About Belly Up Aspen
Belly Up Aspen is a legendary 450-capacity live music club at the base of Aspen Mountain in Aspen, Colorado. Opened in January 2005 during X Games weekend, it was created by local Aspenite Michael Goldberg (now a family operation with his sons David and Danny) to fill a void in Aspen’s nightlife (www.postindependent.com ) (www.postindependent.com ). It occupies the former Double Diamond club space, a venue that closed in 2003 (www.postindependent.com ). The intimate room (one-twentieth the size of Denver’s Red Rocks) has since earned a national reputation: Rolling Stone placed Belly Up Aspen on its “Best Club in America” list, noting that even massive acts will play the small 450-seat stage (bellyupaspen.com ) (www.aspentimes.com ). Festival promoters and local insiders say few small towns have a venue of this caliber (www.aspentimes.com ). The club’s walls are lined with a photo gallery curated by Goldberg of past performers (www.aspentimes.com ), and the owners are known for keeping seats open (never overselling) and investing in top-notch production. In short, Belly Up is an intimate, stand-out live-music room in a resort town – a place that has become as central to Aspen’s culture as skiing and film festivals.
Events and Programming
Belly Up Aspen’s calendar is packed year-round (newborn plans aimed for “300 nights a year” of music (www.postindependent.com )). Typical programming includes rock, pop, indie, blues, jazz, country, jam bands, hip-hop, EDM, and reggae, plus occasional comedy or themed dance nights. The venue has hosted world-class entertainers and rising stars alike. Hall of Famers and Grammy-winners like B.B. King, Damian Marley, Lucinda Williams and John Fogerty have all played the room (www.aspentimes.com ) (bellyupaspen.com ). Contemporary hit-makers such as Kacey Musgraves, John Legend, Twenty One Pilots, Snoop Dogg and LCD Soundsystem have also appeared (bellyupaspen.com ) (lvhglobal.com ). Baseball star-turned-actor Adam Sandler, stand-up comedian Dave Chappelle and others have even done shows here (bellyupaspen.com ). Because the club is a “proving ground” for new talent, guests have seen acts just before they broke out – for example, the Avett Brothers played three sold-out shows at Belly Up in 2006-07 before becoming a global sensation, and Sufjan Stevens stopped by shortly after his 2005 album release (www.postindependent.com ). Regular local showcases and all-ages nights (earlier in the decade) gave Colorado artists a platform too.
Crowds come from near and far. Big touring acts sometimes treat Aspen shows as rare club dates: in one case, a major rock band did Red Rocks (9,450 seats) and the next night did Belly Up (450 seats) (www.postindependent.com ). Off-season events can be mini-festivals. For example, a sold-out two-night run by EDM artist Bassnectar in springtime drew fans from 37 states, and town became filled with “Bassheads” in tie-dye from one bar to the next (www.postindependent.com ) (www.postindependent.com ). Local fans report downtown restaurants and bars flooding with concert-goers on heavy-show weekends. Umphrey’s McGee is now almost annual in March, sold-out both nights and drawing fans nationwide (www.postindependent.com ). Similarly, a three-night series by Widespread Panic in 2012 sold out so fast that fans camped out in sub-zero temperatures before tickets even went on sale (www.postindependent.com ). Even in winter or summer off-seasons, Belly Up schedules music nearly every week, ranging from DJ dance parties and rock concerts to specialty “locals’ nights.” Typical ticket prices vary by act, but many shows fall in the ~$30–$60 range (for instance, a 2014 Atmosphere concert was $40 (www.aspentimes.com )) – high-profile acts or holiday events can cost more.
Tickets and Booking
All tickets for Belly Up shows are sold through the official venue website on a proprietary mobile-friendly platform – paper, barcode PDFs or third-party e-tickets are not accepted (bellyupaspen.com ). When tickets first go on sale (usually announced weeks or months ahead), it pays to act fast on the venue’s own site or box office notifications. The club imposes purchase limits (typically 2 general-admission and 6 reserved tickets per person) to discourage scalping (bellyupaspen.com ), and it has a strict no-refund policy (except if a show is cancelled) (bellyupaspen.com ). After you buy, your tickets will appear in your Belly Up account’s mobile wallet (usually the afternoon before the show) (bellyupaspen.com ). At the door, staff will scan the tickets from your phone’s wallet (so be sure to install them in advance on the device you bring).
