About Hell @ The Masquerade
The Masquerade is a storied multi-room live music club in downtown Atlanta, and “Hell” is its most intense, basement-level performance space. Part of a four-room complex (with Heaven, Purgatory and new Altar) in Kenny’s Alley at Underground Atlanta, Hell is an intimate standing‐room venue of roughly 500–600 capacity (www.setlist.fm). It’s known for its gritty, industrial vibe – brick walls, low ceilings and heavy lighting – perfectly suited to hard rock, metal, punk and alternative shows. The Masquerade dates back to 1989 (originally at a North Avenue mill) and has hosted countless legendary acts. In fact, Nirvana, Nine Inch Nails, Radiohead, Foo Fighters, Soundgarden, Fugazi and many others have all performed on its stages (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). In 2016 the Masquerade relocated underground to Kenny’s Alley near Centennial Olympic Park, recreating three decks (Heaven/ground floor, Purgatory/second level, Hell/basement) with refurbished sound and lighting (creativeloafing.com). This move preserved the club’s trademark three-way layout so fans could still wander from room to room during a show (creativeloafing.com). Today Hell at The Masquerade remains a cornerstone of Atlanta’s independent music scene – a raw, authentic venue where rising local bands and touring acts play nightly amidst a storied history (www.masqueradeatlanta.com) (creativeloafing.com).
Events and Programming
Hell hosts live shows (not nightclub dancing) most nights year-round. Expect genres like rock, metalcore, hardcore punk, indie, experimental, electronic, hip-hop and darkwave. The Masquerade stages host roughly 600–700 shows annually (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). There are frequent local showcases and recurring series (for example, Atlanta’s own metal nights or themed dance parties like LGBTQ-friendly **Pink Pony** events). Noteworthy past events include Atlanta’s first Warped Tour in 1992 and early editions of Shaky Knees and Imagine festival (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). In recent years, Hell’s lineup has ranged from rising underground bands to established artists; current acts performing at Masq venues include Odesza, Death Grips, Future, In This Moment, Little Dragon and Taking Back Sunday (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Ticket prices tend to be affordable: many shows fall in the $15–$30 range (often advance presale) while big headliners or VIP packages may run higher (www.masqueradeatlanta.com) (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Door policies vary by event: some concerts are all-ages, others are 18+. The Masquerade also occasionally hosts non-concert events (comedy showcases, club nights) in the new Altar room and uses its courtyard for festivals or summer block parties.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Hell shows can be purchased through the venue’s official channels well before the show – typically box office, the venue website or its sanctioned ticket outlet (avoid unofficial resellers). The Masquerade box office, located in Kenny’s Alley at Underground Atlanta (entrance on the third level of 75 MLK Jr Dr SW), is open weekdays 10am–6:30pm (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Buying at the box office can save service fees compared to online. Advance-price tickets must be purchased by the day before show; on the day of the event, a higher “day-of-show” price usually applies. Major shows often sell out, so for popular acts it’s wise to buy well in advance. If tickets remain, a limited number are sold at the door starting at the posted “doors” time (usually 30–60 minutes before show) until capacity is reached. Will-call tickets can be picked up at the venue entrance (not at the box office) with valid photo ID (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Most Hell shows allow general admission standing only (no reserved seats) (www.masqueradeatlanta.com), and ticket prices are usually printed on the venue’s calendar (e.g. $30 advance for a Feb 2025 concert (www.masqueradeatlanta.com)). Keep an eye on The Masquerade’s event listings (website or social media) for on-sale dates. Pro tip: sign up for venue newsletters or join fan clubs, as some presales are first announced there.
Seating and Layout
Hell is a **general admission standing room** only venue (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). The backstage area contains bars, PA speakers and guard rails; the crowd stands on a flat concrete floor that slopes up slightly near the back for better sightlines. There is no formal seated area or VIP balcony – everyone stands on the main floor. (Occasionally a small elevated platform or thin railing may be along the back wall or sides, but it’s not reserved seating.) The stage is at one end of the room, and large speakers flank it; the view is best near the center front of the stage. Sound can be loud and booming, characteristic of the heavy genres played here. The club’s three levels are connected by stairways and a breezeway; between sets fans often gather in the large open courtyard (“Kenny’s Alley”) just outside the doors. Acoustically, some visitors note that the brick-and-concrete space can sound “raw” (certain frequencies carry more than others) – for the clearest listening position stay a few steps back from the front, or near the center. There are no permanent seats or numbered rows (row/seat on a ticket is just a formality) (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Restrooms are located near the entrance of each room; at Hell these are a few steps into the venue to the side. Overall, the layout is simple by design: a rectangular hall focused on stage performance, with bars at the sides and a welcome area at the rear entry.
