Bogart's

Loved Bogart's !

by Lytyvya at Citysearch

We had a great time at Bogart’s! We drove down from Columbus to see Interpol. I was so happy to have found that they were doing a concert at such a small venue. It was easy to find from Route 71, and not far from the freeway exit. The area is a typical city collage area, things are a bit run down, and there are a lot of people on the street wanting to sell you tickets and a few begging for money, but I didn’t get the feeling that it was anything to be worried about.

We ended up paying for parking behind the building across the street from Bogart’s; it was $4.00 for the day. The security was not bad at all, they didn’t even check us, and at this concert we were allowed cameras. I think it depends on what the band wants as to how tight security is.

Inside, the place is pretty raw, you enter into the bar area, and then you can go down onto the floor. There was no seating on the floor. There is also an area above that seems to have seating and dinning at times, but it was not open when we were there. Sorry, I cannot comment on the bathrooms or drink prices. We went strictly to hear music, and for that reason, we loved it! We got as close to the stage as we wanted to be, the music was loud and we had a great time being part of the crowd and listing to the concert. Interpol did a great live performance. The acoustics were not good, there was a lot of sound bouncing off of the walls, but that didn’t really take anything away from the experience. I agree with the other review stating that if its music you are there for, you won’t be disappointed, but it doesn’t have any extra amenities. The ticket prices were very reasonable, we paid $25.00 as opposed to going to Cleveland to see them at The House Of Blues, and paying $65.00.

Great Venue

by SarahPft at Citysearch

I loved Bogarts! I was nervous while reading reviews, but after reading mixed reviews I decided to go anyway. All of those negative reviews are written by people who are way too uptight. We traveled from Central Indiana to go see Porcupine Tree, and it was a great show. We got $1 all day parking right down the street from the venue. There are some weirdos walking around, but the area isn't dangerous. There are panhandlers, but there are panhandlers at every concert. You have to get ride of your loose change anyway, so just give it to them. Security was fair: no cameras, no markers, no loose change, girls patted down girls and guys patted down guys. The venue was neat and dark and had plenty of room. However, it isn't very well ventilated and heats up after awhile, so wear an undershirt. The only con about this place was the bathrooms: THAT review was correct, they are gross.

They have fair rules that are easy to follow. They WARN you that there is no smoking allowed, it's not like it comes as a surprise at the door. Of course they will throw you out, they told you it's against the rules, as well as with any other rule. The rules change because different bands want different things, and Bogarts tries to accommodate the band as well as their customers.

I'm a very shy, picky person and I would gladly take the trip back to Bogarts again.

Gotta love Bogarts...

by TigerheartA at Citysearch

Bogarts has some pretty hellacious security but for a damned good reason. Alot of crazy stuff happens there.And honestly, their rules are simple and easy to follow. If you break them, thats your problem, not theirs and they have every right to kick you out..

Yes, they will take your smokes. Wtf do you expect? They're located in Ohio, its illegal for you to smoke in there,not to mention (having been there myself before the ban) its pretty much impossible to breathe in there if everybodys got a cigarette lit. I smoke myself and I'm disappointed that you cant smoke in there at all anymore,but I understand the reason why, especially for this type of venue that is older and has bad ventilation.

The bathrooms *are* nasty but, the building is very old and people do stupid stuff like put out their cigarettes, which they're not supposed to have, on the toilet seat.

In short, this venue is for for adults and people who are there for the show.Its how rock concerts are meant to be. Grungy, crazy and awesome. If you want spotless bathrooms and security that kisses your butt, go to Riverbend or something and pay three times as much for that cushy seat up in the nosebleed section.I'm sure you'll have SO much more fun. lol

Also: Don't be stingy. You dont have to give the panhandlers money but I bet they also wouldnt turn down a free meal.Buy a brother a cheeseburger or something. That way he *can't* spend it on crack and atleast you'll have done something helpful instead of whining about it.

• Pros: Cheap tickets, awesome atmosphere
• Cons: Gross bathrooms, whiny patrons

I thought it was great

by sydstap24 at Citysearch

I love this place! I went there to see All Time Low We the Kings Hey Monday And The Friday Night Boys. It was just fun!!! It a club a you get that whole felling.It was hot like other people said and I did just about pass out but whatever.We the Kings blow some of the insalation out of the roof which was CRAZY!!! People said it was in a bad part of town.It isnt in the best but it wasnt that bad there. The security was good and there were a few beggers(One had a sign that said give me money or ill kick you.which was funny in a sick way because he has no legs) but every concert I have been to there were people like that. I think it is a great place and would love to go there again!!!

• Pros: Great Felling
• Cons: Kinda hot

Worst Venue Ever

by Fbogarts at Citysearch

Bogart's unfortunately gets some good acts. This is unfortunate because Bogarts is the worst venue ive been too and ive been to hundreds of shows. The guy who said they are like nazis are spot on. No lighters or cigarettes allowed in the building. Will violently toss you out if caught smoking. Its crowded. You will be propsitioned by crackheads waiting outside before and after the show. There is nothing redeemable about this venue and I have actually attempted my own boycott and have succeded in convincing some fairly big name bands to never return there. Avoid Bogarts at all costs.

• Pros: Decent Bands
• Cons: Staff are Nazis who will assault you. Its dirty. Its the worst venue you can go to.