An iconic restaurant in Chicago, which has been known to be a popular tourist attraction, will be closing its doors after nearly 40 years.

The Hard Rock Cafe has been one of the most popular chain bars for decades. Its walls are lined with rock and roll memorabilia. Its bars, cafes, casinos, and museums have been a testament to American pop and music culture since their inception. At present, the chain boasts over 160 restaurants, 24 hotels, and 11 casinos. Specifically speaking, the location in Rockford is a real treat; my friend and I used to hit it up when he lived in the city.

Y105 logo
Get our free mobile app

Sadly, the Hard Rock Cafe in Chicago's affluent River North neighborhood will be closing very soon. The restaurant is a frequent spot for tourists, right up there with Navy Pier and the Bean (for whatever reason). Its iconic guitar sign is a frequent destination for folks looking for a great photo op.

ABC 7 Chicago and multiple other sources reported that the River North location, which sits at 63 West Ontario Street, will be close permanently on March 29th. The company noted that current employees will be offered outplacement support in lieu of the unexpected closing.

Hard Rock International released a statement thanking its team members and the city of Chicago for making the spot a destination:

Hard Rock has enjoyed serving the Windy City community for nearly 40 years and playing a role in the city's celebrated dining culture. We are so grateful to our incredible team members, community partners and fans for their support and memories all this time - Hard Rock International's statement, per ABC 7 Chicago

Now, those searching for Hard Rock fun will have to look towards the aforementioned Rockford location, or the Northern Indiana location, instead.

So many businesses have been closing as of late that it's hard to keep up. Big Lots shut down a couple different Iowa storesParty City is going out of business, with stores in Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin closing soon. Last week alone, Kohl's announced they'll be closing 27 stores, two of which in Illinois.

Read more about Hard Rock Cafe in River North's imminent closing on ABC 7 Chicago's website.

The Best Reviews From People Who Had The Worst Time Visiting The White House

You think people are impressed visiting the White House? Think again. Visitors who have toured the White House grounds have taken to Yelp to voice their displeasure about everything from the size of the building at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C. to Secret Service being rude to them when they got lost.

Gallery Credit: Rob Carroll

More From Y105