Events at Old Rock House, St Louis

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G Jones - 'The Ineffable Truth' - St Louis, MO

9:00pm, Sat, 02 Mar 2019

Mar

Old Rock House

St. Louis

About Old Rock House

Old Rock House is a historic-style live music venue located at 1200 South 7th Street in downtown St. Louis, nestled between the Soulard neighborhood and Busch Stadium . Housed in a turn-of-the-20th-century red-brick tavern building with copper cornices, marble accents and even a stone eagle on its corner pavilion , it stands out architecturally among local clubs. Though the current building is not the same as the original riverfront “Rock House,” it proudly borrows that name. (The original Old Rock House was an 1818 Manuel Lisa stone warehouse on the riverfront that was dismantled for the Gateway Arch project .) The modern venue spans about 6,000 square feet over three levels and is equipped with pro-grade sound, lighting and video systems . It is operated as an independent, locally owned business in a city often dominated by national promoters . On any given night you’ll find a rowdy, energetic crowd enjoying diverse music — as one St. Louis arts guide put it, Old Rock House is “one of St. Louis’ most unique entertainment venues” and even offers a “flexible menu” of food and drinks during shows . In its roughly two decades-plus of existence (the building was fully renovated and reopened for concerts in the mid-2000s), Old Rock House has hosted well over a thousand performances. Concert archives credit it with 1,178 rock shows, 899 folk shows, 818 indie acts and 646 Americana/roots performances, reflecting how integral it is to the local and regional live music scene . In short, Old Rock House is a mid-sized (roughly 500-person) all-ages nightclub known for great sound and a gritty urban vibe, important to St. Louis’s music community and full of character thanks to its historic architecture and local ownership .

Events and Programming

Old Rock House presents live concerts almost nightly, spanning an eclectic mix of genres. You’ll hear everything from alt-country and Americana to blues, indie rock, soul and even hip-hop or reggae. The venue routinely books touring national acts as well as vibrant local and regional bands. For example, recent schedules have included indie-pop (Smallpools), folk/Americana (The Infamous Stringdusters), local soul/R&B (Suite Soul Spot series), jam/funk (Spafford, Say She She), tribute shows (Zach Bryan and INXS tributes), and specialty theme nights like Emo & Pop-Punk dance parties . Old Rock House also runs several recurring series. A notable example is the “Suite Soul Spot” – a monthly first-Tuesday concert series featuring local and national soul artists. (One edition saw St. Louis soul singer Aloha Mischeaux and national headliners perform, with $10 admission .) Holiday events and multi-night specials are common too: for instance, December scheduling in 2025 included a two-night “Phillypalooza” party and various themed shows . The venue prides itself on variety. According to fan archives, rock is the dominant genre at Old Rock House (1,178 shows) but folk, singer-songwriter, blues, Americana and indie acts each have hundreds of performances to their credit . Weekly lineups can be quite full – often 2–4 shows per week – so there’s almost always something happening, from small-venue showcases to full-band performances. Shows are typically ticketed events; cover charges vary widely. Small local or niche events (e.g. acoustic singer-songwriters or blues nights) might be as low as a few dollars, while mid-level national touring acts often run $20–40. For example, the ongoing Soul Spot shows charge about $10 , whereas last year’s bigger alternative-rock shows were in the $25–30 range. In general, recent concert ticket prices fall roughly in the teens on the low end up toward $50 or so for major acts. Fans typically watch the venue’s calendar or mailing list for announcements, as sold‐out shows do occur. Advanced planning is wise for popular gigs.

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for Old Rock House concerts can be purchased in a few ways. The primary method is through the venue’s own channels (often via eTix) on their website or affiliated box offices. Importantly, Old Rock House does maintain a box office for in-person sales. By default, most shows allow buying tickets at the door or at the venue box office on the night of the performance . (However, some very limited events may be online-only – the website’s event listing will note if an event is not sold at the door.) Phone reservations are not commonly advertised, but the venue’s listed phone number (314-588-0505) can often answer ticketing questions. Because many shows do sell out in advance, the best strategy for high-demand events is early purchase. Its promoters occasionally offer presale codes or contests via social media or local media partners, so joining the venue’s mailing list or following its announcements can help. For ongoing series (like the monthly theme nights), tickets usually go on sale several weeks beforehand. Street price tiers vary by act: major touring bands often have general-admission floor ($25–35) and a limited front-row area ($35–45), whereas smaller gigs may be just one flat GA ticket. Discounts (students, seniors, etc.) are not standard, but occasionally local promotions exist. In short: check the Old Rock House website for dates and buy online early, or hit the box office well before showtime.

