Great place to see a concert - sell of fast - Lupo's lineage - can't be better than that.

Was Lupos before and now it's The Strand , different name same stuff going on here. Was at a concert recently surprised my fiancé with tickets , flyer says doors open at 9pm so we get there at 830pm so we can get a good spot , we were outside until about 10:30pm. First off it was freezing outside , and they had us out there for a long time. The workers never appear to be nice, not friendly at all just shoving you along. They changed the interior a little to make it look a little fancy by the VIP area but the same old habits. It was an 18+ event , but I felt like it was still all ages. I wasn't aware you're allowed to smoke in this place , I have bad asthma and everyone was smoking , it was so bad I went from the front all the way to the back because I couldn't take it anymore and the back ended up being worse. I saw numerous people severely drunk fallen over , and workers just walking right by them. I won't come back here. Oh and not to mention ... the artists didn't come on until 1am, that's several hours of waiting around. The bathrooms are a mess as well. read more

The Bouncers weren't very friendly to me and my friends so they will get a thumbs down from me. I drove to Lupos From NJ to see a show with three of my friends. My friends and I are 24 , 25 years of age hfemales. We entered no problem but when it came to getting wrist bands to drink, there was a huge issue. My two friends got there wrist band after showing them bank cards with their names on it. My friend and I had issues. Why we would have a problem with our ids idk we are all of age with Valid Government Identification. After one bouncer rejected me I crept my way to the other. And it just so happen I got the wristband no problem. My friend wasn't very happy and in the meantime asked to see someone higher so she can get the wristband. After looking through "some books" they gave her a wrist band. They tried to pull that in the State Of Rhode Island you need a State Drivers License in order to drink alcohol there.... They had to be kidding me!!!! read more

caught a flight from Denver to Boston last minute, got Amtrak to Providence for this show, no coat check, no bags allowed, charged me for a ticket, searched my bag&said it wasn't permitted inside, (while wondering why they searched it if it wasn't allowed, went to stash it) & hear "NO RE ENTRY!"... got THE BAND to stash my bag, wasn't given entry&was asked to leave by some old drunk after the old cunt at the door said I wasn't allowed back in listened to whole show from outside(sweltering inside,go fuck yourselves),then partied afterwards with the bands upstairs(free beers&schmoke),BECAUSE FUCK YOU.good time.no stars.eat cheesy dicks.goddamn. the security by the bus was fucking chill, whore with her whiskey uncle fucker at the door was taintschmear read more

I loved the old Lupos; I had so many memories. I drove down from MA all through senior year and college because they had great shows and even saw Beck when I was in middle school. When they moved I saw two shows early on: Thursday with Motion City Soundtrack; and Reel Big Fish. At the time I thought the place was alright. But after many years I was back for Slightly Stoopid and Fishbone in 2011. The show was fun but not because of the venue. It felt like the walls were held together with electrical tape. Super divey and dark, but given it's huge size it wasn't fun for it to be that way. Only smaller rock dives are fun; a huge theater this run down makes it feel like your in a tenement. Lots of rock theaters keep their shit together, but not this one. I didn't feel comfortable getting too drunk, I felt like The Warriors would jump me any second. Then again this show (Slightly Stoopid/Fishbone) was packed with people openly smoking weed. I've never smoked but I'm still pro-pot and it was cool that everyone could do that. I've definitely not seen a situation like that in any other state in many, many years. Maybe that accounts for the good reviews. read more

This was an interesting place to see a show. You can tell the building used to be a gorgeous theater - the upper floors retain the old seats, and you can see where the old box seats used to be. The place hasn't been maintained, so it has a very dive-y vibe. I went for an Indigo Girls show. Most people were downstairs on the main floor where the bars are. There was lots of open space, but not really great sight lines to the stage. Upstairs there was plenty of seating, although the seats are made for tiny people. We sat in a front row so we could dangle our legs through the railing and it was comfortable enough. They seem to get an interesting selection of performers. If a band you enjoy is playing Lupo's, the location wouldn't be a reason to avoid the show. But unless I was excited to see a particular show, I wouldn't seek out experiences here. read more

(I've only been here for concerts, not for club nights.) Decent venue, although the staff is a bit high-strung and they rush concertgoers out of the venue so they can open as a nightclub immediately after shows. Sound system could be better but could be worse. On-street parking isn't too hard to find nearby, plus there are plenty of pay lots close by as well. read more

Bouncers are nice. Saturday nights they have Latin Night. I would personally not come here again on a Saturday. Ratchet. They use the space for events. I have been here a couple of times for concert shows and have not had a bad experiemce. 2 big bars, lots of bouncers. Bathrooms are kinda small. The venue usually gets PACKED with no room to move. read more

