About Beachland Ballroom & Tavern
Beachland Ballroom & Tavern is a beloved independent live music venue in Cleveland’s Collinwood neighborhood. It opened March 2, 2000 after founders Cindy Barber and Mark Leddy converted the old Croatian Liberty Hall (built 1950) into a concert hall (www.mapquest.com ) (www.beachlandballroom.com ). The club has two stages under one roof – a larger main Ballroom (about 500-capacity) and a smaller attached Tavern (around 148-capacity) (www.beachlandballroom.com ). Owners Barber and Leddy preserved the vintage details (polished wood bars, retro neon signs) to keep the building’s old-world charm (www.beachlandballroom.com ) (www.freshwatercleveland.com ). Over 25 years Beachland has become a music scene cornerstone in the Waterloo Arts District, hosting hundreds of shows yearly (www.freshwatercleveland.com ) (www.freshwatercleveland.com ). Artists that got early Cleveland breaks on its stage include The White Stripes, The Black Keys, Guided By Voices and many more (www.freshwatercleveland.com ) (www.beachlandballroom.com ). In fact, Beachland is often credited as “the centerpiece of the revitalized Collinwood area” (www.freshwatercleveland.com ), helping transform the neighborhood through music and arts.
Events and Programming
The Ballroom & Tavern hosts live entertainment nearly every night, with dozens of concerts and events each month (www.freshwatercleveland.com ). Music spans every genre – rock, punk, metal, funk, folk, country, Americana, jazz and electronica (www.freshwatercleveland.com ) – so you’ll find both local indie bands and national touring acts on the lineup. Many evenings feature two back-to-back shows (one in the Tavern and one in the Ballroom) (www.beachlandballroom.com ). Beyond concerts, Beachland presents special events like comedy nights, burlesque shows, and cultural parties. Weekend highlights include the biannual Beachland Flea market (an arts-and-vintage expo with live music), community art fairs, and especially the weekly Sunday Brunch – a morning DJ party with brunch food (Bloody Marys, breakfast burritos, smashburgers, etc.) (www.freshwatercleveland.com ) (www.beachlandballroom.com ). Over the decades, the venue’s calendar has featured everyone from up-and-coming indie bands to established legends (e.g. The Black Keys and Guided By Voices) (www.beachlandballroom.com ). Ticket prices vary by artist, but many local shows are in the $10–$30 range (national headliners may be more). (All events are all-ages unless noted, and Beachland can pack in a full house on hot ticket nights.)
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Beachland shows go on sale as announced on the venue calendar. You can buy them online (through official ticket services), or directly through the venue: phone the box office at 216-383-1124 (Mon–Fri 11am–5pm) or visit the side door during those hours (www.beachlandballroom.com ). In-person purchases at the box office incur a small credit-card fee (about $2) unless paid in cash, which has no extra charge (www.beachlandballroom.com ). Several local record shops sell tickets for Beachland shows — for example Cleve’s Late Nite Records, Akron’s Square Records, and Bedford’s Vinyl Groove (www.beachlandballroom.com ). (All-door and online ticket sales are final – there are no refunds or exchanges (www.beachlandballroom.com ).) Note that patrons under age 21 must pay an additional $2 surcharge at the door (www.beachlandballroom.com ). Popular concerts often sell out, so it’s wise to get tickets in advance or sign up for alerts. On show day, the ticket table typically opens about an hour before curtain if any seats remain.
Seating and Layout
Beachland’s interior is open and informal. The main Ballroom stage sits at one end of the hall and the rest is a large open floor – generally standing room (general admission). As the owners promised, views in the Ballroom are unobstructed (www.beachlandballroom.com ), so you can usually see the stage clearly from anywhere on the floor. There may be a few high tables or a small balcony in the back for latecomers, but most guests stand. Acoustics are excellent – one reviewer noted “the sound was great wherever you stood” during a sold-out show (www.tripadvisor.in ). The smaller Tavern room (side entrance) has its own stage and holds 100–150 people. It often has a mixed seating/standing layout – low seating along the walls and room to dance up front – giving an intimate club feel. Tips: arrive early to grab a good spot at eye level (especially at popular shows), but even at the back you’ll still enjoy the music. There is usually no separate “VIP” area – check event details, though some concerts may offer early-entry passes or premium packages. Every spot in Beachland feels close to the action due to the compact stage layout.
