About The Intersection
The Intersection is Grand Rapids’ premier multi-stage music club, long celebrated as “West Michigan’s live music legend since 1972” (sectionlive.com ). Founded in the Eastown neighborhood in August 1972, it relocated downtown in 2003 to its current building at 133 César E. Chávez Ave SW (formerly Grandville Ave SW) (localspins.com ). Over its 50+ year history it has truly earned its nickname as the “godfather” of Grand Rapids’ music scene (localspins.com ), hosting every genre from rock to EDM to country. Today the venue spans four distinct performance spaces: a 12,000 sq. ft. main showroom (~1,500 standing capacity) and three smaller rooms (a 5,000 sq. ft. lounge called The Stache, a 12,000 sq. ft. basement club called Elevation, and a 5,000 sq. ft. VIP lounge called The Mint) (localspins.com ) (sectionlive.com ). The main room is one of the largest rock clubs in the region, with a huge stage flanked by a 22×8 ft LED video wall and a canopy of professional stage lights. It features a full bar at the rear and smaller bars along the sidewalls (localspins.com ). Seating is mostly general admission standing floor, with elevated seating available along the outer walls (localspins.com ). Notably, The Intersection regularly ranks among the world’s top venues of its size – for example, Pollstar placed it #30 worldwide in 2019 – underscoring how special a facility it is for a city the size of Grand Rapids (localspins.com ). All in all, its combination of history, variety of stages and high-end concert production make The Intersection a unique cultural anchor for the area.
Events and Programming
The Intersection hosts live shows almost every night of the year, booking a staggering array of performers. The club routinely handled over 200 events per year before 2020 (localspins.com ), and it bounced back strongly after pandemic shutdowns. Its programming truly spans “every genre of music” – from country legends to headbanging metal to DJ dance nights (localspins.com ). Notable names on its stage have included Snoop Dogg, Florida Georgia Line, Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Fall Out Boy, G-Eazy, Pretty Lights, The Avett Brothers, Slash, Sturgill Simpson and dozens more (localspins.com ). In recent years it even helped break future stars – for example, country artists Morgan Wallen and Lainey Wilson each sold out The Intersection on the way to arena-headlining fame (mix957gr.com ). Many national tours include Grand Rapids by default, and The Intersection also features local/regional bands and DJs as openers or separate billed shows. Recurring events include themed dance parties (the long-running “Mega ‘80s” 80s-night), all-ages local showcases, and occasional comedy or speaker nights. Starting in summer 2013 the club launched “Rock the Lot” – a series of outdoor concerts in the parking area – capable of holding around 2,000 fans for festival-style shows (localspins.com ) (localspins.com ) (sometimes an easy rain-out option since it’s adjacent to the club). Ticket prices vary widely: smaller local shows often go for the low $20s, mid-level acts $40–$60, and larger rock or country tours can reach $80–$100+ on resale marketplaces (seatgeek.com ) (seatgeek.com ). (For example, late-2025 tours range from “from $49” for niche acts to about $96 for in-demand metal bands (seatgeek.com ) (seatgeek.com ).) Doors typically open an hour before showtime (around 7pm for an 8pm start) (sectionlive.com ), so plan accordingly. In short, the venue’s calendar is packed – visitors can expect big touring concerts, local band nights in The Stache or Elevation, and plenty of special events year-round.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for shows at The Intersection can be purchased through the venue’s official channels. The box office (at the Cherry Street entrance) is open Wednesday through Friday from noon to 6pm (sectionlive.com ) (and often opens early on event evenings), or you can buy online via the SectionLive website or its authorized partner (Etix) (sectionlive.com ). Fans may also call (616) 723-8571 to reserve tickets. If a show isn’t sold out in advance, remaining tickets typically go on sale at the door. Major tours usually announce dates weeks or months ahead with a short presale period (often requiring a newsletter sign-up or fan club code), followed by the public on-sale – so it’s wise to follow The Intersection’s announcements or subscribe for presale news. As with most music clubs, all sales are final (sectionlive.com ); refunds or exchanges are generally not allowed unless a concert is canceled. For sold-out events, some fans use resale sites, but beware unofficial tickets. Popular shows can sell out quickly, so the best strategy is often to buy as soon as tickets appear or take advantage of any low-cost add-on tickets (like “bottomless soda” or VIP packages) listed on the official site. Also note there is no day-of-show “rain date” or fallback venue – if weather is an issue for a lot concert, the show would move indoors, so plan according to the posted status.