Hands down definitely my favorite venue in Providence. The only downside is that the drinks are pricey, a water is $4 and so is just a regular pineapple juice, and there's no food. But tickets for shows are always a great price. One time I went to see Rob Zombie and it was just four hours of him for $40, like WHAT? I've never had a bad time. Great place to go if you like small venues read more

There's no getting around the fact that when you travel away from home, you inevitably start comparing places you go to places that you're familiar with at home. When I first laid eyes on Lupos in Providence, I instantly thought of Lee's Palace in Toronto (http://www.yelp.ca/biz/lees-palace-toronto). Lupos got the same sort of feel that Lee's has. It's a wee bit grungy, they cater to the live act, and it's a great place to see live music. Wider than the room at Lee's, the stage is found in the centre of the far wall with a long bar opposite that is well stocked. The acoustics are good for the size of the room such that it has, in my time anyway, made acts like Crystal Method, Cowboy Junkies, and David Byrne all sound fantastic. So impressed with Lupos am I, that I will hop on their website about once a month to see who's playing and curse my luck that I'm not able to be there. I then find myself on Expedia to see if there's seat sales, and then I realize that I'm staring addiction in the face. If you get the chance to see one of your favourite acts there, do. read more

Nice venue, great sound, I like the layout! Needs more bartenders, the parking situation sucks, the ladies room is often gnarly. read more

Went to see Fun. here the other night. It was great - although I will say that I felt like I was the oldest person in the entire venue, and I am not that that old. Just like any good music venue, it was a bit crowded with underage-but-still-drinking students. In fact, I think one might have puked in back of us. Awesome. there's a coat check with a major line - I didn't use it, but it's a nice option. There's also a bunch of seating options, totally a perk for us old folks. The major downside is that the entire place is cash only. Ugh. read more

Aw, Lupo's. This Providence venue brings some impressive acts in. It's a decent size, the set up is really nice. (just watch your steps.. there's random stairs that you'd miss if you don't look down.) The staff are all nice, even when you're confused after just getting punched in the head, hard as hell, during your favorite band. They will even buy you a beer afterwards to take your mind of the pain. read more

They don't always open the upstairs which is disappointing if you're an old person as I claim to be and just want to sit and watch. Also impossible to get a drink most of the time. Also, way too crowded. Some girl punched me in the back the last time I was there because she shoved me and I shoved her back. Not the friendliest patrons. Don't lose your chip if you go outside to smoke, they won't let you back in. read more

I am a huge Lupo's Supporter. I've been seeing shows by my favorite bands since the age of 14 (and boy has my music taste changed) Great place, great view from anywhere you stand, and its awesome that I can walk right up to the stage to see my favorites. read more

Great..nigjtlife, verty large a spacious venue. Drinks priced reasonably Beautiful lighting effects.Music was on point. We had a perfect rime.! Will return read more

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I've gone to so many shows here and I love it. There are really no bad spots. Its easy to park near and is very chill and relaxed. I saw mostly punk/hardcore type bands there and never had a bad time. I miss it....I've yet to find any place like it out here on the West Coast. read more

One of my most favorite places to go to growing up. And still is. Went to the Method man and Redman concert last night. Had a blast. Plenty of seating and bars to get a tasty beverage. I was up in the Balcony and had a perfect view of the show. Not one bad seat in the place. Staff was extremely friendly. That's big for bring in the city. I love Providence grew up here my whole life. But let's face it. Most places and people are not that friendly. So everyone from the cashier at the ticket booth security and bartenders where very friendly and provide excellent service. It was a great experience. Can't wait to go back and see another show. Glad the Strand is back and better than ever. Highly recommended read more

After a year, friends of mine went to see Marilyn Manson at Lupo's. They reported that this time, they were suprised. They purchased balcony seats for the show and once they got to the balcony, a bouncer checked their ticket and another escorted them to their seats. They reported that maybe Lupo's has made some changes and said that they would go back again. If this service is a permanent change....Kudos to you Lupo's! read more

Worth a 5 star review: I lost my phone at this venue. I expected it to never appear again, but when I emailed them seeking the lost and found, they emailed me back and had it waiting at the box office for me. Phew!! Convenient music venue for where I live and I've seen a couple of fun shows there. The facility is tad run down, but who can tell in the dark of a show? ;) They have my gratitude for being so nice and returning my phone, so 5 stars! read more

