Events at Crossroads, Kansas City

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MEDICINE TRIBE VIP SOUNDCHECK MEET & GREET - KANSAS CITY, MO

2:00pm, Thu, 13 Sep 2018

Sep

Crossroads

Kansas City

About Crossroads

Crossroads (417 East 18th Street) is a live music and event venue in Kansas City’s bustling Crossroads Arts District, renowned for its gritty, creative vibe. Originally opened in the 2010s as an independent music space, it was later integrated with the Grinders Pizza brand and is now often billed as “Crossroads KC at Grinders.” One reviewer even notes “Grinders KC, formerly Crossroads KC, is an outdoor music venue” . The site is a large open-air (outdoor/covered) pavilion built in an old warehouse setting, giving it a laid-back “backyard concert” feel. It can accommodate on the order of a few thousand concertgoers — roughly 2,000–3,000 at full capacity (the venue is described as downtown’s “largest outdoor event space” with room for up to about 3,000 people). Signature features include a high stage area at 18th & Locust, a spacious standing-floor layout, and a connected bar/restaurant (Grinders Pizza) right on site. Grinders is famous locally for New York–style pizza and “Death Wings®” , which means fans can grab slices and drinks without leaving the venue. This combination of a pizza joint and concert hall gives the place a unique, homegrown character: a vocal home for rock, indie and roots music in KC. Its historic significance is mainly local – it helped anchor the 18th/Locust block as a creative entertainment hub. The Crossroads Arts District was built on repurposed factories and has become Kansas City’s cultural heart; this venue shares that heritage by staging diverse live music and arts events.

Events and Programming

Crossroads hosts a wide variety of live-music events, from touring headliners to local showcases. Weekends (especially Friday–Sunday) are typically busy in season, with multiple concerts almost every week. Headliners have included rock and punk bands (for example, Dropkick Murphys with Bad Religion on Aug 4, 2025 , or a David Lee Roth solo show in late August 2025 ), alt-rock/folk acts (e.g. Modest Mouse, 311, Toad the Wet Sprocket), songwriter-led country/Americana acts (Flatland Cavalry, Charles Wesley Godwin) and even reggae or roots groups (Ziggy Marley, Burning Spear). Recent lineups reveal everything from ’90s classic-rock reunion tours to modern indie and metal shows. The genre mix is eclectic – listeners might hear reggae legends one night and heavy metal the next. Many events are billed “all-ages,” meaning tickets are sold for everyone (kids or adults) – for example, the Aug 27, 2025 David Lee Roth show was advertised as an “All-ages show” . In addition to big touring acts, the venue often features local and regional bands, theme nights, album-release shows, and special events. It regularly takes part in the annual Crossroads Music Festival (a city block-wide event in September each year), hosting multiple “CrossroadsKC” stages on its grounds alongside neighborhood stages. The calendar may also include one-off festivals (such as a brewgrass or holiday party) and recurring local showcases (for example, smaller bands playing the outdoor patio on First Fridays and summer weekends). Ticket prices vary by show – local bands and mid-level acts run lower (often $20–$40), while national headliners can reach $60–$100 or more (many recent big summer shows started in the $60–$80 range ). Performance frequency is high in the spring and summer months, and events are typically 7–11 PM or so. As noted above, all concerts proceed rain-or-shine (see **Weather Policy** below) and the venue stays lively into late night with its mix of music, food and drink.

Tickets and Booking

Tickets can be purchased online or at the venue. GrindersKC has an official website where you can buy tickets through Etix. You can also buy tickets in person at the on-site box office (located inside the restaurant area) up until showtime, subject to availability. Box-office tickets carry a $3 service fee (plus a small credit card fee if using plastic) and are paper tickets that are non-refundable and non-replaceable . On the day of a show, if the event isn’t sold out, tickets will be available at the box office in person (again with the $3 fee). The safest way to secure a spot, however, is to buy in advance through the venue’s site or a trusted ticket outlet. Popular shows may sell out early. Ticket prices depend on the artist; from recent listings we see local acts $20–$40 and big names $60–$100+ . Discounts or presales may be offered occasionally through fan clubs or mailing lists, but in general tickets go on sale months ahead of big acts. It’s recommended to “set alerts” on the event page if offered. (Note: all tickets are final sale – no refunds, even in case of weather, as the terms state they are non-refundable and non-replaceable .)

