We've been here for two shows, one with seating, and one without. The bathrooms are under the stage, with steps on either side, well lit, and the bathrooms are excellent for a 40 year old venue, having been recently remodeled. The sound is OK, the Motion City Soundtrack mixing board crew did an admirable job of cranking down the bass a little, as the place does seem to add to the bass. Without a good guy on the sound board, this place can sound pretty awful. Guess it depends upon the band. If you can swing the price, the VIP seating is the way to go. the tables behind the sound board are probably the best, as the low overhead cuts down the bass. Haven't sat upstairs yet, but will do so next week. Bar and wait staff are very friendly, and will let you taste a draft before pouring. The only issue was while waiting in line, the local panhandlers and druggies were working the line for money and/or smokes. Update: Been back to 4 more shows since the original posting, and will continue to come back. This has become my favorite spot for concerts. The last show we attended, the crowd starting getting rowdy, and security put the lid on it pretty quickly, before things got ugly. read more

I've been here a couple of times to see bands. If you like seeing alternative bands and don't mind the divey bar feel then it's good. I love that kind of thing so I don't mind the environment. The sound is rough though. You can hardly hear what people are saying or singing. Your experience REALLY depends on the night and the crowd. The first time we were here the concert was awesome. That was a Saturday night. We came back on a Wednesday night and the crowd was ridiculous. Just a bunch of rude, drunk college kids who didn't even know the band or any of the songs. It was hard to enjoy the band when you kept getting drinks spilled on you or shoved into other people. There was a mosh pit for about half the show, until they figured out they figured out what type of band it was. Once the crowed settled down the show wasn't too awful. Other than that, I have never ordered a drink so I can't comment on pricing. I've never had a problem with parking but I always get there early. There are a lot of places to pick to eat from too. Overall not a horrible place to see your favorite alternative band play. Just pick a Friday or Saturday night to go, when all of the college kids are partying somewhere else. Unless you like mosh pits and sweaty drunk college kids. read more

A plus! This place is packed (duh) but service is amazing and the made sure that when a dude walked into a women's bathroom by mistake to not let any other women Enter and to get the guy some water. Will for sure be back! read more

My first Bogart's show was this past Wednesday. This is a terrific place to go watch bands. You can get right up to the stage if you want to (and you don't mind getting squished by people once the place starts rocking) or hang back at a table or near the bar. Good sound system, fairly clean (it isn't a Hilton, after all) and a great selection of beers. We were drinking Sierra Nevada's Bigfoot Ale on draft for $7 for a big solo cup (16 oz I think). The bathroom situation here is strange - they're under the stage. Not hard to get to, just oddly placed and the line can be confusing because there isn't an obvious "in" or "out" door. Parking SUCKS! Plan on walking from at least a block away. Not a big deal, just an inconvenience you need to be aware of. I'm looking forward to many more shows at Bogart's! Rock on! read more

I think this is a nice sized venue for a concert. I liked that you can generally get a good view of the stage even if you didn't get there super early to wait in line. The acoustics are decent, though obviously not as good upstairs. Bathrooms were clean. A good place to watch bands. read more

Ok so I just went for the first tine to see Hollywood Undead play and this was a blast yet a pain for me . I went in and was fine until a drunk couldnt hold her liquor and blew chuncks on my shirt from behind and left without a apologizing and no staff member did action, beer was being spilt on me which I can understand cause people packed into the area, and random people kept pushing over and over to the point I was concerned about my safety and my brother's too when he was obviously next to me . No staff took action toward the mess even though it wasn't crowded at that point or even when people were creating a safety concern . The only reason why I gave it 3 stars is cause the bands did awesome and besides this happening my brother and I had a blast read more

A great venue with ample space for standing room at concerts. Good beers to choose from on tap. I was impressed they had the West 6th Cocoa Porter. A 32 oz. even! Had a great time there and hope to enjoy some other bands there some day. read more

I attended a johnnyswim concert at Bogart's and it was AMAZING! The venue is spacious! It's is easy to hear and see from anywhere! The bathrooms are clean. Everything about the venue and the concert was perfect! I will be going back to another concert at Bogart's just for the atmosphere. Check it out! read more

Bogart's - johnnyswim @ Bogart's - Music Venues Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