Getting There and Parking
Beachland Ballroom & Tavern is located at 15711 Waterloo Road, Cleveland, OH 44110 (corner of E. 157th St, in the Collinwood/Waterloo arts district). Driving there, you’ll find Waterloo Rd runs north-south one block east of Lakeshore Blvd (Route 283). There is no dedicated Beachland parking lot. In practice, most guests park on neighborhood streets around the venue after 6pm (look for spots on Grand Blvd, E. 156th, etc.). On event nights street parking is usually available, especially if you arrive early (www.tripadvisor.in ). For longer stays or sold-out events, many patrons use the nearby RTA Windermere Rapid Station lot (327 free spaces, 2-hour limit) and take the short walk or a bus from there (en.parkopedia.com ). There is also a small 2-hour parking lot at the Walgreens on Lakeshore Blvd (free for customers) just southwest of Beachland (en.parkopedia.com ). Rideshare and taxi drop-offs can pull up in front on Waterloo Rd. Just be mindful that some residential blocks have restrictions at night, so read signs.
Public transit is convenient: RTA buses 10 (East 105–Lakeshore) and 37 (Hayden–E. 185th) stop at Waterloo & E. 156th — just a 2-minute walk from Beachland (moovitapp.com ) (moovitapp.com ). Additionally, the RTA Red Line’s eastern terminus is Stokes-Windermere station (on Lakeshore Blvd). From Windermere station it’s about a 10-minute walk or a very short bus ride (catch the next 10 or 37 northbound) to reach the club. (On weekends the Red Line service runs late into the night, making it easy to get home after a show.)
Inside the Venue
When you enter Beachland you’ll find a warm, casual atmosphere. There are two full bars with wood-paneled counters (one per room) (www.freshwatercleveland.com ). The bartenders pour craft beer, wine, and mixed drinks, often featuring local Cleveland and Ohio breweries. The menu is surprisingly good for a music hall: Beachland’s kitchen serves homemade comfort food all day. On weekend brunches and concert nights you’ll see patrons ordering breakfast burritos, double-stacked burgers or veggie plates to pair with their drink (www.freshwatercleveland.com ) (www.beachlandballroom.com ). (Sunday Brunch is a big draw – the bar will be mixing Bloody Marys and mimosas while a DJ spins old-school soul music during daytime events.)
Behind the bar you can also find Beachland’s quirky little record/vintage store called “This Way Out” in the basement (www.beachlandballroom.com ). It’s usually open during shows and sells vinyl records, retro clothing and art, adding to the venue’s collectible vibe. Band T-shirts, posters and Beachland merch are sold near the stage or lobby (you’ll see displays hanging on a wall when you arrive). Restrooms are on premise; note that a handicapped-accessible stall and even a shower were added recently thanks to post-pandemic grants (www.freshwatercleveland.com ) (improving what had been limited facilities for touring musicians).
Before shows, Beachland’s front door often has a short line. Security may do a quick bag check and 40-second electronic wand if it’s a crowded event. IDs are checked for anyone buying alcohol. Beachland does not advertise a coat check – it’s usually standing room, so most people keep jackets with them or with friends. Cell phone service is decent for texting/photos, but Wi-Fi is not provided for guests. In general, think of Beachland as a relaxed neighborhood tavern – no formal dress code (come as you are, from jeans to funky vintage), but dress comfortably for dancing and standing. Many fans plan to cover their ears with earplugs during loud rock shows, so bringing a pair is a good idea if you’re sensitive. Overall, expect a laid-back club vibe: good tunes, decent pours at the bar, and a friendly crowd chatting while waiting for the music to kick in.
Nearby Amenities
The Waterloo Arts District offers plenty of things to do before or after a show. Right around the corner on Waterloo is Citizen Pie (a well-known pizza joint with gourmet pies and pub fare) (www.tripadvisor.com ). A few doors down is The Haunted House Restaurant (an American bar & grill with burgers and live music). Two blocks north on Lakeshore Blvd, you’ll find taco stand La Mexicana and Six Shooter Coffee (café sandwiches and espresso) (www.tripadvisor.com ). More casual spots in walking distance include the Oak Barrel & Kitchen (comfort-food gastropub), Tabletop Board Game Cafe (beer and sandwiches plus board games), and the Boardwalk Shopping Center for quick bites or shopping.
If you’re craving more dinner options, a short drive (5–10 minutes) gets you to Cleveland's Heritage Landing or downtown East 185th St, which have many ethnic restaurants and bars. As for lodging, there aren’t hotels within a block, but the historic Glidden House (University Circle) and Courtyard Marriott (near University Circle) are about 4–5 miles away (www.theconcertnexus.com ). Cleveland’s hotel district (near downtown or the airport) is roughly 5–7 miles west, easily reachable by car or the RTA Red Line. Late-night transportation crawl is easy too: Lyft/Uber, city cabs, or the Red Line (runs until around midnight) can whisk you home after the show.
