About Commonwealth
Commonwealth is a two-story, speakeasy-inspired cocktail bar and nightclub in the Fremont East District of Downtown Las Vegas. Opened in late 2012, it quickly became a cornerstone of the area’s revival. The venue spans about 6,000 square feet and holds roughly 300 guests (www.eventective.com ). Its interior features exposed brick, vintage fixtures and velvet seating, evoking an early-Vegas, Prohibition-era speakeasy atmosphere (spotlightvegas.com ) (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ). A signature draw is its rooftop dance floor and bar overlooking the iconic neon lights of Fremont Street (www.commonwealthlv.com ). Hidden inside whiskey barrels and behind a discrete door is “The Laundry Room,” a highly regarded 20-seat speakeasy cocktail lounge with bespoke drinks (www.commonwealthlv.com ) (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ). Together these elements – historic architecture, high-end mixology, and a rooftop view – give Commonwealth a unique character in the Las Vegas bar scene. Its founders even say the name reflects a community focus: the bar’s tagline is “here for the good of the community” (www.commonwealthlv.com ). Local reviewers note that Commonwealth feels like an “old speakeasy from the prohibition days” while still being lively and modern (spotlightvegas.com ). Over its decade of operation it has earned a reputation as a “neighborhood bar” beloved by both locals and visitors, playing a pivotal role in Downtown Las Vegas’s nightlife revival (spotlightvegas.com ) (spotlightvegas.com ).
Events and Programming
Commonwealth’s calendar is packed with diverse nightlife events. On weekends the rooftop dance floor comes alive with high-energy DJ nights – often hip-hop and open-format sets that keep guests dancing into the early morning (spotlightvegas.com ). Themed music nights cater to different tastes, with everything from electronic/ house sessions to Latin beats featured regularly (spotlightvegas.com ). Beyond DJ sets, the venue hosts live acts like stand-up comedy and burlesque shows. For example, a stand-up series (Hot Box Comedy) and burlesque events by local performers (such as Cervena Fox’s Halloween shows) have run at Commonwealth (spotlightvegas.com ). During downtown festivals (like Life is Beautiful) Commonwealth often serves as an official after-party spot. It also accommodates private events: the bar offers rooftop buyouts, cocktail classes and table packages for corporate events, weddings, and other gatherings. In short, you’ll find frequent parties and pop-ups of all kinds – from recurring club nights to one-off celebrations – at Commonwealth throughout each year. (Typical ticket/cover charges vary by event, but most club nights involve a modest door cover around $10–$20 or free entry for registered guests.)
Tickets and Booking
Commonwealth operates more like a nightclub than a theater, so there is no traditional box office or ticketing website. For most events you do not buy tickets in advance; instead you arrive at the door and pay any cover charge on-site. Event promoters often offer free guestlist sign-ups through social media or nightclub apps, so getting on an RSVP list can secure entry without a ticket. For major concerts or specialty nights (if any), tickets might be announced on Commonwealth’s own events page or through Live Nation, but these are rare. Table service (VIP/bottle service) is by reservation only: you contact the venue or their host in advance to reserve. Corner Bar Management’s FAQ notes that bottle service inquiries are handled by email (www.cornerbarmgmt.com ). In practice, the easiest way to get in is to arrive 30–60 minutes before peak time. After that, expect a cover charge at the door (often around $10–$15 on busy nights). Always bring a valid ID, since everyone is ID-checked at entry. In short, plan on walk-up entry with cash or card for cover; there’s no need to purchase tickets ahead unless a special ticketed concert is announced.
Seating and Layout
Commonwealth has an open, general-admission layout. There are no fixed seats or rows – instead the space is arranged with lounge areas and dance floor. On the ground floor , the main bar and dance area are at street level. This space has plush vintage sofas, velvet chairs and standing room around the DJ area (often set up in a corner or along a wall) (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ). Upstairs is the open-air rooftop patio , which also offers scattered couches, high-top tables, communal benches and string lights – all arranged over a concrete dance floor (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ) (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ). When programming music upstairs, DJs usually perform at one end of the roof deck so the crowd can dance toward the neon-lit skyline. There are no assigned seats – whichever spot you find is yours for the night. Generally, the best viewing areas depend on your preference: to be in the heart of the party, stand near the DJ or on the dance platform; for a relaxed night, grab one of the nearby sofas or tables along the railing. (Note that after midnight the roof and main floor can fill up, so if you want a front spot it’s wise to arrive early.) Acoustic-wise, the venue is outfitted with professional club-level sound and lighting. The rooftop has some misting fans to cool things in summer (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ). One unique tip: the hidden Laundry Room speakeasy is a separate tiny lounge with only about 20 seats, entered through a side door – it’s reservation-only (you text in advance) and enforces a strict no-phone rule (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ), creating an intimate old-Vegas ambiance.
