About Antiguo Hotel Reforma
Antiguo Hotel Reforma is a historic landmark venue in the Tabacalera neighborhood of Mexico City. Originally opened on December 23, 1936, it was designed by young architect Mario Pani (taking over from Carlos Obregón Santacilia) as one of the city’s first modern high-rises (www.local.mx ) (arquine.com ). The 12-story Art Deco building was considered cutting-edge in its day – boasting 250 luxury rooms, central air conditioning, private baths and a rooftop garden with panoramic views (obras.expansion.mx ) (archivo.eluniversal.com.mx ). In its heyday Hotel Reforma was “one of the most prestigious and modern” hotels in 1930s Mexico City (archivo.eluniversal.com.mx ), even described by a historian as “the best in Latin America,” hosting Hollywood stars and featuring top orchestras playing in its famed Ciro’s nightclub (archivo.eluniversal.com.mx ). In fact, Pedro Infante famously sang at the hotel’s cabaret (archivo.eluniversal.com.mx ), and guests could enjoy caviar dinners and orchestras in the elegant Reina Maya ballroom and a roof-garden dance floor (archivo.eluniversal.com.mx ) (archivo.eluniversal.com.mx ).
Decades later, its fortunes declined. The 1985 Mexico City earthquake damaged the building, and it sat largely abandoned for years (archivo.eluniversal.com.mx ). In 2011 it was declared an “inmueble con valor artístico” (building of artistic value) by the National Institute of Fine Arts, highlighting its cultural importance (archivo.eluniversal.com.mx ). After extensive restoration and adaptive reuse, the old hotel has been reborn as a vibrant events venue. Today the 1936 façade and interior spaces retain much of their vintage charm – for example the original stone walls and Art Deco details are still visible (obras.expansion.mx ) – but the venues have been gutted and updated with modern lighting and sound for contemporary performances (sesh.sx ) (www.infobae.com ). Capacity is roughly 600 people, making it an intimate yet energetic setting for concerts and club nights (sesh.sx ). Antiguo Hotel Reforma’s unique mix of truly historic architecture and up-to-date production makes it a singular fixture on Mexico City’s cultural map.
Events and Programming
These days, Antiguo Hotel Reforma is best known as a multi-purpose nightlife and concert space. The programming skews heavily toward electronic and dance music, but it also hosts a mix of live bands, club nights, and special events. You’ll find everything from one-off concerts and themed parties to cultural festivals. For example, the venue has staged large dance festivals like Pride Together CDMX 2025 (a celebration of LGBTQ+ community and culture) featuring acts such as Hercules & Love Affair and local DJ Mystery Affair (www.songkick.com ). It has welcomed international electronica stars – Chet Faker played here in July 2024 (www.indierocks.mx ), Purple Disco Machine and Midwest DJs have spun late-night sets, and Detroit techno duo Octave One made their Mexico City debut at AHR in March 2024 (www.indierocks.mx ). Homegrown and Latin American talent also feature. Local scene heroes like Veronica Picazo, Enya Botello, and Duke Skylocker have held dancefloor residencies or DJ sets, and rock bands open shows, so the musical scope is wide but mostly centered on dance, house, tech on one hand and live concerts on the other (sesh.sx ).
The venue’s calendar is packed: in 2023-2025, Antiguo Hotel Reforma has been a regular stop for touring artists and special event promoters. Electronic music nights happen frequently – sometimes weekly or monthly – often organized by local collectives (e.g. NüX Club’s “Midweek” series, or the famed Heineken Afterwork parties). For instance, the July 2024 Heineken Afterwork featured Mexican act CLUBZ and Australian singer Chet Faker headlining a bright summer night of indie dance (www.indierocks.mx ) (www.infobae.com ). Late December brings holiday events like the “Baile Eterno” New Year’s celebration with multiple stages of cumbia, psychodelic disco and DJs (past lineups have included Sonido Gallo Negro, Pahua and Sonido La Changa) (www.indierocks.mx ) (www.indierocks.mx ). Recurring special events also pop up: California’s Roosevelt (indie electronic) played a live show in May 2025, a two-day underground dance festival (SOMOS) took place over New Year 2025, and the summer 2025 Pride “Pride Together CDMX” drew big crowds (www.songkick.com ) (www.indierocks.mx ). In short, if it’s hip live music or a club night in Mexico City, chances are Antiguo Hotel Reforma is hosting it soon.