For popular or sold-out shows, the bellyupaspen.com site is the only safe source – the owners warn that any under-the-table PDF/QR ticket might be fraudulent (bellyupaspen.com ). On show nights, the box office opens at the time doors open; if a performance is not sold out, unclaimed tickets can be purchased at the door (bellyupaspen.com ). For last-minute buyers, arrive when doors open and ask the doorman. In general, ticket prices vary widely by artist; many headliners fall in the low tens of dollars to around $50, but the exact range depends on the event’s prominence (www.aspentimes.com ). (Special events like New Year’s or festival parties can exceed that.) For major tours, following Belly Up’s social media or local Aspen concert listings will give you advance notice of sale dates and pricing.
Seating and Layout
Belly Up Aspen is configured as an intimate indoor club. The stage is at one end of a rectangular room, with a wide dance floor (general admission standing area) in front. Surrounding three sides of the floor is a U-shaped raised area with bars and seating (www.tripadvisor.ie ). On these sides there are tables and rail-backed bench seats (the “reserved” section) where patrons can sit and still see the stage (bellyupaspen.com ). Reserved tickets guarantee you one of these spots, often near the stage. In recent sales agents’ maps, these premium areas have been described as “VIP” sections – front tables and bar stools – giving an excellent up-front view. (www.eventticketscenter.com ) (While [6] is a ticket vendor listing, it corresponds with how Belly Up’s reserved seating actually works: a handful of tables and stools line the sides.)
In practice, views are very good almost everywhere in the venue. As one concertgoer noted, all of Belly Up’s seating is “multi-leveled” around the dance floor and provides “good seats everywhere overlooking the stage” (www.tripadvisor.ie ). There are no obstructed views and no true bad spots – even standing at the back by the bar gives a decent perspective. The club is compact, so the farthest spot is only a few dozen feet from the stage, creating an energetic, up-close feel. One trade magazine comparison notes that major acts often treat a Belly Up show as a special, scaled-down gig immediately after playing much larger venues (www.postindependent.com ) (www.postindependent.com ).
Acoustically, Belly Up is renowned for its loud, clear sound system. The owners have continually upgraded the PA: for example, in 2014 they added a state-of-the-art Lake processing stack and a fourth 18-inch subwoofer to boost the bass (www.aspentimes.com ) (www.aspentimes.com ). They also repositioned and re-hung stage lights for maximum effect (www.aspentimes.com ). The result is a club that can comfortably handle heavy rock or electronic acts. As Widespread Panic’s bassist Dave Schools remarked, Belly Up has “a great sound system” so that “even a loud band can come here and sound good” (www.aspentimes.com ). In short, Belly Up’s layout and tech are optimized for live performance: the hardware is high-end, and the floor plan ensures fans are never far from the action.
Getting There and Parking
Belly Up Aspen is located at 450 South Galena Street , Aspen, CO 81611bellyupaspen.com ) (www.tripadvisor.ie ). It sits in the heart of downtown Aspen, just blocks from the Aspen Mountain gondola. The easiest way to reach the club is by foot, especially during busy ski and summer seasons (bellyupaspen.com ). If driving, you’ll need to allow time to find parking: Aspen enforces metered street parking and has several paid lots nearby. Street parking is allowed on adjacent blocks (Durant Street and nearby side streets) for limited hours (bellyupaspen.com ); watch for signs. There is no Belly Up-specific lot, and private garages are scarce near the main drag, so many locals prefer to park in a downtown garage or use courthouse/public lots when avalaible.
