About 123 Pleasant Street
123 Pleasant Street is Morgantown’s long-running live music and nightlife hub, housed in a historic downtown building. It opened as a concert venue in 1998 and quickly became known as “the city’s longest-running and most iconic performance venue” (downtownmorgantown.com ). The intimate hall holds roughly 250 people (www.indieonthemove.com ), creating a cozy, all-ages (mostly 18+) atmosphere. The building itself dates to 1891 (the old “Brick Row” apartment block) and retains vintage features: for example, the main stage room was fully restored with the original high tin ceilings from the 1920s (123pleasantstreet.com ). The layout is distinctive: two full-service bars flank the stage, giving every concert a social barroom feel (wanderlog.com ) (123pleasantstreet.com ) (the downstairs bar is even nicknamed “Jacobs House” after a famous Morgantown architect who once lived there (123pleasantstreet.com )). Patrons and promoters note that 123 Pleasant Street hosts acts of “ALL genres,” from indie-rock and jazz to country and punk, making it a musical cornerstone for the region (downtownmorgantown.com ). In short, 123 Pleasant Street’s mix of vintage architecture (wooden floors, fireplaces high on the walls, exposed brick, decorative facades) and modern PA and touring acts gives Morgantown a uniquely characterful club experience.
Events and Programming
Almost every week brings live music or performance to 123 Pleasant Street. Local, regional and national artists of all styles play here multiple nights a week (downtownmorgantown.com ). Recent lineups have included everything from up-and-coming singer-songwriters to punk rock nights and tribute parties. For example, in 2024 viral country/folk artist Jake Kohn (a 17-year-old YouTuber sensation) performed a sold-out show at 123 Pleasant Street (www.dominionpost.com ). The venue’s children’s hospital benefit jazz jam (Jonah’s Birthday Jam) and student burlesque fundraisers have also been staged here, reflecting the club’s community focus. Apart from bands, the venue regularly hosts comedy open-mics, charity ping-pong fundraisers and even touring theater productions – such as a staging of “White Rabbit Red Rabbit” by a local acting troupe in 2023 (www.dominionpost.com ). The calendar usually advertises cover/entry shows each night; ticket prices are generally modest (often under $15-20) to keep events “affordable,” and cover fees directly support the performers (wanderlog.com ) (www.dominionpost.com ). When big touring bands come through West Virginia, 123 Pleasant Street is often on their route: for decades it’s hosted national acts (in the 1980s underground-rock era it opened shows by legends like Bo Diddley (123pleasantstreet.com )). Recurring themed events are part of its charm too – for example a Halloween Punk Rock Bash and an annual “Taylor Swift Party” tribute have become local traditions. In short, the venue’s programming ranges widely: folk, country, rock, metal, hip-hop fusion, jam bands, punk, ska, electronic DJ sets, dance nights and variety shows have all shared this stage.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets to shows at 123 Pleasant Street are usually sold online (through the venue’s site or affiliated ticket services) and also at the door. The official website (123PleasantStreet.com) lists upcoming events and presale info (www.123pleasantstreet.com ) (123pleasantstreet.com ). Popular shows may sell out, so buying in advance or joining the venue’s email list for early announcements is wise. Many rock and indie shows have $10–15 tickets on the door; larger acts or special productions may run $20 or more. Visitors report that door tickets are often cash-only, though the on-site bars take cards (wanderlog.com ). The door usually opens an hour or so before showtime (often around 9 PM for a 10 PM concert), but exact times vary by event. For sold-out events, secondary-market tickets might exist, but the venue itself has no official resale. The club enforces age limits – most gigs are 18+ (some strictly 21+) – and requires valid ID to gain entry. When planning a visit, check the show listing or call the box office phone to confirm sale times, age rules and whether food/drink minimums or coat checks will apply.
