I really enjoyed this venue, and I look forward to returning. Its small, but it didnt feel TOO cramped save for a few moments.A lot of space is wasted with the tables bordering the main floor, but since this isnt STRICTLY a concert venue, and the issues of people clogging the walkways adjacent to the tables is on the attendees, I cant fault the venue TOO much.4/5, will return
I truly enjoyed Tabitha Brown she was simply wonderful! I wasnt a fan of how close the seats were up front, not enough room for social distancing!! Over all great venue!!!!!!
Security and staff were very friendly and efficient. Great venue!
I went here for the first time to the Young Bleu concert. It’s very big on the inside with multiple levels. The one guy with the ponytail was super friendly and attentive even with the crowd! He’s great and I wish I got his name! My only complaint is the drinks are high.. but that’s to be expected I guess. Also, they didn’t announce the need of covid results or vaccination card upon entry before we traveled all the way up Lakeshore Drive.. so we had to walk to CVS and pay for over the counter quick result covid tests. The only reason I was okay with it is because the staff was friendly and helpful. It ended up working out and we enjoyed our time.
This is a great place for concerts, big events, and a lot of fun. I was there for the jammin4water event with some members of the Apollo chorus of Chicago. We had a lot of fun singing a bunch of great music, including Rock and Country and other kinds of music. The food was really good, and the adult beverages were flowing.
Saw Surfaces Lolla aftershow. Great band, but terrible venue management. Huge line to get in because only two security people scanning people for security checks. Lighting was sub par with the crowd lighted at all times. Show started while there were still large lines outside the building, despite everyone being there long before show time. Missed the opener because waited in line an hour. Like, cmon.
When here recently for any event from Miller Lite called tap the future with Daymond John from Shark Tank.We have not been here for many, many years and this place looks like it is stuck in time. It looks just like I remembered it. A large space with a beautiful Dome ceiling and lots of room to sit and socialize.The Acoustics are great and you can hear the entertainment from anywhere in the room. I was told that you have to pay extra if you want a booth near the front, but I dont know if this is true or not.It was an enjoyable night in a place that holds many events and musical performances.
I love this place. Its like home.
Good sound and great sight lines. Calendar is hit or miss (depending on your style) and beer prices are a little high. Egress in this venue is terrible. Leave early or wait for the space to clear.Staff is nice and the venue is clean. Neighborhood lends itself to a nice pre-show walk or dinner, or if youre feeling wild, a day trip to the zoo!
Nice Concert Venue and staff were very friendly and helpful.
I have been to several events at this place and it is great. I like how there isnt a bad seat in the house. The tables are a nice touch if you get there early enough to grab one. I subtracted a star because the drinks are a little expensive and I have been moved around by staff saying I was blocking the bar when I actually was not and there was no line. Also, the security staff are pushy and impatient at times across multiple visits.
Only regret the parking not close
Ive been to several shows at Park West and have never been disappointed. The lighting and audio are good (sometimes the vocals are blown out). Staff is friendly and relatively fast considering how busy they are! Drinks are generic and expensive ($4 for coffee, no refills). I recommend pre-drinking before the show. Booths are available but the sightlines are often blocked by people spilling into the aisles and standing directly in front of you. If you dont mind the view of someones butt all night, the booths allow for a respite from dancing and the tables allow for easy drinking. Otherwise, sit upstairs or boogie on the dance floor.
Still one of the better live music venues in Chicago. Seating is nice and comfortable. Table service is a plus. Sound here is the only major issue. The venue is wider than it is long and makes getting the sound dialed in. You have to hunt for the best sounding spot.
Drink prices entirely over priced
I recently went to a concert at another venue in Chicago (Avondale) and it was amazing and reminded me of how terrible my experience at Park West was. I went to see A.C.E. In December. First of all, my friend had fractured THEIR SPINE and was in a visible brace and could not be standing for too long because their spine was literally broken. Anyways, they called in to make sure they knew all the details for handicapped seat and they told them everything should be fine over the phone. We go and everyone is like to get wrist bands at noon since that’s how the concert was set up. Since their spine was fractured they wanted to know if there was a way to get their wrist band in advance or just, you know... not have to stand?! And the staff started rolling their eyes and yelling at them telling them that my friend had to stand in line and no exceptions. I mean, what kind of person does that? It was truly awful and on top of it, it was raining. The staff were rude and disrespectful and I wasn’t going to write this review but it’s been bothering me since then. So, if you are injured, don’t go to Park West. They will only treat you like garbage.
