Smiles 2 Ledgewood: The Full Story Behind the Closed Go-Go Bar & What Came After

Introduction

If you grew up in Morris County, New Jersey, or spent your nights exploring the Route 46 nightlife scene in the late 20th and early 21st century, chances are you’ve heard of Smiles 2 in Ledgewood. Once a popular go-go bar that drew crowds from across North Jersey, Smiles 2 developed a reputation that was equal parts infamous and iconic. For decades, it served as a gathering spot for regulars looking for drinks, music, and entertainment.

But like many nightlife establishments, Smiles 2 eventually closed its doors—leaving behind a trail of speculation, stories, and memories. What really happened to Smiles 2? Why did it shut down? And what became of the location afterward?

In this article, we’ll dive into the full history of Smiles 2 Ledgewood, its rise and fall, and the transformation of its location into something very different.

The Origins of Smiles 2 Ledgewood

Smiles 2 wasn’t just another roadside bar—it was part of a wider network of entertainment venues that dotted New Jersey. The original “Smiles” concept was tied to establishments offering exotic dancing and go-go entertainment, and Smiles 2 became the Ledgewood outpost of that brand.

The Local Appeal

Located on Route 46, Smiles 2 benefited from high visibility and easy access. For decades, it drew:

• Blue-collar workers looking for post-shift drinks
• Nightlife seekers who preferred a more casual, dive-bar atmosphere
• Regulars who treated it like a second home

The appeal of Smiles 2 lay in its mix of affordability, atmosphere, and entertainment, which gave it an edge over competing venues in the area.

Smiles 2’s Reputation: More Than Just a Bar

A Go-Go Destination

While some saw it as a simple neighborhood bar, Smiles 2 was primarily a go-go bar—a place where exotic dancers performed for patrons. This gave it a reputation that was both alluring and controversial.

A Notorious Local Landmark

Over time, Smiles 2 became the subject of local lore. For some, it was just harmless fun. For others, it symbolized the seedier side of nightlife in suburban New Jersey. Its reputation made it a magnet for curiosity, but also a target for criticism.

The Decline of Smiles 2 Ledgewood

Like many go-go bars, Smiles 2 eventually fell victim to shifting cultural attitudes, economic pressures, and law enforcement crackdowns.

Changing Times and Customer Bases

Views on entertainment venues changed in the 1990s and early 2000s. Younger generations sought nightlife experiences in trendy clubs, music venues, or upscale lounges. At the same time, traditional go-go bars saw a decline in foot traffic due in part to online entertainment.

Law Enforcement Scrutiny

Smiles 2 faced increased police oversight, as did many clubs in the state. Concerns about illegal activity, underage drinking, and regulatory violations put pressure on establishments like Smiles 2 to either adapt or shut down.

Competition and Economic Challenges

The rise of chain restaurants, craft beer bars, and casinos in Atlantic City (and later Pennsylvania) chipped away at Smiles 2’s customer base. By the mid-2000s, it became clear that the go-go bar model was no longer sustainable in towns like Ledgewood.

The Closure of Smiles 2

The exact date of Smiles 2’s closure is often debated among locals, but by the early 2010s, the doors had closed for good. It was the end of an era for long-time customers. For others, it was a welcome change, as the community shifted toward redevelopment and modernization.

What Came After Smiles 2 in Ledgewood?

Redevelopment of the Property

Following Smiles 2’s closure, the building and surrounding area underwent transformation. Route 46 saw a surge in redevelopment, with retail chains and commercial properties replacing older nightlife establishments.

A New Identity for the Space

The former Smiles 2 site didn’t stay dormant for long. Over time, it became home to new businesses that better reflected the evolving needs of the community. Instead of go-go dancing and neon lights, the property transitioned toward more family-friendly or practical commercial use.

Symbol of a Changing Community

The replacement of Smiles 2 with new ventures symbolized a broader shift in Morris County’s culture. What was once a nightlife hotspot became part of a suburban community focused on retail, restaurants, and professional services.

Why Smiles 2 Still Lives On in Memory

Even though Smiles 2 no longer exists, it holds a unique place in local history. For some, it was a nostalgic hangout spot. For others, it was a taboo landmark that sparked gossip and judgment.

On online forums and social media groups dedicated to New Jersey nostalgia, Smiles 2 is often mentioned alongside other long-gone establishments. People share memories, inside jokes, and stories—some exaggerated, some all too real.

The Broader Trend: Decline of Go-Go Bars in New Jersey

Smiles 2 wasn’t alone in its fate. Across New Jersey, many go-go bars closed in the 2000s and 2010s due to:

• Increased regulation of venues
• Changing cultural norms and declining demand
• Redevelopment pressures in growing suburban areas
• Competition from casinos, online entertainment, and upscale nightlife options

Today, only a handful of such establishments remain, making Smiles 2 part of a larger historical narrative.

FAQs About Smiles 2 Ledgewood

1. When did Smiles 2 in Ledgewood officially close?

While exact dates vary depending on sources, Smiles 2 closed its doors in the early 2010s after decades in operation.

2. What was Smiles 2 known for?

Smiles 2 was a go-go bar on Route 46 in Ledgewood, NJ, known for exotic dancers, affordable drinks, and its reputation as a local nightlife landmark.

3. What replaced Smiles 2 after it shut down?

The property was eventually redeveloped for commercial use, housing businesses more in line with community growth and suburban retail needs.

4. Why did Smiles 2 close?

The closure was due to a mix of declining patronage, increased regulation, and changing cultural attitudes toward go-go bars.

5. Are there any similar places still open in New Jersey?

Yes, though far fewer exist today compared to the 1980s and 1990s. Most surviving establishments are located closer to urban centers or Atlantic City.

Conclusion: The End of an Era on Route 46

Smiles 2 in Ledgewood was more than just a bar—it was a symbol of a bygone nightlife culture in suburban New Jersey. Its closure marked both the end of an era and the beginning of new community growth along Route 46.

While some may look back with nostalgia and others with disapproval, there’s no denying that Smiles 2 left a permanent imprint on the local memory. Its story is part of the larger tale of how nightlife, culture, and community landscapes evolve over time.

In the end, the rise and fall of Smiles 2 serves as a reminder that every local landmark has a life cycle—and what replaces it often reflects the changing values of the community it once served.