I have been here three times since I moved to Providence in 2013. Every time I go I am reminded why I don't like the place. It doesn't seem like the owners put money back into the business. The walls are peeling, the ceiling has smoke stains, the chairs slide out awkwardly, and worst of all, the sound is terrible. I also wish their employees were friendlier and more professional but employees are only as good as their leaders. read more

This is my all time favorite venue to see live music. It's a smaller venue, but it gets huge names like Radiohead, Incubus, Weezer, and more (I'm a 90's kid). So you get a to see some amazing bands, and not have to worry about getting stuck in the nosebleed section without your glasses, hearing a great show but seeing a blur of stage lights. The downside: with bigger bands, the tickets tend to sell out within minutes of going on sale. read more

Unorganized, the bouncers are extremely aggressive and have no compassion for their customers. Plus the artists never come on until past midnight even though doors open at 9. Extremely disappointed. I attended A boogie I waited over 5 hours and he came out past midnight and only did 5 songs and only 3 of them were his. Disappointing!!! Then I attended the pnb rock concert and he didn't come out until past midnight. Same crap every show. I got dragged out by a bouncer because some drunks kept pushing me and shoving me. The bouncer threw my friend so hard she hit her head on a stair and PASSED OUT. Then they put her unconscious body on the pavement and didn't call a ambulance. Extremely disappointed with their actions read more

Been here numerous times with no real big expactations just for the music... its like the restaurant you go for good food but horrible service. Apparently when they throw a show with a dead vibe and no entertainment show up, then the workers claim an artist may or may not be coming persuading you to leave. And by 120am you do leave since its been dead since 11pm just a local dj spinning shit you didnt come to listen to... But no matter what they get paid in the end cause there customer service is shit. Next time I'll piss on the floor instead of the toilet. Not surprised they don't have a 5 star rating at all read more

I've been to two shows recently at Lupo's. It's capacity is 1,500, including a balcony. Last year I saw Scott Weiland of Stone Temple Pilots 4 days before he died on tour. And last week Clutch. Both bands sounded excellent. They have a good sound system there. I did notice at the Clutch show they didn't use the regular soundboard they used one up in the balcony. Both times I've been on the floor and stood right behind the soundboard. I am not that tall so it was a good vantage point. The beer selection on tap sucks. And the bouncers are a little aggressive. They have a sign when you enter saying absolutely no crowd surfing or you will be thrown out. They throw you out the first time which is kind of sad. They also have a strict no reentry policy. You can usually find one of the parking garage's for $10. O recommend it for a show. read more

I saw Taking Back Sunday at Lupos and had a really great experience. It's a very historical building and even though it is old there's still great sound. The only sound problem I had was that it bounces off the wall on one side so it is louder in one ear but other than that it is a great venue. read more

The Strand - Lupos - Music Venues Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

I hate maps. Luckily, Lupo's is conveniently located just a five minute walk from the providence Place Mall, which is great if you're direction deficient like me.The sign outside of the Roxy may be hard to spot, but if you know what you're looking for, it's not too much of a hassle. The outside, and basically the whole street Lupo's is on, gives it such a great rock music venue feel. Well, it should, because thats just what it is. I'm biased. I was among the first five people in line outside the theater. I would say to get outside the show, at the very least, an hour before it begins. I wasn't seeing the most famous person, either though he is to me (Julian Casablancas from The Strokes who put on an amazing show), so being in the front of the line wasn't too much of a surprise. Probably the only thing I did not like about Lupo's was that there was nothing to shield me from the freezing rain while I waited an hour for the show to begin. Maybe if they put some sort of covering, that would be nice. When I finally go in, a few chandeliers and some grumpy bouncer types greeted me. After I got searched (in these days, I don't really blame people for being so cautious), I walked into the beautiful hall. Fantastic wooden floors, and a bar were great touches to the venue's club-y feel. I loved it. Even better was that I ran right to the front row. There are no people holding you back from the musician, so its great. When Julian (!!!) came out, i could literally touch his feet. Not to mention, I shook his hand. Maybe Lupo's is getting such a great review from me because I got to shake my idols hand, but whatever. In all, Lupo's is a great venue for the indie-rock scene around here. Their schedule is packed with really good shows, and I honestly cannot wait to go back again. read more