I just read a review about how great Bogart's is since Live Nation bought them out and the "bathrooms are no longer covered in piss." Sure, that sounds like winning but is it, really? Where's the love of authenticity anymore? I admit, I hadn't been to Bogart's in an age. I had read that they had renovated and was ready for... something. But was kind of bummed by what I found. Yes, the bathroom sinks are outrageously cool. Ok, now there are a bunch more flashy lights everywhere and bricks in the wall painted with names of bands and stuff. I'm not a sound expert. People seem to still complain about the sound a lot but that's not my issue. This is my hang up. The VIP area. $30 a person to sit down at a table. There used to just be tables you duked it out with people to get to. I understand the special handicapped area. (Not sure if you have to pay for handicapped seating. If you have to pay, it's always extra expensive to see concerts. I'm sorry. You can't catch a break.) But just chairs? I tried haggling with a very good natured lady guarding the area. I asked for just a chair then just a stool outside of the area. I'm not handicapped, but I have problems that lead me to having a very difficult time standing for extended periods of time. And $60 for my boyfriend and me on top of ticket cost is ridiculous. Yeah, Bogart's is collecting extra revenue there. Tickets to concerts have gone up so much over the years which I understand, but that much to sit just rubbed me wrong. So, I sat on the floor a whole lot. Not really comfortable but to me, it was winning. To their credit, the floor did seem to be reasonably clean. They check you with a metal detector before entrance. Maybe if I go back, I could wear a poncho fashioned of cloth and wooden poles that also serves as a chair when origamied a certain way. It's a craft project to think about. I bet I could sell a bunch of them. read more

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I have been coming to this music venue, like most people in the area, for the last 20 years! I have seen it go through a couple renovations. This latest one is the best, mainly because of the new bathrooms! We were here last Saturday for an event called Homemade Jam 'Stripped', which was an acoustic show featuring two amazing local acts - Mother Folk and Sundae Drives. It was a lowkey story tellers show, which was great to experience. I love that Bogart's is finding new ways to utilize this space and offering a great way for local music to continue to flourish. Keep it up Bogart's and we'll definitely keep coming back!!! read more

I always have a great time at Bogart's and Flogging Molly's show was only an exception in that I had even more fun. Loud and wild, even though it was a Monday night! The drinks are a bit over-priced, but to be completely honest, that's not what I am at a music club to enjoy. Thay being said, the beer choices are always great, many of my favorites from the city's craft breweries. The bartenders are nice and surprisingly adept at hearing orders in a raucous workplace. I love seeing bands in an intimate environment like this especially when it is one of my favorites. read more

I went here years ago, to see Relient K(with some girls, not my first choice, even though they did put on a show) and I had a really good time. I didn't drink or anything, just went to spend some time with some friends and had a good time. My reviews often work as movies do when a location is a character, like Manhattan. My reviews reflect my experience there, because I don't usually don't go to places with the intent of critiquing each aspect of that place. My experience usually grows or falters as a result of the location, and this time was fun. It was a fun setting, with a decent amount of people reliving their high schools years through the nostalgic performance of Relient K. It was very lighthearted and relaxed, while still energetic and fun. I was just having a good time, so therefore I rate Bogart's positively. The ticket was only like $22 bucks too so that's great! read more

Wasn't too bad... The place was kind of dirty and had to wait in a line outside in the cold waiting to get in (ticket said concert was at 8 so we got there early.. Doors opened at 8). When you get there I would spend the extra $10 a person to sit in the middle ropes off section.. That was fantastic. Your own bathroom with it too and seats. I would go here again if the right person was playing. read more

Bogart's - Music Venues Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

Saw my first concert at Bogart's within the past month or two! Walk Off The Earth! Amazing band if you haven't given them a listen. Anyone that knows me knows that I am not a fan of Clifton. AT ALL. When my friend asked me if I wanted to tag along to this concert, I decided to because I've never had the opportunity to visit Bogart's but this band has some damn good music. Location: Bogart's is right on Short Vine, right near Hot Rod Charlie's, The Cupboard, and all of those establishments. Street parking is available but is limited, lot parking can be found on the side streets for $5-$10. I had a good time. Although getting in and out of the place is a bit packed. I will be back at some point! read more