Getting There and Parking
Address: The Masquerade in Underground Atlanta – Kenny’s Alley, 75 MLK Jr Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30303. This is a block south of the Atlanta Federal Building (south of Five Points MARTA). The venue’s official drop-off point for rides (Uber/Lyft/taxi) is at the Pryor Street entrance to Kenny’s Alley. There’s also a drop-off at the corner of Central Ave & MLK Jr Drive (walk right into the old train station entrance) (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). (In navigation apps, you can input “Kenny’s Alley at 92 Pryor St SW” or “Underground Atlanta.”)
By Car: If driving, follow Martin Luther King Jr Dr into downtown. Under Interstate 75/85, look for the neon “Underground Parking” sign on the building at 75 MLK Jr. Parking is mainly in the Underground Atlanta parking deck (Legacy Parking’s Deck A), entrance at 75 MLK Jr Dr SW (www.masqueradeatlanta.com) (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). This large garage has ~754 spaces (en.parkopedia.com). Rates (as of late 2025) are about $15 for 2 hours or $20 for all day (en.parkopedia.com) (you pay at exit). After 5:00 PM the garage is mostly empty, so evening parkers usually find spots easily (creativeloafing.com). Use address 75 MLK Jr Dr SW for GPS (precise sign on the deck) (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). From I-75/85 southbound, take Exit 246 (Central Ave) then a quick left onto MLK Jr Dr; from northbound, take Exit 248A (MLK Jr) and stay right onto the deck (www.masqueradeatlanta.com).
Public Transit: The venue is very close to MARTA and city bus lines. The Five Points MARTA rail station (on Red/Gold/Green/Blue lines) is a few blocks north and is about a 10-minute walk or a short bus ride. Several buses stop within a block or two: Routes 3 (Central), 40, 42 and 49 stop right at MLK & Pryor or MLK & Central (literally 2–3 minutes’ walk) (moovitapp.com). Atlanta’s streetcar (Green line) has a Park Place stop just 4–5 minutes on foot up MLK. (moovitapp.com). Taking MARTA from the airport: you can ride Red or Gold train to Five Points, then either walk south (Peachtree narrower sidewalks) or transfer to the 3/40/49 bus for one stop. Local fans sometimes also bike or scooter to the venue, as Scooter share services and protected bike lanes run along MLK. Overall, it’s one of the more transit-friendly venues in Atlanta – walkable from downtown hotels (see nearby hotels below), or a short taxi/Uber ride from midtown.
Inside the Venue
When you enter Hell, expect a tightly packed, dimly lit rock club atmosphere. The main entryway is a narrow hall with a guardrail, leading into the open floor. All patrons pass through security and bag check at the door. The Masquerade enforces a strict bag policy: no large backpacks or duffels; small bags up to 12” will be searched (www.masqueradeatlanta.com) (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Prohibited items include outside food/drinks (including reusable bottles), umbrellas, markers, weapons or mask that hides your identity (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). There is NO coat check (www.masqueradeatlanta.com), so keep personal items on you or leave them in your car. Cameras: personal cell phones and point-and-shoot cameras are fine, but professional cameras (DSLRs or with removable lenses) are not allowed without prior approval (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Once inside, you’ll feel the heat – Hell gets crowded, and the performance will likely be loud (>100 dB). The club’s PA sound system was upgraded when they moved underground, and lighting rigs are designed for an intense live concert experience (creativeloafing.com). There are at least two full-service bars inside Hell (near the stage and at the back), so drinks can be bought during the show (ID required if over 21). Note that alcoholic Menus and mixers are sold by cash or credit (Visa/MC, no AmEx) with service through an order will-call system. Restrooms are on-site; the club is ADA accessible (www.masqueradeatlanta.com) – inform a staff member if wheelchair access is needed and they will assist you. (The venue has elevators/stair lifts in common areas of Underground for easier access.) If the crowd gets too packed, there is an open-air courtyard in Kenny’s Alley just outside where fans often cool off between sets or post-show. Wi-Fi is generally not provided, and cell signal may be patchy underground – plan accordingly. The overall vibe is raw and high-energy: expect crowds to headbang, lose their voices singing, or dance (in the case of dance nights like “Gaga party” events). One insider tip: arrive early to grab front-row spots if you want the most direct view of the band, but be prepared for loud, immersive sound wherever you stand.
