A piece of Ames brought to Waldo Neighborhood

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Courtesy of Chris Lewellen, "Welch South" Bar and Grill Owner

“Welch South” to be mimicked after Iowa State’s Welch Avenue during the Big 12 men’s basketball tournament. 

Julia Meehan

At this year’s Big 12 men’s basketball tournament, Waldo neighborhood in Kansas City, Missouri, will be rechristening a two-block stretch of Wornall Road as “Welch South” after Iowa State’s nightlife scene, Welch Avenue.

As said in the press release, Iowa State fans are known to travel during this time of the year, particularly for the tournament. During the Big 12 men’s basketball tournament, Iowa State fans will find a second home in Kansas City. To many Cyclone fans they recall it as the Hilton South. Because of this, the Waldo neighborhood would like to make this experience feel like home by creating a look alike of Welch Avenue for all Cyclones making the trip.

While visiting on March 13 and 14, fans will discover drink specials dedicated to the traditions of Iowa State. Such as, The Bloody MAYOR-Y, which is devoted to the former Cyclone basketball player and coach, Fred Hoiberg, also known as, the Mayor of Ames. Cyclone fans can also look forward to big discounts on Busch Light.

“Unlike San Antonio, I guarantee we will never run out of Busch Light,” said Chris Lewellen, “Welch South” Bar & Grill Owner in a press release. 

The Waldo neighborhood is located near other unique local areas such as the Westport bar district which is a few blocks north of “Welch South.” The Westport bar district offers bars, restaurants, entertainment and shopping for visitors. Cyclone fans can make swift drives from one destination to the next on game-day.

Lewellen owns two bar and grills, Lew’s and The Well, which can be found at either end of “Welch South” and are known to have plenty of seating, as well as a service and family-oriented atmosphere. The two full-service restaurants are opening their doors and hearts to alumni and families with children and under aged students to dine while watching the games, while still having the excitement of game day.

“Sometimes you need a break from the shoulder to shoulder, hours of standing thing,” Lewellen said. “We’re planning for a big crowd, so we’ll have a lot of seats and tables and an incredible wait staff that is used to large crowds.”

Cyclone fans traveling south to witness some road wins in Kansas City, have the opportunity to gain an experience different from past years with a piece of Ames hours away.