Seating and Layout

Crossroads is primarily a general-admission, open-floor venue with standing-room layout. There are no fixed seats in front; people typically stand around the stage or at raised outdoor tables. In front of the main stage is a flat concrete/festival-style pit area, which can get crowded and rowdy for energetic shows. For a more relaxed view, patrons often grab one of the few high-top tables around the edges or retreat toward the back (near the Grinders kitchen). The stage itself is raised and large, with professional lights and PA. Sound is set up for rock concerts – loud and direct. The venue offers a charged “Preferred Viewing” area for those who buy VIP packages or deck tickets: a covered viewing deck and private lounge on the side, with its own restroom and bar . This VIP space (at 419 E 18th, next door) features an air-conditioned lounge and separate restrooms for premium ticket holders . From most spots on the floor you have an unobstructed view of the stage, though front-center yields the classic “rock show” experience. There is also often a second, smaller stage or acoustic corner for opening bands during festivals (for example, past Crossroads Music Fest lineups listing multiple stages on the property). Overall, seating is flexible: bring a small stool or find a ledge if needed, but large lawn chairs are *not* allowed. Because the floor can be uneven in bad weather, wearing sturdy shoes is wise. In general, personal space is tight near the stage (best for standing fans) and looser at the back tables (better for mingling or watching from a distance).

Getting There and Parking

Crossroads is located at **417 E. 18th Street** in downtown Kansas City (near the corner of Locust Street) . It sits in the lively Crossroads Arts District, just east of the Power & Light area and north of Union Station. By car, there is **no on-site parking**; the venue relies on available street parking. Guests often park on Locust, 18th, Oak or McGee streets after dropping off; paid lots are also nearby (for example, at the 18th & Central garage). Free street parking is usually plentiful on weeknights and weekends, but may be metered or limited on busy days. Drop-off: cars can pull into the alley immediately north of the venue (off 17th or Oak) to unload passengers and gear, then find a spot. Ridershare (Uber/Lyft) is popular for events – ask the driver to drop you at Locust & 18th, or use the alley entrance area for quick access. Public transit: KC’s modern Streetcar runs on Main Street one block east; you can get off at the 18th Street or 19th Street turn-around stop and walk a block west to the venue. Several KCATA buses also run east-west along 18th and south on Broadway/McGee. In short, it’s easily reached by car or transit, but plan extra time to park. **Accessibility:** drop-off is convenient and the venue is wheelchair-accessible. As the event site notes, the Crossroads entrance is in an alley between 17th & 18th and McGee & Oak, with curb cuts on all sides . Patrons in wheelchairs can be driven up to the door and enjoy level access inside . (The venue explicitly advertises itself as wheelchair-accessible .)

Inside the Venue

Upon entry, staff check tickets and conduct a light security screening. Once inside, you step into the spacious open-air hall with its stage at one end and Grinders Pizza counter at the other. Sound and lighting are professionally set up for concerts, with heavy speakers, spotlights and colored stage lights. The atmosphere is energetic but casual – hard concrete floors, exposed beams, and art-worked walls. The air can be chilly if music is loud but warm in summer; bring a jacket on cool nights. Concession stands and the Grinders bar are on-site. **Food:** Grinders serves its full menu during concerts, so you can order slices, pizzas, wings, cheesesteaks and sandwiches . It’s essentially a casual open-kitchen setup: you order at the counter and take your food back into the hall. Prices are typical for KC pubs; many fans grab a pie or buffalo wings during the show. **Drinks:** A full bar of beer, wine and cocktails operates throughout the event (the bar object behind the stage). They usually carry local craft beers and standard keg beers on tap. Non-alcoholic sodas and water are available at the bar too. **ID and Restrictions:** For beer or hard liquor purchases, you’ll need a valid ID (21+ to drink). Many shows are all-ages, but any area where liquor is served will be restricted to 21+. **Restrooms:** Standard men’s and women’s restrooms are in the back by the kitchen area. In addition, VIP ticket holders have access to a private restroom inside the Preferred Viewing lounge area at 419 E. 18th . **Merchandise:** Popular touring acts usually set up a table or tent selling T‐shirts and CDs near the back or side wall. There’s no official gift shop for the venue itself, but posters and souvenirs for the headliners are typically available. **Other Amenities:** There is no coat check or phone charging station. Cell signal is generally OK (both AT&T and Verizon get service inside). The vibe is communal – old wooden benches near the stage often fill up with groups eating pizza, while others stand or dance. Some tables and high tops ring the perimeter for sitting. The DJ’s typically clear the front room during big songs, but folks generally remain respectful of personal space. Overall, expect a casual, party atmosphere where the live band is the star.