Nearby Amenities
Hell at The Masquerade sits between Underground Atlanta and the Five Points district, so there’s a lot to do nearby. On-site at the Underground complex itself you’ll find several new food and drink venues. Dolo’s Pizza (Lower Alabama Street) serves New York–style slices with a Caribbean twist (atlanta.eater.com) – a great quick meal pre- or post-show. A branch of Atlanta Brewing Co. (in development) and Dancing Crepes (savory and sweet crepes) are either open or soon opening at Underground (atlanta.eater.com). There’s also a 21-unit food hall planned in the complex (atlanta.eater.com). For nightlife, check out Future Showbar (across Kenny’s Alley) – an LGBTQ-friendly restaurant, cabaret and dance bar that’s become a late-night hangout (atlanta.eater.com). Also at Underground are cocktails and Caribbean fare at Daiquiriville, and other casual spots and bars (though note many of the new venues serve food only from evening onward). Within a few minutes’ walk from the venue are national fast-food and chain restaurants (e.g. a Subway, Dunkin’ Donuts on MLK) and casual downtown staples like The One Restaurant (upscale southern) or Lucky’s Burger & Brew (across from MARTA Five Points station). A short 5–10 min walk north is Centennial Olympic Park, home to shops and restaurants at CNN Center (e.g. Chick-fil-A, Mellow Mushroom) and hotels. Speaking of hotels, plenty are nearby: JW Marriott, Westin Peachtree Plaza, Hilton Atlanta and Sheraton Downtown are all within a half-mile, plus the Sheraton Westin across MLK plaza. These downtown hotels are the main lodging options if you’re visiting for a show. If you need to arrive early, Uber/Lyft or MARTA are advisable; parking will be busy on street if you want cheaper lots. For late-night transit home, MARTA trains run until around midnight, and most Uber drivers will still come downtown late on weekends.
What Makes This Venue Special
Hell at The Masquerade is cherished for its rich history and underground culture. It’s one of Atlanta’s longest-running rock venues – 35+ years old – and has a legendary reputation. Many rock and alternative icons played Hell’s catwalk before they were big – for instance, 1989 shows by Nirvana and Nine Inch Nails happened here early in those bands’ careers (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). It also hosted the very first Warped Tour in 1992 (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). The design (three stacked rooms named Hell, Purgatory, Heaven) is unique – fans still recall the thrill of sprinting upstairs between sets to catch different bands. At the new location, the owners faithfully recreated these rooms to nearly the same dimensions (creativeloafing.com), even improving the PA and stage lights (creativeloafing.com), so the gritty charm remains but with better comfort. Artistically, Hell stands out because it champions the underground and independent scene. Promoters often book hard-edged and experimental acts here that wouldn’t play larger halls. There’s a proud DIY spirit – Old Fourth Ward hipsters remember when the venue served as a warehouse punk palace, and that vibe lives on. The nearby courtyard and Underground Atlanta setting also give it character: the venue is literally built into Atlanta’s historic railroad district (atlanta.eater.com). The Masquerade’s influence extended beyond just music – it incubated Atlanta’s festival culture (Imagine and Shaky Knees had roots here) and supported local rock radio (99X “masquerade Mondays”) for decades. Both artists and fans say they love Hell for its intimacy: here you’re only feet from the stage, smelling the guitars and breathing the same air as the band. As one promoter put it, “The Masq” is the heart of Atlanta rock – and Hell is its most devilish, down-to-earth chamber (www.masqueradeatlanta.com) (www.masqueradeatlanta.com).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Hell is wheelchair accessible – the staff will assist guests with mobility needs (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Each room has ADA-compliant bathrooms. The venue has ramps and elevators in common areas, but let a staff member know if you need help navigating stairs. Hearing assistance: no personal receivers, so earplugs can be helpful. Dress & Gear: There’s no formal dress code – come casual or in gear to fit the show. Note the metal/punk crowd often wears close-toed shoes and avoids dangling accessories (to not snag in the crowd). Bring a small bag (under 12”) if needed; you’ll have to check it at the door. Check IDs: 18+ shows require valid government ID (driver’s license/passport) (www.masqueradeatlanta.com); under-21 shows require 18+ ID, and truly “all ages” means all ages are welcome (no age limit) (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Entry: Doors open usually 30–60 min before show. Arrive early if you want front-row standing area. Late arrivals may wait at the entrance line (especially if it’s crowded; try to enter before doors time). There’s no coat check (www.masqueradeatlanta.com), so wear layers if needed and carry a minimal wallet/purse. Beverages & Food: You cannot bring in outside drinks or bottles. There are drink bars inside Hell (buy options like beer, cider and basic mixed drinks). Starting 2024, The Masquerade offers on-site food through its new “Altar” kitchen window (www.masqueradeatlanta.com) (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Even if you’re seeing a show in Hell, you can order snacks or sandwiches from that window in the courtyard. Check