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Aragon Ballroom
Categories: Event Planning & Services Venues & Event Spaces Arts & Entertainment Music Venues Nightlife Music Venues Venues & Event Spaces, Music Venues [Edit]
1106 W Lawrence Ave(at Winthrop Ave)
Chicago, IL 60640
Neighborhood: Uptown
(773) 561-9500
- Nearest Transit:
-
Lawrence (Red Line)
Argyle (Red Line)
Wilson (Red Line)
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Music:
- Live
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- Yes
- Noise Level:
- Very Loud
- Good For Dancing:
- Yes
- Ambience:
- Hipster
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
About This Business:
Evenings: Let's go. The Garden is open until 9 p.m. Summer evenings invite you to be yourself, relax with family and friends, and take in the sights… read more »
176 reviews for Aragon Ballroom
176 reviews in English
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Review from Heshan W.
Anaheim, CA
2/27/2012
What an amazing venue for concerts. The inside of this old theater is made of mostly wood and metal, with very high ceilings, and it kind of looks like the inside of an opera house, so its a very classy place to have concerts at.
I went to the Steve Aoki concert here, and the set designs for this concert was done well (very sci-fi, with lots of stars on the ceiling), and there's even a balconey area at the Aragon, to watch the concert from above!
I recommend the Aragon for almost any concert imaginable,LOL. -
Review from Candice G.
Naperville, IL
4/8/2012 1 Check-in Here
As a person who's hard of hearing, it's hard for me to get any kind of hard on for the old 'brawl-room'.
Over the past decade and a half I've seen dozens and dozens of shows here, but I think I've only recently been able to come to the following realization: Ceiling = Super; Sound = Suck.
Every time I leave a show at AB I find myself wondering the same thing, 'why do I come back here?'. And I have to equate it to being something like the pain of childbirth (something I hope to never experience, btw), where it's hot and excruciating and you're being pushed to your very limits, but once it's all said and done the memory of the whole insufferable experience fades, and you're left with the satisfaction and pride that you did that thing that you did, ya know, with all the pushing and screaming and ish and came out with something to show for it.
I go to these shows, I stand through the crazy long lines to get in to the venue and then the bathrooms, and then to get an ultra sh*tty beer, and then I struggle to see any part of the show, I'm being pushed from every angle and I can't hear sh*t while I'm there, but then when I leave (an hour and a half after the show ends- because that's how long it takes to get out of here with a crowd) I get to have the bragging rights to seeing a band that not too many other people got a chance to, because of the semi small-mid range venue.
I'd like to give you a better star rating based on the bands you pull, but sadly, when I look around the venue and see everyone singing along to a different song because the sound is so f*cked up that no one can decipher, I have to go a big rubbery one and give the monotone mediocrity what it deserves. -
Review from Lindsay W.
Chicago, IL
3/2/2012
I'm a little bummed I didn't read some of these reviews before buying tickets to an upcoming event there. Ah well.
We, as a group, need to start saying, "that's enough" to their overpriced drinks / water & their fees online. Per ticket the fees total up to $15 -- $7.50 of which are the "convenience fees." I wouldn't complain if we had the oh so inconvenient option of purchasing straight from the theater, but we don't. BS.
So....see if the artists are coming to Chicago some other time, some other venue. Or plan on going, but don't purchase any drinks when there. Go hit up a bar before you go & take some shots on your way out to last you! I'm not paying $7 a beer, $4 a water at an overcrowded, overcharged venue. -
Review from Bridget B.
Glenview, IL
4/25/2012
I don't mind the Aragon. I like to find a spot on the back step just as you enter the ballroom area. It gives me a slight boost so I can see over the crowd and it's easier to get out t the end. You also can't beat the access to public transportation. No need to drive.
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Review from Kelsey K.
4/4/2012
The Aragon is maintained well and is a great place to see shows. I can't say that I love the prices on their drinks, but they're not any worse than anywhere else to go see a show and at least you can use the bathrooms without feeling like you'll get an STD. I would have given it 5 stars if I like the location better, but, hey, not every awesome venue can be in WP!!
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Review from Dani M.
Chicago, IL
2/15/2012
I hate to give such a low review for a place I've only been to once, but unfortunately, the Aragon deserves it.
It was NYE '10/'11, and two friends and I were stoked to see the Black Keys for the first time. I can't really complain about the 1.5 hour wait to get in--that's pretty standard on NYE. When we finally got through the doors of the venue and headed toward the bar, I was shocked to see ONLY Miller products. Ew. Plus, one measly (8-10 oz.?) cup of beer was $7.
The Black Keys put on a solid show with a good set list (this tour was for Brothers, but they jammed on plenty of their lo-fi classics), but the sound was muddled and ears-ringing-for-a-week loud.
The worst thing about this show was that it was waaaay oversold. I was at least 200 feet back from the stage and still crammed in like a sardine. Since the floor is completely flat, I probably wouldn't have seen any of the show if I was under 6' tall. In fact, my friend who is only 5'1" was gasping for air for half the show because she was practically in a crush, and apparently the only air she was getting was moist, stinky, and most likely filled with evaporating sweat.
