There are a lot of bars on Ohio State’s campus. And then there’s Leo’s on the Alley.
If you know, you know.
If you don’t… well, this is one of those places that quietly becomes your weekly hangout without you even realizing it.
But right now, the family behind that bar need the same support they’ve been giving Columbus for years.
A Legendary Small Business Owner Is Fighting for His Life
Clifton “Cliff” McAuley, co-owner of Leo’s on the Alley, recently suffered cardiac arrest at home while he was alone.
He has since been in the ICU in very critical condition.
A GoFundMe has been created to support Cliff, his family, and everything that comes with an unexpected medical emergency like this.
👉 You can support Cliff and his family here
Some Good News
Before writing this article, the donations were at 53% of their goal of $25,000. At the time of publishing, they are already at nearly $27,000! Keep donating and sending good vibes to the McAuley and Leo’s on the Alley families. ❤️
Why This One Hits Different (At Least for Me)
I’m not just writing about Leo’s as some random bar on campus.
This place meant a lot to us here at Step Out Columbus.
I was a regular at Leo’s on the Alley before I graduated from Ohio State (it was one of the few campus bars I actually liked, alongside Oldfields, Threes, and Out-R-Inn). And after graduation, I ended up bartending there… which honestly just made me love it even more.
Because Leo’s isn’t about cheap drinks or extremely loud music.
It’s about people. It’s a place for college kids to feel like they belong.
The Kind of Place That Attracts Good Humans
From day one, Leo’s always had a different vibe. The bartenders were cool. The regulars were cool. The random Tuesday night crowd? Also somehow cool.
It always felt like the kind of place where you could walk in, sit down, and immediately feel like you belonged. And that all starts at the top.
Working for Cliff was one of those experiences that sticks with you. He’s the boss people wish they had. Supportive. Knowledgeable. Trustworthy. He actually cares about his staff and customers. A lot.
Cliff and his co-owner Dan (another legend, by the way) made it clear that they always had our backs. Had an issue with a customer? Call them. Something felt off? Call them. Didn’t feel safe walking home at 3:30 AM? Call them… and they’d come pick you up.
No hesitation.
That kind of culture doesn’t just happen by accident. It starts with leadership and it spreads
Plus, for what it’s worth… There are not many better bingo callers in this world than Mr. Clifton McAuley.
Now It’s Our Turn
Leo’s has been there for so many people over the years. Now Cliff needs people to be there for him.
If you’ve ever:
- Had a drink at Leo’s
- Made a friend there
- Closed the place down on a random weeknight
- Or just care about supporting local businesses in Columbus
This is one of those moments where it actually matters.
👉 Support Cliff and his family here, share this article, or spread the word to your friends.
Cliff is a guy who has spent years having other people’s backs.
It’s time we have his for a change.
Things To Do
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