Seating and Layout
The main showroom is essentially a flat-floored standing-room area in front of the stage. Best views come from arriving early and staking out front-and-center, or else grabbing a spot along the raised side platforms/walls (localspins.com ). As LocalSpins noted, “the showroom … boasts elevated seating along the walls and high tables in the back, with plenty of standing room in front of the stage” (localspins.com ). Unlike a seated theater, most shows have open admission so the very front can be packed; you may get the most comfortable vantage by leaning on the side rail or sitting at a wall table if available. On some larger nights, the venue adds limited reserved seating on the perimeter or balcony – these are only offered by request or email before the show (sectionlive.com ) (for example, a band might make half the raised side area into “reserved seats”). In general, expect no guaranteed chairs except on such special tickets. Acoustically and visually, though, even back-of-room spots are quite good. The sound system is state-of-the-art – touring crews routinely praise it. As one sound engineer put it, “Everybody comes through and says it’s the best night of the tour… the sound rig is awesome, the monitor rig is awesome, the lights are great” (localspins.com ). A large LED video wall on stage ensures decent visibility from the rear as well. For those seeking quieter viewing, note that the few nearby side or rear areas (or The Stache lounge for smaller shows) can be more relaxed. In sum, pick a spot based on your style – up close for energy, near the bars or walls for a steadier view – but remember that most of the club’s capacity is general admission standing.
Getting There and Parking
The Intersection is located at 133 César E. Chávez Ave SW in downtown Grand Rapids, at the corner of Cherry Street (sectionlive.com ). For drivers, downtown parking is mostly metered streets and pay-to-park ramps. The venue’s own lot is reserved for staff, so concertgoers should use nearby public lots. The city operates several parking ramps within a block or two (for example, the Ottawa Ave. ramp is about 0.4 miles away). Evening rates typically range $12–15 for a full night (spothero.com ). If you park farther west (around Turner or Bridge St. NW, about a mile away), you may find cheaper $6–$10 lot rates (spothero.com ). Street parking is available but strictly enforced – prepare to pay via app or metered station. Rideshare dropoffs and taxis should use Cherry St (the main entrance side) or Congressional St (just south of Cesar E. Chávez) to avoid blocking traffic. As for public transit, The Rapid’s network serves this corridor well: bus routes 1, 2, 10, 11 and 34 all stop at Cesar E. Chávez/Cherry right at the club (moovitapp.com ). In fact, the main Rapid Central Station (at 250 Grandville/Fulton) is located just a block away on Cesar E. Chávez (visitdowntowngr.org ) – it’s a short walk from there. If arriving from outside the city, major highways (I-196/I-96) access downtown via the Cesar Chavez exit (exit 1B off US-131). In general, allow extra time on event nights due to traffic and plan your parking or transit route in advance.
Inside the Venue
Expect a typical club-concert atmosphere once you enter. Security may perform a quick pat-down or wand and enforce a strict clear-bag policy (sectionlive.com ) (bags must be transparent up to 12″×6″×12″, clutch purses only up to 4.5″×6.5″; larger or non-clear bags will be checked or turned away). Prohibited items include outside food/drink, professional cameras (no detachable-lens cameras without a pass) (sectionlive.com ), weapons, blankets or seating, and anything that could be used unsafely. You may carry cell phones and small point-and-shoot cameras, and you can take pictures unless the performing artist forbids it (sectionlive.com ). IDs are checked for alcohol: shows labeled “18+” or “17+” require valid ID for everyone, and if you plan to drink must be 21+ (sectionlive.com ). Inside, the club is dark except for stage lights; colored gels and strobes are common. The main showroom has one large rear bar (behind the soundboard) and two smaller side bars for drinks and snacks (localspins.com ). Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are sold at all bars, with the DJ at the central bar mixing beer, spirits and fountain drinks. (Note: water may be sold, not free.) Bathrooms are available on each level (main floor and basement); follow the signs once inside. In cold weather, coat check is offered in the main room and Elevation (sectionlive.com ) (kids and fans often use it and retrieve afterward). There is no in-house kitchen or hot food service, so many guests eat beforehand or linger outside after shows. The club has free Wi-Fi for staff and reasonable cell coverage throughout most areas (though the basement bar can be a bit shielded from reception). Expect friendly, concert-savvy staff and a generally upbeat vibe. One practical note: re-entry into the main room is not allowed once you leave, except via a special smoking section outside (sectionlive.com ). In short, plan to enjoy an all-in-one concert experience: good production, conditioned air (or heat in winter), a hefty sound system, and a chance to grab merch from the band if they have a table near stage.