And what IS it with music venues charging its patrons $4-5 for a tiny cup of water?!
When the show was over, it took another hour to herd everyone out of the venue, and it was during this hour that I witnessed the most disturbing event of the night: two young men were shoving each other, obviously about to fight, when a security guard stepped in and roughly broke up the fight. He completely manhandled one of the patrons, and when the female friend started putting up a stink to the security guard, she was shoved to the ground (by said security guard) and whacked her head on the floor. Yikes--not the kind of security that makes you feel safe.
I have avoided going to shows here since then, and it would take something like a Led Zeppelin reunion show to bring me back. -
Review from Tim Y.
12/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
As I start to write, I find myself once again looking for the half-star, because it's not quite deserving of a 2-star diss but just the same has not earned "A-OK".
The stairways are screaming for a trampling event and a lawsuit. The security patdowns were simply weak and left me wanting more.
Architecturally speaking, it's a fun place. But when Junior takes the reigns on the sound board, forget it. The show sounded decent for the most part, but I found myself wincing because of poor engineer work. The acoustics aren't special here, but you can weasel your way around to various spots to get the type of sound that suits you best.
If you're a cheapskate, skip the $20 lot parking which is a zoo anyway and park down the street. After 9 the meters are irrelevant; parking for $3 beats $20, and you get to avoid traffic to boot. -
Review from Courtney W.
Chicago, IL
4/23/2012
I was really excited to come here for a concert. OAR was playing and I just can't resist that promising of a show. This place is quite beautiful on the outside, I thought it was quite original. Parking isn't too big of a problem either, there is street parking about two blocks away that wasn't all taken even fifteen minutes before the show started. Walking in, I was surprised how the bathrooms were laid out and how you had to go upstairs to the see the show (much like House of Blues). The bathroom situation sucks, really. I tried very hard to hold it but before OAR came on I figured I would run down since I had half an hour, it took me 45 minutes. I ended up sitting in the balcony seats since I didn't want to be bother with standing on the floor. The decor inside is quite interesting and appears to be a gimmick but it's so old that it couldn't quite possibly be. I would be interested to hear the explanation behind the architecture inside. I didn't bother getting a drink since the prices were outrageous and the lines were always way too long. Not a bad place to see a concert though, the red line is very convenient and the staff was pleasant.
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Review from Cecil S.
Chicago, IL
2/28/2012
Went to see Aoki perform here this past Friday night - I was surprised to hear that his concert didn't sell out, but once I stepped inside I understood why. Aragon is HUGE (I think bigger than Congress even) and it has a much better balcony area. The crowd was sweaty as usual, but everyone seemed to have a great time and enjoyed themselves. Also the security didn't search you too extremely, just a quick pat down before they let you in (always a bonus in my book)
Definitely going to drop one star because of their outrageous rates for a solo cup of beer ($7) or water ($3). Granted Congress and all the other electronic/house music venues do the same thing, it'd be nice if they can ease up on charging for the water (there was also an ambulance in front when I got there; somebody probably died from not being able to afford any water). -
Review from Matthew S.
Skokie, IL
10/13/2011 1 Check-in Here
The Aragon historically has been my least favorite non-arena venue in Chicago. The sound has typically been awful and I have seen some amazing acts here. I have seen Rob Zombie, The Smashing Pumpkins, The Pixies, and I have even seen Billy Corigan's diarrhea Zwan. All of those shows had me questioning why do I go to concerts at the Aragon.
Then the amazing happened! I saw Portishead last night and it was absolutely perfect! They must have a sound guy that went to Harvard because they figured this shit out! I applaud you grizzly looking guy wearing the same t-shirt for the last month in the sound booth. YOU TAMED THE BEAST!
Now if they can figure out how to lower the temp from 100 degrees to 90! -
Review from Dylan H.
Chicago, IL
12/2/2011
One of the nicer mid- sized venues in Chicago city.
I've been to several shows and concerts here and there's not much I can complain about Aragon Ballroom. Of course, it is hard to stay objective reviewing a venue if you saw your favorite show here!
Great sound, crowd and atmosphere. However, it tends to get hot when crowded. -
Review from Stephen F.
Chicago, IL
10/16/2011
Aragon's four stars largely owe to its convenience to the red line, the throwback decor, and the excellent quality of shows I have seen here (Portishead: just remarkable).
But there are some flaws. The concessions are also a throwback, but not in a good way. Aragon does not have the best sound setup, though I've certainly seen worse in professional spaces. After the show, it takes too long to funnel what is a relatively small crowd down a single set of stairs.
If you've never been, it's certainly worth catching a show here at least once. -
Review from Christina B.
Chicago, IL
10/24/2011
I'd like to give the Aragon 3.5 stars. I do enjoy the venue, but at the same time there are some things I really hate about the venue. I wish the floor had a better angle. It's predominately flat so if you are somewhere in the middle -- good chance you may have some difficulty seeing the show. The sound is a big hit or miss.
