Events at Public Arts, New York

About Public Arts

Public Arts is a cutting-edge multi-level performance space and night club in New York City’s Lower East Side. It occupies the basement of Ian Schrager’s PUBLIC Hotel (at 215 Chrystie St (www.screenslate.com)), which was designed by Herzog & de Meuron and opened in 2017 (whitewall.art) (www.publichotels.com). The venue is described as “a progressive, avant-garde dance club and multimedia performance space” (www.publichotels.com), with a full lighting rig and concert-quality sound. Promotional copy even touted it as “the first new idea since Studio 54 forty years ago,” setting high expectations for its cultural role (www.hotel-online.com). In practice, the hotel paired top nightlife veterans with innovative designers: owners Matt Kliegman and Carlos Quirarte (of downtown restaurant The Smile) collaborated with Schrager to realize this unusual club/gallery hybrid (www.gq.com). From the start it has been positioned as a high-energy venue where fine art and dance-nightlife meet. In fact, its debut party in June 2017 featured a surprise performance by rock icon Patti Smith (whitewall.art), signaling the space’s creative ambitions. Public Arts spans roughly 3,117 square feet (with 18-foot ceilings) (www.publichotels.com) and can hold around 300–350 people in standing reception mode (about 150 in a seated theater layout). Signature features include movable stage sections, rolling theater risers and stowable sofas (www.gq.com). Guests often comment on the sleek decor and dynamic atmosphere – Elle Décor even called it “an alternative universe” – and the glass-like black walls reflect the club’s upscale, modern vibe (www.publichotels.com) (www.gq.com). In short, Public Arts is a deliberately unconventional space: part nightclub, part repertory theater, part art gallery, all under one roof and aimed at bringing an inclusive “new luxury” cultural experience to Manhattan (www.hotel-online.com) (www.publichotels.com).

Events and Programming

Public Arts hosts an eclectic mix of events year-round. The venue regularly runs dance and DJ nights (the resident DJs spin everything from house and disco to hip-hop and global beats) alongside live performances in music, theater, and dance. According to press materials, the space is built for “film screenings, theatrical and dance productions, intimate musical performances, art exhibitions, lectures, talks, readings, product launches, and] comedy and ... hot, sweaty dancing” ([www.hotel-online.com). In practice this means you might attend anything from an indie rock concert or experimental play to a late-night dance party or curated art show. For example, one of Public Arts’ early highlights was a site-specific nightclub production called *Carmen: To Havana & Back*, which reimagined the opera’s story in a 1950s Cuban cabaret format (medium.com). They have also launched collaborative series and theme nights: in 2018 pop singer Parson James hosted a “SugarCube” event series at Public Arts (www.insidehook.com). Even in its first year the space drew major names – GQ noted that by late 2017 people whispered “Public Arts is the only place to be on Tuesday and Thursday nights” in town, and owners credit bookings by artists like A$AP Rocky as proof of its early buzz (www.gq.com) (www.gq.com). Bottom line, the event calendar is diverse. You will typically find multiple events each week, with DJ dance parties on weekdays and weekends and the occasional ticketed show (play, comedy, or concert) as well. Many events are open-format parties with general admission, while special performances often require advance tickets.

Ticket prices at Public Arts vary by event. Club-by-committee or themed nights often carry a cover charge (typically in the \$20–\$40 range), whereas fully staged performances or immersive shows can run much higher. For instance, the *Carmen* production in 2018 was priced around \$99–150 per ticket (medium.com), reflecting its theatrical scale. By contrast, regular DJ nights may be free entry before a set time or just a modest fee at the door. The venue’s marketing stresses affordability within a “wealth of experience” – mini luxuries at moderate cost – but you should always check the specific event details for exact pricing. Cutting-edge arts events and private functions at Public Arts (such as film premieres or branded parties) can also have VIP or table packages at premium rates, but these are usually managed through the hotel’s private-events desk. When planning a visit, always look for announcements on the hotel’s official site or major NYC event listings and buy tickets as early as possible, since popular shows often sell out.