Seating and Layout
123 Pleasant Street is mainly a standing-room venue. There is no assigned seating in the main concert area – it’s a classic corner club floor where people mill around the stage – so choose your spot based on how you like to watch. Many concertgoers stand up front for the best view and sound, while others hang back near the walls or bars for room to move. (One reviewer notes that you can “get as close or far away from the stage as you want, plenty of space” on the floor (wanderlog.com ).) The two bars (the stage-level main bar and upstairs bar area) provide places to sit and socialize between songs. If you prefer a slightly lower-key vantage, the upper bar side offers some table seating and a balcony overlooking the stage. Sound-wise, the PA is strong throughout the hall – visitors describe the acoustics as “fantastic sound quality” (wanderlog.com ), meaning you’ll hear the music clearly from almost any spot. Be aware that the space is intimate and can get crowded, so if you are sensitive to noise you may want to take occasional breaks near the back or outside. There is no formal VIP section, but performers often have a small backstage area (not open to public) and guests typically watch from the same general floor. In short, expect an up-close, energetic view of the action – you can plant yourself at the rail for the full live experience, or relax by one of the two bar service areas with a drink in hand.
Getting There and Parking
123 Pleasant Street’s address is 123 Pleasant St, Morgantown WV 26505 (www.setlist.fm ), right downtown near High Street and Walnut Street. If driving, note that the venue advertises **metered street parking** on Pleasant and nearby blocks (123pleasantstreet.com ). These run the usual downtown rates (typically coins or credit via city parking apps) – bring change or use an app. The Morgantown Parking Authority operates several lot/garage facilities within a block or two; in total there are 2,000+ spaces downtown (downtownmorgantown.com ), so with a short walk you can often find a spot in a city lot or side street. On busy nights these can fill up, so arriving a little early helps. Rideshare/drop-offs are straightforward: cabs and Uber/Lyft drivers will navigate Pleasant Street or High Street, and there’s a curb lane right in front of the venue. For public transit, Morgantown’s Mountain Line bus system serves the downtown area – in fact, multiple routes (e.g. Routes 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, etc.) stop at Pleasant & High Street just a block away (moovitapp.com ). (WVU’s campus bus and PRT do not reach downtown, so regular city buses are the best transit option.) If coming on foot from WVU or Central Morgantown, you’ll walk downhill from woodlawn (High St) through downtown; it’s typically a 10–15 minute stroll from the WVU campus area to 123 Pleasant. In short, the venue is centrally located with plenty of transit and parking nearby, though downtown spots are mostly paid. Check local parking maps or the city lot status before you come.
Inside the Venue
Upon entry you’ll present your ticket or pay the door and receive a wristband if you’re of legal drinking age. Security is usually a quick check of IDs and no large bags; outside food and beverages are not allowed. Inside, the vibe is a lively mix of bar and music hall. You’ll find two bars (one on each side of the stage area) where friendly bartenders serve a full selection of beers, mixed drinks and wine. Several patrons note that the drink menu is extensive and moderately priced (one review praised the “amazing variety of good beer at student prices” (www.tripadvisor.com )). If you’re hungry, the club often offers bar snacks or small plates (and they reportedly partner with a local grill), but the sister restaurant Atomic Grill (based elsewhere in town) is also known to deliver some menu items. There’s typically a coat rack or check service during colder months (staff can advise), and souvenir merchandise tables are set up near the stage during bigger shows, selling band t-shirts and CDs. Restrooms (usually one women’s and one men’s) are located just off the main space – expect a wait on busy nights. Overall, the atmosphere is relaxed and slightly rough-hewn (exposed brick walls, vintage woodwork), with dim colored stage lights. Don’t expect WiFi in the concert area; cell service is variable, but most customers focus on the performance. If you want photos, note that flash photography is usually discouraged, but many fans quietly snap pictures on their phones during songs. Above all, 123 Pleasant Street prides itself on a welcoming, down-to-earth crowd: dress codes are casual (jeans and tees are the norm), and even first-time visitors report that bartenders and staff are “very friendly and knowledgeable” about the music (wanderlog.com ) (wanderlog.com ).