If I remember correctly beer was $7 for the Florence and the Machine show, which I thought was a bit steep. I'm always expecting the worse, but I think for a 12 ounce cup of beer that will most likely get spilled by the time I get back to my friends should be just around $5.
Obviously, depending on the show bathroom lines can be ridiculous, but that's just any venue. Staff was friendly the few times I have been there. Getting there is a breeze too since the red line is just across the street. -
Review from Alluring V.
Chicago, IL
2/12/2012 1 Check-in Here
I will never ever go back to this place for a Mexican concert. Last night I went to Aragon for Conjunto Primavera/Intocable/Pesado. The place was extremely overcrowded, I found it to be very dangerous. There was about 300+ people in the stairway pushing and shoving. I understand the promoters want to make money but honestly it's extremely irresponsible how they allow overcrowding. I honestly felt unsafe, there aren't enough exits for the amount of people that were there.
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Review from Elizabeth W.
Des Plaines, IL
5/6/2011
The Aragon Ballroom is, hands down, the most beautiful indoor concert venue in the greater Chicago area. The "stars" in the ceiling actually twinkle, completing the effect of being in a Spanish courtyard only steps from the CTA.
Sadly, it is not the most beautiful to listen to. While I have never, despite coming here for numerous shows over the years, been in the balcony area, on the main floor, the sound quality is unpredictable. When I was here to see the Pixies, it sounded great. One of the times I came to see Morrissey here, it was pretty good. Another time I was here to see Morrissey, I put in earplugs because it was way too loud, the drums were drowning out the vocals, and moving around to different areas in an attempt to find an acoustically-better spot to stand didn't help. Then again, where else was I going to see the Pixies or Morrissey? He always plays here when he comes to town, and the chance to see him live is worth the bathroom lines and having to see people make pukey faces when they taste the pizza sold at the bar. (I suggest not eating that pizza.)
Beyond that, some of the problems that plague the Aragon can be solved or improved with a little strategy. I get here plenty early for a show if I possibly can, ideally just before the opening band starts (if there is one) but not the very moment the doors open. That way, there aren't lines around the block, just a shorter line that, at this point, is moving pretty briskly. I also have my coat unbuttoned when I get to the security staff, or in appropriate weather, forgo a coat entirely. If I'm wearing tight jeans and they can see that I have no pockets on my shirt, they sometimes forgo the frisk and let me pass. I have made it through the line and onto the floor in under ten minutes. Showing up late will not facilitate such an easy entry.
Once inside, carefully evaluate whether you really want to go to the coat check. If you're here early, there might be no line. Maybe go onto the floor and see how cold or hot it is--sometimes it's damn chilly in the winter, and you'll want that coat. Regardless, at the end of the night, you will have to wait for your coat. I get pretty confused when I am standing in the coat check line after the show and hear people complain that the line is just as bad as when they dropped off the coat--I mean, logically, everyone who checked a coat wants it back, right? Dressing in layers might be a better strategy, perhaps a cardigan you can button or unbutton as the room heats up or cools.
Leaving the Aragon, there will be a traffic jam. If you're like me, and you get claustrophobic when there are two centimeters between your face and a wall on one side and you and a hundred people on the other side, this could be a problem. One solution is to look up and find out how many encores the band is doing in other cities on their tour. Then, start making your way to the exit toward the end of the last encore. You will still be able to hear the music right up until you leave, and you might miss...half a song? You can even get a head start on some people if you leave exactly when that last song ends, because people who are expecting another song will hang around a bit, waiting for the house lights or some other cue to leave.
In short, this place is wonderful for many reasons (beautiful, unique, great bands) and not so wonderful for other reasons (lines, lines, lines). With a little strategy, you can get the most out of your experience here and enjoy the positive while minimizing the negative.Listed in: Where There's Music and…
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Review from Joanne W.
7/11/2011
I know the Aragon is old...and kinda stinky...and hot as hell...and overpriced ($4 for water, really?) and the acoustics are less than desirable BUT I have a sweet spot for the Aragon Brawlroom. What can I say? I'm a schmuck.
My little sister and I saw the Flaming Lips here and despite some of the negatives that the AB has, we still had a blast. I've been here a few times but it had been a long while since I had stomped around this venue. The last time I was here I saw Lenny Kravitz with Rusted Root. Told you, LONG time ago and probably something I shouldn't admit but whatevs. There's no shame in my game.
The AB looked exactly like it did when I was last there...the staircase, the paintings, balconies, the trippy looking evening sky above. For a moment I felt like I was 19 again and was ready to launch my panties on stage at Lenny until I caught a glimpse of Superman and a giant butterfly and realized who I was there to see.
Lets back up to the acoustics. If you didn't know, Wayne is pretty chatty and I could not understand what the hell he was saying. I'm not sure if this was really a negative b/c if you've seen The Lips it gets kinda old. I thought the sound of the sets were alright but we we're distracted by laser lights, confetti and giant colorful balloons. Hmm...
