About The Pressroom
Built in the 1920s as a warehouse and once home to Phoenix’s most modern printing press, The Pressroom launched in early 2014 as a new mid-size live events venue . Located at 441 W. Madison St. in downtown Phoenix’s Warehouse District until 2021, the brick-and-beam space spans about 14,000 square feet . Its indoor main hall holds roughly 750–1,000 guests (standing) , supplemented by an expansive adjoining outdoor patio for open-air events. The venue originally featured a sleek, industrial-chic interior with high ceilings, exposed brick walls and full-service bars, plus professional audio/visual staging . In fall 2021 the business relocated to Tempe (3125 S. 52nd St) into a much larger 40,000+ sq. ft. warehouse complex to accommodate more concerts and festivals . The Pressroom is owned and operated by local nightlife entrepreneur Narender Raju (also owner of Tempe’s AURA nightclub) .
Events and Programming
The Pressroom is primarily a live music and performing arts space. It hosts a diverse range of genres – from hip-hop, rap and R&B shows to rock, metal, punk, electronic dance music and world music. Notable acts over the years have included regional and national artists: for example, rapper Polo G headlined a scheduled show in January 2021 (before health-regulation issues closed the old venue) , and acts like Ty Dolla $ign performed there in 2017 . The venue’s fall 2021 lineup reflected its variety: hip-hop artists Drakeo the Ruler and rapper HE$H, folk-punk band AJJ, and metalcore band We Came As Romans were all booked . In addition to one-off concerts, The Pressroom often hosts multi-act festivals and specialty nights (for example, the “Full Moon Festival” featuring local bands and vendors) . Aside from music, it can be configured for performances, film shoots or even community gatherings.
Events happen frequently on weekends and several weeknights. Press releases and local listings (venue social pages, ticket sites) announce shows as far as months ahead. Recurring events have included themed dance nights, cultural festivals and even athletics watch parties – the original planning noted it could host everything from sporting event screenings to art exhibitions and prom nights . Typical ticket prices depend on the performer’s draw: small local bands often have $10–$20 cover, mid-level touring acts $25–$50, and major headliners (or festivals) up to $60 or more. Some events offer tiered pricing (general admission plus a limited number of cheaper GA “day of” tickets, or premium VIP packages with back-of-house access). Tickets are sold through official outlets; door sales are sometimes available if the show doesn’t sell out in advance, though popular shows often sell out quickly.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets to The Pressroom’s concerts and events are sold through the venue’s official channels (venue website or box office), as well as authorized primary ticket sellers. Fans should watch the venue’s announcements on social media or mailing lists, which typically reveal on-sale dates. Door sales may open a few hours before an event if tickets remain, but for most concerts it’s safest to buy in advance. For high-demand shows, consider joining any fan club presale or venue newsletter for early access to tickets. Ticket prices vary by act, often in the mid-range for Phoenix (anywhere from roughly $20 for a local opener to $75+ for a touring headliner). Some events offer balcony or table seating at a premium, but The Pressroom is largely general admission floor – so arrive early on the day for best placement. There is a small on-site box office – usually at the venue entrance – which can handle will-call pickups and last-minute sales on event days. Overall, plan to purchase tickets from official sources and arrive early on show day to get through will-call and security quickly.
Seating and Layout
The Pressroom’s layout is an open-floor warehouse style. In the indoor main hall, there is typically no fixed seating – audiences stand on the floor in front of the stage. Occasionally some folding chairs or lounge seating may be set up at the back for certain events, but most crowds stand and dance. Many patrons prefer to stake out a spot early near the stage for an up-close experience; others choose the rear or side areas (there’s often a raised back balcony or loft overlooking the main floor) for a wider view. The sound booth is generally at mid-room or back center – sitting near it (or directly in front of the stage by side walls) can give balanced acoustics. If you prefer less crowding, consider standing along the edges near the bar or patio doors. When weather permits, the large outdoor patio is used too, often with secondary stages or speakers, giving extra space to spread out. Some shows with festival format even use multiple stages (as one patron noted in 2019, “multiple stages and serving areas…outside, there were artists and vendors” ). Watch for balcony railings near the bar or back wall for best sound – though the bass can be felt throughout either way.
