About Growlers
Growlers is a midsize live music bar and sports pub in Midtown Memphis, located at 1911 Poplar Avenue right across from Overton Park (www.mapquest.com ) (wearememphis.com ). Operating since 2017, it occupies the building that once housed Elvis Presley’s martial-arts studio and later the original Hi-Tone Cafe (wearememphis.com ) (dailymemphian.com ). Today Growlers is known for its heavy music focus (metal, hardcore, punk) but also hosts a variety of genres (rock, hip-hop, electronic, etc.) (www.mapquest.com ) (wearememphis.com ). It’s a relatively intimate venue (about 300 people capacity (www.indieonthemove.com )) that emphasizes local talent and adventurous bookings. As manager Mark Schreck explains, the goal is to “keep live music going on in the city of Memphis…with good drinks and food in an intimate atmosphere” (wearememphis.com ). The venue stays open late (until 2:00 AM nightly) (www.tripadvisor.com ), making it a hub of the local nightlife scene.
Events and Programming
Growlers has concerts and events most nights (roughly 5–7 nights a week, mainly Thursday–Saturday, plus occasional matinees (www.indieonthemove.com )). Its calendar spans many styles: metal and hardcore headliners share dates with alternative rock, EDM nights, hip-hop shows or even ambient/DJ dance parties. Occasionally the venue hosts non-music events too – for example, local pro wrestling promotions (like 901 Wrestling) hold afternoon shows here. Recent lineups have ranged from hardcore bands to alt-country acts (promoter Mark Schreck once booked country singer Sierra Ferrell and rock band Sister Hazel (wearememphis.com )). Recurring theme nights pop up, such as anime-themed raves and punk club nights. Ticket prices vary by show – many gigs are around \$10–\$20 on general admission (901growlers.com ) (901growlers.com ) (for instance, one alternative-rock bill was \$12–\$15 while a metalcore headliner ran \$18–\$23 (901growlers.com ) (901growlers.com )). 901 Wrestling events typically charge about \$12 GA (901tix.com ). Thanks to its full bar and kitchen, Growlers also mixes in special promotions (like drink or food deals) alongside concerts.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Growlers shows can be bought through the venue’s official channels or promoters. In practice this means checking Growlers’ website and social media for event posts and ticket links. Popular shows often sell out, so it’s wise to buy in advance; some events go on presale or require signing up for artist newsletters. You can also phone the venue (901-244-7904) for info (www.indieonthemove.com ). On show nights any remaining tickets are usually available at the door on a first-come basis – just arrive early (1–2 hours before the posted start time) to test availability. The box office is not a separate ticket kiosk; instead, door staff handle sales and will-call. Keep in mind most shows at Growlers are 18+ (with 21+ for alcohol), so check age rules per event.
Seating and Layout
Growlers is a one-story hall that’s mostly open floor (capacity ~300 (www.indieonthemove.com )). There is no fixed seating – everything is general admission standing room. The stage is at one end of the room, notably large for this size venue (wearememphis.com ), and the long bar runs along the back and side. If you arrive early for a show, the prime spots are up front on the floor against the stage – expect to stand the whole time. Some folding chairs or bar stools may be set along the side walls or rear, but these fill up fast. Audiophiles report the venue has a “stellar in-house sound” system (wearememphis.com ), so sound is clear almost anywhere on the floor; just avoid standing too close to the speakers if you’re sensitive. During nice weather, Growlers also opens up its new outdoor patio stage (wearememphis.com ), adding a semi-open-air area (also general admission, no chairs) that offers alternate viewing outside the main hall.