Tickets and Booking

Most Public Arts events sell tickets online well in advance. Check the PUBLIC Hotel’s official calendar or subscribe to their newsletter for announcements (some events even offer presales to email subscribers or loyalty members). When a show is announced, tickets typically go on sale immediately. For major performances, you should purchase ahead to guarantee entry. For routine club nights, you may also be able to buy at the door, but be prepared for a cover charge and possible line. The hotel has a small box office/Will Call desk for ticket pickup – usually located by the lobby – but very late arrivals risk missing out if the night is sold out. If buying online, use only official channels (the hotel’s site or authorized platforms) to avoid scalpers. As a rule of thumb: locked-in fans recommend arriving early anyway (at least 30–60 minutes before showtime) so you can skip the longer lines and be guaranteed your spot.

Ticketing prices vary widely. A headline concert or special performance can command anywhere from \$50 up to over \$100 (medium.com) (for example, a full theatrical show ran about \$100–150). In contrast, thematic club nights often cost only a modest cover (\$20–\$40). Box office sales accept major credit cards or cash, and you will need a valid ID if the event is 21+ (which most are once it gets late). If a show offers tiered seating (reserved chairs, mezzanine tables), those may be sold as separate ticket types. Some evenings also have a free or discounted period early in the night (check the event posting). In short, buy tickets through official sources and early, especially for weekends or big-name acts. If you have questions about a specific event or refund policies, call the Public Hotel concierge or event hotline listed on the ticketing page. They handle all Public Arts ticketing inquiries, as on-site personnel at the venue are focused on door security and safety.

Seating and Layout

Public Arts is primarily a general-admission space with flexible seating. The main floor (about 3,117 sq. ft. (www.publichotels.com)) is typically an open dance floor with a bar and bench seating along the sides. Performance nights may bring in temporary seating: the venue is equipped with movable risers that can roll out from the walls, providing up to around 150 theater-style seats for film screenings or staged shows (www.fisherdachs.com) (www.gq.com). Otherwise, the built-in banquettes and leather sofas along the perimeter offer lounge-style seating. Above the main room is a mezzanine level (with about an 8-foot height clearance (www.publichotels.com)) that wraps around three sides. The mezzanine has tufted velvet walls and small private nooks – great for a second-level view of the action below, or for groups who want a booth. In events with general admission, standing room on the mezzanine and floor is all unassigned.

For club nights, the best viewing spot is the center front of the dance floor (near the DJ or stage) – here you’ll feel the music and be in the thick of the crowd. If you prefer a break from the frenzy, head to the mezzanine or corner banquettes: these overlook the scene and have easier-to-access seating (but note they are farther from the loudspeakers). Booths along the side walls have good sightlines if the performers are on the opposite side, but can be awkward if the stage is up close or if you’re looking for more ventilation. As with any venue, avoid standing directly under any hanging lights or near stairwells if possible – they can obstruct views. In short, for an immersive experience be on the dance floor; for a relaxed view, the mezzanine provides an excellent vantage point. (Acoustically, the system is top-notch (www.publichotels.com), so nearly every area gets clear, loud sound. If you’re sensitive to noise, bring earplugs – the bass can be powerful near the speakers.)

Getting There and Parking

Public Arts is located at 215 Chrystie Street in Manhattan (Lower East Side) (www.screenslate.com). It is easily reached by subway or bus: the F train (to Delancey/Houston) and the J/M/Z trains (to Essex/Delancey) both stop within a block or two. Several downtown buses (like the M14A on Houston Street or M21 on Chrystie) also serve the area. Ground transportation is straightforward: if you’re arriving by taxi or rideshare, ask the driver to drop you on Chrystie near Houston or Stanton. The Public Hotel’s entrance faces Chrystie, so you might see a line outside on busy nights. (There is no valet, but there may be a designated rideshare pickup lane just off Chrystie.)