Lighting is typically dynamic: the venue’s pro rig includes moving stage lights, strobe effects and often video projections. This industrial space has good vertical clearance (about 15–20 feet), so backline and lighting trusses are high overhead. Expect loud volume and bass – the room is built for rock concerts – and bring earplugs if you plan to stay near the speakers. In general, The Pressroom provides an authentic club atmosphere: darkened lights, neon or LED accents on the brick walls, and energetic visuals around the stage. There are also side lounge or VIP sections elevated above the floor for a more private view (though these are used infrequently, usually for private parties or when reserved by promoters). Acoustically, being a large open space, sound can echo – so standing closer or on hard floor tends to give fuller sound, whereas near bar areas you may hear more reverb.
Getting There and Parking
The Pressroom’s current address is 3125 S. 52nd Street, Tempe, AZ 85282 . This is a few miles east of downtown Phoenix, just south of Elliot Road. By car, it’s right off major freeways: the site has “immediate access to I-10 and US-60” for easy driving . The on-site parking lot is large (the venue occupies about 3 acres) with free general parking — plenty of room even for 100+ cars, according to property listings . On busy show nights, officials may direct overflow cars to additional adjacent lots or nearby side streets. A rideshare (Uber/Lyft) drop-off is safest by entering off 52nd Street at the gated main entrance; have your driver drop you in front of the venue and plan your pickup at the same spot after the show.
Public transit options are more limited. Valley Metro buses run along Elliot Road and Baseline Road: the closest stops are likely a couple blocks north on Elliot at 52nd Avenue for Route 48 or on Baseline for Route 104 (check current schedules). The nearest light rail station is several miles away (e.g. the Mill Avenue/3rd Street Station in Tempe or 44th Street/Washington in Phoenix), so taking a bus or rideshare from an LRT station is usually required. Plan extra travel time if using transit, as service on weekends/evenings can be infrequent. For hotel visitors, note that central Tempe hotels or downtown Phoenix accommodations are a longer cab ride but usually at least 10 minutes due to freeway access. Overall, driving or rideshare will be the most convenient way to reach the Pressroom venue .
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, guests enter through a main lobby. There is a security checkpoint (often just a brief bag check; at big events a walk-through metal detector may be used). Generally small clear bags (up to personal size) are allowed; large backpacks or outside food/drink are prohibited. A coat/locker check may be offered for a small fee on chillier nights. The interior has a full-service bar on the ground level (and sometimes a second bar upstairs), serving a range of cocktails, beer and wine. Since management has a full liquor license , alcoholic beverages are plentiful – but note open container laws if you step outside. If you get hungry, food trucks often park just outside in the lot or patio for Friday/Saturday shows; inside there is typically no kitchen. Restrooms are located toward the back corners of the main hall (one each for men and women) and are maintained regularly; as with many concert halls, lines can form at peak times.
The atmosphere inside is energetic and communal. The interior design retains an industrial vibe: bare brick walls, steel beams and a polished concrete floor. Concert lighting and video screens add color and animation, especially on dance or EDM nights. A merch booth or two is typically set up by the entrance, offering band/artist T-shirts and souvenirs. Wi-Fi is not generally provided for guests, so expect your phone service to be the primary way to share photos or check meetups. Cell coverage inside is usually OK (phones often connect to nearby towers just fine), but if you have trouble there is often better reception near the open patio doors or upstairs balcony outside the sound booth. Overall, The Pressroom aims to feel like a top-tier club: well-staffed, with fast bartenders and professional front-of-house crew, comfortable climate control, and a crowd that spans young night-owl fans to older concert-goers. Staff legend Narender Raju even noted that people often meet future spouses at his venues – underscoring how the space has become part of Phoenix’s live-music community .