I will say the restrooms were GREATLY improved since my last visit here. They were relatively clean as far as concert venue bathrooms go. It was hot throughout the whole joint but especially hot downstairs in front of the bathrooms...which is sort of icky.
The marble staircase is still as frightening as I remember. They do have some rubber tread or something on them now so you don't have to worry about slipping on the slick stair, falling and breaking your neck.....but even so, having a gazillion people (mostly under the influence) cramming together and trying to move down a long windy staircase? Still terrifying.
We made it out alive though and for one night I got to experience a bit of nostalgia with my little sister and that would not have happened at any other venue but here. -
Review from Shelley V.
North Hollywood, CA
My first visit to the Aragon was back in January go see one of my clients play a 2 night stint.
I was impressed by the decor and the feeling like I was watching a band perform at Medieval Times! Luckily for me, we entered through the backstage so I didn't have to deal with lining up and being searched.
I enjoyed watching the shows from the balcony and I personally thought the sound wasn't as bad as some of the reviews on here. I can imagine though it gets super hot and stuffy in the summer. Luckily we came during a snowstorm so the warm interior was much welcomed. -
Review from Lorrie M.
2/23/2011 1 Check-in Here
I enjoyed watching Silversun Pickups here last year and thought that for what it is, this venue is pretty nice. We arrived late, too late for both front of the floor or the seats above on the balcony but I've come to appreciate places with balcony level seats for those of us who don't want to mash it up in the middle of the crowd.
The ticketing was quick, the staff was friendly, and they even scored me some nice ear plugs since I totally forgot to bring mine and they ended up selling out at the merchandise table.
The drinks were averagely priced and the merchandise table was full of goodies still in stock. The concert was great, music was great, good experience overall! -
Review from Keith A.
Wilmette, IL
7/10/2011
(to the flaming lips song)
Do you realize- the aragon has crappy sound
do you realize- it smells like puke and stale beer
do you realize- inspite of all this its beautiful inside
do you realize- that someday, we all must say goodbye
It will take a lot for me to go back to the aragon. It didn't take long for me to remember why the last time I was here that I was 18 years old. The first parts said it all as the aroma of stale cheap beer and barf permeated throughout the place reminding me of some frat parties I had been to when I was a freshman in college. On top of that it was insanely hot for even early july and the sound was muddled on a lot of songs and it was a strain to hear the lyrics. But, the inside played perfectly for all of the theatrics that come with a flaming lips show. There are many other venues to see a show at in the city, so it will take a lot for me to go back, but I haven't fully sworn off the aragonListed in: Uptown
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Review from Christina R.
Forest Park, IL
5/3/2011
Oh my gosh, aren't we lucky in Chicago to have these vintage concert halls? Nevermind they weren't designed to be acoustically great, they are lovely to look at, right?
I was told this place was actually a grand dance hall in the early 1900s, somebody's grandma told me she would take the train there to dance and meet boys. Ah, those were the days. They probably weren't concerned with things like being able to see the stage from the back of the room, a large drink selection, or clean bathrooms. This was pre 9/11, obviously, so there probably wasn't a security line around the corner either.
I like the starry night ceiling, but I wish there was a place to sit down. Parking isn't great, but I'll gladly pay $10 to avoid the headache of driving around. The redline is right there, if that suits you.
I'm impressed by the bands, Primus, the Pixies, Ween, they get some great acts. If only the sound were better, the venue were cleaner, and there was a place to sit down. Am I getting to old for this malarkey? -
Review from Kevin W.
5/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
I am a little biased on my 4 star revue though because I went to one of the greatest concerts I have ever been to at the Aragon Ballroom. Rise Against with Bad Religion? Yes please!
The main hall was awesome, the starry night above and the overall look was great. The sound could have been better yeah but I look at the fact that it wasn't built for rock concerts and thousands of people to be moshing about. But it was a lot of fun! I would go to a concert at this venue again anytime. -
Review from Mel G.
Austin, TX
1/1/2011
I think this might be the worst concert venue on earth. Been twice now, once for Atoms for Peace and once for Black Keys on NYE. Both times, I was very disappointed in just about every aspect.
1. The entrance, the line wraps around the building, which 9 months out of the year means standing in uncomfortable weather in Chicago. In a dark alley, that smells, and is filled with puddles. Gross. Then they split the line by gender at the entrance for bag checks etc. Not only does this result in mass confusion and "I've already waited in the boys line" claims, it's really annoying when people wait to regroup after they make it through the entrance. Hmmm bottleneck into clueless people finding their friends??? Methinksnot.
2. The bathrooms. Seriously? I know it's super old blah blah blah, but did people not pee in 1920? Only one bathroom, and it's on the bottom floor. How on earth are you supposed to find people in this gigantic place if you leave them to pee? Not to mention the line....the line that extended almost to the entrance during both shows I went to.
3. The sound. OMG what sound? Admittedly, I've stood on the balcony for both shows I attended, once near stage and once somewhat towards the back. Both shows had horrible sound. Almost like there's an invisible sound proof wall stifling any sort of clarity and crispness, you'd expect to hear from a live show. You'd figure night 2 of the Black Keys would've helped them fix these sorts of problems, but no... It was terrible.