If driving, note that there is no on-site parking for Public Arts. Street parking in the LES is very limited and usually metered or for residents. Several pay garages are within walking distance – for example, a large iPark lot at 44 Elizabeth Street or ParkRight on Ludlow Street (both about 2–3 blocks away) – but expect to pay \$30 or more. Most neighborhood garages charge similar rates after 7:00 PM. Because of this, and the ease of mass transit in Manhattan, most visitors choose subway, taxi, or rideshare over driving. Walking from the subway: from Essex St (J/M/Z) it’s just one block east on Delancey then north on Chrystie; from Houston/Delancey (F) it’s one block north on Chrystie. All entrances to Public Arts are at street level, with the private club door marked as “Artspace/Public” on Chrystie.

Inside the Venue

Expect a nightclub atmosphere inside Public Arts. After waiting in line, you’ll pass a standard security check and show ID if required (most evening shows are 21+). Once inside, you’ll find a dimly lit, black-walled space with the DJ booth or stage at one end. The decor is spare and modern – often accented with projections or art installations that change with each show. There is a full bar serving cocktails, beer, and wine (the drink menu tends toward creative signature cocktails and select liquor), as well as a small food menu during longer events (some nights even have appetizers or snacks courtesy of Public Kitchen, the hotel’s in-house restaurant). If you’d like a full meal, consider visiting Public Kitchen by Jean-Georges before the show (it’s in the hotel lobby). The bathrooms are down a hallway inside and usually gender-separated; they are functional (not glitzy) but kept clean. A attended coat check is typically available near the entrance (often for a nominal fee), which you should use in cold weather due to the very full crowds.

The atmosphere will be lively and energetic. Music is loud, so conversations have to be close – it’s common to raise your voice. Phones and social media aren’t actively prohibited, but most guests let the show or music play without big camera rigs. (Bright phone screens can be distracting in the dark, so you may see announcements for phone-free segments during art performances.) The space does have Wi-Fi: the hotel boasts “c it𝓐 is the entire hotel, so your phone should work normally even in the basement (www.hotel-online.com). Plan to carry a phone, cash/credit (for drinks) and your ID at all times. Public Arts is usually very crowded after the first hour; if you want room to move, arrive early. Lastly, the venue may enforce dress norms depending on the event. For example, attendees of the Cuban-themed “Carmen” show were asked to dress in 1950s Havana attire and specifically told “no jeans, t-shirts, sneakers, etc., dress to impress” (medium.com). In general, a stylish or smart-casual outfit is a safe bet – jeans and sneakers are almost always allowed at the bar or entry, but upscale themes might be turned away if inappropriate.

Nearby Amenities

Public Arts sits in a vibrant neighborhood. Directly above you is the PUBLIC Hotel itself, which offers dining and nightlife options. Its lobby-level restaurant, Public Kitchen (by chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten), serves dinner and cocktails and is a popular pre-show spot. The hotel also has a rooftop bar/lounge with panoramic views (PH-D or “The Roof”), which some guests visit before or after club nights (though hours vary by season). In the surrounding Lower East Side you’ll find countless other bars and eateries. For a quick bite before the event, try a classic slice or a casual cafe nearby – Katz’s Deli and its famous pastrami sandwiches is only a few blocks up on Houston. For something trendier, there’s an upscale pizza place and bar in the hotel, plus many new restaurant concepts on Ludlow and Orchard Streets. (If you want a full dinner reservation, do it well in advance, as LES restaurants can book up for nightlife crowds.) After your time at Public Arts, taxis and the subway are readily available; the area is well-served by nighttime services. If you need a hotel, Public itself has rooms – otherwise note that several other boutique hotels are in the LES, including The Ludlow and Orchard hotels. Rideshare and taxi options are plentiful on Chrystie Street into the early morning.