Nearby Amenities
Heartside and downtown Grand Rapids offer plenty of pre- and post-show options. Within a few blocks walking distance you’ll find some of Grand Rapids’ favorite spots. For casual bar food and local brews, the Founders Brewing taproom and Greyline Station (on Fulton St) are about a 5-minute walk (visitdowntowngr.org ) (Greyline isn’t listed above, but it’s very close by). The Tin Can and House Rules bars (along Cesar E. Chávez Avenue) serve burgers, pizza and sandwiches with craft beers or cocktails (visitdowntowngr.org ). Peppino’s Pizzeria (Italian eats) and Her Daily Bread (sandwiches and salads) are popular quick options (visitdowntowngr.org ). A block farther, Rudy’s Subs offers late-night sandwiches (visitdowntowngr.org ). Coffee shops (like Madcap on Library St or Friendly Toast) and other diners are a short stroll away as well. For sit-down dining, there are dozens of restaurants (American, ethnic, etc.) along Fulton and Grandville streets. If you need to stay overnight, downtown Grand Rapids has many hotels within a mile: the JW Marriott, Amway Grand Plaza (Radisson), Courtyard by Marriott and others are near DeVos Place (~6 blocks) and all easily shuttle or walk to The Intersection. Transportation hubs are close too – the Rapid Central Station is adjacent, and buses or Uber can drop off directly at the Cherry St. entrance. In sum, you’ll be in the heart of the action – grab dinner or drinks elsewhere nearby and walk over with time to spare.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Intersection’s lore is woven into Grand Rapids culture. For artists and fans alike it’s more than just a club; it’s a launchpad and a landmark. It’s famous for hosting national stars just as they’re rising: numerous acts played The Intersection to sold-out crowds before hitting it big on tour (mix957gr.com ). In practical terms, the venue offers a rare combination of scale and intimacy – a major concert hall’s tech (LED video wall, pro lighting, polished sound system) in a venue still comfortable enough to mingle with the band after show. Long-time local commentators call it “a cultural treasure” for the city (mix957gr.com ). It has witnessed cultural milestones (from early arena-worthy shows to hometown benefits). Musicians consistently praise working there – touring crews say load-in is easy and the sound monitors are “awesome” (localspins.com ). Its four-room format lets it cater to any concert style in one centralized campus, and its storied history (50+ years and counting) gives it legendary status. In short, The Intersection matters because it represents Grand Rapids’ live music identity – it’s where fans discover the “next big thing,” and where memories (and rumors of that great show one saw just before the artists blew up) get made (mix957gr.com ). Many older locals still share stories of seeing now-famous acts there in tiny crowds. That kind of continuity – mixing old-school gritty club vibe with modern stagecraft – makes The Intersection truly special to the community.
Visitor Tips and Information
The Intersection is generally audience-friendly, but a few tips help make the night smooth. Security rules are strict: follow the clear-bag guideline (no opaque backpacks or large purses) (sectionlive.com ) and prepare to have your person and belongings checked. Don’t try to sneak in banned items – cameras with detachable lenses, outside food/drink, drugs, weapons, even selfie-sticks are forbidden (sectionlive.com ). Most patrons carry only wallets, phones, keys and perhaps a transparent clutch. If you smoke, note that smoking is allowed only in an outdoor stairwell; leaving the floor won’t let you re-enter except through that area (sectionlive.com ). Dress is casual – band tees, jeans and sneakers are common – and there is no formal dress code (sectionlive.com ) (though staff may refuse overly unsafe attire). Bring a valid ID if you’re young enough that age might matter: all-ages shows admit minors, but 17+ or 18+ shows require proof of age (and 21+ for alcohol) (sectionlive.com ). Comfortable shoes are a plus for all-ages shows (little sitting room on the floor), and earplugs are a good idea if you’re sensitive to loud sound. Arrive at least 30 minutes early if you want a good spot – lines do form before big concerts. Other common pitfalls: don’t park illegally (you’ll get ticketed), don’t forget your ticket (have it on your phone or printed), and eat beforehand if time; dining options near the club can get crowded right before shows. Finally, if you have any special needs, note that the venue is ADA-compliant (sectionlive.com ), with wheelchair-accessible entrances and viewing areas – just ask on arrival for assistance. Taller or more energetic concertgoers may opt for the front sections, while those needing a breather can hang back by the bars or side seats. By planning ahead (know the policies, buy a locker or light meal, etc.), visitors can focus on the music and enjoy one of Grand Rapids’ most beloved live-music spots.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of The Intersection?
