Great venue, and convenient parking (it was $12 as of Oct/2022). My first time there, security is pretty tight (which is good) and even with metal detectors, they get you through quick. There's a great selection of places to view the performance (we were there for Sabaton). I would definitely go back. read more

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$3.50 for a simple bottle of water at a show ??? Really...not cool Beerfest 2017 Summer: what an amazing event! I have been to several beer fest in the past and I think it's really grown into this huge fun event for any beer lover. I remember when it was only a small portion of stage AE now..this event takes up the entire property and stage AE. The event was organized very well. .no shortage of restrooms..Live music was awesome and plenty of food trucks... BRGR and pirogi .. to name a few. I love that my beloved southern tier had several tents..,I love the lemon drop. We had a difficult time finding the exit ( ha ha) and just decided to go out the way we came in. how convenient it was pedal cabs everywhere... I was beat.. not much seating at the beer fest. Thanks Stage AE for another amazing event. read more

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Small venue but that's what makes it great! There was not a bad view in the place. I will definitely be checking out more shows here in the future. read more

This was my first opportunity to experience shock rocker Alice Cooper in a more intimate concert setting and I loved every minute. The price for admission was less than the concert tshirt or patch and I would have paid more without hesitation. I had general admission and was in the second row behind the stage. There was no seating, but who can sit when the man, the legend himself - Alice Cooper - is singing? There are always issues, but needing a clear bag isn't a dealbreaker for me. I prefer my real camera, but only cellphones are allowed. As you can see, they are enough. I can't wait to go back! read more

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This is a pretty decent venue and it's run like a well oiled machine. I've seen several shows here and I'll say I prefer the outdoor concerts over indoor. Each time I've seen a show inside the sound has been off. The sound from outdoor performances is always spot on whether up at stage in a box or in back lawn. read more

I love this venue in terms of the bands they enable to come to Pittsburgh, and I've been to probably two dozen shows here over the years. The hybrid model is great, and whether it's been an indoor or outdoor show, the sound, lighting, and logistics have all been great. I've never found the staff to be pleasant, but I've never had any issues. At every one of these shows, I brought my keys... which have a carabiner. Not only did they start to enforce this stupid policy of prohibiting them, but they had the most unprofessional policy officers working the door. I dare you to use them as brass knuckles and actually punch someone (at a Fitz and the Tantrums concert no-less)... you'll break your hand before you inflict any damage. Their policies in general are ridiculous, and they serve Coors Light - so now, they get 2 stars. read more

Been hearing all about Stage AE so finally got my chance last night with the triple win of Colin Hay, Violent Femmes, and Bare Naked Ladies. Size: Just the right size. Not a bad spot to view the concert in the entire place. There is the elbow-to-elbow space right in front of the stage if standing elbow-to-elbow with your neighbor to view your favorite band is your thing. Then, there is the grassy area just a bit further back. I preferred that area because there was room to spread out and even sit down. I could still see just fine when standing. It's elevated a bit so can see over most heads. On their website they indicate there is also indoor seating for some concerts. This particular concert was outdoors so can't comment on indoor seating. Food/drink: Plenty of beer and soda options. Food selections, on the other hand, are sparse. Dogs, burgers, pretzels, and nachos were about what I saw and from which I partook. For some reason, I really was craving popcorn and was wishing they offered that. Dunno why... I won't comment on prices. You know the drill on any venue's food/drink prices already, I'm sure. Restrooms: Lines were small and went fast. People watching: Oh, yeah.... THAT was sumpin in itself and worthy to pass the time between sets. Seating: All general admission for this event except for some special event seating between the stage, general admission in front of the stage and the general admission grassy area. Don't know what that's about or who gets an opportunity to enjoy that. Smoking: Allowed. What you can bring in to the venue: Not much. Saw some people sitting on plastic they brought with them but no blankets. My butt was wet from sitting on grass that had just been rained on earlier in the day but, whatev. Summary: Concert was excellent; sound was good; food/drink/restroom lines were short; people were well-behaved; enough staff was in place if/when needed; parking was nearby. read more

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Great place for concerts!! Located on the North Shore, between Heinz Field and PNC Park. Concerts inside in cold weather, outside in the spring and summer. Holding about 1500 people, it's a perfect place for a concert. Tonight was In This Moment, Sevendust, Light the Torch, great night!!! read more