Ticket prices vary by event. Smaller local DJ nights and day parties might charge only a few hundred pesos (for example, an entry-level early ticket for one New Year’s Eve party was MX$450 (www.indierocks.mx )), whereas shows by international headliners can be 600–800 peso general admission or higher. VIP or reserved upgrades are sometimes offered by promoters. As with any popular venue, tickets often go on sale weeks ahead or in phases – so dates and prices are announced online and usually sell out for big shows. Finding tickets is typically done through official channels or promoters’ websites; proximity to the Metro and central location make it easy for many nightlife-goers to line up or arrive early as doors open.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Antiguo Hotel Reforma events are generally sold through authorized online vendors or direct from the event’s promoters. There is no dedicated box office at the building itself (the old hotel is now event space only), so walk-up box-office sales are rare. Instead, you’ll usually purchase e-tickets on platforms recommended by the promoter (often listed on the event’s social media page) and then present a digital or printed ticket at the door. Popular shows often sell out, so it’s wise to buy “presale” tickets if available. There are often multiple price tiers: early-bird or advance tickets (usually cheapest), general admission, and sometimes day-of or VIP tickets. For example, IndieRocks! reported a New Year’s party where a phase-1 advance GA ticket was MX$450 (www.indierocks.mx ), rising later if still available.
On the day of a show, remaining tickets (if any) might be sold at the door, but only in limited numbers. Door price may be higher. Age restrictions apply (see FAQs), so be ready to show ID along with your ticket. If you’re planning to attend a club night or concert here, check the event details online for exact release dates and policies. Be aware: online ticket sites often add service fees. Never buy from unofficial resellers or street sellers. For convenience, save the event’s page to your calendar or follow Antiguo Hotel Reforma on social media – they sometimes announce guest lists, last-minute tickets, or special password entries. But in general, the safe strategy is to buy as soon as you can through recommended outlets and arrive early on event day, as entry is first-come on most events with standing-room admission.
Seating and Layout
Antiguo Hotel Reforma’s layout reflects its roots as an upscale hotel turned club space. There is no assigned seating; almost all concerts and events are “open floor” general admission. The ground floor offers a large dance area with the stage or DJ booth at one end. Many shows leave this space empty so guests can stand or dance. On higher floors or around the edges you may find elevated platforms or narrow balconies where you can perch to survey the crowd. These upper walkways (older gallery corridors) provide some separation and slightly better sightlines for watching the stage, though they fill up quickly and have limited capacity.
If a show has a few chairs, they are usually against the walls or reserved for VIP packages, but don’t expect many fixed seats. Instead, people mingle and move around freely. The former hotel’s central atrium (an open-air courtyard) is occasionally used; it was once a lush garden space and now sometimes houses a bar or lounge area, giving an outdoor feel between indoor halls. In general, the higher you stand (like on a mezzanine), the clearer view you’ll get of the stage. Some concertgoers prefer front-and-center on the floor for the immersive dance-floor vibe, while others lean on the back wall or upstairs railings for a quieter vantage and killer acoustics – the sound system is usually powerful here, sometimes making the floor zone bass-heavy. If the event is seated (rare, mostly daytime or showcase events), there may be rows of chairs brought in, but this is the exception. Wherever you go, expect an energetic club atmosphere rather than a quiet auditorium: the layout encourages mingling and dancing more than passive viewing.
Getting There and Parking
Antiguo Hotel Reforma is located at París 32, Colonia Tabacalera, Alcaldía Cuauhtémoc, CP 06030, Mexico City . It sits on a corner of bustling Avenida Paseo de la Reforma, near the recently opened Senate building. Because it’s in central Mexico City, the easiest way to get there is by public transportation. The nearest Metro station is San Cosme on Line 2 (the dark blue line) – just a few blocks north – and a short walk south along an avenue will bring you directly to Reforma at the Paris intersection. The Metrobus Line 7 (purple line) has a stop called París literally steps from the venue’s entrance (www.infobae.com ), making it extremely convenient. Several city bus routes also run on Reforma, and taxi or rideshare drop-offs are allowed on Avenida Reforma or Calle París. If you’re biking, note that Reforma has wide bike lanes (closed to cars) most days.