The main showroom holds about 1,500 people (general admission standing) (sectionlive.com ) (www.eventticketscenter.com ). In addition, The Intersection complex includes Elevation (capacity ~800), The Stache lounge (~400) and The Mint VIP room (~200) (sectionlive.com ). Outdoor “Rock the Lot” concerts can fit roughly 2,000 in the parking lot.
How do I buy tickets and when do shows typically sell out?
Tickets are sold through the venue’s official channels (the SectionLive website/Etix and the box office). Visit sectionlive.com for official listing of on-sales, or call the box office (616-723-8571; open Wed–Fri 12–6pm) (sectionlive.com ) (sectionlive.com ). Some shows have presales (often a day or two before general sale) and then public on-sale. Popular concerts can sell out quickly after going on sale. If still available, you may buy tickets at the door while they last. Remember that all sales are final (no refunds) (sectionlive.com ) once tickets are issued.
Are seats or tables available, or is it all standing?
Most shows at The Intersection are general admission (floor standing only). There are no fixed seats on the main floor; fans crowd the stage area. However, the club does have elevated balcony/railing areas along the walls that sometimes include a few reserved seats or high-top tables for select shows (sectionlive.com ) (localspins.com ). If you prefer a place to sit, try for side-railing spots or arrive early in case reserved table tickets are offered. Otherwise be prepared to stand on the floor; focus on front-row for an energetic view or on the ledges for a steadier perch.
What is the clear-bag policy and what items are prohibited?
The Intersection enforces a clear-bag rule: bags larger than 12″×6″×12″ (all dimensions) are not allowed, and only clear one-pocket bags or small clutches (up to ~5″×7″) are permitted (sectionlive.com ). Security will search all bags and persons before entry. Prohibited items include professional cameras (no detachable lenses) (sectionlive.com ), outside food or drink (sectionlive.com ), weapons, selfie-sticks, and large accessories (umbrellas, blankets, etc.) (sectionlive.com ). You may bring your phone and a camera without a removable telephoto lens, though some artists ban all flash photography. The staff will refuse entry to anyone with disallowed items, so pack light. If in doubt, check the official prohibited-items list beforehand on sectionlive.com or prepare to toss unsuitable items at the door.
Is The Intersection handicap-accessible?
Yes – the venue is ADA-compliant (sectionlive.com ). There is an accessible entrance and elevator to the main floor (off Cherry Street), and wheelchair-accessible seating sections in the main showroom and Elevation. The staff is experienced with accommodating guests with disabilities. If you need the elevator or a reserved spot, arrive early and notify security or management. The bathrooms have at least one ADA stall, and service animals are allowed. Always feel free to ask staff if you have special needs.
Can I smoke inside or re-enter the venue after leaving?
No, smoking is not allowed on the main floor or inside The Intersection. For smokers, there is a designated outdoor stairwell to the street (near the backside of the ground floor). You may go out to smoke there, but note that re-entry is only permitted through that smoking area. General re-entry (leaving and coming back through the main entrance) is not allowed (sectionlive.com ). So plan ahead for weather and smoking breaks accordingly.
Are there food and drink facilities inside?
The Intersection has multiple full-service bars (the main bar in the back of the showroom and two side bars) serving beer, liquor and soft drinks (localspins.com ). There is no kitchen or hot food for sale inside, so typical inside fare is limited to bottled water, soda and snack foods (like chips or pretzels). Guests often dine beforehand; nearby restaurants and bars on Fulton St or Cesar Chávez Ave are good warm-up options. Remember outside food isn’t allowed (sectionlive.com ), so plan accordingly. It’s standard concert pricing at the bars – consider bringing cash (ATMs are often present) or use cards.