And there's long lines for the bars, exiting, etc blah blah blah. But really, there are so many better venues in Chicago, I'd never go back to Aragon no matter how good the band, because I'm fully convinced the venue would make me hate them if I had to suffer through experiencing it again. I think the only people who like this place must be native Chicagoans with some sort of nostalgia factor. Personally, I'd rather see a show in standing room only at Texas Stadium. -
Review from Molly O.
1/1/2011 2 Check-ins Here
The last time I was at the Aragon was in high school circa 1997 to see Ani Difranco. Ha! What I didn't notice then was the 1990 trapperkeeper-esque design on the ceiling...oohhh...galexies. The rest of the place looks like Medieval Times.
Sound was fine - at first I thought it was terrible, but turns out the opener was just horrible. What really annoyed me was the bar - Miller Light and Red Bull. That's it. Wha? Sick...it really IS like I am in high school. Where's the jager? Not sure if this is always what they have, but it was pretty disappointing. -
Review from Lisa T.
1/11/2011
The Aragon is all about what you're willing to put up with. Don't want to be a hot sweaty mess? Stand in the line/stampede that is a zillion people long, pay $3, and check your coat. Don't want to be stuck waiting 30 minutes after the concert? Hold your coat. (Hint: Only wear a coat if you absolutely need to, i.e. if it's dead of winter.)
Want to be in the front row 3 feet from the band? Get to Aragon when the doors for the show open and then stand around and wait for 3 hours. Don't want to be smashed together like human sardines? Stay to the sides of the main floor, you will have plenty of personal space (although you likely won't have that great a view of the stage).
The drinks at Aaragon are only $6, which was an awesome surprise. They almost (*almost*) make up for the mad dash of crazy people that ensues when everyone tries to leave this place after the show. It's a freaking miracle no one has been trampled to death on the stairs here.
Honestly, if my favorite band was playing a show, I'd go see them at any venue.... i'd just want to see them. My advice is just to make sure you love the band you're going to see and you won't notice Aragon's flaws. -
Review from Brett K.
2/8/2011 1 Check-in Here
Aragon, probably chicago's sweatiest, most storied venue but usually manages to house a fairly bad ass time.
MGMT/Beck - Amazing show
Flying Lotus/Atoms for Peace - Amazing Show
Black Keys New Years Day - Amazing show
Then there was the infamous Deerhunter/Spoon show with the worst audio I have ever heard in my life (hence the 3 star review). Before you right me off saying "well the band's staff typically does the audio setup themselves", I don't think this is the case at the Aragon because the guys from Spoon were literally complaining to the Aragon staff between each song and it was never corrected. Still trying to forgive the old Brawlroom for that one.
Go get some drinks at Fat Cat after the show, at least one is usually free with a ticket stub. -
Review from Andrew T.
1/8/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Oh Aragon, I hate you so much. The only reason that I continue going here is because I usually can't turn down the band based on the venue. I've seen some pretty good shows here, including a couple NIN farewell dates, The Black Keys, and The Mars Volta. I've also seen a couple of pretty pathetic recent Weezer shows that make me question why I like Weezer a little bit.
The sound is horrific - I was on the railing for the Black Keys, so I was probably listening to their amplifier cabinets more than the house setup, but being in the back for Weezer was like a prescription for tinnitus. Just, roaring, shrill treble without enough bass. I'm not complaining about the volume, but rather the timbre. You've got to be able to fix this. When it's twice as painful to stand at basically the back wall than it is to be arm's length from the band? Something is wrong.
I was at the same show as William L recently - so I echo his sentiment about the maddening stage height, the suicidal coat check, the unbelievable rush to the exit (took a solid 15 minutes on this past NYD, since we were on the railing), and the friendly outside security.
And while it has zero impact on the venue, the sound, the bands, etc, I have to comment on the decor, which is...hideous. I don't know if it's historically/culturally/whatever accurate or not, but whatever it is, it's absolutely ridiculous. Anyone who would describe this as "breathtaking" should probably visit a national park or something. I will say that, moronic as the place looks, it does at least appear to be better maintained than the other usual suspects (Riv/Vic/Metro/Congress). But, again - unless we're talking structural instability (Ahem, Congress), this isn't really factoring in to my review.
I'll be back, and I'll whine and complain about it then too. Unfortunately, bands will keep playing here, and I will keep paying to see them. -
Review from Tricia L.
1/21/2011
My friend's grandparents used to come here back in the day to go dancing. Isn't that cute?
Yes, there're only restrooms on the ground floor, yes, it's kind of inconvenient that the only way in is up the one ginormous staircase, and yes, the drinks are limited (beer on tap and red bull/vodka).
It's standing room only (for the most part; keep on reading). We were here for the second night of the Weezer show. I wasn't expecting there to be chairs (first come, first serve) on the balcony level, but we managed to nab some seats. I'd guesstimate there were about 100 seats.