Seating and Layout

Old Rock House’s interior is deliberately non-traditional. The main concert experience is general-admission standing on the ground floor in front of the stage. (There are no fixed theater seats.) Patrons often stand or mill around the floor area closest to the stage for the best views and loud sound, or sit at high-top tables and booths along the sides and back of the main floor. The first floor also has a large central bar and a small dining area. Note that the rear dining/lounge section on the main level has a “limited view” of the stage , so it is not ideal for seeing a show. Rising above the main floor is a second-level mezzanine lounge. The upstairs is split into two areas: an open viewing loft at the front (with a cut-out in the floor so you can peek down at the stage) and a private back lounge/bar. The front mezzanine offers a unique bird’s-eye perspective of the stage, but it tends to be more of a casual lounge space than a prime standing spot. The back mezzanine lounge is often reserved for private parties or VIPs and has a bar and seating, but it has little line-of-sight to the stage. Below the main floor is a finished basement. This downstairs area feels like a speakeasy or “cigar lounge” zone – decorated with old wooden barrels in display cabinets and cozy loveseat nooks – but it has no direct stage view. It serves more as an additional bar and seating area. The venue refers to it as the cigar-and-scotch lounge, and there are extra restrooms here. In practical terms, the best place to experience a concert at Old Rock House is on the main floor near the stage (standing room) or around the bar tables with a view of the performers. Upstairs and downstairs spaces are nice for socializing, but away from the main stage action. Because sound mixes into all areas, the acoustics are consistently loud throughout, but the clearest audio is on the floor. The low stage measures about 22 × 13 feet with 30-foot ceilings behind it , and the sound system (Midas M32 console, Electro-Voice PA speakers and subs) is optimized for the floor area. In short, go early for a spot on the floor or grab a barstool at the side; the more distant seating lounges are OK for drinks but not prime concert viewing.

Getting There and Parking

Old Rock House’s address is 1200 S. 7th Street, St. Louis, MO 63104 . It sits in the edge of downtown/Soulard, just south of the Busch Stadium (baseball) district. Driving directions typically use I-64/40 or I-55 to downtown and head toward Soulard or the Ballpark Village area; 7th Street is the main access road. For navigation apps, search the address or “Old Rock House live music.” Parking is a big consideration. The venue has an adjacent parking lot and easy access to nearby lots. Reviewers often praise the ample parking on site – one fan noted “there was plenty of parking” for their show and recommended arriving early to claim a spot . In practice, there is a large open lot behind and beside the building (off S. 7th St.) where many guests can park. There are also metered street spaces on nearby Soulard side streets and a few paid lots a block or two away. Because big events can fill up all the easiest spots, it’s wise to come early, especially on weekends. (One reviewer says for sold-out shows, “get a spot staked out early” .) If you’re not driving, several public transit options exist. The city’s MetroLink light rail does not stop right at Soulard, but the nearest stations are on the Red/Blue lines: either Stadium or Laclede’s Landing (each about 0.5–0.8 miles away). A short bus ride or a 10–15 minute walk from those stations will reach 7th & Hickory. MetroBus routes also run down Broadway and 7th. Rideshare services (Uber/Lyft) are commonly used; drop-off is usually at the venue’s front entrance on 7th, with pickups often easier a block over to avoid traffic. For late-night returns, ride-share or taxi is recommended; the area is well-traveled and drivers know the landmark.