Interesting venue.The balconies offer a good view of the stage but the sound isnt great.They have plenty of bars so getting a drink is easy and quick.Overall, cozy and fun!
Vaccine Id required, no thanks
An incredibly strangely set up venue. The large round booths of a 40s supper club mixed with an 89s industrial aesthetic. They sell more tickets than the venue can comfortably hold. Lots of little aisle ways, you always feel like youre blocking someone. Good sight lines though.
Good venue if you arrive early and claim premium seats. For the show I went to, they over-sold the room and people who paid $50+ for tickets were left standing through the whole show. If you want to have a place to sit and the show is popular, definitely arrive early because it is first come first serve seating and they will sell more tickets than seats.
I havent been to the Park West in some years I didnt like the fact that they still serve no snacks or food of any kind just drinks glad I ate before I got there. Great service though nice up and close cozy place to see any performer live. Enjoyed the night
I have seen dozens of show here since the late 70s. It has always been a well run venue without a bad seat in the house. The service is great, especially from server Carrie.
This was a very nice venue. The set up was great with two dance floor areas to the side. Allowing the ability to see the performers on stage. It was perfect to feel that smaller venue feel but yet have the quality of a larger venue.
The interior design of this venue is sharp and seems to set a great ambiance. There are multiple levels within the venue and it creates awkward routes to and from the restrooms. The restrooms are not sharp and the majority of the space feels a bit out of date. Not to say that this place is classic, but more antiquated. It is a good venue and also due for updates.
Been here several times, and its a good place when they dont over-sell the venue, but they do just that ALL THE TIME. They let in so many people for some shows that bathroom lines get ridiculously long, bars become totally inaccessible, and every inch of the place is shoulder-to-shoulder. Also, inconsistent pricing throughout the bars within the venue. All around awful event management, especially for Chicago.
Me and my girlfriend have seen Keller and the keels here and just seen twiddle, great venue they check your pockets and metal detect you. Be creative 😉
Ive enjoyed many events at this location! INCIGNITO, is where the Mr. & I will be tomorrow, Lord willing💖Parking sucks like sour lemons, but get there early and take a nice, brisk walk before an AMAZING occasion to celebrate LIFE or whatever your heart desires! Lincoln Park is ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL this time of year!
Awesome venue, awesome show! Saw T-Pain and had such a nice night. Plenty of seating and also lots of floor space if you want to get down and boogie. Drinks werent anymore overpriced than they are at other venues so no surprises there really. Good security coming inside so you definitely feel safe and can enjoy yourself without much worry. The guards were checking bags and they had those handheld metal detectors.
Saw Lost Dinosaur band and it was awesome. Seating area is available and the service is great. Bar available. Servers come to you to take orders if you dont want to leave your seat. Loved it.
I like this place is my favourite for intimate concerts the only complain is that they set a time for the doors opening and the beginning of the show but actually the show starts one hour later so be prepared to spend 3 to 4 hours in the venue. I see it as they take advantage of the people who is tired and bored of waiting so they tent to consume more in the place and the drinks are not the cheapest.
Awesome venue to see the Kitchen Dwellers and Twiddle throw down! Bathroom situation was kinda packing but maybe there were more bathrooms I didnt know about. Great experience otherwise
This is the best music venue in the city. They never over sell the shows like most chicago venues do. Theres always a good amount of people but theres space so you can breathe even if youre up close to the stage!
Nice, small venue to see a show. Comfortable seating and friendly staff.Drinks are a bit pricey.All in all, a good place for music.
Nice and small. You can watch performances really close to the stage. Perfect for any date night
Ive seen many artists at Park West - good acoustics, comfortable environment, easy to find bathrooms that are very clean (compared to other music venues), staff is helpful! I also enjoy that, on occasion, you can get a table with drink service!There are plenty of restaurants within walking distance that offer a wide variety of options for a pre-show meal.The only thing I dont like is the parking near the venue.
One of my favorite small Chicago venues! Its cute and quaint, has 3 lower bars and 2 on the balcony, so rarely a long wait, and most shows have servers for the booths. Nice ambiance and great area of the city. Dont think theres parking so think about that beforehand. Also might want to call in advance and reserve a booth...well worth it. Enjoy the show!