Public transit is convenient for the venue. The Roaring Fork Transit Authority (RFTA) free city buses stop at Galena and Durant (Rubey Park station) which is literally across the street from the club (bellyupaspen.com ). If you’re coming from Snowmass or Basalt, RFTA’s intercity buses stop downtown at Rubey Park. For an evening out, rideshare services (Uber/Lyft) can drop off right at the front entrance on Galena Street; just instruct your driver to use South Galena and Durant for curbside service. Do note that winter weather can make finding a spot or a pickup challenging. If taking a taxi, ask to be dropped at Galena St. at Durant.
Inside the Venue
Once at Belly Up, you’ll find a lively, casual nightclub atmosphere. Staff will greet you at the door to scan tickets and check IDs. Security is generally friendly but thorough. Belly Up has a strict bag policy : patrons may only bring a small bag or purse (no larger than 14″ x 14″) (bellyupaspen.com ). Large backpacks, outside food or drink, cameras, or any contraband are not allowed entry (bellyupaspen.com ). Coats and other chilly-weather gear can be checked year-round at the coat check counter (bellyupaspen.com ), which is especially useful given Aspen’s cold evenings. (If you step outside to smoke, you must get a stamp from security to be allowed re-entry (bellyupaspen.com ), since the entire club is smoke-free.)
Inside, the club has concrete floors and a high ceiling, but it’s heated for winter shows – though you may want a light jacket for the brief walk in from the street. Expect a full bar or two: Belly Up serves beer, wine, cocktails and craft liquor. Many visitors note the bartenders are quick and the selection is good (the White House Tavern review calls its own burgers and beer “excellent” (www.tripadvisor.ie ), and Belly Up’s bar menu is of similar pub style). You can order simple pub food at the bar (fans recommend the wings, burgers and salads (www.tripadvisor.ie )) or enjoy dozens of drink options. Payment is largely cashless – credit/debit cards are widely accepted (though having a few dollars for tips is wise) (www.eventticketscenter.com ). There is no formal dress code: Aspen style tends to be casual‐smart. Ski boots are spotted on patrons who come straight from the mountain ski season – anything from jeans and sport coats to hoodies and boots is fine.
The general vibe inside is energetic and friendly. Staff and box-office managers are often praised for being helpful; one reviewer called Belly Up staff “excellent,” noting this friendliness helps make Belly Up feel like one of the nation’s best clubs (www.tripadvisor.ie ). You’ll hear live music blasting from speaker stacks on either side of the stage; the acoustics are clear and loud (earplugs can still be a good idea for very loud DJs or rock shows, since drink orders don’t muffle the subwoofer!). The sound is set up to fill the whole floor evenly – new side speakers were installed so even the bar area gets good audio (www.aspentimes.com ). There is also a big screen TV above one of the bars that is often used for game broadcasts during sports events, so you may catch Monday night football or NCAA games if you visit on those nights (www.tripadvisor.ie ).
Nearby Amenities
Belly Up’s central location means plenty of nearby dining and lodging. For pre-show meals, the choice is rich: casual American fare like burgers and sandwiches at The White House Tavern or Meat & Cheese Deli are just a block away (www.tripadvisor.com ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). If you prefer a cozy sit-down, the French Alpine Bistro (European crêpes and fondue), Wild Fig (Mediterranean-inspired), or Ajax Tavern (American pub at the ski lift base) are within a short walk (www.tripadvisor.com ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). Upscale sushi fans often head to Matsuhisa (Nobu’s Aspen outpost) one block north (www.tripadvisor.com ). For a cocktail before or after the show, try the J-Bar lounge inside the historic Hotel Jerome or Little Annie’s bar across the street – both are Aspen staples. Late-night, aside from the club itself, options include the Red Onion Tavern (pub food and sports) and staying downtown (the quaint Aspen Pizza Co. is known for satisfying munchies).
If you need a place to stay, dozens of Aspen hotels and inns are a few blocks away. The Little Nell (luxury hotel) and Sky Hotel are at the base of the gondola (¼ mile north on Galena), while mid-range options like Aspen Square Condos or historic inns are a 5–10 minute walk—most downtown lodging is within half a mile. After shows, one convenient option is the elevator or shuttle at the Hotel Jerome (at East Hopkins), which runs until late. For nighttime transport home, remember that Aspen is a small town: RFTA stops running around midnight, so many locals hike home or use rideshare late. Street parking is freer after 7pm on some blocks, but check signs.