Oh, and that sausage pizza was better than expected.
Good luck finding street parking in the area! -
Review from Thomas T.
6/8/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Hmm.... what to say about this place. I went here twice in a week recently for 2 different concerts from 2 different styles of music. So the two experiences were very very different. One was Bruno Mars, the other was Lauryn Hill.... So lots of young crazy girls at one and then lots of older hippie esq ladies at the other. Then me, the random Asian guy.
Both concerts were pretty legit. For Bruno Mars, place got crazy packed. I'd suggest going a little earlier if you want a good spot, or you have to be able to push your way into the crowd and not care about what anyone says. The venue is nice, wide open room with a high star filled ceiling. A main floor and an upstairs balcony. Bruno mars had projector screens on both sides though Lauryn Hill didn't, so maybe that is a Bruno thing.
The Lauryn Hill concert was less packed. Only about half the place filled, but it was way hotter than the first concert. So maybe the ballroom assumed with less people, it wouldn't be as hot and turned off the AC. Though this on lady ended up fainting in the middle of the crowd so I would suggest drinking a lot of water and staying hydrated. Though prices there are crazy expensive. A small cup of soda is 3 dollars. Really small. Beers are like 7-8 bucks. Yea it was intesnse.
Over all, place is fine. At the Lauryn Hill concert the sound was off, but like a Boss, she stopped the concert and told them to fix it. Oh always stay until the lights turn off. Bruno left and came back after a little bit and people left and missed his last song. Suckers! -
Review from D G.
Atlanta, GA
11/4/2011
Lines, lines, lines.......
It was incredibly packed- to the point of me thinking 'hmm...if there was a fire, would I make it???'. Not sure if that's the venue or the promoter's fault but they exceeded the fire code by at least a few hundred people. At least.
For brews and bathrooms, the lines were amongst the worst I've ever seen at a concert. (And I go to a lot...) There was only one main bathroom. For a venue of that size (or any venue) that's really unexceptable. I never saw the end of some beer lines; they wrapped all the way down the stairs.
Forget about trying to get in. You need to get there at least an 1-2 hours early because of the lines to get into the one entrance.
Sound is meh. Inside is really cool though..... -
Review from William L.
Chicago, IL
1/4/2011 1 Check-in Here
I've been to the Aragon thrice and could really stand to not go back, especially considering the number of great venues (Vic, Riv, Metro) in the area. Unfortunately, my favorite bands are gaining mainstream popularity and as such, require larger venues, like the Aragon.
Before starting to bitch, I will say that all of the Aragon crew we encountered were really cool. Waiting outside for 6 hours in 15 degree temps tends to put me on edge, and the last thing I want to deal with is a snarky crew guy talking at me. Not the case here, they were all funny and sympathetic to our frost-bite extremeties.
Now on to the venue. The elevated stage is a drag, it's about 8-10 feet off the ground so that the people waaaaay in the back can see. But with that, those of us in front can only see the performers from the waist up, which is especially annoying when waiting outside forever to be close. Also, because the stage is elevated, the photog pit juts out about 15 feet from center stage so they can actually get decent pictures. That also eliminates some prime front row real estate.
It's a joke trying to get out of the place. In fact, I'm pretty sure there are still people filing out from the New Years Day show. DON'T CHECK YOUR COAT. I never made the mistake, but the line to get it at the end of the show is ridiculous!!Listed in: Local Venues
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Review from Kathryn T.
Cleveland, OH
1/10/2011
Being from Cleveland, my boyfriend and I were unfamiliar with the Aragon Ballroom when we made plans to travel to Chicago for Weezer's Memories Tour. I read some reviews of the Aragon on Yelp in the days leading up to our trip and became increasingly nervous as I saw review after review mentioning bad sound quality, an aggravating stage height, a mad rush to leave the venue that leads to major human traffic jams, etc.
Having left Cleveland prepared for the worst, I ended up being pleasantly surprised. I'm not a sound engineer, but the sound quality wasn't nearly as bad as I expected it to be (I do use earplugs when I got to concerts, so this may have made a difference -- I find that I'm often better able to distinguish a range of sound when I wear earplugs as opposed to the wall of noise I end up hearing when I don't use them.) As someone on the short side, the stage height was a bit hard to negotiate, but I ended finding a decent spot close to the front, but far enough back that I was able to see the band.
The human traffic jams around the coat check and the exit were exactly as described in other reviews, but if you're willing to wait 15 minutes or so for the crowd to thin out, they're not so bad. It does get very, very hot in the ballroom, so if you're willing to go through the process of checking your coat, it's more or less worth it. (My partner and I both supplement our winter coats with zip-up sweatshirts, the coat check counts these as separate items, so be prepared to pay extra if you do something similar -- we ended up holding onto our sweatshirts as opposed to paying the extra $3 per item.)
The venue is difficult to navigate (especially once the crowd begins to fill in), there are very few drink/food options, and the visibility is not the best, but I think these are things I often expect from venues designed to hold a certain amount of people, so it came as no great shock when I encountered them at the Aragon. If you come in with moderate expectations and are willing to be patient, I see no reason why you couldn't have a positive experience here. -
Review from Nicki W.