Nearby Amenities

Because Crossroads is an arts district, you’re spoiled for choices before or after a show. For **pre-show dining**, the Grinders Pizza menu itself is popular – but you might also try any of the many nearby restaurants and bars. Within a block of 18th & Locust you’ll find craft breweries (the Boulevard 18th Street taproom is right across Locust), wine bars, and taverns. Favorites include Green Lady Lounge (live jazz bar), City Barrel Brewing, and unique spots like The Rieger (an upscale lounge in an old hotel building) or Q39 BBQ. The district also hosts outpost food halls (like Strang Hall) and dessert cafes within walking distance. If you want a sit-down meal before the show, dine one or two blocks north or south (institutions like Pierpont’s Park Place or Roasterie are nearby). For **post-show drinks or nightlife**, the Crossroads Arts District is very walkable. Many people linger at Grinders’ own lounge area after shows if the music runs late, or stroll over to Oak Street’s wine bars and lounges. A short walk south on Broadway takes you to the bustling Power & Light District, which offers more bars and clubs. Ride-hailing is plentiful; it’s easy to get a Uber/Lyft even late at night. (Streetcar service also runs later on weekend nights.) **Hotels:** Downtown and Crossroads area have several hotels. The Crossroads Hotel and 21c Museum Hotel (both on Main Street within 0.5 mile) put you right in the arts district. The Marriott at Bartle Hall or Kansas City Convention Center hotels are 3–5 blocks away and offer larger accommodations. Those staying in midtown or Westport can use the streetcar, which now extends along Main towards Crown Center.

What Makes This Venue Special

Crossroads stands out for its combination of laid-back neighborhood feel and big-concert energy. Artists love it because it’s an intimate outdoor stage that still feels “epic” on a grand scale – the backdrop of industrial brick and funky lighting gives it character. The synergy with Grinders Pizza also makes it unique: you can literally eat New York-style pizza while a major band plays, something most rock venues don’t offer. Over the years it has earned a reputation as one of KC’s best live-music spots, frequently noted for good sound and a friendly crowd. Locals cherish “Crossroads nights” where friends gather for a show, always knowing there will be a mix of genres. Culturally, the venue ties into Kansas City traditions: it’s part of the Free First Fridays art walk scene, and has regularly hosted the “CrossroadsKC” stages for the annual Crossroads Music Fest. It also keeps KC on the touring map; acts that might skip smaller cities will play here. Fans remember classics – like hearing a band cover a Kansas City favorite on that same stage. Architecturally, the building’s industrial bones and outdoor patio create a “Kansas City charm.” The marquee and neon Grinders signs light up the block at night. There’s a local legend that the stage façade was once a garage door, now converted to an awning; neighbors still recall old warehouse doors. Folk also point out the painted Crossroads mural on a nearby wall (18th & Oak). Throughout history, Crossroads KC has hosted tons of major tours: from Queens of the Stone Age to 311, Primus and Wyclef Jean, it’s seen them all, giving it a rock-and-roll legacy parallel to other historic clubs. That heritage makes it a point of pride – even name-drop artists mention how cool it was to play there.