In summary, belly up to local culture: come early to explore nightlife, enjoy a meal or cocktails nearby, and plan your return when making concert plans.
What Makes This Venue Special
Belly Up Aspen is more than just a club — it’s a catalyst for Aspen’s music scene. Before Belly Up opened, Aspen’s live music options were very limited; local fans and artists alike credit Belly Up with “raising the bar” on what a small community venue can offer (www.aspentimes.com ). The owners deliberately invested in top-shelf technology and presentation to ensure legendary performances, and it shows: both fans and promoters marvel that such big-name acts will play a 450-person room so far from a major city. (www.aspentimes.com ) (www.aspentimes.com ) It has become a badge of honor for artists to do an Aspen Belly Up show (even members of national acts like The Flaming Lips have become “extended family” of the club staff). Many bands and DJs make a point to stop in Aspen purely to play this intimate venue, knowing the crowd is informed, enthusiastic and passionate. (www.postindependent.com ) (www.postindependent.com )
Belly Up also has its share of lore and local charm. The venue’s name famously came from a joke suggestion by Hunter S. Thompson (who wanted to call it “The Orifice”) (www.postindependent.com ) – an idea Michael Goldberg politely declined! Over the years, countless high points have added to the mythos: surprise visits by superstar artists, sold-out marathon shows, and even live video broadcasts on SiriusXM for some concerts. Bands like the Avett Brothers and Skrillex have fondly recounted early Aspen gigs at Belly Up (Skrillex first played here as a $25 bill-show in 2010). Conservatively, Rolling Stone noted in 2013 that Belly Up had already hosted “major attractions as Jane’s Addiction, Tiësto, Pitbull and B.B. King” despite its small size (www.aspentimes.com ). Locals and visitors alike consider it a “can’t-miss” spot for Aspen nightlife: one reviewer said a visit to Aspen isn’t complete without a Belly Up show (www.tripadvisor.ie ).
Culturally, Belly Up’s impact is measurable. It draws thousands of people (often out-of-town) to Aspen even when the slopes are closed, providing a boost to local businesses in the off-season. Aspen’s Mayor and business leaders have noted that Belly Up helps Aspen punch above its weight in culture and nightlife. The quote from local concert producer Josh Behrman sums it up: “There are] few small communities that could have a venue of this caliber… it’s an amazing thing for a community” ([www.aspentimes.com ). For artists, performing at Belly Up Aspen is seen as a rite of passage – a chance to connect closely with a dedicated crowd in one of the country’s most picturesque settings. All these factors combine to make Belly Up Aspen a beloved institution, not just a music venue but a key thread in Aspen’s social and cultural fabric.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Belly Up Aspen is wheelchair-accessible. The main floor is flat, and there are ramps/handrails by the entry and along the seating areas (www.tripadvisor.ie ). The venue provides accessible restrooms and allows service animals. (If you have specific needs, it’s a good idea to call ahead, but generally the layout is ADA-compliant.)
What to Bring: Bring your ticket (on a smartphone, since paper or printed barcodes aren’t used) and a valid ID if you plan to buy alcohol. Your phone or device should be fully charged, since tickets are delivered via the Belly Up app and you’ll need it at the door (bellyupaspen.com ). As noted above, only small bags are permitted (bellyupaspen.com ). It’s best to wear comfortable shoes (you’ll likely spend 2–3 hours on your feet) and dress in layers – Aspen evenings can get cool, though the club itself is heated. Consider earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud volume. Otherwise, casual attire is normal; there is no formal dress code. Tip: bring a jacket you can check, a credit card (bars/cards only policy) (www.eventticketscenter.com ), and a bit of cash for tips.
