About 1200 S 7th St
1200 S 7th St is home to the Old Rock House, an independent live-music venue in downtown St. Louis’s historic Soulard district. It occupies a beautifully restored early-20th-century brick building, spanning roughly 6,000 square feet on three levels (ground floor, balcony, and patio) www.ticketfairy.com . The venue’s name honors an 1818 limestone riverside tavern (the “Old Rock House”) that once stood by the Mississippi, a haunt of steamboat captains and even Mark Twain www.ticketfairy.com . Today’s Old Rock House blends that riverboat-era history with modern design: patrons enjoy vaulted ceilings, exposed brick walls and string lighting, plus skyline views that include the Gateway Arch www.ticketfairy.com . It feels like an old tavern with a pro-level setup – for example, it has a roughly 22-ft-wide stage with state-of-the-art sound, lighting and video systems www.ticketfairy.com . The room’s atmosphere is intimate and warm, yet fully equipped for rock concerts and dance nights. Capacity is on the order of a few hundred people (around 300 at full load) www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com , making it a mid-sized club known for a lively yet community-focused vibe.
Events and Programming
Old Rock House hosts live shows almost every week, ranging from indie rock and Americana to blues, folk and alt-country www.ticketfairy.com . The club’s calendar routinely features regional bluegrass and folk acts, touring rock bands, singer-songwriters, punk nights, themed dance parties (80’s or college-rock throwbacks), and even late-night DJ sets. In recent seasons the lineup has spanned genres: for example, blues guitarists like Grammy-winner Tab Benoit, country/Americana groups like The SteelDrivers, folk singers like Owen Temple, punk bands and reggae artists have all headlined www.ticketfairy.com . The venue also hosts tribute-band gigs and local cover nights. Shows typically kick off around 8:00 PM (with doors at 7:00) www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com . Ticket prices vary by artist: club concerts for local or regional bands usually run in the mid-teens to mid-$30s, while higher-profile headliners can be $40–$60 or more www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com . Since the program is eclectic, you might find anything from singer-songwriter folk nights and jam-band sets, to hard-rock gigs and themed dance parties. The venue maintains a very full schedule; in busy years it can host hundreds of shows a year, especially in the Fall and Spring when touring acts and local events pack the calendar.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Old Rock House shows are primarily sold online through the venue’s official site (etix-powered) www.ticketfairy.com . The website lists all scheduled events and links to buy tickets. On show nights, the box office at 1200 S. 7th St opens around 7:00 PM, so you can often purchase remaining tickets at the door www.ticketfairy.com . It’s wise to buy early for popular acts, since many shows sell out quickly www.ticketfairy.com . The venue announces presales and on-sale dates via its mailing list and social media, so signing up or following them is a good strategy for advance notice www.ticketfairy.com . There are no formal assigned seating tiers – most shows are general admission – but some events offer optional upgrades (e.g. early entry passes or a limited balcony-fast lane) depending on demand. In line with industry trends, local students and fans often watch for presale codes or local radio giveaways. General ticket prices typically range from about $15 to $35 for most concert nights www.ticketfairy.com , with big-name or all-ages events occasionally topping $60. Note that all-ages shows allow anyone to attend, but the bar is 21+; children under 4 get in free, while age 4 and up require a ticket www.ticketfairy.com . Also, keep in mind some acts play at the venue’s companion location (The Sovereign); this guide covers only 1200 S 7th (Old Rock House).
Seating and Layout
Old Rock House is mainly a standing-room club. The performance space includes a 22’×13’ raised stage and a sizable dance floor out front www.ticketfairy.com . Spectators can stand on the ground level near the stage (ideal for full-volume mingling with the band) or watch from the raised balcony in the back. The balcony is a mezzanine with scattered seating – it has tables, bar stools and couches overlooking the stage www.ticketfairy.com . There is no reserved seating, so all spots (floor or balcony) are first-come, first-served www.ticketfairy.com . If you want a chair, arrive early: the limited seating up top fills up before doors close. The line of sight is fairly open, with a few wall-mounted TVs to help latecomers viewing from the sides or back www.ticketfairy.com . Reviewers often note the venue’s impressive acoustics – sound coverage is even throughout the room www.ticketfairy.com – so almost any location still offers good sound. In practice, standing near center-slab of the floor or at the base of the stairs to the balcony gives the best mix of stage proximity and sound. Along the sides or back there’s more elbow room but you may be farther from the speakers. The club also extends beyond the main hall: there’s an open-air patio on the side for smoking or breaks, a couch lounge area by the bars, and even a downstairs back room used for private events or overflow www.ticketfairy.com . All told, the flexible layout means you can dance in the crowd, chill in the balcony lounge, or step outside on the patio between songs.