Getting There and Parking
Growlers’ exact address is 1911 Poplar Ave in Memphis, TN 38104 (www.mapquest.com ). It sits in the Overton Park/Overton Square area of Midtown (one block north of Overton Square entertainment district). Parking is primarily on-street: you’ll find metered or free street spaces on Poplar and nearby side streets. There’s no large private lot owned by Growlers, so spots can fill up for big shows. Some nearby restaurants (like the BBQ Shop at Madison) offer free off-street parking (www.tripadvisor.com ) that fans sometimes use, but always check signage. A rideshare (Uber/Lyft) drop-off is easy on Poplar Ave right by the entrance. Public transit runs fairly close: MATA bus routes (such as the #50 along Poplar) stop within a few blocks, and Route 11 (William Hudson) also serves the area. Plan your trip with a transit app or the MATA website. For drivers, note that Poplar can get busy at rush hour – allow extra time on show nights.
Inside the Venue
Inside Growlers you’ll find a classic Midtown bar atmosphere. When you enter, staff will usually check your ID (you must be 21+ to drink, and most concerts are 18+). There is a single main room: the stage sits at one end, and the U-shaped bar wraps around much of the opposite side. Menu options include pub favorites – for example, reviewers rave about the steak-filled “Philly-Delphia Freedom” sandwich (www.mapquest.com ), and chicken wing orders (often on special for \$1 each) are popular (www.tripadvisor.com ). The full bar pours cocktails, domestic and local draft beers, and some wine. There’s typically a small merchandise table near the stage for bands’ CDs and shirts. Restrooms are located near the bar area at the rear. You should budget extra time to grab drinks or food – Growlers serves until late (its bar stays open until 2 AM (www.tripadvisor.com )). The venue can get warm when packed, so inexpensive earplugs or a lighter jacket are sensible. Most shows allow cellphone photos (no flash), but professional cameras are usually not permitted without media passes. Coat check is limited or not available on busy nights, so plan accordingly.
Nearby Amenities
The Overton Square/Poplar area offers plenty around Growlers. Pre-show dining spots include popular eateries like Huey’s Midtown (famous for burgers and friendly bar food, about 0.4 mi away) and The BBQ Shop (excellent Memphis-style ribs, also ~0.4 mi away) (www.tripadvisor.com ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). Overton Square (just south of Growlers) packs bars and restaurants – places like City Market (Southern comfort food) and Rendezvous (barbecue lounge) are in easy walking distance. For drinks before or after a show, the building even houses sister venues: Top Craft Beverages (a craft brewery/distillery) and The Penny Lounge (a tiki bar) are on-site (www.mapquest.com ). The Zoo and Art Museum in Overton Park are two blocks north (handy if you’re visiting that side of town). Hotels are not immediate neighbors, but the Hampton Inn Poplar and a few motels on Poplar Ave are within a mile. If you’re coming from downtown Memphis (Beale Street area), it’s about a 10–15 minute drive or a sightseeing bike ride; rideshare and taxi service are plentiful in Midtown after dark.
What Makes This Venue Special
Growlers stands out for carrying on Memphis’s rich live-music legacy. It continues the spirit of the old Hi-Tone venue in an historic space – even Elvis Presley once trained in this building (wearememphis.com ). The booking philosophy is grassroots, often giving local and up-and-coming bands a stage alongside touring acts. Its sound system and stage size are impressive for a neighborhood bar (wearememphis.com ), which musicians and fans appreciate. Notably, Growlers is part of a small entertainment complex: guests can hop to the attached Top Craft Brewery or Penny Lounge before or after shows (www.mapquest.com ). Regular patrons rave about the welcoming, tight-knit vibe. One TripAdvisor reviewer even described how the manager “Mark” personally mailed his lost phone back to him across state lines – an example of the friendly, community feel here (www.tripadvisor.com ). All these factors – location, history, sound quality, and staff – give Growlers a unique character that both touring artists and local audiences love.