What a beautiful venue BUT very stupid rules. Was here for the Chromatics concert. The moment I was searched I was told I have to throw away my $100 e cigarette. How is it that I have to throw away my e cigarette but people who smoke regular cigarettes are allowed in the venue with packs of cigarettes? Please explain? So I went across the street and hid my e cigarette in a bush in some apartment complex. Then, I was finally allowed in. I found the manager and told her how rude the security woman was and the situation. The manager is a sweetheart! The manager then said, “Go get your e cigarette and come back!” Went back to the bush to get my e cigarette and I was finally allowed in. I promised them I wouldn’t even smoke it, and I kept my word. Then, they said at 10 pm people who smoke e cigarettes or cigarettes are allowed to go outside and smoke. Went outside at 10:15 to smoke my e cigarette. Asked later around 11:45 if I can smoke again and not allowed. No one was allowed toGo outside and come back in. What are we in kindergarten? The most unorganized venue I have ever been to in my life. When I left the building after the concert the security said, “Bye!” In a rude way and I replied, “I’m not ever coming back.” She said, “So what!” I said, “Go ahead say so what, without an audience you won’t have a job!” I spoke to at least 5 people who had the same problem. One guy had to throw away his vapor pen. I don’t care if my favorite band in the world will play here, I will not come back. I’d rather spend money on an airline ticket and see a band I want to see anywhere except this venue. Very unorganized and so unprofessional. Very rude security! Where’s the logic in me having an e cigarette in my purse that I never smoked but I smelled weed the whole concert. Unbelievable !!! Mary the bartender was the only highlight of my night, she’s an amazing bartender.
Went to a show there in 2012, and had a great time. The acoustics were good, but there is limited seating. You need to get there early to try and get a seat. Other than that, I had a great time there.
Ive never been to this place before until the Princess show. It is a medium size venue that has seats in the back, a balcony, and GA floor. Although my friend and I got there later than expected, we had no problem getting a spot up front. Theres multiple bars around including one near the stage so I didnt have to venture far when I was hankering for a drink. Overall, great venue that I hope I get to frequent more often. Pictured is Maya Rudolph in all of her Prince inspired glory!
Came here in October 2015 with my father to see Taylor Davis in concert. Had an absolute blast. The performance was spectacular. I even got to meet Taylor and have my picture taken with her. The staff was also very friendly and it’s safe to say that this is one venue I would definitely consider returning to for future events if I ever get the chance again.
More intimate than most stadium-like concert venues. Comfortable without a bad seat in the house.
Great space for a concert! Get there early if you have a general admission seat with no gold circle.... gets a little weird otherwise.
Clean, dim-lit venue with 3 bars (from what I could see). Very friendly, down-to-Earth staff. Plenty spacious and balcony seating. Enjoyable atmosphere. Admittedly, a little cramped in the front entrance, but once you get in, you should understand why. :) Would certainly go again
Very pretty venue, and not a bad seat in the house, even at the bar. Everything sounded great and the staff was nice.The drinks are a bit pricey, (but thats pretty par for the course at any music venue) and the parking situation isnt the best but I cant fault the venue for not having public parking garages right next door. Overall, would definitely attend concert here again.
A great place for a concert. Not a bad seat in the place. Bars all over and comfortable seating. Such an awesome place and the music sou ds great. Probably the best indoor concert venue I have ever been in. Very classy too.
Smaller venue. Place looks and feels new. Would love to see more shows there.
Lay out is good. Small venue. Could actually see the band play!
Great venue, seating wasnt the best. But I wont let that ruin it. I would go again.
I really like this venue. Good space, good AV capabilities, and friendly servers.
Best venue in Chicago. Super friendly staff, spacious layout, great speakers
Hands down one of the best venues Ive ever been to for seeing bands. The sound is great and theres a lot of space to move around. Seems to be a lot of seating, although Ive only ever stood by the stage. Beer selection is good, and my only complaint would be the price of beer. Bathrooms are also a little small for the capacity of the venue
Great place for a show. Its a smaller venue so it feels more intimate with the band your seeing, but its also big enough to have a concert feel. Not much seating though should you need it.
I love this place i have been coming here since i was a little girl in the 80s. they offer many show and there are absolutely no bad seats. i saw made groceries and jay electronica perform. the sound system is grand. very close setting. show prices very affordable.
I saw The Revolution there. Its a small venue for a concert, which to me makes it better. I could actually see the artists and not on a big screen. Its more a more intimate setting.