What are the rules on cameras and photography?
You may use smartphones and point-and-shoot cameras to take photos or videos at most shows (sectionlive.com ). However, professional-grade cameras with removable lenses are not allowed without prior arrangement and an official photo pass. (If you arrive with bulky camera equipment, security will likely refuse it.) Note some bands enforce stricter policies – always check the event description. In general, casual photography is fine, but flash may be blocked. As always, respect the performers’ instructions if they ask that no images be taken.
What is the dress code, and is ID required for entry?
There is no formal dress code – concert casual (jeans, band tees, sneakers) is common and allowed (sectionlive.com ). Staff generally only prohibits dangerous or disruptive attire at their discretion. As for ID, it depends on the show’s age restriction. “All Ages” shows welcome anyone in, no ID needed. Shows labeled “18+” or “21+” require patrons to be that age or older; specifically, for a 17+ (or 18+) concert, everyone under 21 must still be at least 17 with valid ID to enter (sectionlive.com ). And of course, if you want to buy alcohol, you need to be 21 with valid ID at the door and bar. So if you’re 17–20, carry a photo ID to show at entry for those older-teen shows. No one under 17 is admitted to an 18+ show even with a guardian.
What parking and transit options are nearby?
Downtown Grand Rapids is well-served by transit and parking. The Rapid bus system stops just outside on Cesar E. Chávez Ave; routes 1, 2, 10, 11 and 34 all have stops at Cesar Chávez/Cherry (essentially at the venue) (moovitapp.com ). Rapid Central Station (bus hub) is a block east on Cesar Chávez, so almost any city bus route can get you close. For drivers, public parking ramps and lots encircle the area. One example is the Ottawa Ave NW ramp (0.4 miles away) at about $12–$13 for the evening (spothero.com ). A few blocks farther out (1+ mile) there are cheaper surface lots (~$6–$10) (spothero.com ). Street parking meters run ~$1.50–$2/hr but can fill up. Rideshare drop-offs at the Cherry St. entrance are easiest. In any case, budget extra time to park, especially on weekday evenings when other events downtown can compete for space.
What time should I arrive before a show?
Doors usually open 45–60 minutes before the scheduled start time, so it’s best to arrive at or just before that door time. High-demand shows often have a line at least half an hour early. Arriving early helps secure a good spot on the floor or avoid long waits at the bar. If you have general admission tickets, arriving before open lets you be near the front. If you have reserved seats (rare), just be at your section by showtime. As a guideline, plan to be at the club at “doors open” time – for example, 7pm doors for an 8pm show – unless you want to risk missing the opener.
Are there coat checks or storage lockers?
The Intersection does provide coat check services for cold weather nights (sectionlive.com ). It’s usually available in the main showroom (and sometimes in Elevation as well) for a small fee. Check in coats or larger bags there if needed. The venue does not have general storage lockers for personal items – only coat check during the winter season. So keep valuables on you or in your (clear) bag. If it’s chilly, taking advantage of coat check is recommended to comfortably enjoy the show without bulky jackets.
Can I attend with a child or teenager?
Children or teens can attend only if the concert is designated “All Ages” (no ID check required). Those shows allow any age. Shows labeled 17+ or 18+ mean patrons must be that age or older. If you’re, say, 17–20 and the show is 17+, you must have valid ID proving you’re at least 17 (sectionlive.com ). For 21+ shows, entry is strictly for those 21 and up. In short: an adult can bring a younger companion only to all-ages events; otherwise only people 17+ or 18+ (depending on the show) are admitted. Remember, even on all-ages nights minors cannot buy alcohol.
Is there an ATM or cash-only policy?
The Intersection itself does not have a definite cash-only policy, but many patrons bring cash for speed. There is usually an ATM on site or in the lobby area (standard for concert venues). However, all bars and merchandise booths accept credit/debit cards. If you can, bring at least some cash for quick purchases (drinks lines move faster for cash). Keep in mind that card readers can occasionally slow down during peak times. Using a card or mobile pay is fine at the bars, so you won’t be stranded without cash, but having a bit on you is convenient.