Inside the Venue

Upon arrival, you’ll enter through the street-level lobby/vestibule. Staff will typically check tickets or IDs at the door. The club is dimly lit and mix of industrial and vintage décor. Expect multiple bars: the main bar on the first floor (center-right) is especially ornate (a polished wood arch bar back mirrored wall ), and there is a smaller bar straight ahead on the floor level. Tables and booths line the sides. Rock-style posters and décor adorn the walls. The main concert stage is at the far end of the first floor, visible from much of the room. Security is present but the vibe is relaxed. Old Rock House welcomes smartphone photographers (non-flash) – in fact, taking photos or video on your phone is “welcome” . However, professional cameras (interchangeable-lens cameras, DSLRs, tripods, etc.) are not permitted unless you have explicit permission from the artist or venue . This same policy generally applies to audio/video recording devices as well. Simply put: phone cameras are fine, but no bulky recording gear without approval. Inside, the atmosphere is casual and energetic. The house sound is usually quite loud (as fans standing by the PA can attest), so be prepared for high volume. (If you’re sensitive to loud music, consider bringing earplugs.) Smoking inside is legally prohibited (citywide ban), so the air should not be smoky. You can step outside to the small fenced courtyard/patio off the lobby to smoke or take a break – but note one strict rule: if you are under 21 you cannot re-enter after leaving . The drinks lineup is full-bar. Draft taps cover the basics (domestic lagers and ales); bottled beers include popular craft and imports (Sierra Nevada, Warsteiner, etc.) and the liquor list is broad. In fact, a review specifically praises the selection of high-end whiskeys behind the bar (everything from Basil Hayden’s to Laphroaig and a full lineup of Scotch “the Glen-[every]” ). Standard bar prices apply. You can open a tab on your credit card at the bar, though note they pre-authorize your card as a security measure (the hold drops off in a few days) . Cash is also accepted and sometimes faster. Food service is limited. On many concert nights there are only a few bar snacks (pretzels, popcorn or the like), and occasionally special items like barbecue sliders or wings if catering is arranged. In practice many guests bring in outside food by delivery. Reviews are consistent: food isn’t guaranteed, so patrons often order pizza or sandwiches to be delivered inside . (Call or text services are quick, and the venue lets them bring in low-key takeout.) Expect the vibe to be more bar than restaurant. Restroom facilities are ample. There are men’s and women’s restrooms both on the main floor and downstairs. In fact, one Yelp reviewer specifically noted “extra restrooms in the basement” as a convenience . The basement also doubles as a lounge area, so you’ll often find open seating and standing room with a third bar back there. Keep in mind the basement floor has uneven concrete and stairs – it’s not fully ADA-accessible. (For a wheelchair user, the main floor is one level entry, but the stage and upper level are reached by stairs only.) Other amenities: Most gigs have a merchandise table set up near the front or entry, selling band CDs and T-shirts. There’s usually a coat-check available by the door on cool weather nights. Wi-Fi is not reliably offered to guests, so don’t count on a public wifi network (plan on cellular data or offline use). In sum, Old Rock House feels like a well-stocked rock club: lots of seating nooks, strong drinks, and friendly staff behind the bar, making it a comfortable place to hang even if you’re not front-and-center for the music .