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I've been here for a two concerts prior to today. I never remember purchasing anything except a band T-shirt . but I purchased a drink from the bar it was $14... honey jack Daniels and coke I asked for a napkin at the bar and the bartender handed me a big blue napkin he was just using to whip the bar. Like are you serious bitch does it look like I work here! Why would I want that napkin. They are also super strict about purses! I had a wallet purse and they said it was to big ‍ read more

I've been to hundreds of concerts across the country and I'm attempting to write a review of every venue to assist my concert going troubadours. Cody Jinks December 13th, 2018 This is my 6th concert review for Stage AE. Something always prevents this venue from being a perfect experience. Recently, it's been the ridiculous line to get into the venue. Stage AE is regressing in its attempts to get fans into the venue in a timely fashion, which is a HUGE problem with a curfew venue. However, unlike in March for Tyler Childers, curfew was broken on this night so we didn't feel short changed (no harm, no foul). Stage AE clearly states their bag policy online and on social media, but they have to understand people are idiots. Stage AE needs understand people can't read and be more proactive. I am volunteering my consulting advise because I really love this venue and it's the best we have in Pittsburgh. They need to have someone walking the line with a cardboard diagram that every woman needs to measure her purse against. Be proactive; don't wait until the women get to the metal detectors and there's shock, confusion, and arguments. Diffuse the situation early. This will also give the women in the back of the line a chance to return their bags to their vehicles (instead of in the garbage can next to the detectors). Also, have everyone show this person working the line their key chain and let them know before they go through the detecors three or four times what won't be permitted in the venue. I forgave Stage AE this time because curfew was broken. If a situation happens again like Tyler Childers in March where I feel short changed, I won't be back. And feel free to contact me about my consulting services! read more

Stage AE - Cody Jinks 12/20/18 - Music Venues Near Me - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

I am OBSESSED with Stage AE. This is my favorite place to attend concerts in Pittsburgh by far. It's located right in the north shore with super convenient parking at the lot and garage across the street or if you Uber, it's in an area where it will be easy to get an Uber before and after. The views of the Pittsburgh skyline are incredible for outdoor shows. They have an indoor and outdoor stage and both are AWESOME. They have a great situation with the bars as they are sporadically placed throughout the venue so the lines are never too long. Cocktails, ic lights, white claws, trulys, and more are available for a great selection. Unless you buy tickets for a VIP area or the white claw deck, all seats are GA! Outdoor bathrooms are super clean and in trailers vs just being porta potties. I've seen illenium, griffin, zedd, girl talk, third eye blind & others and have a BLAST every time. Not to mention if you want to go out after the concert, you're right next to tequila cowboy, shortys, southern tier, the casino & more!!! 100% best venue in Pittsburgh year-round. read more

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Stage AE has the unique ability to turn any good time into a hastle ridden nightmare. Going out to see your favorite band? How about a bag check, wand, body cavity search, background check, voucher from a member of the community in good standing, complete fingerprint and dental records, and a note from your mom. I have been to many shows at many venues around Pittsburgh. When I hear a show is coming to AE there is a 50/50 chance I will skip it because I know there it is a struggle to have fun at this venue. Just getting a bottle of water? Expect to miss at least 3-4 songs...going outside for a smoke? Don't bother coming back in, you're never getting near the stage again. You might as well get in your car and go home because your night is over. We're not terrorists for crying out loud, we're just trying to have fun at a concert! read more

This is one of the absolute worst music venues I have ever attended. There is no seating, people were packed in worse than sardines, and the waiting time was beyond unreasonable. I attended the Heilung show tonight (Aug 30, 2022) and was horribly disappointed. Doors opened at 6:30. Typically that would mean the band comes out at about 7:30, or an hour or so after doors. We stayed until about 8:30 and decided to up and leave. Plus the audience would yell and cheer every time a stage worker came up. Just an absolute disgrace; downright revolting. A dream killer for wanting to see a quality show. (Heilung did not arrive on stage while we were there) read more

Always very organized and alert, especially for a small venue. I went to a show there where they were passing out water to ensure everyone was hydrated, and they let me bring in my food so I could eat but not lose my spot in line. read more

