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!
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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
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
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 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.
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.
Nice and small. You can watch performances really close to the stage. Perfect for any date night
Ive enjoyed many events at this location! INCIGNITO, is where the Mr. & I will be tomorrow, Lord willingParking 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!
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.
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!
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.
Lay out is good. Small venue. Could actually see the band play!
Smaller venue. Place looks and feels new. Would love to see more shows there.
I really like this venue. Good space, good AV capabilities, and friendly servers.
More intimate than most stadium-like concert venues. Comfortable without a bad seat in the house.
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.
Great venue, seating wasnt the best. But I wont let that ruin it. I would go again.
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!
Best venue in Chicago. Super friendly staff, spacious layout, great speakers
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.
Great space for a concert! Get there early if you have a general admission seat with no gold circle.... gets a little weird otherwise.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Great venue..took forever for service though.
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
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.
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.
Saw a.c.e here 12/01/19 and it was great! The acoustics were amazing and the staff were all super friendly, helpful, and professional!
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.
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.
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.
A classic Chicago venue, great sound, classy staff, nice joint.
Saw a concert here and the venue was fantastic. Great staff and the stage had a cozy feeling while still being spacious
Really special space with an distinctive atmosphere. I came here for a book signing, but I can tell its wild and fun for parties!
Wish I could give 0 stars. staff is extremely rude to guest even even following all rules and being respectful. will never return here. save your money and go somewhere else!!
We had great seats, band was great. Waitress friendly
Very cozy venue. Friendly staff. I enjoyed Rob Bell - he was awesome!
Great concert venue in the Lincoln Park area. It is GA so if you want to be up close, get there early.
Geat layout, Love the seatings of 4. makes a lot of sense with added waitress services. bonus: located in Lincoln Park
Good venue with great sound. Pretty intimate - plays more like a large room than a theater or hall.
One of my favorite venues for comedy and concerts.
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
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.
Great sized venue with awesome sound.
Great venue, drink prices a little high.
It is an awesome venue with great prices. It would be nice to not be so rushed st meet and greet.
Nice place we had our Christmas party here.. parking is scarce
Great venue. Lame acoustics on the right side. Bartenders not super nice.
Enjoyed it every time. So smooth, but parking is hard.
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.
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.
Beth Hart was fabulous! The ”hostess” was the rudest person i’ve ever encountered! Unbelievable!
The Park West is an outstanding intimate venue. Great sound, great staff. Drinks are a bit pricey.
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.
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.
Francis and the lights put on a great show here, plenty of room to dance if you dont mind hanging back a bit, which still puts you less than 100 feet away from whoever you see!
Easily the best venue to catch a show/concert in the city (aside from CSO, Auditorium which I dont count because shows are fairly infrequent at those)
Great bands and events at Park West
Nice space. Super expensive drinks but nice staff.
Good seating serve drinks at your seat they have security entering into the building
Nice atmosphere, enjoyable sound system, well done lighting. Drink prices are a little steep and employees a little unorganized at times, but it was an enjoyable time.
Cool spot. I bet comedy shows are super fun here.
Great venue. Not a bad seat in the house!!
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.
Always have a good time here!
Every set was a great seat. If you can see when people are standing then you have a great 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!
My favorite venue in Chicago. Not cramped like the metro very spacious with friendly staff. Cornelius was amazing when he played here!
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.
Great venue for music for all music-goer types. I showed up late bc of work, but it looks like early arrivals can get good seats.
Great sound and awesome atmosphere!
Hasnt changed in decades. Big and roomy.
Had a great time here! Would definitely return.
Park West is great for shows with plenty of room to wild out and plenty of seating for chilling. You can see the stage from basically everywhere and when the upstairs is open its an awesome venue