Visitor Tips and Information
Growlers is casual and unpretentious, but there are a few tips to improve your visit. Always carry a legal photo ID: entry is 18+, and 21+ to drink, and staff will card anyone who looks young (www.indieonthemove.com ). The place can get crowded and warm, so wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes (it’s standing room only). Arrive early for popular shows – doors often open 1–2 hours before start time, and lines form quickly. Many nights feature specials, so check for those: customers often cite \$1 wing deals (limit 10) and inexpensive beer/cocktail promotions (www.tripadvisor.com ). Bring cash for tips, though the bar accepts cards. Expect a bag check at the door; large backpacks and outside food/drink are not allowed. Concerts run late – the bar stays open until 2:00 AM (www.tripadvisor.com ) – so plan your ride (or parking) accordingly. Finally, be friendly to staff and everyone around you. Growlers has a reputation for a safe, fun scene, but like any venue you share the space respectfully. With a bit of preparation (ID, earplugs for loud shows, comfortable attire), you’re set to have a great experience at Growlers.
How can I purchase tickets for Growlers Memphis events?
Tickets are usually sold online via Growlers’ site or affiliated promoters. For most shows you can buy in advance through those outlets or at the door if it’s not sold out. The venue itself doesn’t have a separate box office open daily, but you can call Growlers (901-244-7904 (www.indieonthemove.com )) with questions. Popular concerts often sell out, so if you want to buy at the door, arrive early (often 1–2 hours before showtime).
How much do tickets cost for a show at Growlers?
Ticket prices vary by event. In general most concerts at Growlers are in the \$10–\$25 range (901growlers.com ) (901growlers.com ). For example, recent shows have listed general admission in the \$12–\$15 range, with some headlining metal nights up to about \$18–\$23 (901growlers.com ) (901growlers.com ). Specialty events like wrestling matinees are usually around \$12 (901tix.com ). Always check the specific event listing for exact prices and any fees.
Does Growlers have a box office or will-call pickup?
Growlers does not maintain a traditional box office window. There’s no dedicated daily ticket booth, so “will-call” usually means you pick up at the door on show night. If you’ve bought tickets online, arrive during door hours (often 1–2 hours before the show) and give your name to staff. For questions about orders, you can try calling the venue phone (901-244-7904 (www.indieonthemove.com )) or emailing the promoter.
Can I buy tickets at Growlers on the night of the show?
Yes, many shows allow door sales if tickets remain. If a concert is not sold out in advance, you can pay at the door (usually cash or card). However, popular or sold-out events will turn away “walk-ins,” so arriving early is key. It’s common to have door charges around an hour before the first band plays. Check the event details in case organizers recommend pre-purchase.
What is the seating layout at Growlers?
Growlers is essentially one open room with standing-room general admission (capacity ~300 (www.indieonthemove.com )). There are no assigned seats or balcony. The center front by the stage is the most sought-after standing area. Small bar chairs or stools may line the edges of the room, but these fill up quickly. The rear sections near the bar allow a bit of sitting or leaning for a break, but most people stand. For covered seating, you’d need to step outside to the patio area (if open for a patio show) – that, however, is also general admission standing only (wearememphis.com ).
Are there any VIP or reserved areas at Growlers?
No. Growlers does not have a separate VIP section, balcony, or cabana. It’s a flat-floor GA room throughout. On rare occasions a promoter might sell a handful of “early entry” passes, but typically everyone watches from the same general admission area on the floor or patio. The best vantage is up front next to the stage, otherwise along the edges or the outdoor patio if it’s an outdoor show (wearememphis.com ).
What items are prohibited inside Growlers?
Growlers follows standard concert-venue rules. Expect to have large bags or backpacks searched; oversized weapons or glass containers are not allowed. Outside food and drinks are forbidden. Personal items like small phones and wallets are fine, but professional video cameras (and sometimes cameras with flash) are usually banned during shows. If in doubt, call the venue. Most security app checks focus on preventing drugs, weapons, or disruptive items.
Is smoking allowed inside Growlers?
No. Tennessee law bans indoor smoking in bars and restaurants. Growlers enforces this, so you cannot smoke cigarettes or e-cigarettes inside. There is usually space right outside the front door (on the sidewalk or in the parking area) for smoking and vaping between bands or after the show. Just step out if needed.