The musician I went to see was fantastic. But the staff were not. Apparently there is a rule against no outside food in the venue. Nowhere was this mentioned and nobody told me about it. They straight up stole my food and didn't even tell me they stole it. When I went to go back for it, staff were belligerent and they told me I wouldn't be allowed back in if I went out. I told them I just wanted to put my food in my car and they told me I wasn't getting it back. I didn't escalate it further because I didn't want to get kicked out of seeing the artist I paid to see. Overall not a pleasant experience. Avoid this place if you can help it. read more

Excellent venue great music fun times awesome place to go for the best concerts here in Cincinnati will definitely recommend this venue for anyone looking for a good time read more

If I could give negative stars I would. I bought tickets to Small Town Murder live within minutes of them going on sale, and this venue completely screwed me over and gave preferred seating to people who paid the same price and bought later and I got stuck with the worst seats in the entire venue. The pre-show music was terrible, and so was the service. Great job doing everything possible to ruin a great show, Bogart's. I would NEVER recommend this venue to anyone. The mandatory one star is for the single bright point, the cool sign out front. read more

Large venue and great bar, but everything else is a mess. Staff doesn't prepare as far as telling attendees what line is for what leaving people who got there early in the back of the line when they have to move. Staff attempted to confiscate my legitimate ID when carding for 21+ wristbands. And my biggest complaint was that security told the crowd to be quiet while in the venue waiting on the main act to come on, which baffles me. read more

Awesome concert venue! The employees are fabulous, especially considering how unruly fans can get sometimes. Great place to hear live music. read more

I currently live in Chicago but was born and raised in Cincinnati and had never been to a concert at Bogarts. I came in town to celebrate my bf's birthday and spend time with family. She decided that we should all attend a Wailers concert there to celebrate. Overall we had a great time at the concert but it was solely due to the energy from the Wailers! When we first arrived, the door lady tried to claim that my Illinois ID was a fake. Mind you, I'm 26, why would I have the need for a fake ID? Her basis was that she had never "seen" an IL ID before and this it didn't look real. I explained to her that I had just traveled to Cincinnati with this ID and had no issues at all but she continued to insist that it was a fake. She even went to ask the manager and the manager told her to not let me in. Mind you, I am LIVID! It is a real ID! also by this time the concert had started -- this was a HUGE WASTE OF MY TIME! While getting to the bottom of the alleged "fake ID", they made the entire line wait, which was super embarrassing. There ended up being several people at the door making ignorant based judgements on whether my ID was real or fake. Finally one of the ladies had sense enough to pull out some book to verify what a real IL ID looked like. She even let them know that my ID met the requirements but they still wouldn't let me in... again--- *despite meeting the requirements from the book*. Anyway, it wasn't until I requested that the police show up to scan and verify my ID, before they let me in. Yes I was willing to go that far, after all, I had paid for these tickets, I'm gonna see the show! Anyways, after ruining the first part of my experience, the wailers finally lifted my spirits again. Advice to management --- hire an experienced door staff or pay for your staff to be properly trained! An alternative, Purchase an ID scanner, that would save a lot of time! You shouldn't have ignorant/ baseless door people running ID's. it's a huge waste of time, money, and experience. Needless to say, it was my first and last time attending a concert here! MAJOR EYE ROLE. read more

Come on Live Nation, since taking over Bogart's there hasn't been any improvements made to the sound quality. Always difficult to hear vocals and it's worse at the sides of venue. When Promo West brings their new state of the art venue, it's going to be hard to compete. Invest now or lose out! read more

Great venue, the manager has really done a great job with lots of improvements there. Have seen many bands at Bogart's. While it is "standing" unless you take advantage of upgrading to the VIP section as some people fail to realize, it is a more intimate experience and great place to see many great bands. For those who have criticized the "acoustics" there, talk to the band's sound guy that you went to see. Have seen Seether, Hinder, Jackyl and Theory of a Deadman there and the sound was GREAT!!! It's my favorite venue in Cincinnati. read more

So I saw my favorite band was performing here and unfortunately I was met with one of the worst venues I've ever been to. Very dirty and the employees are very rude from the security to the bartenders- I didn't meet a single employee that wasn't sour. They also jack prices. The website claimed $10 at the door on the day of the show but charged me $13. I don't typically write many reviews but I had a really bad experience at this venue and will not be returning. Forget this place- go to riverbend to see your favorite band. read more