Visitor Tips and Information

**Planning Your Visit:** Arrive early (doors often open 1–2 hours before showtime ) to catch opening acts, grab a good spot, or beat the line for pizza. Check the venue’s website or social media for exact door times (typically 7–8pm for an 8:00 show, but it varies). If parking, note that nearby meters or lots sometimes charge after 6pm; carpooling or rideshare is often easiest. **Accessibility:** The venue is wheelchair-accessible . There are no steps to enter via the alley entrance and the floor is flat. Accessible restrooms are in the VIP lounge area. Service animals are allowed, but pets are not . **What to Bring:** The venue has a clear bag policy. You may bring one small purse or drawstring bag, but large backpacks are prohibited . Personal cameras are allowed only if they are non-professional (no detachable lenses or large SLR cameras) . You can bring one sealed bottle of water (up to 1 liter) and non-aerosol sunscreen or bug spray. Everything else (food, lawn chairs, blankets, umbrellas, outside alcohol, cans or glass, coolers, recording devices, and weapons) is **not allowed** . **No Outside Food/Drink:** Outside food is not permitted (the venue wants you to buy on-site concessions). If you need a snack or quick pizza slice, plan to use the Grinders counter inside. **Age Restrictions:** Crossroads shows are usually all-ages (often explicitly advertised as such ). Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. However, any area where alcohol is served is restricted to 21+. If an event is 21+ only, the venue or tickets will clearly say so. **Dress Code / Behavior:** There is no formal dress code – most people wear t-shirts and jeans or casual summer clothes. Closed-toe shoes are smart if you plan to stand in the pit. Don’t expect the crowds to be “rowdy” unless it’s a high-energy punk/metal show, but moshing can happen up front, so give dancers some room. It’s respectful to clear your camera flash when the lights go down. **Safety and Comfort:** Concerts run rain-or-shine . If rain is in the forecast, bring a rain jacket or poncho (umbrellas are prohibited inside because they block view). Earplugs can be a good idea for louder shows. **Box Office / Entry:** The northwest corner of the venue houses the ticket booth. Buy tickets only from official sources (online or the box office) – be wary of scalpers. The venue does accept credit cards inside (but the $3 fee may be waived if you buy ahead online). Once you enter, there is *no re-entry*: leaving the hall means you cannot come back in on the same ticket . **Amenities:** There is no coat check – keep valuables on you. A cryptocurrency is a no-forgotten: cell service is usually fine, but save your data or pictures early. If you need cash, ATMs exist downtown but not inside the hall, so hit one beforehand or use card. Bathrooms are located at the back; expect lines at peak times. **Late-Night:** After a show, nearby Crosstown buses or streetcar can take you back downtown or to Midtown. If walking, stay on well-lit streets; streetcar tracks can be slippery. Uber/Lyft can often pick up outside the alley entrance. Valets are not provided. **Local Insight:** Locals say the best spot is always near the front center for the full energy – but if you want space, head toward the back or the raised toss-table area. Photographers often stand by the soundboard at rear, which has a partial view but better sound mix. Insiders also joke that the stage deck is the “Grinders Pizza” – if you ID the pizza’s logo on the stage floor, you’re in the hot spot! **Other Tips:** Many fans line up early for exclusive merch or to meet artists. If a concert has a posted set of bag rules or prohibited items, follow them closely to speed security. Finally, say hello to the friendly staff – Grinders employees are used to music crowds and will help newcomers find the restrooms or recommend a menu item.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I purchase tickets and are there fees?

Tickets can be bought online in advance or at the GrindersKC box office (inside Grinders Pizza). If you buy at the door, there is a $3 service fee on top of the ticket price . Credit cards are accepted. On the day of the show, if it’s not sold out, tickets will be sold at the box office (northwest corner inside the venue). Otherwise, you must purchase ahead on the official site or authorized outlets.

What is the age policy?

Most shows at Crossroads are all-ages (suitable for kids and families with an adult). If a show is 21+ only, it will be clearly advertised as such. Note that anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Beware: alcohol is sold on site, so patrons must be 21+ to access the bar area. Generally the event listing or promo will indicate any age restrictions.

Does the venue have parking?

Crossroads/Grinders itself has no dedicated parking . Visitors usually use metered street parking on nearby streets or public parking garages within a few blocks. (For example, there are paid lots at Central & 18th or McGee & 19th.) The venue is in an urban district, so we recommend rideshare or arriving early. You can drive up an alley entrance to drop off passengers, then park legally on a nearby block .

How do I get there via public transit?

The KC Streetcar runs down Main Street. Its nearest northbound stop for Crossroads is at 18th or 19th Street on Main – just a block away from the venue. Several bus routes (16, 18, 22, etc.) also run on Oak St. or Broadway nearby. Check the latest KCATA map or streetcar schedule. If you're far out, taking a rideshare (Uber/Lyft) to 18th & Locust is a good option.

What is the seating layout? Are there assigned seats?

Crossroads is a primarily general admission (standing-room) venue. There are no reserved seats or rows except for a small VIP section. The main floor is flat; you stand or sit at bar-height tables. The best views are up front by the stage, but you can enjoy the show from anywhere in the hall. For a more spacious spot, move toward the back or sides. VIP ticket packages include a private elevated deck and lounge with its own restrooms . Otherwise, it’s first-come, first-served on the floor.

When do doors usually open?