Nearby Amenities
The venue sits in the heart of Morgantown’s Old North End, so you have lots of pre- and post-show options. Immediately next door (on Pleasant) is a popular pub for craft beers, while High Street (just two blocks north) has everything from classic college bars and brewpubs to ethnic eateries. Within a 5–10 minute walk you’ll find restaurants to suit most tastes: for Italian fare, Oliverio’s Ristorante is ad hoc at Clay & High (0.3 mi away) and Iron Horse Tavern (140 High St, ~0.1 mi) offers upscale American fare (www.concerthotels.com ). Casual diners and coffee shops line Walnut Street nearby, and a brewpub or steakhouse is on the next corner. If you need dinner before a show, it’s wise to arrive an hour or two early so you can eat (most venues in Morgantown get busy on weekend nights). For drinks, plenty of bars dot High, Walnut and Spruce streets; after-hours fast-food or late-night diners (like a 24-hr McDonald’s or pizza by the slice) are a short drive away on High Street as well. Lodging is convenient if you want to stay late: the Tapestry by Hilton hotel (345 Chestnut) is just 0.2 miles (about 5 minutes on foot) (www.concerthotels.com ), and the Holiday Inn Express (Morgantown/University ) on Venture Drive is also a few blocks away (www.concerthotels.com ). In all, 123 Pleasant Street is surrounded by a lively entertainment district, so it’s easy to grab a pre-show bite or post-show ride home.
What Makes This Venue Special
123 Pleasant Street isn’t just another bar—it has a rich back-story and local legacy. It traces its roots through Morgantown’s counterculture: in the 1980s it was famously the Underground Railroad bar (a name inspired by civil rights icon Harriet Tubman, whose portrait was painted on the wall as a symbol of equality) (123pleasantstreet.com ). Signs from those days (“Underground Railroad” and later Nyabinghi Dance Hall) are still proudly displayed on the stage-room walls (123pleasantstreet.com ). This history gives the place a real sense of continuity: live-music fans have called it a “true amalgamation of the past, the present, and the future” (123pleasantstreet.com ). Architecturally, it stands out in Morgantown: the vintage tin ceilings, high wooden floors and old brick arches remind visitors they’re in a 1910s-era building, not a cookie-cutter club. Culturally, the venue has been credited with spawning Morgantown’s independent music scene – as one local writer put it, under its founding owner Marsha Ferber “the Morgantown art scene thrived” with bands of all backgrounds enjoying a home base (www.dominionpost.com ). Even today, patrons rave about the friendly vibe and features: one fan proclaims it “the best live music venue in the area,” praising the large open floor, two unique bars, affordable drink prices and attentive staff (wanderlog.com ). Other visitors note the strong sound and lighting rigs (“great setup… including lights” (wanderlog.com )) that give small bands a big-stage feel. In short, people love 123 Pleasant Street for its character – the historic atmosphere, locally-rooted traditions, and embrace of diversity (musical and social) make it more than just a gig hall. It’s a place where locals and outcasts alike feel at home, where legends and newcomers share the same tiny stage, and where every show feels like a neighborhood event.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The main concert floor and stage room are on one level, and TripAdvisor notes the venue is wheelchair accessible (www.tripadvisor.com ). There is an accessible entrance and restroom, though some fixtures are tight on space. Early in the night (before crowds build) is usually easiest for wheelchair seating. What to bring: Valid photo ID (to prove age for alcohol and entry) and your ticket (printed or on mobile). Cash is useful for door pickup (though credit cards are usually accepted at the bar (wanderlog.com )). Small bags are okay, but large backpacks, professional cameras, food/drink or unsealed beverages are not allowed. Coat check may be offered in winter. Dress: The vibe is laid-back – jeans, band tees and casual tops work fine. Wear comfortable shoes for standing and dancing. Since the club often gets crowded and loud, you might bring earplugs if you’re sensitive. Age & ID: Nearly every event is 18+ (some special shows are 21+). IDs are checked at entry and patrons 21+ often get a wristband or mark on their hand for alcohol service (www.tripadvisor.com ). Anyone underage should expect only non-alcoholic options. Arrival: Plan to arrive a bit early, especially for sold-out or 18+ shows – lines can form and popular bands pack the room. Doors are usually around 9 PM for a typical 10 PM concert, but check your event’s start time. During the show: You can move around freely – there are no assigned seats – so stake out a spot where you feel comfortable. If you need a break, you can step outside or hang near the bar. Barstools line the walls, but most people stand. Be polite in the crowd; friendly mosh pits happen on rowdier nights but there’s rarely any trouble. Cell service: Signal can be spotty during big shows, so send Lyft requests or photos in small bursts. The bartenders are usually happy to take your orders at the bar or windows. COVID/Health: (As of 2025) normal indoor precautions are in place – hand sanitizer is available, and bands/management may require masks for staff or unvaccinated guests depending on health guidelines. Check the venue’s social media or ticketing info for any current policies before you go. Other mistakes to avoid: Don’t expect fine dining inside – food is basic bar fare. Don’t arrive late to an 18+ show without ID (they will literally mark your hand or deny you). And don’t try to stand on the stage – security will quietly move you. Follow the house rules, tip your bartenders, respect the band’s setup, and you’ll have a great time. With its friendly staff, eclectic crowd, and memorable history, 123 Pleasant Street rewards visitors who appreciate it as not just a club but a Morgantown institution.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of 123 Pleasant Street?