I'm so relieved that Cincinnati has a venue like Bogart's. It's reminiscent of several other venues I've been to that seem to straddle the line between grungy and comfortable. First and foremost, I appreciate the size. It's not too big and not too small-- my favorite type of place to be when I want to watch a really cool band play live music. Bogarts has a bar, so they check for ID at the door and give you a wrist band if you want to drink. I thought it was odd how they were advertising PBRs and such, but if that brings in the money, then why am I questioning our country's trust in capitalism? Sorry, too far. The restrooms were downstairs, and surprisingly kempt. I think the ticket prices are typically over $20 for the type of artists Bogart's attracts. If you come when doors open, you may be able to find parking (which I think is free after six) along the row of restaurants. Otherwise, I assume you'd have to be prepared to scour for parking on the street. I'd love to come back if a band I know is playing. read more

Rough views for most people and alcohol is overpriced. However, this is not why I have great issue with this place. They have very strict security - which I can appreciate on some level. BUT they have a policy that if you leave the building, you cannot re-enter and there are no exceptions. A girl left the venue and told security that she was leaving and coming back because she had to go to the hospital because she had an allergy attack during the day and had to go back for additional care. The security guard would not let her come back afterwards and she was unable to connect with her partner inside, and therefore was sitting and waiting for the concert to end - respectfully. Meanwhile, an incredibly drunk person was carried out by multiple guards. I don't understand how this sweet girl could be considered a danger or a problem when there are drunk individuals getting carried out or starting fights inside (which did also happen). The guards are incredibly rude and it's absolutely ridiculous. I will not support this institution anymore. read more

Just wanted to give credit where credits due. I attended a concert here on Feb 24 and my tickets wouldn't show up on the Groupon app because my account was frozen after multiple login attempts. Both Greg And Kaitlin were very kind and patient at the door while I was attempting to login for about ten minutes. Also, Greg went above and beyond for me and lead me to the ticket window where they typically don't print tickets bought on Groupon. However, Greg asked Meg to print the tickets for me and then I was able to get in to the show. I am very grateful for their kindness and patience and as always had a great night at Bogart's. Thank you again. read more

Bogarts has changed in the past few years, I think due to new management, and this change is definitely for the better!!! I remember going to shows many years ago and being worried about my car being gone after the show, and about being mugged standing in line. Things have definitely changed! The surrounding area has cleaned up big time, and the staff inside is so much more pleasant than what I remembered. I am definitely going to be coming to more shows here now that I know it's gotten better!!! :) read more

If not for the total lack of any security scanning the crowd for the immense cloud of smoke from all the people smoking weed and making me feel sick, I would have enjoyed my experience at Bogart's. I understand that it's a concert, and it's going to happen, but it was completely ridiculous. I don't smoke, and wouldn't condemn anyone for doing so, but there is a reason that smoking anything indoors is not allowed in Ohio. The staff at Bogart's really need to step up and have some control over the crowd. read more

I have lived in Cincinnati for years and have never gone to Bogarts, tonight I went to see Mat Kearney. I am hoping that he doesn't go back, because I will not be there if he does. The fun started when my friend and I walked in the door and she was told that her ID was not going to be accepted because it did not look real. My friend is 27 years old and has had this ID since 2012 and has NEVER had an issue at any other establishment. I completely understand not wanting to get in trouble for under age drinking, but this was handled all wrong. If they really thought her ID was fake, then why did they give it back to her? The one good thing about this situation is that we both saved money on beers because she couldn't purchase and I decided to not give them my money. read more

Oh yeah. We have a great music venue here. Ive seen all kinds of great shows. The Misfits, Insane Clown Posse, Slayer/Hatebreed/Arch Enemy, Gwar(twice), Morbid Angel. Great live sound. Just plain awesome. Parking can be an issue. Crime can be an issue too outside the venue, this neighborhood isnt so great. Bathrooms can be nasty, but thats the case for any live rock venue. read more

never thought i'd give bogart's 4 stars. however, they really have spruced the place up. kudos, bogart's. it is nice to know that this warehouse-style venue is stepping their game up as i love going to shows there. maybe it will be a catalyst for the rest of short vine to "clean up" their act. read more