Nearby Amenities

Soulard is one of St. Louis’s oldest and liveliest neighborhoods, so you’re spoiled for dining and nightlife choices within a few blocks. For a pre-show dinner, notable nearby restaurants include **1860s New Orleans Bar & Grill** (Cajun/seafood) , **Bogart’s BBQ** (award-winning St. Louis barbecue) , and **Calypso Bar** (Cajun/Caribbean eats and cocktails) . If you want a quick bite or sandwich, there’s **Cafe Miami** (sandwiches inspired by Miami’s beach cafes) or **Epic Pizza** (brick-oven pizzas). A casual bagel stop – **Baked and Boiled** – is within easy reach . For craft beer lovers, Bowling venues and brewpubs exist a few blocks away (for example, Stagger Inn Brewpub on S. 7th). Beyond dining, Soulard’s bar scene is packed with choices. In the exact vicinity you’ll find dive bars and pubs like **Cat’s Meow** (cheap drinks, neighborhood crowd) and **Carson’s Bar & Grill** (sports bar with grill and karaoke nights) . The popular gay bar **Bastille** (described on the Soulard website as “a smokin’ gay bar” ) is just a block away, as is **Duke’s** (two-story sports bar with patio) and **Chava’s** (a late-night taco joint). On a walk toward downtown you’ll hit the baseball stadium and Ballpark Village entertainment district, with restaurants and bars clustered around 4th and Broadway. If you’re staying overnight, several hotels are close. The venue’s own website even lists nearby hotels (though you don’t have to use those links). For example, Hilton at Ballpark Village (1 S Broadway) and The Westin on Spruce Street are each about 0.6 miles north . Other downtown options within a mile include the Sheraton City Center, Drury Plaza at the Arch (about 0.8 mi away), the Omni Majestic, Hyatt Regency at the Arch (0.9 mi) and the Union Station Marriott (about 1.1 mi) . These make it easy for visitors coming to multiple events – the Arch and downtown amenities are just a short walk away. For night owls: after a show you’ll find ample ride-share or taxi options. Cabs often wait near the stadium or on Spruce/Broadway; Uber/Lyft drivers frequently queue in the area. If you prefer public transit late, buses on Broadway and 7th run until around midnight on weekdays (earlier on weekends). Otherwise plan to walk a short distance to your car/transport, or head to a nearby hotel lobby to hail a ride in comfort. Overall the Old Rock House F’ location means you are in the heart of downtown/Soulard nightlife: anywhere you go, there are always restaurants and bars nearby.

What Makes This Venue Special

Old Rock House has a distinct identity in St. Louis. It combines historic charm with a rock-club sensibility. Architecturally, very few music venues in the city have the character of this building: the rustic red-brick facade (restored from a crumbling state) and its copper-cresting cornice are notable landmarks in the Soulard district . Inside, the space is unusually sprawling for a club – the eight different rooms (bars, lounges and stage areas ) give patrons choices in how they experience a show. This multi-tiered design (open floor plan with balconies and a basement) contrasts with a simple bar or hall, and makes Old Rock House feel like a mini-entertainment complex. Every night, Old Rock House reflects St. Louis culture: local music, college and young professionals, sports fans, and families enjoy shows together. Longtime fans praise things like the friendly bartenders and solid production quality. As one reviewer noted in 2025, “the wait staff was always friendly, helpful and more than professional” , complementing the “stunning space.” The sound system itself is state-of-the-art (32-channel digital console, Electro-Voice PA with subwoofers, plus LED and projector screens ), so artists know they can tour here with big production. In short, artists and audiences love Old Rock House because it feels both intimate (a true neighborhood joint) and professional (better tech than most small clubs). Finally, there’s the lore of its name. The “Old Rock House” name ties modern shows to St. Louis’s past – it invokes the story of an 1818 riverfront building that President Roosevelt once admired, as told in local history . The current club’s owners have played that up, hanging vintage photos and telling new visitors this backstory. Combined with its popularity as a springboard for local talent (Concert Archives lists hundreds of hometown band performances here ), Old Rock House feels like a bridge between past and present. It matters to the community as one of the few true indie concert venues in downtown St. Louis, and it has hosted countless memorable local and touring shows over the years. All these factors – the historic ambiance, the variety of music, the inclusive atmosphere – make Old Rock House special in the St. Louis music scene.