Getting There and Parking
Old Rock House is at 1200 S. 7th Street in downtown St. Louis (zip 63104), right on the north edge of the Soulard neighborhood. It’s just a block south of Busch Stadium and a short walk from the Gateway Arch grounds www.ticketfairy.com . Major highways I-55 and I-64 both have exits near 3rd Street, making it an easy drive from most parts of the metro area. Relative to downtown, parking is generous: the venue owns a free parking lot immediately behind the building and a second free lot across Hickory Street www.ticketfairy.com . (Note: on big event nights – especially if the Cardinals are playing – the Hickory lot may fill up or be closed off; the rear lot usually stays open.) In any case, visitors often find parking on nearby streets and in other nearby public lots (for example, lots around Soulard Market) www.ticketfairy.com . Several online reviews even mention “free parking” just around the club. For drop-offs, 7th Street is easy to access by taxi or rideshare, with Soulard’s local high-capacity cab stands just a block away. City buses also serve the area: MetroBus routes #10, #30 and #73 have stops within a block or two of 1200 S 7th www.ticketfairy.com . The MetroLink light-rail’s nearest stations are Civic Center and Convention Center (on Washington Ave, about a 15-minute walk north); you can exit there and take a short bus or taxi south to Soulard. After late-night shows, Uber/Lyft and local taxis queue up along 7th Street. Since buses slow service after 10–11 PM, most visitors leave by car or rideshare at night. In short, you can reach Old Rock House by car, taxi or bus easily, and plan on arriving early to snag the outdoor lots or street parking on busy nights.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, guests go through a quick security screening (bags are searched) and ticket scan at the entrance. Inside is an open, loft-like concert hall. On the ground floor you’ll find one or more full-service bars (accepting cash or card) and a kitchen window for snack orders www.ticketfairy.com . The menu typically includes classic bar fare: sliders, wings, nachos, sandwiches, fries, etc. www.ticketfairy.com . Another bar is located upstairs on the balcony level, which overlooks the main floor and stage. www.ticketfairy.com Restrooms are available on both levels (no long treks for breaks). The staff is known to be friendly and efficient – reviews praise short drink lines and common-sense pricing. Despite a packed crowd, the venue never feels oppressively hot or loud; the 30-foot ceilings and open design keep it airy www.ticketfairy.com . There is also an outdoor patio off to the side, which provides a spot to step out for fresh air or a cigarette (smoking is only allowed there by law) www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com . Inside is strictly smoke-free, as required by city ordinance. The venue offers small extras for comfort: for example, a coat check is available at the front door for a nominal fee if you need to store jackets www.ticketfairy.com . Cell phone reception is generally reliable throughout (you can check set times or post to social easily). Note also the house policies: outside food or drink is not allowed (again, state law keeps it a closed-bar setup) www.ticketfairy.com , and the club prohibits professional cameras or audio recording during shows www.ticketfairy.com . Casual cell-phone snapshots (and social media shares) are fine, but no pro photo or sound gear without permission. Overall, the mood inside is laid-back and social: fans often mingle at the bar or patio between sets. The only caution is for minors: anyone under 21 who steps outside (even to the patio) cannot re-enter; plan accordingly for smoke breaks or late arrivals www.ticketfairy.com . Otherwise, you can relax – the vibe is more friendly neighborhood bar than corporate capital. Most nights you’ll find people in jeans or casual attire, chatting over brews and enjoying the live music energy www.ticketfairy.com .
Nearby Amenities
Old Rock House sits in Soulard, one of St. Louis’s oldest neighborhoods, so there’s plenty around for before- or after-show entertainment. A few blocks east (on S. 7th & Russell) is the famous Soulard Farmers Market complex, which houses quick bites and foods – pizza, sandwiches, ice cream, etc. – perfect for a pre-show snack www.ticketfairy.com . Within easy walking distance are many restaurants: Irish fare at 9 Irish Brothers, global vegetarian at Sleepy Poet Bar & Eats, classic American brunch at Soulard City Diner, Texas-style barbecue at Twisted Tree, and more pubs. A couple of well-known BBQ joints are nearby too – for example, the Boogaloo BBQ at the Lemp Mansion just a few blocks north on 7th, or Rotie’s BBQ a short drive away www.ticketfairy.com . For a sit-down dinner, you can also wander into nearby Lafayette Square or Downtown in minutes. After dinner, Soulard’s nightlife is lively – popular bars like Brendan’s, Celtic Bank, and the Budweiser Brewpub stay open late on weekends, making it easy to keep the party going www.ticketfairy.com . If you need a place to stay, several hotels are only a short ride away: downtown hotels like the Drury Plaza at Union Station, the Hilton at Ballpark, and the Westin St. Louis (8th & Pine) are all less than a mile from the club www.ticketfairy.com . Budget-friendly options (Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn, etc.) are also close by. In short, this part of Soulard is packed with food and drink options, so most visitors plan to eat and park nearby well before or after a show. One tip: plan your ride home ahead of time – taxis and rideshares will be waiting, but buses taper off after 10–11 PM www.ticketfairy.com .