The club is fairly small and intimate. Industry listings put its capacity at about 250 people (www.indieonthemove.com ), making for a very up-close concert experience rather than a huge arena. This low capacity helps explain why many shows sell out quickly.
How do I buy tickets for shows?
Tickets are usually sold online via the venue’s official website or affiliated vendors, and often at the door if a show isn't sold out. Check 123PleasantStreet.com (or its social media) for the latest on ticket sales and onsale dates (www.123pleasantstreet.com ) (www.dominionpost.com ). For popular gigs, ordering early is best; otherwise you can usually pay cash or card at the door until capacity is reached. Many fans report door sales are cash-only, so bringing exact change is handy. If an event is sold out, there’s no official resale, so avoid any shady touts.
What are typical ticket prices?
Ticket prices vary by show, but the club is known for staying affordable. Small local or regional acts might be $5–10 at the door. Larger national acts or full productions often run $15–20. Reviewers consistently note that “ticket prices are always affordable” for this venue (wanderlog.com ). Specialty events (wrestling nights, fundraisers, etc.) are usually $10–15 as well. Cover charges typically go to the performers, so you’re directly supporting the band.
Are shows 18+ or 21+?
Most concerts at 123 Pleasant Street are 18+ (you must be at least 18 years old) (123pleasantstreet.com ). Some special events (particularly ones with heavier drinking or evening dance shows) might be restricted to 21+. Always check the gig listing: it will clearly say “18+” or “21+”. At the door, expect ID checks and often a wristband or hand stamp for those 21 and over (www.tripadvisor.com ).
What’s the venue layout and seating?
123 Pleasant Street has a simple layout: a rectangular performance room where the audience typically stands. There are two full bars (one on each side near the stage) and usually a few bar stools around the edges, but most people stand. There is no reserved or numbered seating. You can roam the open floor or linger by a bar. A few stools/banquettes might be available upstairs or along the walls if you want to sit. In short, viewing is general admission (standing). If you prefer a more relaxed spot, consider standing at the back or near one of the bars where you can still see and hear comfortably.
Where should I park?
Street parking in downtown Morgantown is metered; there are spaces on Pleasant and nearby side streets. Have change or a parking app ready. The city also operates garages and lots within a few blocks (in total 2,000+ downtown spaces (downtownmorgantown.com )), so you can often park in a lot (e.g. Woodburn Street or University Avenue garages) and walk. On evenings, nearby lots may charge a fee. Rideshare drop-off is convenient right at the club’s door as well. Remember meters enforce until evening on weekends – pay close attention to sign rules when you park.
Can I take public transit there?
Yes. The Mountain Line Transit buses have a downtown stop at High & Pleasant (just one block from 123 Pleasant) served by several routes (for example, Routes 2, 4, 8, 12, 16 among others) (moovitapp.com ). If you live in Monongalia County or are coming from WVU, these buses run regularly into the early evening. (Note: WVU’s PRT system does not go here.) Plan via the Mountain Line schedule or apps like Moovit to pick a route that stops at or near High & Pleasant Street.
Is 123 Pleasant Street wheelchair accessible?