I am writing in response specifically to Chris M's rebuttal to Kristin C's review. I am one of the assaulted by Lupo's staff. Chris is correct that an incident had occurred with a patron. What he doesn't tell you was that the patron was a 135lbs (estimated) 19 year old (estimated) that the staff was slapping and kicking while in the fetal position. My brother, apparently colossal, watched Chris M and other staff members kicked the patron and slapped his girlfriend. My brother, Ryan Procopio, then charged security because of their abuse. I, (apparently colossal but under 300 lbs) RJ Procopio, touched the security guard (who was choking my brother) on the shoulder to let him go so we could leave. I was tackled and thrown through the glass door. Yes, we do have a police report pending with the Providence PD since my brother was struck by a weapon from Lupo's, incase you were wondering. I haven't been in a fight since 5th grade incase you were swayed by the statements previously. I am a pacifist and will always abstain from violence. My only thought was to protect my brother and get out of the venue. I worked at the Strand theater, currently Lupo's, from 1996-1997. Lupo's has brought their thug mentality to my old home of the strand. I hated going to the old Lupo's and will never go to the new one again. I have worked in rock n' roll for 15 years (I'll give my resume to all who ask) at ALL the venues in New England. The unprofessionalism at Lupo's is appalling. Customer service is completely lacking and I wish anyone good luck when attending a show there. It is sad to see how far down Lupo's has come from the old Strand. As for Chris M; I will gladly buy you a loaf of bread, a gallon of Milk and a Gallon of Orange Juice. If you count beating people for a living, I suggest a new line of work. Just tell me when and where to deliver it. I'd give you the cash but I've worked in rock n' roll long enough to know where the cash goes.... I have seen hundreds of shows in that venue as a teenager through now. Pantera and Megedeth through the Reel Big Fish and Steve Vai. I will NEVER give that venue another dollar of mine and I recommend you never do as well. BTW Chris- Libel is defamation by written or printed words, pictures, or in any form other than by spoken words or gestures. The internet is free from all persecution. Take a class if you want to break out some big words. read more

Still waiting in line at 9:00 pm at Melanie Martinez concert, doors were to have opened at 7:00 pm. :(. Slow going .,,

I took off two stars because they hire miserable, mean, rotten men to work as their bouncers. These wanna be men are reason enough to deter me from going. I understand they have 18 up shows so they have to keep an eye on things and people more carefully, but their attitudes and the way they go about on their bossy and pushy power trips is unexceptable. I'm not 18 or even 21 for that matter. Don't talk down to me, attemp to push me around or think you'll get one ounce of my respect by being an ignorant asshole. I know a million girls claim to be with the band but we actually WERE WITH THE BAND. This had happened twice now, where a bouncer treated us like sh't until it's finally pointed out to these thick headed DOOR MEN we are not trying to just schmooze them. The two times we were there "with the band" our VIP passes have been left at the front for us. One time we were just trying to get our passes as a door guy scolded us saying we were in the wrong spot, there wasn't anything for us etc. He looked pretty stupid himself being scolded by a manager or head door guy of some sorts for talking down to us and for not helping us. We finally got our passes and were escorted through the crowd to the owners booth, but not before we got the rath of a door guy. Another time it was after the show when the band was signing stuff for people with passes. We were hanging back waiting for them to finish. My gfs and I were sitting on a ledge/counter top sorta thing while they were signing stuff. The bouncer "protecting" the band yelled across the crowd to us "get your nasty asses off my counter!" he felt and looked pretty damn stupid when the guys he was "protecting" started in on him about talking to us that way. Better watch your mouth DOOR MAN. Besides the waste of space bouncers this place can be pretty fun. The 18 and up crowd can be a little hard to deal with. They WILL squish you if they can get closer to the stage. I'm short so it can be a little harder to see if not in a good spot. The drinks are good and for a big venue the bathrooms stay pretty clean. There is cheap parking everywhere around there and the mall is minutes away. Besides the bouncers/door guys this is a fun place. read more

On the inside, Lupo's is a great place to see music. Whoever complains about the bathrooms or the carpet obviously never stopped by CBGB's before its demise, which should tell you something. It's like an old vaudeville theatre that's never been updated - original peeling paint and everything - but good lighting and sound, and nice big stage can be seen from everywhere. It's nice to get a balcony seat and then go back and forth for two different kind of experiences - balcony is pretty high so you see the whole stage looking down, then down to the floor and you can get closer to some pretty big acts on the functional dance floor than you would elsewhere. The staff was a little rough around the edges but I didn't act like they owed me anything and they seemed fine - they zipped my webticket at the door and welcomed me in, and let me back and forth to the balcony throughout the show with a nod after showing one guy my ticket once. The bouncers were strangely perched on bar counters too far away from performers to help them but whatever. One of the best places to see a show in New England, I would give it 4 1/2 stars if possible as the area is not great, walking alone after the show might be a slight issue and you have to walk a couple blocks to find human food. Park at the mall, do not pay $10 as you get off the highway ramp. Learned that the hard way. read more