When I see that one of my favorite artists is coming to Pittsburgh, immediately I hope the venue is Stage AE. There are a lot of great things about this venue, and the overall setup of the venue is unique because the concerts can be either indoor or outdoor. I've seen concerts in both settings, and the acoustics of both are great. I don't really have a preference, although nothing beats a great outdoor show on a warm summer night! One of the positives of Stage AE is the location. Not only are you central to quite a few good restaurants and bars, but you're close to downtown. The North Shore has one of my favorite nighttime views of the city. Another positive is the size of the venue. Stage AE holds a lot of people but somehow has always had the perfect level of intimacy. One of the indoor shows I attended was Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, and the singer actually had the audience sit down as he walked through us. It's always such a great experience here. When you go to concerts, sporting events, etc. you always expect drink prices to be through the roof, but drinks were only $6.50 when I saw Wale at Stage AE last week. I'm not sure if this changes depending on the event, but it was a pleasant surprise for us at the show. Without a doubt I'll be dancing and having a blast at Stage AE again, hopefully sooner rather than later! read more

Good ole Stage AE. Outside- There isn't a bad spot in the place. Being that I am pretty short (barely 5'1), usually it is a problem when I go to a concert. But when outside, I can pretty much see from wherever I am. Acoustics are usually really good outside,never had a problem there. The crowd can get a little rowdy, but that's ok with me. My only issues are the security guards and the fact that someone is always smoking pot. The security guards are more rude than needed, and someone is always smoking pot. Instead of getting smart with someone in the crowd, how about taking care of the whole pot thing? Indoors- I've only been indoors once. But It was one of the best concerts I have seen in a while. Accoustics are great, beer is cheap, and there is plenty of standing room. But again, I am pretty short so when it comes down to actually seeing the stage, It can get pretty tough. I was lucky enough to stand along a security barricade by VIP. It was a great though! For a show that was probably at 90%, It was still semi comfortable. I recommend coming here to jam out or tailgate. read more

Stage AE - Skillet 2/12/2017 - Music Venues Near Me - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Terrible lines. Shows don't begin on time. Waited for over 2.5 hours for a concert to start. Go elsewhere for shows!!!

Stage AE is in a great location. Its right near the Carnegie Science Center, Bettis Grille, the Riverfront, and Heinz field. They have both an inside stage and an outside stage. I have seen performances on both stages and they are both awesome. Like all concert halls, the drinks are overpriced and you cant bring in any beverages of your own. Other than that, I highly recommend going to see performances here. read more

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These clowns sent me paper tickets only, required a vaccine card, and then refused me entry because the purse I used to carry those required items isn't small enough to shove up my back side. Give me a break. read more

We've attended concerts both indoors and outdoors here since it has the capability of operating in either fashion. Both formats have been great experiences. It can be hard to see the stage if you're short during indoors concerts, but not really an issue outdoors. Drinks are actually reasonably priced, maybe not compared to a bar, but definitely compared to other similar concert venues like house of blues. Restrooms are also decent compared to other venues. read more

two stars because they cant seem to clearly state on their tickets, when the gates open and when the actual concert starts. the chairs are the other big issue. most people cant seem to fit their body on to the folding chairs that are ziptied one to another. so someones flabby hips and arms are always in your chair with you. read more

(From October, but updated because this venue was in my nightmares last night and I had to make sure other people know just how horrible of a place this is.) Tonight I went to Stage AE for the Alice Cooper show. The doors opened at 7. At 8pm the line we still around the block. Myself, and my friends decided it was best for I wait in line. 45 minutes later, Alice Coopers intro music started. I asked security why it took over an hour to open a second entrance, and she tried to have me thrown out for simply asking why there was an immense delay. This venue has been in business for years...why did they wait until 5 min before showtime before opening another entrance. Pathetic! If I could give them less than 1 star, I would. I've been to hundreds of concerts, I've seen Alice 45+ times, but this was the worst concert going experience of my life. Stage AE is an embarrassment. read more