Visitor Tips and Information

If you’re planning a visit, here are some key points to know. First, Old Rock House events are usually open to all ages, unless a show is explicitly 21+ (some comedy or private events might limit entry). However, note one important rule: **no re-entry for minors**. If you are under 21 and leave the building (for example to smoke outside or go to your car), you will not be allowed back in . Verified ID is checked at the door as needed. Dress is casual – no formal dress code – but remember venues can get crowded, so wear something comfortable and easy to dance in. It is definitely a bar environment: bring your ID if you plan to drink, and cash will speed things up. (Credit cards are accepted for cover charges and tabs, though the venue often prefers cash for quick service .) Entertainment-wise, arrive around the stated door time. Acts often start fairly promptly and run late, so you want enough time to park, get drinks, and pick a spot. For sold-out shows, arriving early is wise to claim a good vantage point and some shelf space at the bar. Plan on about 30–60 minutes before showtime for entry and settling in, especially if you’re in a group. The venue can fill up, and a couple of guests mentioned that finding a table or parking benefits from showing up early . As noted, smartphone photos are allowed, but don’t bring pro cameras (no detachable-lens cameras or video rigs without prior permission) . Likewise, large backpacks or prohibited items (weapons, drugs, fireworks, etc.) are not allowed – treat it with the same rules as other clubs. Security will check bags at the entrance. Plan to carry minimal belongings. Accessibility: Old Rock House has one street-level entrance, so the ground floor is accessible. However, the upper lounge and basement are reached by stairs only. There is likely no elevator. If you use a wheelchair or have limited mobility, contact the venue in advance to ensure they can accommodate you safely. Note also that because it’s a historic building, some floor surfaces are uneven, so wear sturdy shoes. Food and drink: Eating options are limited inside, but the venue’s full bar serves a standard pub menu. You can also order food to be delivered (pizza, etc.) and have it brought to your table or seat. Otherwise plan to eat before the show. The nearby Soulard restaurants (see above) fill up on event nights, so a reservation or early dinner might be prudent. Finally, some practical tips: Badge earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud music. Bring a portable phone charger if you expect a late night. And double-check the event age policy and start time on the official schedule. Read event descriptions for any special notes (for example, some shows might be seated or 21+). In general, be ready for a high-energy club concert. Follow the crowd’s lead, order a drink or two, chat and dance, and enjoy the show. Old Rock House can be a bit chaotic, but that’s part of its charm. By arriving early, respecting the venue’s rules, and soaking in the historic atmosphere, you’re set to have a memorable night of live music in St. Louis.

What is the capacity of Old Rock House?

Old Rock House holds about 500 people at full capacity . This floor limit is approximate and can be slightly lower on events that need extra production space. In general, expect a crowd of a few hundred, with no reserved seating. For safety reasons they strictly enforce the posted capacity.

How can I buy tickets for a show at Old Rock House?

Tickets are sold both online and at the venue. The easiest way is through the Old Rock House website or partners (email/phone box office). The venue also has an actual box office: you can usually purchase tickets in person at the door for most shows . Just check the event listing – if the show is open to door sales, it will say so. Otherwise buy in advance to be safe.

Are tickets usually sold out? When should I buy?

Popular shows at Old Rock House can sell out ahead of time. Tickets for well-known touring acts often go fast, so buy early when on sale. For big nights (holidays, big name acts) I’d get tickets as soon as possible. Smaller local gigs may have tickets available at the door. If you wait until the week of the show, risk missing out.

Can I buy tickets at the door or is it advance only?

Yes, for most concerts you can buy tickets at the venue’s box office on the night of the show. Old Rock House explicitly offers door sales for most events . However, if the show was advertised as “advance ticket only” (some limited-capacity or outdoor shows), then you must have pre-purchased. In summary: when possible, the box office sells tickets, but check the event’s info page if door sales are allowed.

What are typical ticket prices?

Price varies by the performer. Local nights or small shows often run $10–$20. Mid-level concerts might be $20–$30, and headliners or big tribute bands can be $30–$50. As one example, a monthly soul concert charged $10 , whereas recent indie/rock shows were in the $25–30 range. Check any specific event listing for the exact price tiers.

Where should I park and how much does it cost?

There is a parking lot right behind Old Rock House (off S. 7th St.) which most visitors use, and there are additional lots on nearby blocks. Reviews emphasize that there is “plenty of parking” on site . Whether parking is free or metered depends on the event, but it’s often free or low-cost. That said, spots can fill up on busy nights, so arriving early to claim a space is wise . Metered street parking and other paid garages are also in walking distance if the lot is full.

What public transportation serves Old Rock House?

Public transit access is somewhat indirect. The nearest MetroLink stations are about half a mile north (Laclede’s Landing/Arch) or near Busch Stadium. From there you’d walk or catch a bus downtown. Several CityBus routes travel on 7th and Broadway nearby. In practice many concertgoers drive or use ride-share. If you park across the riverfront (e.g. near the Arch) you can stroll to the club; otherwise, plan for a short taxi or Uber from a Metro stop.

Are there rideshare or taxi drop-off points?