Nearby Amenities
The Pressroom’s Tempe location is in an industrial/edge district, so nearby dining and lodging are relatively sparse but accessible. Within a mile you’ll find quick-service restaurants and bars along Elliot Road (for example, Red Robin, Buffalo Wild Wings, Habit Burger or an all-night diner like Denny’s). For more varied options, head west a bit to Baseline Road, which has chain steakhouses and brewpubs. If you have time, downtown Tempe (3–4 miles north on Hardy Drive) offers a lively bar and restaurant scene around Mill Avenue – perfect for a pre- or post-show meal. There are no hotels immediately next door, but several mid-range accommodations lie within a few miles: on Elliot Road the Motel 6 and La Quinta Inn offer budget stays, while a bit farther west you’ll find a Courtyard by Marriott, Holiday Inn Express, and upscale options near ASU’s campus or Scottsdale Border. We recommend arriving early: weeknight traffic around Tempe can build up, and the venue lot fills up soon after doors open. After late shows, rideshare pick-ups are easiest out front on 52nd St; taxis might wait on an outer street. In sum, plan to dine nearby or in Tempe before shows, and if staying overnight book a hotel in southeast Tempe or Phoenix for the shortest commute the next day. Also note Phoenix’s weather: summer nights remain warm, while winter evenings can be cool, so dress accordingly for any walking or outdoor lounging.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Pressroom stands out as Phoenix’s converted-warehouse concert hall with both an indoor club feel and ample outdoor space. Its historic roots (once a 1920s printing warehouse ) give it unique character: you notice the brick, iron braces, and old signs repurposed as art. In its original downtown days it helped revitalize the Warehouse District’s nightlife, offering an “intimate” setting for big-name acts – promoter Danny Zelisko said Phoenix needed a “mid-sized concert venue” like this . The venue quickly became known for eclectic bookings; a beloved hip-hop festival and local cultural showcases have become part of its lore. Even after moving to Tempe, The Pressroom retained its community vibe: it partners with local arts organizations (for example, hosting the city-wide Full Moon Jam festival) and provides rehearsal and event space through its new 3125 Studios complex . Musicians and fans praise its sound quality and layout (one reviewer noted “the sound was great” at a rock show). The dual stage setup (indoor + patio) allows creative production – some events have simultaneous indoor/outdoor sets, with stages on the concrete pad and patio. Overall, The Pressroom is cherished for its versatile space and its rollicking concert history; it has hosted everything from indie up-and-comers to gold-selling rappers, and it’s one of the few places in the valley where you can see heavy metal bands, underground DJs, and international artists under one roof (and sky). Locals appreciate that it’s still independently operated and closely tied to Arizona’s scene, with plenty of Phoenix flavor even after its move to Tempe.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility and ADA: The Tempe facility is a modern warehouse and meets ADA compliance. There are wheelchair ramps at entrances, unisex accessible restrooms, and accessible sightlines (check with staff upon arrival for the best viewing areas). Elevators are not needed – the entire main concert floor is on one level, and outdoor areas are at grade. All spaces (bar, restroom, viewing) are reachable without steps.Arrival and Doors: Most concerts and events advise arriving 30–60 minutes before the posted doors time. This allows time for will-call, bag check, and finding your spot. Note that band lineups (opener start times) can run late into the night, so even if a show is listed as 7pm, the headliner might not appear until much later. If you have specific seat/standing location preferences, arriving early is best. On busy nights, parking lot gate and street lights turn on after dark – follow venue signs for entry.Bags and Cameras: A clear bag or small purse is generally allowed; large backpacks are not. Professional cameras or video equipment are prohibited. Cell phone cameras and small point-and-shoots are fine for personal use. Expect routine security checks; comply with staff instructions for a quick entry. Food and outside beverages cannot be brought inside. If it’s an outdoor event (like Full Moon Festival), you may be able to leave and re-enter to grab a bite at food trucks without going through heavy security again.Age Restrictions: The Pressroom is primarily 18+ when it has alcohol, but all-ages shows do occur (especially festivals or daytime events). If alcohol is being served and an event is 18+, everyone young or old needs ID to verify age. For 21+ nights (often on Friday/Saturday), legally minors are not permitted even with parents. Always check the event’s posted age policy before attending. Light come-and-go is not typical after 21+, so nullify any expectation of sneaking younger companions.Dress Code: Casual attire is standard for concertgoers. There’s no strict dress code – jeans, T-shirts, and sneakers are common. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended (especially if you plan to dance or stand all night). Note Arizona nights can be cool in winter; since some events have an outdoor stage, bring a light jacket. In summer heat, short sleeves are fine but the indoor area is usually air-conditioned.Sound and Comfort: Concert volume is loud, and the indoor hall can be crowded and hot near the speakers. Bring ear protection if needed. There is limited climate control on the open patio, so outdoor events can get warm or chilly depending on season. A hand fan or poncho (for unforeseen rain) are often wise for festival events outside, though rain is rare in Phoenix’s low-rain climate.Coat Check & Restrooms: Coat check is available for a small fee in winter; luggage/storage lockers are not. Restrooms are monitored to stay clean; however, carry your ID at all times as unexpected water fights (just kidding) can happen. Lines for the restroom may form during doors and intermissions – use the others near the entrance bar if the main ones are busy.Food & Drink: Inside, The Pressroom has a bar but no kitchen. Expect typical concert bar prices (drinks around $8–10). Outside food is not permitted, but on big nights you’ll often see food trucks or vendors in the patio area. If attending early, eat beforehand at one of the neighborhood restaurants. (Don’t rely on street vendors unless noted; always keep drink and money secured in your pockets or bags.)VIP and Meetups: There is occasionally a VIP section (usually floor risers at the back or a side lounge) that can be booked for private parties. These ARE clearly marked; most concerts are GA so if you’re not in a VIP ticket, you won’t have assigned seating. Meeting the artist is not typical, but local bands often mingle after shows – check if there’s a wristband or crew-lounge area you can approach. Generally, use the venue’s lobby or patio areas to gather with friends; the stairwell by the soundboard and the upstairs gallery are common vantage points for chatting or phone use.Common Pitfalls: Don’t be late – if a show is sold out, latecomers might not get in. Avoid wearing large accessories that could set off security. People sometimes underestimate walking distance – the lot is large, so park near the entrance or the bar side if you want quicker exit. If crowd surfing or moshing isn’t your thing, stand towards the rear or the outdoor area. And trust venue staff: if they ask for IDs or ticket checks mid-entry, it’s for safety protocols, not to spoil your fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of The Pressroom?
The Pressroom’s original downtown Phoenix location held about 1,000 people standing (750 minimum to sell out) . Its new Tempe facility is much larger (around 40,000 square feet under one roof ), so capacity is significantly higher, though typical concert layouts still run in the low-thousands. For safety reasons the venue cites official numbers on each event’s announcement.
How do I buy tickets and how early do they go on sale?
Tickets are sold through the venue’s official channels and authorized sellers. On-sale dates vary by show; typically tickets for bigger acts go on sale 1–2 months ahead, smaller shows a few weeks ahead. Follow The Pressroom’s announcements (social media or mailing list) to catch the sales. Popular concerts often sell out fast, so it’s wise to buy tickets as soon as they’re available. The box office at the door might offer tickets for little-noticed shows, but don’t count on finding tickets at the door for major events.
Does The Pressroom have assigned seating or is it general admission?
Most events at The Pressroom are general admission, meaning you stand or roam on the main floor. Some concerts may offer a limited number of reserved seats or VIP tables (these are typically noted on the ticket info). There is no fixed stadium seating, so for the best view you should arrive early and enter quickly to claim your spot. If chairs are set up for a special event, that will be announced ahead of time.
What is the seating/viewing layout like?
The main concert hall is one big open floor – essentially a warehouse space. The stage is at one end, with the audience standing on the flat floor. There is often a raised balcony or mezzanine at the back for better sightlines. The outdoor patio can also host performances on a separate stage. Good spots include near the front center for full energy, or mid-to-back if you prefer a bit of distance. Check the entrances: side walls or back areas can offer good acoustics if the floor is packed. Sound is generally loud and clear, especially near the center of the hall.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Pressroom’s Tempe location is ADA-compliant. There are ramps at the entrances and main floor areas, and accessible restrooms are available. The venue staff can guide patrons to the best viewing areas for wheelchair access. Note that outdoor ground is level, but some areas (like balcony) are reached by stairs only. For specific accommodations (like FM lift access), contact the venue in advance.
What is The Pressroom’s address and how do I get there?
The Pressroom’s current address is 3125 S. 52nd Street, Tempe, AZ 85282. It’s on the east side of Phoenix, accessible via Interstate 10 (exit Elliot Rd) or US-60. Free on-site parking is available. If you use public transit, the closest bus stops are on Elliot Road (Valley Metro Routes 48 and 104). There is no light rail stop immediately adjacent, so driving or rideshare is generally easiest. Rideshare drop-off is at the venue entrance on 52nd Street, and taxis or Ubers often wait on nearby streets after shows.