Driving is less convenient. There is no private parking lot attached to the venue. Street parking along Reforma and side streets is strictly metered and limited, especially on weekends (look for parquímetros and pay attention to posted hours). A few public parking garages are within walking distance (for example, some near the Reforma side of Plaza de la República or hotels like Sevilla Palace), but expect high rates. On event nights many locals simply use Metro or Uber instead of hunting for a spot. If you do drive, a common drop-off point is on Reforma between París and San Cosme; taxi drivers will usually let passengers out just in front of the building. Rideshares (Uber/Didi) can easily access Reforma and nearby side streets, but bear in mind traffic on Reforma can be heavy around show times. Plan to arrive early to avoid congestion. In summary: Metro San Cosme or the Metrobus París stop are usually the fastest way, and plenty of taxis/ride-hail can be called to Damen Reforma/Paris.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, you’ll enter through restored Art Deco doors into a large lobby or directly into the performance area. Expect standard security procedures: bag checks and metal-detector wands are common at the door, and tickets will be scanned. Once inside, the atmosphere is dark, sleek and clubby. The old hotel’s marble and stone surfaces have been kept or imitated, but the main focus is on the stage and dance floor. Live concerts typically have a simple setup: a stage or DJ booth with lighting rigs and speakers. Club nights install more elaborate laser and LED systems. One notable feature during recent multimedia exhibitions was the center courtyard (formerly a garden) that hosted bars and experiential art setups; sometimes you may find a drink stand or merchandise table there for special events.
Speaking of drinks, there is usually at least one full bar selling alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, cocktails) and non-alcoholic drinks inside. If the Museo del Futuro exhibit is running, vendors like Café Ocampo or Carajillo may set up in the lobby or garden area (these were present during MUFO events). On a typical concert night, expect a typical club bar menu. No outside food or drink is allowed. (If you arrive early, you might see chairs and a small restaurant set up in the courtyard, but once dancing starts it usually converts to a standing-only space.) There is no formal cloakroom, though some events may provide a coat check service for a fee. Restrooms are located off the main hall (ask staff or signage), and they tend to have long lines at peak times – go early if you can. The venue is kept clean but busy, so expect a lively, sometimes loud environment with people dancing, fog machines, and pulsing music.
One point to note: because this is a historic building, the interior ceiling is very high and the stage area is cavernous. Sound can carry and echo differently than in a modern concert hall. In practice, the sound setup is usually high-quality club sound, so music is loud and bass-heavy. If you’re sensitive to loud music, consider bringing earplugs. Also, since floors tend to be stone or polished concrete, high heels can be uncomfortable for extended dancing or standing. Some guests use the balcony railings or cafe tables (when set up) to keep their balance or rest. In short, expect a full-on club experience: dim lighting, strong music, minimal seating, and an open layout where personal space is tight when packed. If you prefer a breather, look for a ledge or the perimeter of the room – the central dance floor is best for being in the thick of the action; the upstairs or corners are calmer.
Nearby Amenities
Tabacalera and the surrounding colonia have plenty to offer before or after an event. For pre-show dining, you’ll find an eclectic mix a short walk away: casual taco stands and taquerías, global street-food stalls, and mid-range sit-down restaurants line the nearby avenues. Across Reforma is a cluster of eateries – from traditional Mexican (look for tortas and pozole) to Italian pizzerias, and if you continue a couple blocks south you will hit some of Zona Rosa’s more upscale options. Coffee shops and dessert spots also dot the neighborhood (e.g. cafés on Lisboa and San Cosme streets) if you arrive early. Right on Reforma is the iconic Hotel Sevilla Palace (which has its own restaurant and bar you can visit even if not staying there). For nightlife, the Tabacalera area spills into Juárez, where cocktail bars and lounges await. Creative mixology spots like Fifty Mils (a few blocks southeast) have world-class reputations, while small dive bars and vinyl lounges offer relaxed vibes. There’s also a bookshop and art spaces close by, reflecting the cultural character of Colonia Tabacalera.