Arrival: Doors typically open about 30–60 minutes before showtime (check your ticket). For very popular shows or first-row standing spots, plan to arrive early. Hardcore fans have been known to line up hours in advance (legend has it that Widespread Panic fans camped out overnight in Llewellyn Park before tickets went on sale (www.postindependent.com )!). Otherwise, arriving 15–30 minutes ahead is usually fine. Security lines move quickly if you don’t have bags. Once inside, stage side is first-come standing area, but you can also head straight to the side tables if you have reserved tickets.
Inside Etiquette: You are free to stand or dance anywhere on the floor. People often congregate along the stage or near a bar. If dancing, just be mindful not to block others’ views permanently – the staff will occasionally invite rowdy dancers to move a bit so everyone can see. Flash photography is discouraged; small personal cameras and phones without flash are generally allowed unless specifically prohibited by an artist. Have respect for the venue’s rules: no re-entry without a stamp if you leave to smoke (bellyupaspen.com ), and never sneak in prohibited items. Given Aspen’s altitude, don’t underestimate socializing with drinks – stay hydrated (water is usually available) and consider a short walk or fresh air breaks if needed.
Age Restrictions: While Belly Up began as an all-ages club, current policy is that *most* shows are 21+ because of the liquor license. Very few under-21 shows are held now (www.aspentimes.com ). Only plainly advertised “All Ages” events will admit minors (even then, minors must generally stay away from the bar area after a certain hour). If in doubt, assume you must be 21 or over to enter. The club strictly enforces ID checks at the door.
Local Transportation: If driving, expect Aspen’s evening parking rules. A smart approach is drop someone off in front of the club and then find parking on a side street or pay lot. After the show, the Aspen bus (RFTA) may have late-night service back to residential areas, but service slows after 11pm. Rideshares or taxis are widely used; they can pick up on Galena Street but may need to pull up to a nearby intersection to stop. Always arrange a safe ride home, since waiting for a bus downtown after 1am can be risky. For emergencies, the city is quiet (only a couple police units), so do stay aware of your surroundings.
Common Pitfalls: Don’t forget your ID – you won’t be allowed to stay without one. Don’t arrive with large bags or outside drinks. Be aware of the slim chance of altitude sickness or weather; dress warmly for winter shows. And don’t waste money on ticket “third parties” – the club’s counsel is to only use their site to avoid fraud (bellyupaspen.com ). Readers often mention that underestimating turnout can spoil the night (beat the crowds), so use ticket sale date alerts or the venue’s social channels to stay informed. Finally, remember that Aspen is a laid-back town: tipping and good manners go a long way toward a great evening. With those pointers, you’ll maximize your Belly Up Aspen experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of venue is Belly Up Aspen?
Belly Up Aspen is an indoor live-music nightclub in downtown Aspen. It’s known for intimate concerts (capacity ~450) featuring everything from rock and country to EDM and comedy. Opened in 2005, it’s family-owned by Michael Goldberg and sons (www.postindependent.com ) (bellyupaspen.com ). Rolling Stone listed it as one of America’s best small clubs (bellyupaspen.com ) (www.aspentimes.com ).
How do I buy tickets for shows?
Belly Up sells tickets exclusively through its own website and box office. You create an account on bellyupaspen.com and have tickets delivered to your phone’s mobile wallet (bellyupaspen.com ) (bellyupaspen.com ). No printed barcodes are used – the club will not accept paper PDFs or third-party e-tickets (bellyupaspen.com ). The box office opens only at door time on show nights; if a performance isn’t sold out you can buy tickets at the door (bellyupaspen.com ). The club enforces limits (typically 2 GA or 6 reserved tickets per person) (bellyupaspen.com ) and does not refund tickets unless the show is canceled (bellyupaspen.com ).
Do I need to print my tickets?
No. Belly Up uses a digital ticketing system, so tickets appear on your smartphone in the Belly Up app (or your chosen digital wallet) just before the show (bellyupaspen.com ). On entry, staff will scan the ticket from your phone. Anything with a paper barcode or PDF will NOT be accepted (bellyupaspen.com ), so be sure to have your mobile tickets downloaded and ready on the device you bring.