Getting There and Parking
Commonwealth is located at 525 East Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas (Fremont Street’s East End).
By Car: Street parking downtown is limited. The most convenient paid options nearby include the Container Park parking garage (about $6 for 2 hours) (en.parkopedia.com ) and the City of Las Vegas Gold Spike lot (also about $6/2h) (en.parkopedia.com ). Many bars share these lots, so they fill up on busy nights – arrive early. Expect metered street parking on nearby side streets (usually 2-hour limits). Some visitors prefer parking a few blocks west (near the Fremont Street Experience) and walking over.
By Public Transit: Commonwealth is served by RTC buses. The Deuce bus line runs along Main Street with stops near Downtown Container Park (a 5-minute walk). Free downtown circulator shuttles also run through Fremont East (look for the “Downtowner” loop stops near 6th and Fremont or Stewart). The nearest major transit stops are in the Fremont Street Experience Area, about 2 blocks west.
By Rideshare/Taxi: Rideshare drop-off is convenient on Fremont Street. The recommended drop-off point is on Stewart Avenue just south of Commonwealth, or at Carson Avenue just west of 6th Street, so patrons avoid the main pedestrian traffic on Fremont. Curbside vendors and taxis also pick up passengers on Fremont Street and at Container Park’s entrance (1 block north).
In general, plan extra time for transportation in downtown. Fremont East can be busy with traffic and pedestrians on weekend nights. Walking to Commonwealth is often easiest if you are in downtown (it’s near El Cortez and Gold Spike). The official address given by the venue is 525 E. Fremont St. (www.cornerbarmgmt.com ), so any GPS or map app should point you right to the corner of Fremont and Stewart.
Inside the Venue
After you enter and pass security/ID check at the front door, you’ll step into the main bar area. The ground floor has a large wooden bar counter and lounge tables. The atmosphere is lively with hip-hop or party music playing, and the crowd teeming around the dance floor. Lighting is dim inside with spotlights on the DJ. You’ll see bartender stations stocked with liquor; Commonwealth’s cocktail menu is extensive, with classic and innovative drinks (craft cocktails are a highlight of the experience) (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ). Bartenders are friendly mixologists who can recommend or craft specialty cocktails – expect to pay roughly $12–$18 per drink (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ). No kitchen means there’s little to eat beyond bar snacks, so plan any dinner elsewhere. Restrooms are on the first floor (including one ADA-accessible restroom); none are upstairs. Coat checks are typically limited or unavailable – best to travel light. The venue accepts both cash and credit cards. Wi-Fi is not advertised, so assume none. The vibe inside is festive but relaxed enough to chat; there is no dressy formality – however, management enforces a dress code (see below).
The main floor flows up to a staircase leading to the roof. Upstairs is the open-air rooftop bar and dance deck, offering neon-lit views. Here you’ll find one or two smaller bars serving drinks. The patio seating (couches, stools, benches) is first-come. Security is present on both levels; at busy times they may limit access for fire-code safety (so may pause entry until people exit). Nightclub etiquette applies – some nights have lines to enter, and you may need to buy your ticket/cover at the door. Commonwealth does not permit outside food or alcohol. Cameras and phones are allowed on the main floor, but note that the hidden Laundry Room speakeasy specifically bans phones for an old-school ambiance (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ). In short: bring ID, dress to code, and come ready to stay – everything you need (drink bars, restrooms, smokers’ area outside) is on-site in a casual bar environment.