Door opening times vary by event, but generally the doors open about 90–120 minutes before showtime . For example, if a show is scheduled at 8:00 PM, expect doors around 6:30–7:00 PM. (Major acts may open the hall 2–3 hours earlier in some cases .) Check the event details on the official site for exact door/open times and arriving early is recommended for sold-out shows.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?

Yes. Crossroads KC/Grinders is wheelchair accessible. The alley entrance is flat and wide, and staff ensure level access into the hall . Once inside, all the concert floor is on one level, and ADA restrooms are available (including the private lounge restrooms for VIP guests) . Patrons in wheelchairs can roll up to order food or get drinks. If you need assistance, venue staff are helpful about seating and service.

What items can I bring inside? What’s prohibited?

Guests may bring one factory-sealed water bottle (up to 1 liter) , small purses or drawstring bags (no backpacks) , non-aerosol sunscreen/bug spray, and non-professional cameras (point‐and‐shoot or phone cameras without removable lenses) . Everything else is not allowed: no outside food, no lawn chairs or blankets, no glass or cans, no outside alcohol, no professional cameras (no zoom/SLR cameras) , no recording devices, no weapons, no inflatable furniture, umbrellas, coolers, etc. In short, pack light and follow the published bag rules to save time at the door .

Is outside food or drink allowed?

No. Outside food or drinks are prohibited inside the venue . You can bring one sealed water bottle , but all foods (snacks, sandwiches, etc.) must be purchased at the Grinders Pizza concession stand. If you have dietary needs, plan to buy pizza or wings on-site. The rule is strict: don’t try to bring in snacks or alcohol from outside.

Can I take photographs or video?

You may use a small point‐and‐shoot camera or your smartphone for personal photos, as long as it does not have a removable telephoto lens . Professional cameras and video gear (and detachable-lens cameras) are not allowed. Recording devices of any kind (professional audio or video recorders, GoPros, drones) are prohibited . Basically, feel free to snap casual shots, but no big camera rigs or video recording without special permission.

Is re-Admission allowed?

No. Once you leave Crossroads/Grinders during an event, you cannot re-enter with the same ticket . So make sure you have what you need (phone, money, ID, etc.) before going through security. There is no wristband for easy re-entry; if you exit, that’s it. Plan ahead for anything you might need during the show.

Is smoking allowed?

Smoking and vaping are not permitted inside the building. (You must step outside to any designated smoking area on Locust or 18th Street if needed.) No single use of helium balloons or similar breath-inhalation items are allowed either. Enjoy the air-conditioned interior and exit safely if you need smoke.

What food and drinks are sold on site?

The main concession is Grinders Pizza itself. They serve New York–style pizza, cheesesteaks, giant “Death Wing®” chicken wings, fries, and other bar-style foods (as per their long-standing menu) . You order at the counter and take it into the concert area. The bar offers local craft beers, sodas and mixed drinks — a full range of beer/wine/cocktail options. In short, expect a casual joint menu: gourmet pizza by-the-slice and pub grub all event long.

Can I bring my child? Is it family-friendly?

Yes, many shows are family-friendly. The venue itself doesn’t have a child age limit. Children under 18 must have an adult. Remember the music can be loud and the floor crowded, so bring ear protection for young kids. Infant or folding strollers, however, are not allowed inside . If you come with a baby or toddler, you’ll need to carry them or use a baby carrier. Otherwise it’s a fun place for teens as well (with parent supervision, of course).

What is the weather policy for outdoor concerts?

Events at Crossroads/Grinders are held rain or shine , except in cases of severe or dangerous weather. The venue is mostly covered, so light rain usually doesn’t stop the show. In practice, concerts run through brief showers or cold snaps. If thunderstorms or hail threaten, management may delay or cancel and issue refunds. It’s best to check local weather and the venue’s official announcements on the day of the event, and to dress appropriately (rain poncho or raincoat in fall/spring is wise).

Does Grinders Pizza offer a preferred viewing or VIP area?

Yes. There is a “Preferred Viewing” package available on some shows. It includes early entry, a dedicated entrance, and access to an air-conditioned private lounge at 419 East 18th Street . That package also offers a private bar and a special elevated viewing deck right by the main stage . In short, you get front-of-line access, a chill-out lounge with its own restrooms, and prime standing space. These are usually limited and sell out, so it’s more of a VIP add-on. Otherwise, all other tickets are general admission on the main floor.

Events at Crossroads, Kansas City

MEDICINE TRIBE VIP SOUNDCHECK MEET & GREET - KANSAS CITY, MO

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