What Makes This Venue Special
Old Rock House stands out for its authentic character and local roots. The space feels like a “beautifully restored” 19th-century tavern, complete with historic ambiance www.ticketfairy.com . Walls are decorated with murals, artifacts and old photos from the original Rock House era, genuinely reminding fans of the site’s legendary past www.ticketfairy.com . Its Soulard neighborhood adds to the charm: streetcars rumble by, and locals often drop in on off-nights, giving the place a friendly, community feel. The venue’s cultural significance is often noted – unlike a sterile arena, this club has housed its own share of “legendary local gigs” and surprise jam sessions www.ticketfairy.com . Musicians appreciate the club too: many praise its “unbeatable” dance floor and top-notch sound/lighting rigs www.ticketfairy.com . For instance, the sound system (with a Midas console and EV speakers on ceiling) is pro-grade www.ticketfairy.com , yet the mix is described as warm and even throughout the room. Perhaps most importantly, Old Rock House is fiercely locally owned and community-driven www.ticketfairy.com . The owner (a long-time St. Louis promoter) actively supports local artists – booking hometown bands and even inviting them onto shows to bolster the scene www.ticketfairy.com . Fans repeatedly mention the staff’s friendliness and the spirited vibe: one reviewer calls it “lit” and “the best live venue” for its energy www.ticketfairy.com . All these factors – historic setting, modern production gear, and an inclusive local spirit – combine to give Old Rock House a unique “old meets new” feel www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com . It’s exactly the kind of place where a newcomer can chat with the band over a beer after the show, or a St. Louis native can dance all night with friends. Over the years it has become a pillar of St. Louis’s live-music culture, earning loyal followings among both local audiences and touring acts.
Visitor Tips and Information
Plan to arrive early: popular shows often pack the house, and lines can form at the door and bar www.ticketfairy.com . Doors typically open by 7:00 PM (with the show at 8:00), so coming 15–30 minutes ahead will secure a good spot or your choice of parking. If you want a seat, head upstairs immediately – balcony seating is very limited and first-come. www.ticketfairy.com . Remember that almost all events are general admission (standing areas on the floor and a few seats on the mezzanine www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com ), so don’t count on reserved tickets. Dress casually and in layers – jeans and t-shirts are common, and shoes comfortable for dancing. Bring a valid photo ID for everyone in your party: the bar area is 21+, and even at all-ages shows patrons under 21 are not allowed to re-enter if they exit (for example, to smoke) www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com . The venue accepts credit cards and cash at the bars, but cash is handy if you want to tip or pay the coat check www.ticketfairy.com . Note that outside food or drink is not allowed (by law) www.ticketfairy.com , and cameras beyond a phone are prohibited inside www.ticketfairy.com . The main floor is street-level for wheelchair access, but the balcony requires stairs – if you have mobility needs it’s best to call ahead so staff can assist www.ticketfairy.com . If you have any questions or special needs, the Old Rock House team is responsive – their number is on the website. Finally, when in doubt check the venue’s website or social feed on show day for any updates (doors, parking, etc.); most staff and regulars are welcoming and can help first-timers. With good preparation, an ORH concert is a very enjoyable, no-surprises night out. In summary: arrive early, know it’s casual, bring ID and cash, and save your energy for dancing!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I buy tickets for a show at Old Rock House?
Tickets can be purchased online via the venue’s official site (an Etix ticketing link) or at the door on the night of the show www.ticketfairy.com . The box office opens around 7:00 PM and sells remaining tickets. For popular concerts, it’s best to buy in advance or join the venue’s email list for presale announcements www.ticketfairy.com .
What is the typical price of a ticket at Old Rock House?