Nearby Amenities
The Fremont East/lower Fremont area around Commonwealth is packed with night-life and dining options. You won’t run out of places to eat, drink or stay. Some highlights include:
Restaurants: A number of well-regarded eateries are within a few minutes’ walk. Carson Kitchen (modern comfort food) and Le Thai (flavorful Thai cuisine) are popular for pre- or post-bar dining (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ). For brunch or a hangover cure, the cafe Eat (outdoor patio and sandwiches) is nearby. If you want an upscale meal before the show, Oscar’s Steakhouse in the Plaza Hotel (just west of Commonwealth) serves classic steakhouse fare in a vintage Vegas setting (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ). Bars and Lounges: Other downtown bars are steps away. The Gold Spike (538 E. Fremont) next door has games and cocktails; it shares a parking lot with Commonwealth. The Downtown Container Park (500 block of Fremont) is one block north, offering bars like Oak & Ivy and casual pubs. And of course the broad Fremont Street Experience (three blocks west) has dozens of bars, casinos, and the famous slot-machine canopy. Hotels: For overnight stays within walking distance, the newly remodeled Downtown Grand is literally one block from Commonwealth (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ). Traditional downtown casino-hotels like the Golden Gate , El Cortez , The D , and Fremont Hotel are all within a few blocks. The Plaza Hotel & Casino sits at the corner of Main and Fremont (two blocks west). More modern resorts include Circa Resort & Casino (at 8th St & Fremont) and the SLS (formerly Sahara) a few blocks south. Staying any of these lets you enjoy Fremont nightlife without a long cab ride. Other Transit: Late-night travelers should note that the free downtown shuttle loops end around midnight; rideshare services (Uber/Lyft) are the easiest option after the bars close. Taxis can also be flagged on the street at Fremont Street Experience or called via dispatcher.
What Makes This Venue Special
Commonwealth’s charm comes from its blend of historic character and modern flair. It occupies a vintage downtown building, which owners restored with period touches. Critics highlight its “speakeasy-inspired vibe” – from stuffed bird taxidermy and Mexican folk art to vintage wallpaper – which evokes old Vegas in a way you won’t find on the Strip (spotlightvegas.com ). The rooftop is often praised as a one-of-a-kind feature: it delivers panoramic views of the neon canopy and even distant mountains, all set against a string-lit patio (www.commonwealthlv.com ) (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ). One review calls the rooftop “worthy of a visit based on location alone” with sweeping vistas (www.commonwealthlv.com ). Inside, the bar’s cocktail program stands out: Commonwealth is “known for its expertly crafted drinks” using housemade syrups and fresh ingredients (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ) (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ). The bartenders act as mixologists, often customizing cocktails by taste instead of just pouring standard drinks (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ) (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ). Price-wise, cocktails typically run in the mid-$teens (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ), reflecting that craft quality. The hidden Laundry Room adds an air of mystery; it’s a reservation-only speakeasy tucked inside that labors old-school service and intimate conversations (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ). All these factors – historic design, world-class cocktails, rooftop dance parties and an inclusive community focus – give Commonwealth its distinct identity. In fact, reviewers and locals say it feels like a genuine “neighborhood bar” that still captures Las Vegas’s larger-than-life spirit (spotlightvegas.com ) (spotlightvegas.com ). Artists and concert-goers alike love it for this authentic downtown vibe, away from the tourist-clogged Strip.
Visitor Tips and Information
Age & ID: Commonwealth is strictly 21 and over. Valid government-issued ID (driver’s license or passport) is checked for everyone at the door (www.cornerbarmgmt.com ). Keep your ID handy or you will be turned away. Dress Code: The dress code is dressy casual. No flip-flops, athletic wear or bathing suits are allowed (www.cornerbarmgmt.com ). Avoid overly beachy attire – think upscale bar rather than pool party. In short, come neat and presentable (neckties aren’t required but fancy T-shirts or button-downs are fine).Cover Charges: On busy weekends there is often a cover charge to enter (around $10–$20). Guests listed by name usually get in free or at a discounted rate early in the night. If you see a line, be prepared to pay at the front desk. Bring cash plus card – some bars only take credit, while others may accept either. Prohibited Items: Outside food or drinks are not allowed. Large backpacks or professional cameras (with detachables) are discouraged. Commonwealth reserves the right to check or reject prohibited items at entry. Note: the Laundry Room speakeasy bans cell phones inside, so plan to stow your phone in your pocket or car (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ). Otherwise, smart phones and casual photos are fine on the main floor and rooftop. Accessibility: The street-level bar is wheelchair-accessible with ramp access and an ADA restroom on the first floor. However, the rooftop garden and the private Laundry Room are reachable only by stairs, so they are not wheelchair-friendly. If mobility is a concern, let staff know – they will assist where possible, but they cannot bypass the stairs. Crowds & Timing: The busiest nights are Friday and Saturday. Arrive by 9–10pm if you want early entry without too much line (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ). After 11pm expect a wait. Weeknights (especially Sunday–Thursday) are much quieter and often free of charge (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ). During festival weekends or big events downtown, plan for heavier crowds. If you prefer a chill vibe, consider visiting on a weekday. Also note: summers are hot – the rooftop has misting fans to stay cool (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ), but in winter dress warmly for an outdoor night. What to Bring: Always bring your valid ID and a credit card/cash for cover and drinks. Earplugs can be a good idea if you plan to dance near the speakers. Most people come in casual attire and comfortable shoes (note that the rooftop surface can be concrete, so heels may be less stable). If you get cold easily, a light jacket or sweater helps for roof section in winter. Other than that, just bring your group and sense of fun – Commonwealth provides the entertainment.Photography & Social Media: Feel free to take photos of your group. Staff will generally not mind casual snapshots of the venue. Tagging the bar on social media is welcome, but note that inside the Laundry Room no photography is allowed (it’s a phone-free zone (www.las-vegastravelguide.com )). Outside the speakeasy, phones are fine.After the Show: Fremont East can be active late. Closest shuttle stops and taxis are by Fremont Street Experience. If you’re leaving very late, Uber/Lyft etc. are recommended – signal on Fremont or 6th Street. Nearby bars and street food stands stay open late if you’re hungry afterward.