Chicago, IL
2/7/2011
I can't believe I forgot to rant about my awful experience here for NYE. First time to the venue will be my last.... no matter who plays there. We went to see The Black Keys which I was totally excited about.
Two things went very wrong, which happen to be two of the most vital aspects in enjoying yourself at a music venue. The line to get a drink...ANYWHERE...would take eternity. After you guzzle down the drinks, it's time to find the bathroom. Oh that's crazy, the line for the bathrooms is basically going out the door. Insanity. Plus the location of the bathroom is pretty lame, if you're on the top floor that is.
So, Black Keys? I think I was physically present to watch you for about 2 songs. Every other minute was wasted waiting in a line with no view.
No thanks! -
Review from Julia J.
1/10/2011
I recently had my first experience at the Aragon, and I'm sure it won't be the last. The inside, though a little shabby these days, is really kind of beautiful in a scrubby kind of way. I could totally imagine my grandma's generation dancing away the night at a place like this. Think about all the debauchery this place holds in its memory. I love it.
A lot of other reviews say the sound is horrible. I disagree. I was on the main floor about 15 rows from the front. The band sounded amazing. They rocked my face.
A lot of other reviews say you can't see the stage. I disagree. I'm short, so I always have the problem of not being able to see, but the floor was on a slight angle, so I could actually see perfectly. Awesome.
They had WAITRESSES on the floor which meant I didn't have to leave my spot to get a beer- they brought it right to me. Amazing! Speaking of staff members, every staff person, from the door guys to the bartenders were pretty reasonable. Plus, there was a really great collective energy from my fellow concertgoers.
A lot of other reviews complained that it took ridiculously long to exit. I disagree. It didn't take any longer than any other concert venue I've been to in Chicago.
I did check my coat. I had to wait in line about 5-10 minutes after the show. Not having to wear my coat through the show and not having to brave the freezing weather outside sans coat made it well worth it. I went to the check that was on the far left which had a much shorter line, so it moved faster that the huge mass of a line that formed right at the bottom of the stairs.
Yes, the bathrooms are located on the first floor which makes them slightly inconvenient...so I watched my intake and sweat a lot so I didn't have to pee during the show. Problem solved. I did hit it up when the show was over. There was a line, but nothing longer than expected.
Lining up before the show down the alley next to the train through to the shopping center behind the Aragon was a little crazy, but when the doors opened the line moved fast.
As in any situation where there are crowds of people, a little patience goes a very long way. Bring some with you and you're bound to have a great time at the Aragon.Listed in: Culture Vultures, Gods of Rock...
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Review from Allison E.
Chicago, IL
9/26/2010
What a beautiful space, from the faux starlight sky, to the Moorish tile work, to the hard wood floors. I usually have a great time seeing concerts here, but the space alone takes my breath away.
That said, the acoustics are only so-so, and bands tend to sound mumbled, and the mad post-show rush to the staircase is terrifying. Still, all the aspects for a great night out are usually in place. Close to train, enthusiastic crowds of concert goers, plenty of bars to quench the thirst, and the collective experience of sharing you favorite band with a few thousand other fans. -
Review from Allison V.
Chicago, IL
1/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
I have been here for a few shows.
The music echos throughout the main room and in the balcony.
The bathrooms are inconveniently located on the main floor and there is only one entrance/exit. It gets jammed up pretty quick.
Taking a train here is a better idea then driving....parking is lame unless you want to spend $20 to park. -
Review from Kristine L.
Chicago, IL
7/14/2011
I feel weird reviewing a venue, because I feel like if there's a show you want to see there, you have no choice but to go. It's like a previous reviewer said, it's not a venue that will enhance your experience in any way, it's just..there. That said, I've seen some amazing performers here, and it's a big theater with a long history and an interesting, and rather lovely (in an old kinda decrepit way) interior, but the sound is pretty terrible! The most recent show I saw was Florence and the Machine, and at times Florence Welch's gorgeous voice sounded distorted and blurry-if-blurry-could-be-a-sound. :( :( :( :( I knew the sound wouldn't be perfect, but I wanted to see her so I went and dealt with the Aragon's quirks. Yes, I've experienced way better places to see a show, but I'll be back because a good, diverse range of acts book here often.
So a few tips:
- It gets hot as blazes in there! Wear layers and strip em off as you go!
- In winter, the coat check situation is preposterous. Hollow out a tree outside the venue and stash your coats in there to be retrieved after the show.
-VERY conveniently located from the Lawrence red line, Lawrence bus, and Broadway 36 bus, but it's often a sh!tshow getting transportation after concerts. I highly suggest a bike for quick escapes (if you live far away, you can bring your bike on CTA, so perhaps bike out to a more convenient getting-on point?)
- The main floor is FLAT so if you are SHORT (like me), plan accordingly and arrive early, get a spot upstairs (I haven't been up there though), stand along the edge where there's a step up, or use your see-thru vision on the tall man who will inevitably be in front of you.