Ticket prices vary by act. Local or regional bands typically run around $15–$35 www.ticketfairy.com , while higher-profile touring artists can cost $40–$60 or more www.ticketfairy.com . The club does not charge extra hidden fees. Signing up for the mailing list or following the venue on social media helps catch any presale codes or discounts, but usually standard tickets are in the mid-teens to mid-$30s range www.ticketfairy.com .
Are children allowed at Old Rock House?
Old Rock House welcomes families, but with restrictions. Children age 3 and under get in free, and age 4+ need a ticket www.ticketfairy.com . Most shows are 18+ (since alcohol is sold), so check if an event is all-ages. Remember, any under-21 patron who leaves to smoke or for any reason cannot re-enter www.ticketfairy.com . If bringing kids, choose all-ages events and plan accordingly.
What is the capacity of Old Rock House?
Old Rock House holds on the order of a few hundred people (roughly 300 at capacity) www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com . It’s an intimate mid-size club: the main floor is general admission standing, and there are limited seats on the upstairs balcony. It’s not a huge arena; events usually feel packed when full, so arriving early is a good idea.
Where exactly is 1200 S 7th Street located?
1200 South 7th Street is in downtown St. Louis’s Soulard neighborhood, just south of downtown and a block from Busch Stadium www.ticketfairy.com . It’s within easy walking distance of the Gateway Arch grounds (about 0.5 mile) and a few blocks from the old Lemp Brewery area. The official zip code is 63104.
Where can I park for a show?
The venue offers free parking: one lot directly behind the building and another across Hickory Street www.ticketfairy.com . On show nights (especially if there’s a baseball game) the populations may close, but usually the rear lot remains open. Street parking and nearby lots (like those around Soulard Market) are alternate options www.ticketfairy.com . Aim to arrive early for the best spots.
Is Old Rock House wheelchair accessible?
Yes and no. The main floor of the venue is at street level and can be rolled into from the 7th St entrance www.ticketfairy.com . However, the balcony and upstairs areas require climbing stairs. The club advises patrons requiring special accommodations to contact them ahead of time so staff can help. Accessible restrooms are available on the ground floor www.ticketfairy.com .
Are outside food or drinks allowed?
No. Texas law prohibits bringing outside food or alcohol into the venue www.ticketfairy.com . Only items purchased at the Old Rock House bars can be consumed inside. If you get hungry, the venue’s bar offers snack foods (wings, sandwiches, nachos, etc.) during events www.ticketfairy.com .
Is smoking allowed inside the club?
No. By city ordinance, the Old Rock House is smoke-free indoors. Smoking is only permitted on the outdoor side patio www.ticketfairy.com . If you need a cigarette break, you must go outside (remember, under-21s cannot re-enter if they leave) www.ticketfairy.com .
Can I bring a camera or record audio at a concert?
Smartphone snapshots and short videos for social sharing are fine, but professional photography or audio recording is prohibited without permission www.ticketfairy.com . The venue explicitly bans pro cameras and recording equipment during shows. So feel free to take casual photos on your phone, but don’t bring a full camera rig or camcorder.
What is the dress code at Old Rock House?
There is no formal dress code. Attire is very casual — think jeans, band T-shirts, or whatever you’re comfortable wearing to a bar. Wear layers if you warm up easily, as the room can heat up during a packed show www.ticketfairy.com . Comfortable shoes are recommended if you plan to dance.
When do doors open for Old Rock House shows?
Generally, doors open at 7:00 PM for most concerts, with the music starting around 8:00 PM www.ticketfairy.com . However, always check the specific event listing just in case. It’s a good idea to arrive at or before door time for the best available spot.
Is there a coat check available?
Yes, the club provides a coat check at the entrance. You can check your jacket or large items for a small fee www.ticketfairy.com . This is handy on cold nights – just keep your claim ticket to retrieve your coat later.
What food and beverage options are inside?
Old Rock House has a full bar on each level serving beer, wine and cocktails, plus a small kitchen window for bar snacks. You can purchase classics like wings, nachos, sliders, fries, sandwiches and the like during concerts www.ticketfairy.com . There is no table service or formal restaurant kitchen, but plenty of quick bar-style food as well as soda and water.
Does Old Rock House have assigned seating, or is it standing-room?
Most events are general admission. The floor in front of the stage is standing-room (often used as a dance floor) www.ticketfairy.com . A raised balcony at the back has a few tables, stools and couches, but those seats are first-come, first-served www.ticketfairy.com . In short, plan on standing if you want to be near the stage, and arrive early if you want any seating on the balcony.