Where is Commonwealth located?
Commonwealth’s address is 525 East Fremont Street, Las Vegas, NV 89101 – it’s in the Fremont East district of Downtown Las Vegas. This puts it just east of casino center and near the El Cortez Casino. If you use a map or GPS, the corner of Fremont Street and Stewart Avenue will get you there. (www.cornerbarmgmt.com )
What type of venue is Commonwealth and what is its capacity?
Commonwealth is a cocktail bar and nightclub spread over two floors (a ground-floor bar and an upstairs rooftop patio). It’s best described as a speakeasy-style lounge with a dance floor upstairs. The venue is roughly 6,000 square feet and holds about 300 people total (around 175 on the main floor and 150 on the rooftop) (www.eventective.com ).
Do I need tickets or a reservation to get into Commonwealth?
No advance tickets or reservations are generally needed for entry. Commonwealth operates like a club: you can simply come to the door. If there is a live concert or special event (very rare), those tickets would be advertised online. Otherwise, entry is first-come, first-served or through guest lists/promotions. If you want VIP table service, you must reserve by contacting the venue in advance (their FAQ indicates you email for bottle service) (www.cornerbarmgmt.com ).
Is there a cover charge or entrance fee at Commonwealth?
There can be. On busy weekend nights (especially Friday/Saturday), Commonwealth often charges a modest cover at the door (typically around $10–$20). Early arrivals or people on a guest list are sometimes allowed in free. If there is a special guest DJ or event, the cover might be higher. On quieter nights (weekdays) entry is usually free or very low cost. It’s best to bring some cash and get there before 11pm if you want to minimize waiting or cover fees. (www.las-vegastravelguide.com )
What is the dress code at Commonwealth?
Commonwealth enforces a “dressy casual” policy. Avoid beachwear, athletic gear or flip-flops (www.cornerbarmgmt.com ). In practice, guests typically wear nice jeans, collared shirts or blouses, and clean shoes. Outfits should just be tidy and not too sports-oriented. Even though it’s a nightclub, you won’t need a tie, but management is strict about banning shorts, tank tops or swim attire on busy nights.
Is Commonwealth 21 and over only?
Yes. Commonwealth is strictly 21+ at all times. You must show valid government ID (driver’s license, state ID or passport) at the entrance. No minors are allowed, even during happy hours. According to the venue’s management, “Commonwealth is 21+ only” and IDs are checked for everyone (www.cornerbarmgmt.com ).
Where should I park for Commonwealth?
Street parking is very limited in downtown. The easiest option is paid lots: the Container Park parking garage (just one block north) is about $6 for two hours (en.parkopedia.com ), and the municipal Gold Spike lot (two blocks east) is roughly the same rate (en.parkopedia.com ). Those fill up fast on weekends. Few free spots exist near Fremont (all 2-hour meters), so plan to pay. If possible, park a bit farther (near Fremont Street Experience where there are more lots) and walk a few blocks to Fremont East. Rideshare drop-off is often more convenient than hunting parking at peak hours.
What public transit or rideshare options serve Commonwealth?
Downtown Las Vegas buses serve this area. The RTC Deuce bus on Main Street has stops near Container Park (a 5-minute walk north) and the Fremont Street Experience (west of Commonwealth). There is also a free Downtown Loop shuttle that stops on Fremont Street at 6th or on 7th (carry-on only). By rideshare or taxi, drop-offs are easiest on Stewart Avenue just south of Commonwealth or on Carson Avenue at 6th. (Rideshare pickups can be requested from those streets or at Container Park after the club.) There is no local monorail – walking and cars/buses are the main options downtown.