This place also deleted some of my comments about their venue on some other websites they're a sham and it's a shame any artists come here to have concerts...Bogarts you suck and always will I can't stand your speaker system or the floor plan here it's absolute ass I'd rather see a concert at WOODYS. read more

Far cheaper to buy tickets at the window than online! I saw Marc Maron at Bogart's and it was quite an interesting show. Bogart's is normally a music venue, so seeing a comedian inside gave off a much different vibe. There are no permanent seats in the venue, so metal foldout chairs were provided in the standing area. The acoustics were good so you could hear Marc very clearly, but he himself commented on the off aura of the venue. The stage was very big and I can imagine seeing a band there would be quite fun. It is a very large venue and after looking at some posters, lots of big bands seem to pass through. Located on Vine Street, there are lots of things to do around the area if you find yourself waiting for a show. The drinks were kind of expensive--we were drinking the special, which were two small cocktails for $10. The drinks were small and not very strong, so don't expect to be satisfied with the cost-to-quantity ratio. I had a good time at Bogart's and would very much like to see another performance here! read more

I have been to Bogarts multiple times. This was my first time back since Live Nation took over and performed renovations. The bathrooms are easy to find, well lit, and updated with modern fixtures and were very clean. There is a nice outdoor patio that allows smokers access during the show, or someone who needs some fresh air. The staff were helpful and drinks were easy to obtain. The only complaint i have is the sound is still hit or miss. I saw Foxy Shazam in November and the opening bands sounds was so off, you couldnt understand a single lyric coming from the microphone. Even when Foxy Shazam took the stage, you could barely understand Eric when the band was playing. They really need to work on the acoustics, but overall, a great affordable venue for concerts. read more

I had a really great time here! It's standing room only, which I don't mind at all because I love to dance during concerts! I got to see Who's Bad perform. They're a Michael Jackson tribute band and they were excellent! While most concerts at Bogart's are crazy, this one was nice because children were allowed to come. It was pleasant to see people of all ages enjoy a concert together. Pro tip: Make sure you use the restroom before the show starts because it will be a challenge to try to get there once the show starts. read more

I have seen a range of artists at Bogarts (from Kid Cudi to a Led Zeppelin cover band) and I have never been disapointed with the venue. Bogart's is a great concert venue located in Clifton. Bogart's, to me, feels a little old-fashioned and intimate which I like. There is a large, open floor where it is easy enough to get close to the stage. There is also balcony seating for a premium. Bogart's also ensures you are never far from an alcoholic beverage with a couple bars with seating in the back of the venue and temporar stands set up near hihg-traffic areas. If your favorite artist is playing at Bogart's, this venue will do nothing but enhance your experience. read more

I've been coming here for the past 9 years or so and it's really gone uphill! It was recently redone thanks to Live Nation. New staff, second bar, and new bathrooms! It's looking good! read more

i don't know who you've been talking to, but bogart's has really gone south ever since that guy got killed at that king diamond concert back in the day. granted, it used to be great back in the late 80's and early 90's but then it, and pretty much all of the short vine area, gradually turned really crappy and not in a good way. crap metal supplanted punk and then good bands started finding other places to play. speaking as someone who saw a lot of great shows there over the years, i'd really like to see this neighborhood (and bogart's and sudsy's) come back, but, knowing cincinnati, that won't happen anytime soon, if ever. prove me wrong, corryville! read more

My friends and I went to the wrestling match last night and has a great time. First time at Bogart's for anything other than a concert. Lydia at the door was super cool and professional. Loved her! read more

I love Bogart's! I've been going to concerts here since I was 16 years old. Lots of great memories! I like that you can get up close to the stage or sit back away from the crowd....and go back and forth between the two settings as the mood strikes you. A couple of years ago I had free tickets to a show and the security was so tight I wasn't allowed to bring in a pen in my purse. I had to take it back to my car, which was bizarre. That is the only time I recall that happening at any show, anywhere, ever...kind of funny it was a Natasha Bedingfield concert...mainly a bunch of moms and kids, not a real violent crowd. Most recently I was there to see Paul Weller and it looked like they had redone the bathrooms, which was definately a plus. read more