What Makes This Venue Special

What truly sets Public Arts apart is its hybrid identity. On one hand it’s a rock-and-roll nightclub with DJs and dance floor, but on the other hand it’s run like an experimental performance space. Few venues in the world combine clubbing with theater-level production values in this way. In fact, media coverage has highlighted that ambition: one tech press called it “Manhattan’s answer to BAM” (the Brooklyn Academy of Music) (www.hotel-online.com), while others have compared it to a 21st-century Studio 54. The term “Public Arts” reflects Schrager’s new PUBLIC brand – it’s essentially the hotel’s own cultural stage. Because of this pedigree, many creative professionals (artists, dancers, musicians) and nightlife influencers are drawn here. Acts like Patti Smith, A$AP Rocky and cutting-edge DJs have graced its stage (whitewall.art) (www.gq.com), adding to its reputation. The décor and layout also feel special: unlike a typical bar, the interiors were designed to transform completely with each event, so it never feels stale. In a city full of well-known music halls and theaters, Public Arts stands out for being both intimate (rolling up on a random Tuesday can feel as fun as a Friday) and high-concept. Locally it has become part of the LES cultural renaissance – a place where both “artists and audiences” mingle, as the hotel intended. For performers, the space offers professional-level lighting/sound in a non-traditional format; for audiences, it offers the excitement of discovery. In short, Public Arts is special because it blurs the boundary between art exhibit and nightlife party, giving both audiences and artists something uniquely hybrid. (www.hotel-online.com) (www.gq.com)

Visitor Tips and Information

– Accessibility: The main Public Arts space is on the basement level, so if you need a wheelchair or have limited mobility, contact the venue ahead of time. The event notes themselves advise disabled patrons to arrange assistance in advance (medium.com). The PUBLIC Hotel is ADA-compliant and has elevators to the lobby, but the stairs down to the club may pose a challenge. – ID and Age: Most events after evening are 21+ (due to alcohol sales), so bring a valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport). Some early-evening or special events may be open to 18+, but always check the specific event details. If in doubt, err on the side of expecting a 21+ policy. – Dress and Etiquette: There is no strict uniform dress code, but guests usually dress fashionably. Weekends and performance nights often see stylish casual or “club attire.” Dress up at least a notch – very casual clothes and athletic wear are normally okay at the lounge, but may be discouraged during fancy shows. – What to Bring: Carry only the essentials. Bring your ticket (print or mobile), ID, and a small bag. Large backpacks or metal objects will likely be disallowed in security. If you plan to dance, wear comfortable shoes – it can be a sweaty environment. Also consider earplugs if you are sensitive to loud bass. – Prohibited Items: Outside food and drinks are not permitted. Weapons, illegal substances, and professional camera/video gear are also banned. Phones and point-and-shoot cameras are generally allowed, but flash photography or blocking walkways can be frowned upon. Check the event details – some shows prohibit phones during the performance. – Arrival Time: Plan to arrive 30–60 minutes before the event. Doors often open at least a half-hour prior (larger productions may open an hour early). Latecomers risk being denied entry, especially if seating is assigned or if capacity limits have been reached. – Seating: For reserved or theater-style shows, guests are usually seated on a first-come (or ticketed) basis. For open events, no seats are guaranteed – get there early to claim a spot near the front or your favorite booth. – Coat Check: A coat check is provided (usually for a small fee like \$5) during colder months – don’t skip it if you brought a sweater or jacket. – Photography: If you want photos, do so discreetly. Many guests enjoy Instagramming the space, but during performances (especially theatrical ones) you may be asked to refrain. – Connectivity: The hotel offers free, high-speed Wi-Fi throughout – you’ll likely have service for music apps, messaging, and ride-share physics even below ground (www.hotel-online.com). – Safety: The LES is generally safe, but use common sense late at night. Public transit is available until 2 AM on weekdays (later on weekends), and rideshares run 24/7. Taxis can often be flagged on Chrystie Street. Always keep an eye on your belongings in the crowd and drink responsibly. Following these tips will help you focus on the experience itself: enjoying art and dance at one of New York’s most innovative new performance venues.

Frequently Asked Questions