Does Commonwealth have seating or is it first-come, first-served?
Seating is first-come and limited. There are benches, sofas and bar stools scattered around, but they’re not reserved. When you arrive, you can sit wherever is available. There are no assigned seats or tables unless you’ve paid for a private table package in advance. Most people stand or dance near the DJ on the rooftop or lounge on the ground floor couches. In short, it’s general admission – get there early if you want a seat on the patio or a table upstairs. (www.las-vegastravelguide.com )
What music and atmosphere can I expect at Commonwealth?
Commonwealth is known for hip-hop and open-format club music on the weekends (spotlightvegas.com ). DJs spin a mix of Top 40, R&B, EDM and throwbacks, with themed nights (Latin, house, etc.) on occasion. The vibe is lively and up-tempo on Friday/Saturday. On weekdays it’s more laid-back – you might hear lounge beats or local live acts. By 1am or so, the energy peaks with a packed dance floor under neon lights. Overall expect a party atmosphere with dancers on the roof and VIP lounge areas for hanging out. (Tip: if you prefer a calmer night, try visiting midweek.)
Are cameras or recording devices allowed at Commonwealth?
Casual phone photography is generally fine and people often post videos on social media. The venue does not allow professional or large video cameras. One important exception is The Laundry Room speakeasy: it enforces a strict no-phones / no-camera policy for privacy (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ). Other than that, you can take normal selfies or group photos on the dance floor or patio. If staff or performers ask you to stop videoing, comply – they reserve that right.
What forms of payment are accepted?
Commonwealth takes credit/debit cards and cash. You can pay for cover, drinks, and VIP packages with plastic or bills. Keeping some small bills ($1s and $5s) is a good idea for tips or quick change. (Casinos nearby also have ATMs if you need cash.)
Is smoking allowed at Commonwealth?
Indoor smoking is not allowed by Nevada law, so you cannot smoke inside Commonwealth’s ground floor lounge. However, the outdoor rooftop patio is open-air and guests often smoke up there unless told otherwise. So if you need a cigarette, head upstairs to the patio after dark. Always follow any posted signs about smoking – generally, smokers congregate outside on the roof.
Is Commonwealth wheelchair accessible?
The main bar entrance and first floor are wheelchair-accessible (with ramp access) and have an ADA restroom. However, there is no elevator to the rooftop or the Laundry Room, so those upper areas cannot be reached by wheelchair. If you need assistance, staff will help where they can, but note the upper level is only by stairs.
What is The Laundry Room and how do I visit it?
The Laundry Room is Commonwealth’s hidden speakeasy lounge, accessed through a side door with a secret code. Unlike the main bar, you cannot just walk in. You must reserve a spot in advance by texting the bar’s number and getting a one-time entry code (www.las-vegastravelguide.com ). It only seats ~20 people and enforces a no-phones policy, making it an intimate, reservation-only experience. Reservations fill up quickly, so plan ahead if you want in.
During which hours is Commonwealth open?
Commonwealth mainly operates on weekend nights. According to its official site, the bar is open Friday and Saturday from 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM (www.commonwealthlv.com ). On some occasions it may open earlier (7:00 PM) or on additional days for special events, but in general expect nightlife hours. The venue is typically closed during daytime and weeknights except for booked private functions. Always check their event calendar or call ahead to confirm if they have a special opening.
Are there age restrictions or ID requirements?
Yes, Commonwealth strictly enforces 21+ entry. You must present valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or passport) at the door. The bar’s FAQ specifically notes “All guests must show valid ID for entry” (www.cornerbarmgmt.com ). Make sure your ID is current – expired IDs will not be accepted. No minors are allowed under any circumstances.
What payment methods are accepted?
Commonwealth accepts standard payment methods for bars. Most transactions are done by credit or debit card. It’s always good to have a few dollars in cash for tips or if you want to buy something at the door quickly, but you can use your card for the cover charge and most purchases inside.
Are outside drinks or food allowed at Commonwealth?
No. Commonwealth does not allow outside alcoholic drinks or food. All beverages must be purchased from the bar. Bringing outside food is also prohibited. (They will confiscate or politely turn away any outside liquors or meals at the entrance.)
Is there a box office or will-call for tickets?
No – Commonwealth is not a theater or concert hall, so it has no box office or will-call. You cannot pick up pre-ordered tickets at the door. If an event requires tickets, they must be bought through the event organizer’s channel beforehand. Otherwise, entry is handled at the door as described above.