The venue is generally wheelchair accessible on the main floor. The entryway and stage room are on one level, and TripAdvisor confirms it is marked as wheelchair-accessible (www.tripadvisor.com ). There are ramps/doors to the street and a single-floor layout. (Some older buildings sometimes have narrow restroom doors, so an attendant can assist if needed.) If you have specific accessibility needs, calling ahead for details is always a good idea.
Are backpacks or cameras allowed?
Small bags are usually fine, but large backpacks or luggage are discouraged (staff may ask you to hold them or put them in a coat check). Professional camera equipment (large DSLRs, video cameras) typically isn’t allowed without press credentials. Point-and-shoot cameras and smartphones are allowed, but flash photography can be frowned upon on stage. Always listen to any security announcements about photography – they usually only ban flash or tripods. Recording audio from the floor is not permitted by club policy.
What food or drinks are available?
There are two fully-stocked bars serving beer, wine and cocktails; a wide range of domestic and craft beers are on tap or bottled. One review highlights the “amazing variety of good beer at student prices” (www.tripadvisor.com ). Snacks or basic bar food (fries, burgers, wings, etc.) are often available. The club also has a relationship with a local grill and can sometimes serve its menu items or pizzas if you’re hungry. Outside food/drink is not allowed inside the venue.
Are tickets sold at the door and what payment is accepted?
For most shows you can buy tickets at the door until the event is sold out. Bring cash if possible: many reports say door tickets (especially smaller shows) are cash-only, though the bar takes cards (wanderlog.com ). If tickets have been sold in advance on a website, you’ll need to arrive early to pick them up or show your confirmation. The bar will accept credit/debit for drinks.
What should I wear to a show?
Casual clothing is fine. Most people wear jeans, T-shirts, hoodies, concert tees, or other relaxedwear. Good walking shoes or sneakers are recommended since you’ll likely stand for hours. Note that it can get quite warm inside during full shows, so layers are wise. There is no formal dress code – in fact, one local praised the club as a down-to-earth “gastro pub” atmosphere (www.tripadvisor.com ) where everyone from students to longtime locals feels comfortable.
Are there age restrictions on the bars?
Yes. To order alcohol at the bars, you must be 21+. All patrons 21 and over are marked (often with a wristband or hand stamp) so bartenders can easily check age (www.tripadvisor.com ). Under-21 guests can still attend most shows (since most events are 18+) but will be limited to non-alcoholic drinks. Expect ID checks at entry and at the bar after you’re inside.
What time should I arrive?
Doors usually open about an hour before showtime (often 8-9 PM for a 9-10 PM concert). It’s smart to arrive early if possible, especially for popular shows. The line outside can get long before sold-out shows, and the venue fills up quickly. If you need a good spot close to the stage, give yourself at least 30–60 minutes to queue up after doors open. Also arriving early gives you time to grab drinks or food beforehand.
Can I bring in outside food or drinks?
No. Outside food and beverages (including water bottles) are not permitted in the venue. This is a standard policy at 123 Pleasant Street. There are snack and drink options inside, and staff will typically offer a bottle of water for sale at the bar if asked.
Is smoking allowed inside?
No. West Virginia law bans smoking inside public places like music venues. 123 Pleasant Street is a non-smoking facility. Smoking (vapes included) must be done outside on the street or alleys away from the entrance. Many people crowd outside for a cigarette break between sets, but try to be mindful of neighbors when you do.
What is the parking cost?
Street meters downtown typically run $0.50–$1 per hour (check the posted rates). Many nearby garage/lot spaces are also paid: expect $1–$2 per hour as well. If you’re only there for an evening concert, a $5–$10 flat rate in a lot is common. No free overnight parking is available. It’s best to carry some coins or a phone payment app for the meters.
What is the venue’s capacity, and is it usually standing room?
The capacity is around 250 (www.indieonthemove.com ). The space is mostly general admission standing-room only. You can stand anywhere on the floor or take a seat at one of the bar counters. There isn’t a balcony or fold-down seating. If you prefer to sit, grab one of the few bar stools near the walls, but otherwise plan to stand or dance to see the show.