In terms of lodging, if you’re visiting the city you have options nearby. The historic Hotel Sevilla (Au Vieux Mexique) is right next door and has comfortable rooms. A few blocks north is the chic Hotel Barceló Reforma, and to the south toward Insurgentes are major chains like NH Collection or Eurostars on Paseo de la Reforma. Many tourists simply stay in the adjacent downtown or Zona Rosa areas where accommodations range from budget hostels to luxury stays – all within a mile or two of Tabacalera. The district is very walkable, so if you arrive early to eat or see sights, you could stroll to the Museo de San Carlos (art museum) or the interesting Frida Kahlo support group mural on 16 de Septiembre street. In short, when planning your night at Antiguo Hotel Reforma, you have plentiful dining and hotel choices a short walk or short Uber ride away.
What Makes This Venue Special
Antiguo Hotel Reforma stands out because it marries Mexico City’s history with its vibrant present-day culture. Few nightspots offer live music in a preserved 1930s landmark. The very walls carry stories – one piece recollecting how this building was contested by architectural rivals Mario Pani and Carlos O. Santacilia in the 1930s (www.local.mx ) (arquine.com ). Its role as Mexico’s first “modern” luxury hotel (the country’s first truly international-class hotel, in fact) imbues the space with old-world gravitas (arquine.com ) (obras.expansion.mx ). Yet by night it pulsates with cutting-edge creativity. Reviewers have noted the transformation vividly: under the nightclub lights, “green lights bathed the walls, dancing purple neon” and the interior felt “intimate and expansive” – as if every corner “were designed to leave routine behind” (www.infobae.com ). In other words, stepping inside is like entering a hidden treasure. Journalists have said patrons walk in from busy Reforma and suddenly discover “an experience of light, music and body in motion” in a once-secret space (www.infobae.com ).
The venue’s cultural resonance extends beyond its walls. In 2022 it hosted Mufo (Museo del Futuro) – an avant-garde digital art project with massive immersive installations by international artists – signaling that Antiguo Hotel Reforma has become a multi-disciplinary cultural hub (arquine.com ) (arquine.com ). Additionally, its ties to local traditions (like Día de los Muertos events or Pride festivals) and repeated mentions in reviews emphasize that it is more than just another club: it’s part of a community revival. As a local account noted, the sober exterior Guards a secret; crowded nights reveal a venue “designed to abandon routine” (www.infobae.com ). Musicians love it for the old-school vibe: one promoter praised it as “one of the city’s most historic and lively venues” for electronic music (sesh.sx ). Audiences love it for its unique mix of grandeur and grit. Ultimately, what makes Antiguo Hotel Reforma special is this blend of history, art, and nightlife – an iconic building that still feels like an exclusive party for those in the know. (archivo.eluniversal.com.mx ) (www.infobae.com )
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue has been partially modernized, including an elevator to reach the first floor, making it more accessible than the old abandoned hotel was. We recommend contacting event organizers ahead of time if you have specific mobility needs – staff can often provide assistance or alternate routes. For wheelchairs, note there may be a ramp at the entrance. As a historic building, some areas may have steps or narrow passages, so plan accordingly. (If you need help on arrival, security/ushers are generally helpful.)
Age Restrictions: Most events at Antiguo Hotel Reforma are 18 and up. Expect ID checks (passport or Mexico ID) at the door. Anyone under age 18 or without valid ID will be denied entry to club shows. Occasionally daytime or family shows (like an art exhibit or children’s event) may allow younger kids, but these are uncommon. Always verify the age limit on the event listing.
Dress Code: The vibe is usually casual to trendy clubwear. There is no formal tux requirement, but most people dress stylishly (jeans, nice shirts, dresses, sneakers are fine). Avoid very sloppy attire (e.g. flip-flops for men or overly athletic wear); many club nights are fed up if people look too lax. If in doubt, smart-casual is safe. Do check the weather: the ground-floor dance area is covered, but the venue can get warm when it’s full of people dancing.