Attended the Damien Escobar concert last night and he was phenomenal! But even with all his greatness I was disappointed by the Park West...The VIP seating was tight, cramped and over crowded. The seating and booths in the back were actually better and more comfortable! Go figure! The drinks were ridiculous 30 bucks for 2 small plastic cups filled with ice and minimal alcohol. The music sounded wonderful, but it was difficult to actually hear the artist when he spoke and we were basically in his face, the lighting was terrible . Now Im not sure if it was the Park West Management or Damien Escobar Management but somebody dropped the ball. An hour late for entry into the VIP Meet & Greet when we were told be on time or you wont gain access...no exceptions, but its alright to keep people who paid good money waiting! Then once inside they want to rush you through, I as well as many others were frustrated. Then once inside the concert is 45 minutes late starting, thats nearly 2 hours total of wasted time!!!! Again Im not certain whos at fault but improvements are seriously needed. Overall the facility was decent, just the right size. Would consider going back if it was someone or something I really wanted to see or hear.
The Park West is an outstanding intimate venue. Great sound, great staff. Drinks are a bit pricey.
It was my first time there after all these years of living in Chicago and it is a beautiful venue. The bands were great, the acoustics sounded great for the most part. Love the intimacy of it cant wait to go back again!
We came to visit for a first time and enjoyed the Chromeo show. We were waiting for an Uber and one of the trash bag bouncers named Melody told us we couldn’t wait in the empty inside area for a ride but had to wait outside in the rain. Super disappointed with Melody and I really hope the management figured this out. Been to many of bars/concerts and that was a first.
Went to a holiday party there working as a caterer the place is very nice dance floors nice all around great place to throw a festivity
Park west is a great live music venue. It’s not huge and it’s not super small. seen Liam Gallagher and First Aid Kit play there.
Good venue with great sound. Pretty intimate - plays more like a large room than a theater or hall.
Pretty cool place to come here and a performance. Came here twice for a concert and all was well. You got a bar and some little booths to sit and enjoy the show or you can just be at the dance floor close to the performance. Would come here for another concert
Staff barely let anyone know what was going on and even made us wait an extra half hour plus outside for our concert that ended up starting late. The entire crowd had to start chanting Let us in just for staff to let us actually in and that was for VIP which were also late getting inside. Terrible all around except for A.C.E.
First time coming here for an event and it was really nice. All the staff were very attentive and polite. To be honest I have never experience venues where they are. Venue is small but cozy. Easy to take the bus here drops you right across the street. Me and my sister came here for the Youtubers Rose and Rosie.
Really dig the stage area and the sound is good. Some of the seating area is goofy. And if you open a tab with 1 bar tender, you cant get any drinks from any other bar tender, house rule. Im in no hurry to go back.
The Park West has a lot of history and our recent trip for an event the venue was really well laid out, large yet cozy. There are seats, booths and tables and a pretty full bar. The drinks are expensive but again, this is Chicago and prices are like airport prices. All handbags are checked and I was told to throw away my bottle of water, also like the airport. Parking tip: we went early and parked right in front of the Park West and paid at the auto pay kiosk. Walked to Halsted for drinks and dinner and it was a nice walk back and we loaded up the meter (no need to pay after 8:00) and it was nice having our car right in front at the end of the show!
The security was so rude and disorganized. People were vaping and smoking inside and the security did nothing. When we stepped out into the area where they sell tshirts we heard people, who actually went outside to smoke, complaining that security would not let them back in. The security yelled at them and told them there was no reentry. There was no sign stating their was no reentry nor did I hear a single security guard mention that people could not come back in. We also got yelled at for standing by the tshirts and left. It was hard to hear the vocals because the sound booth was off.
I love the 80s vibes I get from Park West. I saw Little Feat there and the tables were set up and it was great having a home base to come back to in between dancing songs. Then I saw Trombone Shorty there and the place was rocking. No room for tables as the dance floor was PACKED! If the dance floor is packed head to the left side of the stage for a bar thats easy to access - you can also sneak around to get to the bathrooms from the left side as well.
Great little venue that is surprisingly well kept when compared to much of the north sides live music offerings. Regularly attracts a steady stream of impressive national artists and cool special events, and is in a neighborhood about anybody could feel safe in at about any time. Full bar with pretty average north side prices.
Great venue..took forever for service though.
Very cozy venue. Friendly staff. I enjoyed Rob Bell - he was awesome!