Where is Belly Up Aspen, and how do I get there?
Belly Up Aspen is located at 450 South Galena Street, Aspen, Colorado 81611 (bellyupaspen.com ) (www.tripadvisor.ie ). It’s in downtown Aspen near the base of Aspen Mountain. You can walk or bike; there are city bus stops (RFTA’s Rubey Park route at Galena & Durant) right outside (bellyupaspen.com ). If driving, nearby metered street parking and public lots (a few blocks away) are options, but they fill up quickly. Rideshare or taxi drop-offs are allowed at the Galena Street entrance, which is the easiest for late-night travel.
What time should I arrive for a show?
Doors for concerts usually open about 30–60 minutes before showtime. If you have reserved (seated) tickets, arriving close to showtime is fine since you have a guaranteed seat. For general admission (standing) events, arriving early (especially for big names) is wise. Some fans even line up well before door time on popular nights. For example, shows like Widespread Panic have drawn people camping out overnight (www.postindependent.com ). In general, give yourself time to get through security and claim a spot on the floor or at your table.
What is the seating layout? Is it all standing or also tables?
Most of Belly Up’s main floor is general admission standing room in front of the stage, where fans can dance or browse. Along the sides and back there is a raised U-shaped area with bars and seating that overlook the stage (www.tripadvisor.ie ). These side areas have tables and railing seats for 4–6 people each. A reserved-ticket holder will have one of these seats. In short: you can either stand on the dance floor (GA) or buy a reserved seat at a side table or rail – every spot has a good view of the stage (bellyupaspen.com ) (www.tripadvisor.ie ).
What are the age restrictions and ID requirements?
Belly Up generally requires patrons to be 21+ for entry, since the venue operates under a liquor license (www.aspentimes.com ). In practice, very few shows allow under-21s. Only officially advertised “All Ages” events or those specifically noted as 18+ will admit younger fans (usually with strict rules). Always carry a photo ID. Underage drinking or misbehavior can lead to ejection and bans at the owner’s discretion, so parties often assign one member to stay sober. Plan on a 21+ crowd for most nights.
Is Belly Up Aspen wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The venue has ramps and an accessible layout. Admission areas and staging are designed so wheelchair users can see the stage. The tripadvisor listing even notes “Wheelchair Accessible” under the features (www.tripadvisor.ie ). Accessible restrooms are available. Disabled guests can usually ride “ride mobility” right to the club entrance and enter directly through a ramp. For any specific needs (companion seating, etc.), it’s best to call the club in advance, but in general Belly Up is ADA-friendly.
What items can I bring inside?
You can bring one small personal item, like a purse or single small backpack (no larger than 14″ x 14″) (bellyupaspen.com ). Outside food, drink, cameras with detachable lenses, and weapons are strictly prohibited (bellyupaspen.com ). The club forbids skateboards, drones, or any bulky items. Smoking devices (including vapes) are not allowed indoors – you may step outside to smoke if you get a hand-stamp for re-entry (bellyupaspen.com ). Everything else (wallet, phone, keys) is fine. If unsure, arrive with nothing but your ID, ticket, and a small purse or pouch.
Are outside food or drinks allowed?
No. Outside food and beverages are not allowed inside Belly Up Aspen (bellyupaspen.com ). Concessions (snacks, appetizers) are limited but the bars serve food like wings, burgers or pretzels, plus alcoholic drinks and non-alcoholic beverages. It’s best to eat beforehand or plan to buy snacks and drinks at the club’s bars. Only sealed, factory-wrapped items (like a small bottle of water for medical reasons) might be allowed at security’s discretion.
Does Belly Up have a coat check?
Yes. Because Aspen’s nights can be frigid, Belly Up offers year-round coat check (bellyupaspen.com ). You can leave heavy jackets, gloves, or other gear with staff at the hat-check desk for a small fee (usually a few dollars). This is especially handy if you’re coming straight from skiing. Make sure you get a stub or tag and keep track of it – coat check is attended all night but the area can get busy on big nights.