What Makes This Venue Special
Beachland stands out for its one-of-a-kind historic charm and local spirit. Its origins as the 1950-built Croatian Liberty Hall give the rooms a vintage character you feel immediately (www.mapquest.com ) (www.beachlandballroom.com ). The old-fashioned wooden bars (each hand-carved in the 1950s) and retro décor were lovingly preserved (www.freshwatercleveland.com ). Many locals say that playing shows here has saved Collinwood’s downtown – owners Barber and Leddy invested in the neighborhood through the club, helping found the Waterloo Arts District. Artists love the venue’s intimacy and attentive crowds: bands often mention Beachland on social media as a favorite small-club stop. In its early days Beachland hosted now-famous acts right as they were breaking out (The White Stripes played in the first weeks after opening (www.freshwatercleveland.com )). To fans, each visit feels like part of a community tradition. Special touches such as weekly Sunday brunch with DJs, vintage clothing sales, and polka or folk dance nights (a nod to the area’s ethnic roots) give it real personality beyond a generic bar. In short, Beachland is legendary not just for big-name shows but for being a warm, inclusive music home – a place “where you feel like part of history” every time you visit.
Visitor Tips and Information
Plan Your Arrival: Doors typically open about an hour before showtime. If you want a front-row spot, line up early (by 7pm for an 8pm concert, for example). Downtown parking enforcement usually ends at 6pm, so arriving after that means free street parking. Still, giving yourself extra time is wise.Bring ID & Cash: Always carry a photo ID. You’ll need it to buy alcohol (the bar does card +2 fee) and for the venue’s records. Box office purchases with a credit card carry a $2 fee (www.beachlandballroom.com ), so if paying at the door by cash, you avoid any extra charge. (Inside, credit cards work fine for drinks.)Health & Safety: Beachland is a smoke-free venue (no indoor smoking permitted by Ohio law). It is wheelchair accessible with ramp entry and ADA-compliant restrooms (thetouristchecklist.com ). Service animals are allowed, but pets are not. For loud concerts, earplugs are a good idea, especially if you like standing near the speakers. If you have dietary needs, brunch and dinner menus include vegetarian/vegan/gluten-free options (www.freshwatercleveland.com ) (www.freshwatercleveland.com ).Personal Items: There is no official coat check. Best practice is to bring only what you need (wallet, phone, small bag). Keep valuables in a front pocket or money belt. The crowd is generally friendly, but like any club, watch your belongings. Cell phone reception is ok, but the venue does not offer public Wi-Fi.Age Restrictions: Beachland welcomes all ages, but attendees under 21 pay a $2 room fee at the door (www.beachlandballroom.com ). Some late-night or special events may be limited to 18+ or 21+ – check the event listing. Young teens are usually welcome with a guardian. There is never a formal dress code; most people wear casual or concert attire.Local Insight: Dining before a show is a great idea – the neighborhood has several popular restaurants within a few blocks (see Nearby Amenities above). After concerts, Cleveland has 24-hour diners and EZRide buses (like #10) that run late back toward downtown-East Side routes. If you plan to enjoy drinks, consider using RTA (no DUI risk) or a rideshare – the Red Line train to downtown/airport runs late on weekends.
What is the capacity of Beachland Ballroom and Tavern rooms?
Beachland has two performing spaces. The larger main “Ballroom” holds about 500 people (standing room). The smaller attached “Tavern” room holds roughly 140–150 guests. Both rooms are general admission; the Ballroom floor is usually full of standing fans, while the Tavern is an intimate room with some benches or chairs and space to dance.
How do I buy tickets, and when do they go on sale?
Tickets for Beachland shows are sold through multiple channels. You can buy online via the official link on Beachland’s site. Alternatively, call the box office (216-383-1124, Mon–Fri 11am–5pm), or visit the side door box office at those hours for in-person sales. Local record shops (Late Nite Records on Walton Ave, Square Records in Akron, Vinyl Groove in Bedford) also carry tickets. Shows typically go on sale several weeks to months in advance; subscribe to the venue’s email list or check its calendar for exact dates.
Are tickets refundable or exchangeable, and is there a fee for young attendees?
All ticket sales at Beachland are final – there are no refunds or exchanges once tickets are purchased (www.beachlandballroom.com ). Also note that anyone under age 21 pays a mandatory $2 additional fee at the door (www.beachlandballroom.com ). This is in addition to the ticket price and is collected on-site at performance time. Anyone carrying a credit card to buy a ticket at the venue box office will incur a small service charge (about $2 per ticket) unless they pay cash.
What is the seating arrangement at Beachland? Is it general admission?
Most shows at Beachland are general admission. The Ballroom has an open floor in front of the stage (usually standing room only), with a few chairs or high tables off to the sides. Some smaller shows may offer limited seated tickets (e.g. a few folding chairs or a back balcony), but these are rare. The Tavern room is more casual; it may have some community tables or seating around the edges with standing room up front. In short, expect to stand close to the stage unless a specific reserved ticket is sold for your event.