Yes – the main entrance on 7th Street is a common drop-off. (Some drivers may pull up just past the corner to avoid blocking traffic.) After the show, you can easily call an Uber/Lyft from outside or the venue lobby. Rideshare drivers are familiar with the location. There isn’t a formal cab stand, but plenty of cabs circulate downtown late-night if you request one via app or from the venue.

Is seating reserved or general admission?

Seating is generally unreserved. The concert area is mostly standing-room general admission. There are high-top tables and benches around the perimeter and some booths, but these are first-come. Certain events may offer a limited number of reserved “VIP” tables or balcony seating, but unless specified, assume it’s GA. For best views, arriving early to stand near the stage or snag a table is recommended . The upstairs lounges are casual seating only; they have fewer seats with stage sightlines.

Are minors allowed? What are the age restrictions?

Yes, minors (under 21) are generally allowed at shows unless specifically stated otherwise on the event notice. Old Rock House is not exclusively 21+. However, a key policy is that once under-21 attendees leave the building, they cannot re-enter . (This is often enforced after a concert or during smoke breaks.) IDs proving age may be checked at the door. In short, most concerts are open to all ages, but plan to stay inside for the whole show if you are not 21 yet.

Are phones or cameras allowed inside?

Smartphone cameras and filming are allowed for personal use . Guests often video the show on their phones. However, professional cameras (with detachable lenses, DSLRs, tripods, etc.) and any audio recording gear are not permitted without prior approval from the venue or artist . In short: feel free to take phone photos/videos, but don’t bring bulky camera equipment unless you have a press pass or special permission.

Is there a coat check and where are the restrooms?

Yes, there is typically a coat check by the entrance (especially on cooler nights). Restrooms are located on each level. The main-level restrooms are behind the stage and in the lobby area, and there are additional men’s and women’s bathrooms downstairs as well . The extra basement restrooms make it easier during big shows, as other patrons have noted. If you’re on a higher level lounge, just remember stairs lead you down to the lower bathroom areas.

Is Old Rock House wheelchair accessible?

The main floor entrance is at street level, so the ground-floor space is step-free. However, there is no elevator to the upstairs or basement. Wheelchair users can enjoy shows from the first floor only. The venue has ramps and an accessible restroom on the main floor, but upper levels are not wheelchair accessible. If you need accommodations, call ahead to the venue to discuss specifics. Keep in mind that layout stemmed from an old building, so checking in advance is a good idea.

What time do doors and shows start?

Door times vary by event (typically posted on the tickets or event page). Most shows start around 8 or 9 p.m. Doors often open 30–60 minutes before showtime. Some weekend shows, parties or special events may have earlier or later starts. Always check the specific show announcement. As a rule of thumb, arriving at least 30 minutes before the listed start time is smart, to get settled and get a drink without missing anything.

What is the dress code at Old Rock House?

There is no formal dress code – locals typically wear casual attire like jeans, T-shirts, and sneakers. It’s a relaxed rock club environment. That said, some fans do dress up a bit for weekend shows or themed nights. Since it can get hot on the crowded dance floor, lighter layers are wise. Never a bad idea to dress comfortably; you won’t see anyone in formal wear!

Are outside food or drinks allowed?

With the noted exception that you usually can’t bring drinks (they want to sell from the bar), light outside food is tolerated. As a common practice, concertgoers will order pizza or snacks from a nearby shop and have them delivered to the venue. Security typically allows small deliveries in (pizza boxes, drinks from outside, etc.). However, bulk outside beverages are not allowed. It’s best to assume you will be buying drinks inside and only sneak in a sandwich or snack if needed.

Is there a maximum age or is it family-friendly?

Old Rock House is multi-generational. Families and teens often attend the shows that are billed as all-ages. You will see a broad mix – college students, older fans, and kids on occasion. The space is monitored for safety. Just remember any under-21s must stay inside once admitted (no re-entry rule ). If you’re bringing younger kids, be mindful that music can be loud and the crowd rowdy. Concert policies emphasize personal responsibility for minors.

Events at Old Rock House, St Louis

G Jones - 'The Ineffable Truth' - St Louis, MO

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