Overall a solid concert hall . However I've noticed rappers and other performers perform substantially later than other venues. This is a bad flaw within management. Recently went to a concert and they had 10-12 openers perform before the main act came out. It's been the same way since it was Lupo's in terms of late night rap concerts and rappers coming out after 1-2am read more

First time at the Strand, since they did the makeover from Lupo's. The balcony General Admission seating is simply awful. While the seats are nice and wide the rows have absolutely no room between them. Worse than even Fenway. So uncomfortable. And the seats slide awkwardly forward so that you sit complete spread eagle with your knees hitting the seat in front. Will never go again and sit in the balcony unless the re-do they rows. read more

I've seen great bands here for cheap prices and practically touching them on stage. Upstairs is a cool view too. And now that Providence has followed suit and gone smoke free, I don't mind journeying out of Boston. read more

Hands down my favorite place to see a show. I grew up seeing shows in the old Lupo's and Met Cafe, which I grew to love despite their shortcomings. But the current venue blows me away. I have seen a lot of shows there since they opened, and every one reminds me why Lupo's is better than all the places in Boston, like Paradise, Avalon, Roxy, and even the Middle East. The sound at Lupo's is amazing, and the people who work there aren't jerks. The bathroom is usually clean too, which is a plus. Whenever given the choice, I will always choose to see a show at Lupo's. It's rad. read more

Great venue, bring in great acts and on point staff and security. Prices have been great too. It can be a little rough and security can be intense, but it's great for a downtown go to venue :) recommended read more

They refuse to serve tap water, even while buying drinks all night. How can you serve alcohol but prohibit customers from staying hydrated? I have never encountered a bar with this kind of practice (and believe me, I visit a lot of bars). This practice is irresponsible, unethical, and simply terrible service. If it isn't illegal, it should be, and I will be filing a complaint with the city. read more

I am the girl who will go anywhere to see the bands I love. Distance means nothing, and regardless of the venue, I will suck it up, but Lupo's is starting to wear thin. The venue itself is pretty decent. Good size, plenty of room on the floor (for the most part) and there are a few bars scattered throughout the place for your drinking needs. Which was perfect the other night when I was literally driven to drink. However since I thought I could go without it when I first entered and declined my "over 21" wristband, it provided to be a little more difficult. When I tried to just show my ID to the (sweet) bartender, she told me I couldn't be served without a wristband. Alright, I know I look about 18, but the fact that there are teenagers all over the floor without wristbands and with drinks leads me to believe something is not going according to plan. After working my way back to the door and finally getting a blue band from the drunkest woman ever (I saw her trying to add in her head, it wasn't pretty,) I made my way back to the bar and reluctantly paid my $5 for the beer that wasn't even filled up all the way. Fine, fine, give me my drink and get me away from the bouncing/groping teens and I'll be content. Until I made my way back to my spot only to have another group of frat boy wannabes light up their doobie right next to me. Seriously?!? I got frisked here once and they took away a Sharpie that I had, but they won't take away pot? Anyone else seeing a problem with this? It doesn't make much sense to me, but then again I'm not on a power trip like most of the bouncers here. Those guys don't do anything until there is literally a kid flying their way from crowd surfing. They think they can stop that from happening by shining a flashlight in the person's face but seem surprised when the same kid goes up for round 2. They yell at you if they see you with a camera, but when they see a cloud of smoke from the audience, nothing. I always want to yell at them or bring things to their attention, but I'll admit they kinda scare me...they look like they could crush my skull without breaking a sweat. Despite all this, I do love the intimate feeling of Lupo's. You can get very close to the stage, and I've met some bands, gotten some playlists and autographs and the tickets are always decently priced for the great bands that come through here. Like I said before, I'll travel for my bands, but the crowd at Lupo's (and their employees) is starting to lose its appeal. read more

Lupo's Heartbreak Hotel. More like a warehouse - turned - live music venue, Lupo's is a staple of the Providence Live Music Scene. Top notch national touring acts have all cut their teeth at this intimate-ish venue. The New England college towns have always been a heavliy toured marked for bands trying to make a name for themselves and Lupo's always manages to pull in the unknowns before they became stars. A couple of quirkies - slices of pizza at the show, the balcony upstairs, the pool tables and couches. This club is as Providence as it gets, and was one of the better parts of going to college in RI. read more

This is place is much smaller than other venues. If a good band books this location it is well worth the price. The crowd is mainly 20's and early 30's. The drinks are a bit pricy, but you really go here to see a unique and unknown band before they are at the top of the charts. read more