- I don't think food is available, so eat at the Mexican place on Broadway by the Green Mill. Eat a lot of beans and perhaps you can clear out some of the people who are crowding you at the venue. (Fart joke, oh haha. Sigh)
- Drinks are ooooooverpriced for what they are, which is not unusual in a entertainment venue, but it was like $3 or $4 for a plastic cup of tap water...not cool! Hydration is key, so find a way to smuggle in water vessels.
- There is ALWAYSALWAYSALWAYS a crazy bottleneck on the stairs on the way out, and 9 times out of 10, an angry tired drunk person will try to throwdown for no reason. Do NOT make a run for the stage doors as one of my friends did. You will be tackled by security. Just chill out and wait for everyone to get out the damn way. Maybe enjoy a sip of $4 water as you wait. -
Review from Max M.
9/9/2010
Fun and Interesting venue for a live concert.
Whoever designed this place must have dropped acid while listening to some Transylvania-like music because this place has a Romanian/Ukrainian Village vibe. It feels like you're in some sick twisted adult version of Disney Land and the clowns are waiting to jump you with hatchets. But I digress...
Caught my first show here last week when Vampire Weekend came to town (Yes, I just said I watched a band named Vampire Weekend in a ballroom that belongs in Transylvania). This place is enormous---easily holding a sold out show of pumped up fans. There is a balcony and plenty of watering holes to keep you buzzing while jamming to your favorite tunes.
Good acoustics for the most part. The music sounded clean.
Overall, it's a good place to party like some crazy villagers! -
Review from Patrick G.
Chicago, IL
7/11/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Oh Aragon, you are such a conundrum to review. This place puts on good shows and if you like DJs for some reason it is always easy to get right up close and see the beat masters at work. The sound I've seen here has always been nice and loud but not lout to the point of discomfort. The drink selection here is pretty weak and on the expensive side. But there's lots of locations so the waits are minimal. The bathrooms are downstairs which can be a pain and they wont let you carry a drink in there so that's another odd issue. So if an act you like is coming here don't feel bad about buying a ticket but do not expect the venue to enhance the experience, it will just "be there".
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Review from Brett D.
4/30/2010
Sigh. The total and typical love/hate relationship. How do I always manage to get myself wrapped up in these? They're not healthy for me. It's utterly torturing, and only sometimes in that beautifully bittersweet kind of way. Nothing good ever comes of them. Ever. They make me require shameful self-help books and boatloads of wine therapy, yet, I'm always unswervingly attracted to the allure of something so bad it's almost good.
Yes, I'm talking about you, Aragon. With your hideous Knights of the Round Table decor, amateurish night sky ceiling mural thing, one big, never-ending floor with no elevated areas for short fries, appalling echoey sound and to top it off, a really lame selection of beer. Yes, YOU!
Yet despite your apparent suckville, I find myself coming back. Endlessly, relentlessly, consistently, yours. I'm not sure if the appeal stems from the draw you seem to have over bands I positively adore, the good time I always seem to have despite all aforementioned flaws, or the security staff you employ that without fail are always mean to me regardless of how polite, out-of-the-way and composed I act. It's punk rock, it's mosh pits, it's crowd surfing, and upon my last visit, I saw a brave young man rush the stage, do a back flip on it and then swan dive back into the crowd.
That is rock, my friends. Pure, unadulterated fucking rock. You'd think such hardcoredness would warrant a higher Yelp score, eh? Well, I'm still bitter about all those self-help books. Suck on that and all your shitteous Miller Lite! Minus one star.Listed in: Mic Check. Check 1, 2, Check…
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Review from Katie H.
Chicago, IL
4/21/2008
Yesterday (Sunday, April 20th) I made a journey to the far side of the planet - and it was Uptown's Aragon Ballroom to see The Mars Volta.
After a long and harrowing journey to the venue via such strange neighborhoods as Albany Park and Ravenswood (which I'm convinced are in a completely different country from where I live) we finally made it to the venue and joined a long and snaking line which made me feel like I was at Great America.
To say that the staff at the Aragon was rude would be incredibly discourteous to rude people the world over. They just all hate and suck at life... and they were really harshin' my buzz. Sure I know it probably sucks having to work 4-20 and work a dreaded all ages concert for a band who's fanbase contains a lot of "college rock" types but come the fuck on! You're not working at the Wiener Circle so stop yelling at me,
"C'MAAAWWWWNN!!! STEP UP! I AIN'T GOT ALL DAY!"
When you make it through all the security check points and your luggage is checked you'll eventually make it upstairs which is the cool part. Yeah yeah, bad acoustics (everything just sounds like a big wall of fucked up sound) but the interior is great. It does get steamy but if you stand in the back you'll be alright.
Avoid buying drinks here. I had to pay $3 for a dixie cup of water. Enjoy your provisions ahead of time. Oh and have fun looking at the scourge of the earth that makes it out for these kind of shows. Excellent people watching. Or maybe I was just really fucked up...