The Masquerade social feeds for the food kiosk schedule. Prohibited Items: Outside alcohol/drinks, reusable water bottles, illegal substances, any weapons or sharp objects are banned (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). No professional photo/video equipment unless you have artist permission. If unsure about an item, ask security at the gate. During the Show: Phones should be on silent. A few cameras click away, but the emphasis is on live music (so most fans focus on the stage). Light from phones or lighters (rare) is okay. Picture-taking from the crowd is usually fine, but standing safe is priority (don’t block aisles). Expect excited moshing or energetic dancing near the front; move back if you need calmer space (always keep your hands up to avoid collisions). Arrival Time: Plan to arrive 30+ minutes before showtime. This gives time for parking or transit walk, getting through security and grabbing a drink before the band hits the stage. For weekday or less-busy shows, you might get in later. But on Friday/Saturday night, lines can form early. Connectivity: The underground location means Wi-Fi isn’t guaranteed. Cell service can dip; AT&T/T-Mobile usually get a signal, Verizon can be spotty. Use Google Maps or Uber before entering, as apps may lag once underground. Box Office & Will Call: The box office (weekday only) is at Kenny’s Alley entrance – for day-of tickets and will-call pickup (you must show photo ID) (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Photo Op: The old Masq had a big clown head facade; at the new site, visitors often snap pics by the venue’s neon signs or entrance murals in Kenny’s Alley. Remember: by supporting this longtime independent club, you’re participating in a piece of Atlanta music history. Have fun and stay safe!
What is the capacity of Hell at The Masquerade?
Hell is one of the smaller rooms of the Masquerade complex. Its capacity is roughly 500–600 people (www.setlist.fm). (The larger upstairs "Heaven" holds more, around 1,000 seats.) All events in Hell are general-admission standing, so this capacity is standing room only (www.masqueradeatlanta.com).
Are tickets available at the door or only in advance?
Any unsold tickets can be purchased at the door (box office) when you arrive, starting at the posted door time (typically 30–60 minutes before show). However, popular shows often sell out beforehand. For the best price and to guarantee entry, it’s recommended to buy tickets in advance online or at the box office earlier in the week (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Advance-price tickets must be purchased by the day before the event; after that only “day-of-show” tickets are sold at the door at a higher price (www.masqueradeatlanta.com).
Where is the box office and how can I avoid service fees?
The Masquerade box office is located in Kenny’s Alley at Underground Atlanta (entrance on Martin Luther King Jr Drive, near 75 MLK Jr Dr SW). It’s open Monday–Friday, roughly 10:00 AM–6:30 PM (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Buying tickets there means you pay face value only (you will save the online service fees). Advance ticket prices are valid through the day before the show. After that, if you wait until show day, you can still buy tickets in person at the door, but at the day-of-show price (www.masqueradeatlanta.com).
What are the alcohol and identification policies?
Bring a valid photo ID if the event is 18+ or 21+. For an 18+ show you need any government-issued photo ID; for 21+ you need an ID that shows you’re 21 (beer/wine/spirits only on 18+ nights). All-ages shows have no minimum age – kids and teens are welcome with adult supervision (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Once inside, bars sell beer, wine and basic cocktails. You cannot bring your own alcohol or outside beverages. Drinks (including water) must be purchased inside. Also check the performer’s age restrictions closely on the event listing.
How do I get to Hell at The Masquerade, and where can I park?
Hell is located in Kenny’s Alley (Underground Atlanta), at 75 Martin Luther King Jr Drive SW. If driving, follow signs to Underground Atlanta parking. The main parking deck (Legacy Parking) is at 75 MLK Jr Dr SW (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Rates are about $15 for 2 hours or $20 for all-day (en.parkopedia.com) (rates may vary). Walk to Kenny’s Alley via the skybridge on Level 3. For public transit, the Five Points MARTA station is a short walk north, and several MARTA buses stop at MLK/Pryor or MLK/Central (2–3 minutes’ walk from the venue) (moovitapp.com). The new Atlanta Streetcar also stops at Park Place (4-minute walk) (moovitapp.com). Rideshares and taxis can drop off at the Pryor Street entrance to Kenny’s Alley or at Central Ave & MLK Jr Drive (then walk into the courtyard) (www.masqueradeatlanta.com).
What is the seating/standing configuration and are there any bad seats?
Hell is entirely general-admission standing (www.masqueradeatlanta.com) – there are no reserved seats or balconies. View is best on the floor close to center stage or slightly raised areas at the sides; try to avoid the extreme far sides or directly against speaker stacks where sound may be muffled. The whole room is relatively flat, so if crowds pack the front, people stand further back. Arriving early lets you stake out a spot near the front. If you need to sit for health reasons, ask staff – there are folding chairs on request, but most of the floor will be standing.