The bag policy is a joke. I understand having restrictions but I was turned away because my clear back was technically a backpack (not a large one either, it was 8x8 which is what is acceptable for a clear bag). I know it's posted, but I saw so many people turned away I'm shocked they haven't bothered with trying to get lockers yet. At least save people a trip back to their cars Secondly because I had to stand holding all of my things in my hands I lost an ID card in the venue. It was eventually found in my car, but when I called and left a message no one returned my call. Only positive I will say, is that when it is an indoor venue it's pretty nice. Good visibility from most places. Also all of the bartenders were very pleasant and attentive. Beyond that...not exactly my favorite concert spot. read more

Let me start off with I won tickets to see Lady A at the outdoor venue. It is standing room only with absolutely no consideration for those of us with health issues. I have a bad knee and also spine issues, standing for hours is not easy. I am also 64 years old. At one point I sat in one of the few actual folding chairs which are reserved but no one had been there for over an hour. I was wearing a knee brace! After about 5 minutes a worker told me I had to leave. I understand he was doing his job so nothing bad on him. I explained I just wanted to sit for a few minutes and I would happily move if the people arrived, my knee & back needed a break. I was still made to move. I ended up either sitting on the concrete ground or standing for almost 4 hours. The show itself was wonderful. The sound was good. The artists were great. No complaints about the music at all! Pricey drinks but you expect that in the city. Stage AE needs to think about handicapped/health issued people. Especially when you're giving away tickets. read more

So for my second review, 3 years later, I have to say Stage AE has made a lot of improvements. Sound and layout outside have definitely improved and their line up has had a few Nu Metal bands play that were really impressive-In This Moment, Killswitch Engage to name just a few. We have seen a lot of great bands there this summer and beer fest was a blast. Dont get me wrong, they still are low on seating but they are multi-versatile because they are not limited by seating structure. Definitely have a lot more options when doing this and you can have more people attend. They really are giving Pittsburgh a great venue for entertainment, so just make sure you wear comfortable shoe. They have a LOT of security, so with large groups of people this is a comfort. They have designated smoking areas outside and VIP/handicapped section outside that is really nice. They have a huge women's bathroom that is always clean and outside they have rows of the luxary porta-bathrooms that are air conditioned-they are tiny but still really nice. Bar prices and quantity/variety are great compared to other local venues. $7 or $8 for 20oz Angry Orchard? Sure. I paid $9 for a 12oz Blue Moon at Altar Bar. They still have a small stand that sells pretzels and nachos too, so if you need some substance it is there, not much in option though. Only negative, it is really hard getting details on lineups. So you know doors open at 6pm but know idea when the show is actually starting. read more

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I wanted to update my review because I've also had the chance to experience the outdoor stage. I was lucky enough to get VIP lil Wayne tickets last Saturday through my job. For outdoor box seating, you are behind a crowd, but the VIP area is higher, so you can see over everyone. Tables and chairs are also offered in VIP as well as waiter service. The concert was awesome (I've seen lil wayne like 3 times.. He always puts on a cool ass show For real) Only complaint is the outdoor restrooms. Stalls are extremely tiny. The indoor restrooms are open, but pretty far from VIP seating. Overall a great experience and FREE VIP tickets to lil wayne..... Yaasss b* ;) read more

Finally... Pittsburgh is evolving and may have the opportunity to take part in the ever changing music industry. For so long I have had to travel to Columbus, Philadelphia or DC to see innovative young bands that formerly did not stop in Pittsburgh. I am not down playing the fantastic music venues that our great city does have one bit. It is just that we were missing a crucial mid sized venue that can support the eclectic mix of musical performers that want the audience to have a more intimate experience. In the summer it will transform into an indoor/outdoor music extravaganza right on the river. I went last Saturday for the Snoop Dogg concert and have my eye on many shows to come. The venue truly is state of the art and the acoustics did not disappoint. The seating is a bit confusing. There are tables on the top tier situated against a railing and auditorium seating against the wall that is zoned general admission. So if you want to sit be there early. There were other seats close to the edge divided by a railing zoned VIP. I don't remember if that option was offered when I purchased the tickets? Now I know to look for them depending on the show. I had a perfect view of the stage from behind the railing but when fellow patrons stood on the aisles of the VIP section they blocked my view. They did not have VIP Seating and jumped the divider. My recommendation would be that the bouncers keep the aisles clear for a better viewing experience. Another complaint was expensive, weak drinks. I know to expect it but just sayin' None of these things would dissuade me from going again. I had a blast and am looking forward to future shows. As for Snoop he went on stage pretty late, 4 hours after the doors opened. What a primadonna! Haha... no harm no foul he was ON! Playing all my favorites from the late 90's and even throwing down some Biggie and Tupac. For $45 another thrilling evening in the burgh! read more

