanently close this September.

In a message to their customers and community Bago Lounge said;

Unfortunately, since we do not own this building, we’ve faced many limitations from the landlord that made it difficult to grow or improve beyond the four walls of our space. Despite our vision for a long-standing future here, these challenges have led us to this tough decision.

Bago Lounge is set to close its doors in Winnebago around September 7, 2025, but there is a happy ending to this disappointing story.

What's Next for Bago Lounge?

Bago Lounge's time in Winnebago may be ending this September, but a new chapter in Loves Park is just beginning.

Bago Lounge's message to their community also said they had just purchased Finnegan's Cottage at 4832 N 2nd Street in Loves Park, and have plans to renovate the space and "move our concept in the near future to the Loves Park area".

So, will it stay Finnegan's Cottage with a Bago Lounge-style glow up, or will it become something new entirely? I'm excited to find out soon!