Bags and Cameras: Security is strict. Bags are dampened to smaller size (usually a small purse or clear plastic clutch only). No large backpacks. Pro cameras (DSLRs or video cameras) are typically prohibited unless explicitly allowed (especially true at club nights – only phones or small point-and-shoots allowed). Photography is mostly allowed with smartphones, but no flash and be respectful of performers’ rules. If in doubt, ask staff at the door.
Prohibited Items: Aside from large bags and professional cameras, you cannot bring outside food or drinks, illegal substances, or weapons. Smoking indoors is banned by law (the venue may have a designated outdoor smoking spot like the former garden). Re-entry is usually not allowed, so don’t plan to leave and come back. No animals (service animals are the only exception, per law – still notify staff). If you have special equipment (like a video camera for press), arrange permissions in advance.
Arrival Tips: Shows can start late (club gigs often go until 3-5 AM), so audiences arrive late as well. However, large crowds queue early especially for headline acts. If the time says 10:00 PM door, that’s usually correct. The venue technically opens earlier for art exhibits (even around 11 AM like it did during Museo del Futuro (arquine.com )). Try to arrive at least 30–45 minutes before showtime to skip lines and get a good spot. If there’s an opening act, coming in earlier means catching them too. Keep an eye on the event info for door times; some promoters even offer “early bird” wristbands for early arrival, especially at big festivals.
Connectivity and Facilities: Wi-Fi is generally not provided for concert nights (it’s too crowded). During any daytime exhibition the venue might have Wi-Fi (for example MUFO visitors likely got connectivity), but assume none during a party. Cell phone signal is usually okay inside (many users got 4G), but can slow if the place is packed. If phone battery is a concern, charge up before or bring a small power bank. Bathrooms are basic but usually kept clean; as mentioned, lines can be long during busy sets, so take breaks during slower moments. A coat check may or may not be available – small events often skip it, so wear layers you can carry, or plan to hang items on railings or chairs if needed.
General Wisdom: Buy tickets early and verify details on legitimate sources – event pages or official social media. Avoid falsified tickets. Keep cash on you, as bars might prefer cash (though many accept cards). Eat beforehand or easy snack, since bars can have long lines too. If visiting mid-week, remember the Mexico City Metro closes around midnight (later on weekends), so plan any late-night travel accordingly. Taxis and ride-shares work late, but always stick to registered services. Finally, bring an open mind and sense of adventure – part of the fun is experiencing this hidden gem in the city’s nightlife.
What is the capacity of Antiguo Hotel Reforma?
The venue can hold roughly 600 attendees at a time. It’s designed as a single large hall (plus some smaller upper areas), so that total capacity reflects standing-room density. Compared to big arenas, it’s moderate-sized, giving installations an intimate feel even when full.
How much do tickets usually cost?
Ticket prices vary widely based on the event. Local club nights or indie acts might be in the MX$300–MX$500 range (often sold as “general admission”). International headliners or festivals can go higher, typically MX$600–MX$800 or more. Advance “early bird” tickets are cheapest; last-minute or VIP tickets (if offered) cost extra.
Where can I buy tickets for events?
There is no box office at the venue itself. Tickets are sold through official online outlets or the event’s promoters. Look for announcements on the venue or event social media. Authorized reseller platforms (promoter websites, preferred ticket sites) will list the show. Avoid unauthorized sellers. Some local promoters also post numbered lines to buy at nearby shops.
Is the ticket booth open at the door?
A few events may sell walk-up tickets at the door if not sold out, but this is not guaranteed. If a show is popular, it often sells out early. To ensure entry, it’s best to buy in advance online. If you do decide to try buying at the door, arrive very early before the show and bring cash, but be prepared that tickets might be unavailable late.
What is the exact address and how do I find it?
Antiguo Hotel Reforma is at París 32, colonia Tabacalera, in Cuauhtémoc (zip code 06030) of Mexico City. It sits on the corner of Avenida Paseo de la Reforma and Calle París. You’ll see the old hotel facade on Reforma. If you head to Reforma between Juárez and San Cosme, you won’t miss it.