What items are allowed or prohibited inside?
Allowed items typically include small purses, wallets, phones, and clear bags up to a limited size. Prohibited items are outside food/drink, large backpacks, professional cameras, and weapons of any kind. Bringing a small bottle of water might be allowed (policies vary), but the safe bet is to buy drinks inside. Dress code is casual – no formal attire needed, but avoid bulky outerwear since there’s limited cloakroom space. Infectious hazards: the venue enforces health rules, so do not bring masks or gimmicks on stage! (Only masks if required by local mandate.)
What food and drink options are there?
The Pressroom has a full bar inside the main hall serving beer, wine, and cocktails whenever the venue is open. There is no kitchen for hot meals, but on bigger events you’ll often find mobile food vendors outside. Drink prices are standard concert prices (around $8–$10 for beers or simple cocktails). There’s no outside food allowed inside, so eat beforehand or grab a quick bite from a food truck near the lot. If you need snacks, check with the front desk – sometimes they sell packaged items or candy.
Are outside chairs or cameras allowed?
No outside seating (folding chairs, etc.) is permitted inside the concert area – all seating (if provided) is arranged by the venue itself. You’ll stand on the general admission floor. Small personal cameras (phone or point-and-shoot) are usually fine, but professional cameras or video recording devices are not allowed without media credentials. It’s best to assume “no obvious camera gear” unless explicitly stated for a specific event.
Is the venue indoor or outdoor, and what if it rains?
The Pressroom’s main concert space is indoors (a fully enclosed warehouse) with high walls and a fixed roof. It also has large roll-up doors leading to an outdoor patio. Most shows use the indoor space exclusively. If an event incorporates the outdoor patio (often during mild-weather months or for festivals), the promoter will plan for weather. Arizona’s climate is dry, but if rain is forecast, outdoor portions may be relocated inside or rescheduled – check the event status line or social feed for updates. The indoor hall is not affected by rain.
Has The Pressroom’s location changed?
Yes. The Pressroom originally operated in downtown Phoenix (Fourth Ave & Madison) from 2014–2021. Due to a lease termination and redevelopment, the venue moved in September 2021 to a new location at 3125 S. 52nd St. in Tempe . It retained its name and brand, but the Tempe space is larger and opened with a festival event (Full Moon Festival in Sep 2021 ). All current events are now held at the Tempe address.
How can I contact the box office for The Pressroom?
The Pressroom’s box office is on-site at the venue (check for a ticket window near the entrance). Hours depend on event schedules – typically open during show days a few hours before doors. There is no public phone number listed; for questions your best bet is to use the “contact us” on the official venue site or social page. Often the staff is most responsive via social media messages or during events when staff are on hand. If you purchased through a ticket outlet, contact that seller for order issues.
Does The Pressroom have age restrictions or ID requirements?
Most concerts at The Pressroom allow ages 18 and up if alcohol is served (with 21+ ID checks at the bar). Some events are all-ages or 13+ (such as family shows or some festivals), so the posted event details will specify if minors are allowed. When an event is 21+ only, no one under 21 may enter. Always bring valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport) for age verification. For very loud shows, even older teens and adults sometimes bring ear protection, but there is generally no lower-age limit unless advertised.
What transportation options are available?
Driving is the most convenient option. The venue has free parking in its own lot, and rideshare drop-off is at the 52nd St entrance. Taxis or Uber/Lyft are easily accommodated. Public buses (Valley Metro) run along Elliot and Baseline Roads; the nearest bus stops are a short walk away (routes 48 or 104). There is no direct light rail station at the venue. If using transit, plan for a bus ride plus some walking. Most guests from downtown Phoenix simply drive or rideshare via the freeway.
Are there nearby hotels to stay at before/after an event?
There are no hotels immediately adjacent, but there are a few a short drive away. Along Elliot Road (just west of the venue) you’ll find chains like Motel 6 or Residence Inn. A small hotel cluster is about 2–3 miles northwest near US-60/Priest, including Courtyard Marriot and Holiday Inn Express. For more options, downtown Tempe or Scottsdale offer many hotels within 10–15 minutes. If you plan to stay over, book early on show weekends. Remember the local climate: summer nights remain very warm, while winter can get cool, so factor weather into your plans.