What items are not permitted inside Hell at The Masquerade?
Prohibited items include outside food or drinks (no reusable water bottles, no open containers), illegal substances, any weapons or sharp objects, and bulky backpacks (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Clothing with large metal spikes or studs is frowned upon (these are not allowed) (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Umbrellas, markers/paint pens, or any identity-hiding mask are also banned. All allowed bags (small purses/shoulder bags under 12″) will be searched at entry (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Keep valuables minimal – there is no coat check or storage provided (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Basically, pack light and only bring bare necessities.
Does The Masquerade have coat check or lockers?
No, there is no coat check or personal locker service (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). You must carry your coat or bag with you at all times. This is why the venue enforces a strict no-backpack policy – any items you bring should be manageable on your person. Plan accordingly (layer your clothing instead of bulky coats) and remember any purses or bags are subject to search (www.masqueradeatlanta.com) (www.masqueradeatlanta.com).
Are food or snacks available inside the venue?
Yes, since early 2024 The Masquerade offers food via its new “Altar” restaurant kitchen window (www.masqueradeatlanta.com) (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Even if your show is in Hell or another room, you can order food from the Altar courtyard window. They serve items like sandwiches, snack plates and plant-based dishes, and you pick up at a pick-up window in the Kenny’s Alley courtyard (www.masqueradeatlanta.com) (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). Menus and hours vary, so check the Masquerade website or social media for the current food window schedule. Otherwise, there is no full kitchen or menu within Hell – only beer/wine bars are inside each room. Many patrons eat before coming or grab a late-night bite; just note that the food window closes after shows (it’s not open 24/7).
Is Hell at The Masquerade wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Hell (and all Masquerade rooms) are ADA accessible (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). There is a ramp and wide entry for wheelchairs (use the Pryor St entrance and speakers will assist you). Once inside, the floor is flat so you can stand or sit anywhere. Accessible restrooms are available. If you need any help with seating or navigating stairs upstairs, just inform a staff member – they will assist. The venue even notes on its FAQ that visitors with mobility needs should speak to Masquerade staff upon arrival (www.masqueradeatlanta.com).
What are some nearby restaurants or hotels to check out?
Within the Underground Atlanta complex (right outside Hell), you’ll find a growing food scene: Dolo’s Pizza (NY-style with Caribbean toppings) opened here (atlanta.eater.com), and new eateries like Atlanta Brewing Co., Dancing Crepes and an indoor food hall are planned (atlanta.eater.com). Across the alley is Future Showbar, an LGBTQ-friendly restaurant/cabaret (great for late drinks). A few blocks away near Five Points MARTA are national chains (Chipotle, Dunkin’) and local spots like Lucky’s Burger & Brew or The One Southern. As for hotels, downtown options abound: JW Marriott/Hyatt Downtown (adjacent to the Georgia Aquarium), Marriott Marquis, Hilton Atlanta, Sheraton/Westin (Peachtree St) – all are 5–10 minutes’ walk. Booking near Centennial Olympic Park (Peachtree Center area) also keeps you close to The Masquerade. Public transit makes it easy to reach other districts, but if you prefer to stay near the club, the above-mentioned hotels are your best bets.
Why is it called “Hell” at The Masquerade?
The Masquerade’s rooms are theatrically named like Vergil’s Divine Comedy: Heaven (bright and large), Purgatory (middle), and Hell (basement). “Hell” refers to the club’s basement stage – down a flight of stairs from street level. The name fits the gritty, dark ambience inside (red-painted walls, low ceilings, blazing lights), creating an evocative contrast to visiting “Heaven” or passing through “Purgatory.” Thematically it started at the North Avenue venue and was kept at the Kenny’s Alley site, making each room feel like a distinct underworld level of rock.
What famous bands played Hell at The Masquerade?
Over its history, Hell has hosted many well-known rock and metal acts. For example, Atlanta music lore holds that Nirvana, Nine Inch Nails and Soundgarden all toured through here early in their careers (www.masqueradeatlanta.com). The Foo Fighters, Fugazi, Radiohead and others have also graced the stage. In recent years, Hell saw touring bands like In This Moment and Taking Back Sunday pass through. (Of course, some of those bands played the “Heaven” room if they needed bigger capacity, but Hell’s shows are no less legendary among fans.) What makes it special is that in its early days, these artists performed at a club this small – a core part of The Masquerade’s reputation as the heart of Atlanta’s alternative scene (www.masqueradeatlanta.com).