What is Beachland’s address, and where can I park?
Beachland Ballroom & Tavern is at 15711 Waterloo Road, Cleveland, OH 44110 , on the corner of E. 157th Street. There is no private lot for the venue, so most people park on the surrounding streets after 6pm (Grand Blvd, E. 156th, etc.), which are usually free at night. For longer stays, the RTA Windermere train station lot (on Lakeshore Blvd at E. 156th) offers 327 spaces of free parking (2-hour limit) (en.parkopedia.com ). The Walgreens parking lot on Lakeshore allows customer parking for about 2 hours too (en.parkopedia.com ). Always check posted signs, but in practice nearby street parking is common and available. Rideshare and taxi drop-offs stop at the front door on Waterloo Rd.
Which public transit lines stop near Beachland?
Cleveland RTA buses and rapid transit serve the area. Bus routes 10, 37 and 39 stop at Waterloo & E. 156th St , which is about a block from Beachland (moovitapp.com ). You can walk from those stops in a minute or two. The RTA Red Line train (light rail) also has a station (Stokes-Windermere) just north on Lakeshore Blvd; from there it’s a 5–10 minute walk or one stop on a northbound bus to reach the club. (Evening and weekend schedules run frequent service, making public transit a viable option for getting there and back.)
Is Beachland Ballroom wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Beachland building provides accessible entrances and restrooms for disabled guests (thetouristchecklist.com ). Both the Ballroom and Tavern are on ground level (no steep stairs to the performance areas). The main entrance has a ramp, and ADA-compliant restrooms were installed during recent renovations. If you have specific accessibility needs, it’s a good idea to call ahead, but the venue is designed for visitors of all abilities.
Are children allowed, and is there an age restriction?
Beachland is generally all-ages. Children and teens can attend as long as they are accompanied by an adult. Parents should note that anyone under 21 is charged an extra $2 door fee (this is a standard policy for the venue) (www.beachlandballroom.com ). Some late-night concerts (typically on weekdays) are limited to guests 18 and older. There is no maximum age limit. Everyone must show valid photo ID at the door, both to verify age for alcohol sales and to comply with capacity limits.
Can I bring outside food, drinks, or recording devices?
Outside food and drink (especially alcohol) are not allowed inside and are generally discouraged. The venue has its own kitchen and bar, so outside items are usually asked to be left in your car or taken home. As for photography or audio recording: casual smartphone photos are typically fine, but professional cameras or video equipment usually require advance approval and may be restricted during performances. Always check the specific event’s rules on the ticket page. Generally, expect basic club policies: no unauthorized firearms or weapons, and bags may be subject to a quick security check at the door.
Does Beachland serve food and drinks inside?
Yes. Beachland has a full bar in each room, serving beers (craft and domestic), wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages. Food is available from the on-site kitchen during most shows. The menu includes burgers, sandwiches, salads, vegetarian options and more. One highlight is the Sunday morning menu (brunch) – you’ll find specialty items like breakfast burritos, large omelets, and the famous double Smashburger paired with Bloody Marys or mimosas (www.beachlandballroom.com ) (www.freshwatercleveland.com ). Food can be ordered at the bar area in each room. (Gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian diets can usually be accommodated.)
What is Beachland Brunch and when does it happen?
Beachland Brunch is a popular weekly event held every Sunday (roughly 11am–3pm) (www.beachlandballroom.com ). It features live DJ music (often classic R&B, soul or rock vinyl) and a special brunch menu. Patrons can order breakfast dishes like burritos, omelets, and the hearty “Double Smashburger,” along with brunch cocktails (Mimosas, Bloody Marys, etc.). It’s free to attend – you just order from the brunch menu. Many fans arrive early on Sundays to social-distance and enjoy the laid-back party atmosphere.
What is “This Way Out” at Beachland?
“This Way Out” is the venue’s in-house vintage shop and record store located downstairs under the main lounge (www.beachlandballroom.com ). During most shows, the shop has a pop-up stall selling used vinyl records, band T-shirts, retro clothing, artwork and odd curios. It’s open before and during shows (usually near the stairs or basement entrance). Even if you aren’t shopping, it adds cool retro flair to the night. The Beachland owners run it as a community project (often staffed by volunteers), and it’s a fun place to browse before a concert.
What is the Beachland Flea market?
The Beachland Flea is a seasonal market event held at the venue (usually one Sunday in summer and one in fall) that showcases 50+ local vendors. It’s free to enter, family-friendly (all ages) and runs roughly 10am–3pm. Vendors sell vinyl records, vintage clothing, handmade crafts, local food & drink, and music memorabilia. Live music and DJs play in between the vendors. It’s a great way to experience the Beachland’s community vibe during the day — just show up, shop around, grab a B&B, and dance to local bands as you browse.