Which metro or bus station is closest to this venue?
The nearest Metro station is San Cosme on Line 2 (the blue line), about a 7–10 minute walk north of the venue. Also, the Metrobus Line 7 has a stop named “París” that is directly adjacent to the building (www.infobae.com ). Multiple city buses run on Reforma too. Taxis or Uber can easily drop you off on Reforma at Calle París.
Is there parking available at Antiguo Hotel Reforma?
The venue has no dedicated parking lot. Street parking on Reforma and nearby is limited and metered. Your best bet if driving is to use a nearby public garage – for example, there are paid lots a few blocks away on Reforma. Many visitors find it easier to take transit or taxi. If you drive, allow extra time for parking or consider using an off-site lot in Zona Rosa.
Does Antiguo Hotel Reforma have reserved seating?
No – for concerts and club nights it is all general admission standing. There are usually no assigned seats, so see the stage as you like on a first-come basis. After hours, a few chairs might appear along walls for resting, but don’t expect a seat. If an event did have seating (e.g. an afternoon exhibit), it would be announced separately, but that’s rare.
What are the best spots inside for viewing performances?
The stage or DJ booth is usually on the ground floor. For an up-close experience, stand near the stage. If you prefer a wider view and some elbow room, head upstairs to the upper gallery or balcony level overlooking the floor. These mezzanine railings give a good vantage. The far wall or back corner downstairs can also offer a break from the crowd and decent sound. In short: front-and-center on the floor for full energy, upper rails for a quieter overview.
Is smoking allowed inside the venue?
Indoor smoking is forbidden by Mexico City law, so you cannot smoke inside the halls. Typically, a designated outdoor area (like an open courtyard or small patio) is provided for smokers. Ask a staff member on site if you can’t find it. Smoking outside is fine — just not in the air-conditioned halls where the performance is happening.
What is the dress code at Antiguo Hotel Reforma?
The typical dress code is club casual: nice jeans, T-shirt or trendy shirt, dresses, sneakers are fine. Avoid overly formal wear (suits or gowns) and very casual items like flip-flops or gym shorts. Keep it stylish but comfortable enough for dancing. Note that many party-goers dress to be noticed, so a bit of flair is normal (e.g. statement shoes, accessories). Bottom line: dress neatly and you’ll fit right in.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the main public areas have been made accessible. There is an elevator to reach the first-floor space and ramps at the entrance. The ground floor (performance area) is flat and can accommodate wheelchair users. Some historic areas (like tight staircases) are not accessible, but the staff can help guide you. If you require special assistance, it’s a good idea to contact the event organizer or venue in advance to ensure a smooth experience.
Are food and drinks available inside?
Yes. On most concert and club nights there will be an indoor bar selling beer, shots and cocktails (cash and cards are usually accepted). Sometimes a snack menu or light fare (nachos, platters) is offered too. During special daytime events there may even be a pop-up café or restaurant in the former garden area. In any case, no outside food/drink is allowed. If you need something to eat, hop out early and grab street tacos or a bite at a nearby eatery.
Does Antiguo Hotel Reforma have a coat check?
Not always. Some bigger events (especially in cooler weather) may offer a staffed coat-check for a small fee, but not a formal daily service like a hotel would. If you have a bulky coat or bag, your best bet is to inquire at the door. If no coat check is provided, you might have to keep your jacket or bag with you on the floor or hang it on a railing. To be safe, travel light if you plan to dance.
Is photography or video recording allowed?
Smartphone pics and video are generally allowed unless the performer specifically bans it. However professional cameras or DSLRs are usually prohibited at club shows (some concerts might even ask you to check cameras at the door). No flash photography. In short: phone cameras are fine, but don’t bring heavy camera equipment or start livestreaming.
Is outside food or drink permitted?
No. Standard venue policy prohibits bringing any outside food or beverages inside. You should finish snacks or drinks before entering. The venue provides bars and any needed refreshments on site. Exceptions are typically made only for bottled water if needed for medical reasons – otherwise plan to rely on what’s sold inside.