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Been to so many concerts here: Buck Cherry, Return to Forever, Cheap Trick, Boston, Counting Crows, Sublime, Alice Cooper, Marilyn Manson, Devo, and even attended as a volunteer pouring for New Holland during the Pittsburgh Craft Beer Fest. Always had a great time be it an outdoor show or an indoor event. Last night I saw Gaelic Storm. I've seen them a number of times and they have never disappointed. Great show! But every show has been good at Stage AE (with the exception of the Slightly Stupid concert who didn't take the stage until after 10:00 pm on a "school night"). The venue is the perfect size for live act. Not a bad seat/view anywhere. I always have a good time there and the atmosphere is just perfect. Something about the place just screams, "Lets rock and roll!" Last year my girlfriend, at the age of 55, body surfed during the Sublime concert and is so proud to tell about it! And somehow, without even trying or with predetermined intent, I always end up in the first or second row by the end of the concert. I've got tickets to see Todd Rundgren in April and the Bare Naked Ladies with the Violent Femmes in May. Looking forward to more rocking good times. My only knock on the place is that the drinks are expensive and you're not permitted to bring drinks in from the outside. My advice is to pre-lube either on your tailgate or at one of the venues outside of the place and simply enjoy the concert and ignore the concession stands inside. If enough people did that, perhaps they would bring their prices down to a more reasonable cost. read more

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We really enjoyed the small size of the venue and how close we were able to get to the stage. Staff was fine. Not friendly, but not rude either. I did wear a small cross body purse and did not experience any issues with the bag policy, which seem to be common at this venue. The bathrooms are oddly open to all passers-by and not very private. Bar lines are LONG and slow moving. Sound quality was excellent. read more

Stage AE was the venue that Pittsburgh desperately needed. Every show ends up being pretty intimate due to the size, the sound is excellent, and the beers are fairly priced. Back to the size...Stage AE is large enough to attract big-name acts, yet small enough to not scare away smaller acts, which has allowed so many excellent shows to come through Pittsburgh that may have avoided the city, otherwise. I've seen shows in both settings; indoors and outdoors. The sounds was great in both, and being in the city for the outdoors shows creates an awesome backdrop. The location is also great, as there's adequate parking, tailgating, and restaurants to pregame in, if that's your thing. read more

I've been to lots of music venues but never here. I was here for Of Monsters and Men in June 2013. The 5500 head venue has a contract with Coors Light so the closest to a real beer they have is Killian's (and at $7.00 a 12oz, I've had more expensive). I had a GA PIT ticket (which I prefer) and got there 15 minutes before doors opened. The line was around two blocks already so go early! The sound was good. The people were friendly. You CANNOT bring in umbrellas so lots of people dumped them along the queue. Someone from the venue, during the show, picked up all the umbrellas and stacked them outside the front gate so people could get them back. That was considerate. I will be back to this venue. (This is for the outside stage). read more

Stage AE - Music Venues Near Me - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Outside venue is not sound equipped for anything but being dead on in-front of the stage. If you go to the side it's about impossible to hear the music and you can't hear the artist when they simply talk into the mic, one or two speakers pointed to the side would have been nice. It seems that for big concerts it gets oversold to the point that it's hard to walk anywhere in the venue. The staff even pushes past you rudely (not security, those guys were cool). Spent a fair amount of money but ultimately left a concert early for the first time ever. Which is sad because I had high hopes for the venue. I will not be attending another outdoor concert at Stage AE. Very disappointed :( read more