Can I smoke inside the venue?
No. Belly Up Aspen is strictly smoke-free. However, if you are 21 or older, you may step outside to smoke on the sidewalk and then re-enter with a hand-stamp (ask security for a stamp before you leave) (bellyupaspen.com ). The staff enforces this rule, so be sure to stamp out and back in. Smoking (or vaping) inside will result in ejection. During most shows you’ll find people showering outside, especially in the cold, so plan accordingly.
What food and drink is available inside?
Belly Up has at least one full-service bar and often small snack stations. The bar menu includes a variety of beers (local craft ales plus standard pours), wine and spirits for cocktails. Light fare like gourmet burgers, chicken wings, salads and appetizers are usually available to order at the bar (www.tripadvisor.ie ). Customers enjoy the food – reviewers specifically praised the burgers and wings (www.tripadvisor.ie ) – and there are often special deals during game nights. It is a cashless bar (card preferred) (www.eventticketscenter.com ), so you can tap or swipe for everything. There is no fine dining on-site, but you won’t go hungry and you can always refill your plate outside between sets at one of the nearby restaurants.
How much are tickets usually?
Ticket prices at Belly Up vary by show. Many indie or local acts have tickets in the $20–$40 range. Well-known touring bands or DJs often cost $40–$60, and special holiday shows or big-name anniversaries can be higher. For example, a Minneapolis hip-hop act in 2014 was priced at $40 (www.aspentimes.com ). Seats (if offered) tend to run a bit more than GA, naturally. Because it’s a boutique club, expect to pay more than a bar cover but less than a stadium: the experience is intimate, often with high production values. To get the best price, buy early (prices can rise as shows sell out) and consider standing GA instead of premier seating.
Are there any pre-show dining options nearby?
Yes. The immediate block around Belly Up is filled with restaurants. Casual spots include the White House Tavern (American bar food) (www.tripadvisor.com ) and Meat & Cheese (gourmet deli sandwiches) (www.tripadvisor.com ). If you want sit-down dining, try the French Alpine Bistro or Wild Fig (open evening) a few doors away, or the ski-lodge style Ajax Tavern slightly up the street (www.tripadvisor.com ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). Upscale sushi is just around the corner at Matsuhisa (www.tripadvisor.com ). For quick bites, the “Big Wrap” taqueria is right next door, and many people grab pizza or wings at the local Tavern. The Hotel Jerome and nearby Jimmy’s are also handy for a quick bite or drink before heading to the show. In short: you won’t have to travel far to eat or drink something good before entering Belly Up.
What is the capacity of Belly Up Aspen?
Belly Up Aspen’s official capacity is 450 people (www.aspentimes.com ) (bellyupaspen.com ). This includes everyone in the room, counted during a show. Because of fire marshals and comfort, the club will not oversell, so a “sold out” show truly maxes out that number. That small size is why the venue is often called an “intimate” or “showcase” club – it’s roughly 1/10th the size of a typical arena. This means tickets can be in high demand for popular acts, so plan ahead if you want to guarantee entry.
Are cameras or video allowed during shows?
Policies on cameras vary by show, but the general rule is no professional photography or flash. Small personal cameras and cell phones are usually permitted (especially if your ticket doesn’t explicitly forbid them), but don’t expect flash or tripods. During most concerts, guests take photos or short videos on their phones without incident. If in doubt, ask security at the door. Always be respectful of the performers: if a musician asks no photography, please comply. (Tip: recording a full song or unauthorized content is not only rude – some acts strictly enforce that.)
What is the venue’s refund policy?
Belly Up has a no-refunds policy on ticket purchases, as stated on its official FAQ (bellyupaspen.com ). The only exceptions are if a show is officially cancelled (in which case tickets are refunded) or postponed (tickets are honored for the new date). In short: buy knowing that you cannot get your money back if you simply change your mind or can’t attend. If a show is moved or you miss it due to delays (storms, flights, etc.) that will not be considered a cancellation; no refunds are given for schedule changes.