Is Growlers wheelchair accessible?
The venue has a street-level entrance with no steps, making it generally wheelchair-friendly. The interior is one open floor, so navigating is straightforward. The restrooms and entrance are flat-floor. If you have specific accessibility needs (seating request, etc.), it’s wise to email or call ahead of time. The venue staff will try to assist as needed (for example, they might reserve a front-row space for a wheelchair if notified).
Does Growlers serve food and drinks?
Yes. Growlers operates as a full sports bar with a kitchen, even during concerts. The menu includes pub items like burgers, sandwiches and wings. Customers have reported enjoying the “Philly-Delphia Freedom” steak sandwich, for example (www.mapquest.com ), as well as daily wing specials (often \$1 wings under certain limits) (www.tripadvisor.com ). The bar serves alcoholic beverages, soda and bar snacks. The kitchen typically stays open late (the bar itself is open until 2 AM (www.tripadvisor.com )), so you can order pre-show or intermission.
Do I need an ID to enter Growlers?
Yes. Growlers enforces age restrictions. All guests must be 18 or older to enter on concert nights (www.indieonthemove.com ), and anyone ordering alcohol must be 21+. Bring a government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or passport) to prove your age. The staff checks IDs at the door and also at the bar. Minors are usually not admitted to 18+ or 21+ events.
Is parking available at Growlers?
Growlers has no dedicated parking lot, so parking is on-street or in nearby lots. On-street spots on Poplar and side streets are usually free (and metered). Arrive early to find a spot, as spaces disappear for big shows. There’s also public parking at Overton Park and the adjoining Overton Square; for instance, the nearby BBQ Shop has a free slot area (www.tripadvisor.com ) that people sometimes use. If you park, obey any posted sign-reservations. Many visitors opt for rideshare (drop off on Poplar) to avoid parking hassle.
Does public transit reach Growlers?
Yes. The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) operates buses that serve Poplar Avenue. In particular, routes like MATA #50 stop on Poplar just a few blocks from Overton Park. (Route #11 also runs along Poplar east of Cooper.) Check MATA schedules or a transit app to find the closest stop to 1911 Poplar. A short walk from the bus stop will get you to Growlers. Of course, after shows you can also take a rideshare home from the front door.
Can I bring a camera or record the concert?
Smartphone snapshots are usually okay (many fans film with phones), but professional camera gear (DSLRs, a webcam, video recorder, large lenses, etc.) is typically NOT allowed without prior permission. Flash photography is generally discouraged during performances. Recording video is also frowned upon for copyright reasons. When in doubt, ask the house staff or the performing band. Generally, it’s best to enjoy the show live and put your phone away when the music starts.
What should I wear to Growlers?
Dress is very casual. Most people arrive in jeans, t-shirts, or band shirts. There is no formal dress code. Closed-toe shoes (sneakers or boots) are a good idea for dancing or moshing. Avoid overly fancy or restrictive clothing because you’ll likely be standing and moving. Since the venue can get hot and crowded, light layers are best. You won't need anything elegant – comfort and safety (no sharp accessories) are the priorities here.
How early should I arrive before a show?
Doors at Growlers typically open about 1 hour before showtime. To guarantee a good spot, arrive right when doors open (or even a bit before). If you want front-of-stage standing room, be among the first in line. For less popular shows, arriving 30 minutes before may suffice. Parking and entry can take time, so give yourself at least 45–60 minutes before showtime to grab a drink and find your place on the floor.
What popular specials does Growlers offer?
Growlers often runs drink and food specials. A famously advertised deal is \$1 chicken wings on certain nights (usually with a 10-wing limit) (www.tripadvisor.com ). The bar may have happy-hour pricing on drafts or cocktails before the show. Sometimes they throw in freebies—one reviewer noted they gave out a free drink with a special. Follow Growlers’ social media or ask the bartender about any current promotions; they’re known to reward fans with bargains on food and drinks from time to time (www.tripadvisor.com ).