First, are there two places to review, outside and inside? Didn't see the distinction, so here goes: Stage AE outside: Jack White, rain and miserable - fabulous concert, though! Stage AE inside: Government Mule, sat in the bleachers... not a pit fan - sound was great! Ticket prices were unremarkable. Beer/concession prices, typical. Acoustics, hooray! Parking is more than adequate, regardless how busy the city may be. My only complaint is the lines to get in - very slow moving. Very. Some have mentioned rude staff. I don't see concert staff as service staff, so much as shepards to the patrons cows. And beer? Thanks, but skip the chat, make the change and move it along - nothing wrong with that at a busy concert. read more

Stage AE is my favorite venue in PGH! All of the staff are super friendly and attentive. Upon entering, they check bags & pat you down (typical). Then they scan your ticket right away so have it ready! The bar is always fast moving & the merchandise vendors always have a stand set up. The concerts are always amazing & so much fun. Security makes sure everyone stays safe the whole time. Also, the bathrooms are clean (for the most part!). I love shows & events at Stage AE! read more

Stage AE - Music Venues Near Me - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

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Love this venue in Pittsburgh! It feels more intimate with the band because it's a smaller venue and not stadium seating. They have both an indoor and outdoor space, both are first come, first serve for standing room. I haven't had any trouble getting a good spot, I usually arrive right before the main band goes on. The bar service is quick and there isn't usually much of a line. They offer a full bar and range of giant cans of beer and seltzer. read more

Can I leave a zero star review? Please? These guys apparently don't let bags larger than my WALLET inside. Also, this was only expressed at the venue when we showed up for the concert. We had to go back home and then come back, only to learn that empty water bottles are also unacceptable. That would have been great to know. Many other staff related discrepancies make the experience infuriating. If at all possible, avoid Stage AE. read more

It is nice to have a conveniently located outdoor venue in pittsburgh again. I do wish it were graded a bit to make it easier to see for us short folk. I don't know why venues need to mark up drinks so much but it really ticks me off. Unfortunately as I walked in the line toward the doors, I noticed a lot of the previous concert goers had just thrown all of their litter on the path. I wish stage are would try to enforce a littering policy or install more bins to prevent them from overflowing on event days. The sound is decent so far and it is nice to have a view of the city when you look around. read more

Stage AE - Some of the garbage on the way in. - Music Venues Near Me - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

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Rudest staff at the gate I have ever experienced (specifically "PA011") New bag policy needs to be called out at time of tickets being purchased or on the actual tickets so that guests know what to expect. How would someone know they now have the same bag policy as Heinz Field unless specifically going to their website in advance, un-prompted? I have worked for brands with a focus on customer experience my entire career and it's clear that they are not considering this in the least. It must be all about bottom line sales to this venue. Ended up missing a concert I had been looking forward to all summer and being treated like scum of the earth by the gate staff on top of that. Uncalled for and unprofessional. read more

I saw pigeons playing ping pong here for New Year's Eve. The concert itself was amazing. There is not a bad place to stand in the entire venue. The upstairs is also awesome because GA can go there as well! There's an extra bar and bathrooms up there, which is really nice so you can avoid the mad rush of people trying to go outside during set breaks. This venue would have received 5 stars had they been more clear about their bag policy and lack of cost check. I have had enough bad experiences at shows to find these things out before hand, but as many of the reviews mention the bag policy is the most extreme I have ever encountered. I am all for strict security but they should seriously consider telling people their bag policy as they purchase their ticket to avoid the chaos that ensues once people find out as their about to enter the show. Or, get a coat check! I would have paid $10 to check my coat, but instead I left it at my air BnB to avoid having to deal with my winter jacket during the show. One of the best things about this venue is that I was able to retrieve my phone that I lost in the bathroom. But I would have never lost it had I been able to bring a bag with me instead of holding it the entire night. ‍ This venue is also close to a lot of bars and restaurants. During the show they also charged $3 for a bottle of water and did not allow us to have the cap. Really nice. There are water fountains near the bathroom so you can just refill the bottles! read more

This is hands down my favorite venue in Pittsburgh - which is saying a lot when we have a ton of great live music venues. It's gotten infinitely better with all the restaurants and breweries opening on the strip leading up to the venue. Nothing is better than a summer show here. The view of downtown, the music, the easy and reasonably priced parking. The best! However, the inside section is easily manageable as well. Probably not as great, but the acoustics are far superior to most of the other indoor venues here - my second favorite would be Mr Smalls, but this definitely has a warmer sound. read more