About The Factory St. Pete
The Factory St. Pete is a sprawling creative arts compound in St. Petersburg’s Warehouse Arts District, housed in a refurbished industrial complex at 2622 Fairfield Ave S (www.cltampa.com ). Covering roughly 6.5 acres and 90,000 square feet of reclaimed warehouse space (www.cltampa.com ), it opened in 2020 and was developed by architects Kara and Jordan Behar alongside curator Liz Dimmitt as a new cultural hub. In 2021 the Festival of Illumination “Fairgrounds St. Pete” art walk opened inside (in Building 6) and remains an anchor attraction – now expanded and renamed FloridaRAMA (www.tampabay.com ) (www.cltampa.com ). Rather than just a nightclub, The Factory is a multi-use arts campus. It includes gallery and studio spaces as well as event halls: for example, there is a classically styled “Library” salon, an industrial-chic lounge called the “Speakeasy,” large blank “Warehouse” halls for concerts, and an open-air courtyard (“Front Garden”) for photo ops (www.weddingwire.com ). Signature tenants and features give it local flair: it hosts the quirky Museum of Motherhood, a vintage record store (Daddy Kool Records), women-of-color art collective HeireSSGallery, and artist studios (community.cltampa.com ). The Factory was deliberately designed to be unique – its owners explicitly avoided generic chain-like fixtures and “simulacra,” favoring one-of-a-kind art and architecture (stpetecatalyst.com ). This creative spirit is visible in site murals (it hosted the 2021 Shine Mural Festival, where artists painted its massive walls (www.tampabay.com )) and in its eclectic decor. Onsite amenities include a new craft-brew taproom (Barley Common Brewing Lab) with lounge seating (www.cltampa.com ) and plans for more (the district now has several breweries a block away (www.cltampa.com )). In mid-2024 The Factory changed hands to local investor Tom Gaffney. He has promised upgrades – “lighting, a better sound system, a restaurant, murals,” and even bike racks – while keeping the art-centric mix of the venue (stpetecatalyst.com ). In short, The Factory St. Pete stands out as a hybrid art-music-meeting venue: big enough to host hundreds for concerts and festivals, yet packed with local galleries, art installations and funky character that embody St. Pete’s creative vibe (www.cltampa.com ) (community.cltampa.com ).
Events and Programming
The Factory hosts a very wide range of events. It’s marketed as an “all-inclusive” entertainment center where anything goes – from electronic dance raves and reggae nights to indie rock concerts, film screenings, art exhibits and comedy shows (thefactorystpete.com ). Concerts run the gamut: local St. Pete bands and solo singer-songwriters share the schedule with touring indie acts and DJs. For example, in late 2023 the electronic duo Mary Droppinz & Infiniti headlined a dance party there (age 21+ encore night) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Comedy and spoken-word nights happen often too, as the venue’s flexible rooms can easily be set up for improv or standup shows (thefactorystpete.com ). Community festivals are a big part of the line-up: The Factory has been a prime location for annual local film fests. The black-centered Black Art & Film Festival ran all its film screenings and kickoff parties in February 2023 at The Factory (theweeklychallenger.com ) (theweeklychallenger.com ). Similarly, the Sunshine City Film Festival kicked off its January 2024 programs with a mixer and workshops held in The Factory’s main hall (www.sunshinecityfilmfestival.com ). The warehouse and courtyard spaces also accommodate markets and theme days – for example, “Indie Flea” artisan flea-markets with food trucks are often held in the outdoor area (community.cltampa.com ), and every month on 2nd Saturday The Factory opens its doors for the city’s Art Walk (an open-gallery evening of exhibits and storytelling) (thefactorystpete.com ). Events may run nightly or weekly; in peak times you might find a dance party Friday or Saturday, an art exhibit or film screening on Sunday, and a workshop or comedy gig on a weekday. Ticket prices depend on the event: small local shows often run $15–$25, while headliner concerts or festival passes can range higher ($40–$60 or more). Many event promoters release tickets well in advance, especially for recurring festivals, so tickets often go on sale weeks or months ahead. Mid-price and VIP tiers sometimes exist (if a stage area or lounge is offered). In general, expect smaller bookings to be affordable for locals (often under $20), and larger touring acts or immersive festivals to be pricier. Because shows vary so much, check The Factory’s event calendar or social media for specific artists and prices. The venue’s website and promoters will note which events are all-ages versus 21+ (note: many rock/dance gigs serve alcohol and enforce 21+ with ID at the door). In short, there’s almost always something happening here: from holistic health fairs and fashion shows to open mic nights and late-night DJ sets, The Factory’s calendar is packed with creative programming that caters to diverse interests and budgets (thefactorystpete.com ) (community.cltampa.com ).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets to Factory events can usually be purchased through the show’s promoter or the venue’s published outlets. Major concerts and festivals often use online ticketing (e.g. advance sales via the organizer’s website or a box-office platform), while smaller events sometimes sell physical tickets at the door or in local shops. It’s common for The Factory to announce sales on its official channels (social media, newsletter) – signing up for their email list or following their Facebook/Instagram is the best way to catch presale/early-bird on popular shows. Ticket types vary: most gigs are general admission standing room, though some events may sell limited VIP or seated spots. Check the event listing for “doors open” time and whether there’s an assigned seating chart. Note that there is no weekly box office open hours; if you want to buy day-of-show, be sure the event is still selling at the door. For very popular acts or festivals, tickets can sell out quickly, so purchasing early is wise. Pricing tiers often include discount early/advance purchase and a higher late/door price. When in doubt, check local listings or contact the event promoter (the venue’s entertainment team email is listed on their site) for booking details. In general, plan on paying by credit/debit card for tickets and at concessions (cash might be handy for small vendors, but cards are widely accepted). Remember to save your e-tickets or receipts: they will be needed for entry. Many shows have a policy of no re-entry, so try not to lose your stubs. Finally, if you’re organizing a private event (wedding, meeting, etc.), note that The Factory offers rental packages for its warehouse spaces – inquire early and be prepared with an idea of date and guest count to get a customized quote through the venue’s events contact. Overall, buying tickets to The Factory events is typically straightforward: follow the event announcements, book through authorized channels, and consider arriving early for highly popular shows.
Seating and Layout
The Factory’s layout is unconventional, reflecting the old warehouse setting. There are multiple event spaces of different styles rather than a single main auditorium. The centerpiece is the large main hall (formerly an industrial warehouse floor). This hall has a stage at one end and is entirely open floor plan. Concerts and large shows turn it into a standing-room space – think festival-style pit. The audience stands (or sometimes brings their own folding chair) on a flat concrete floor under very high ceilings. There are no fixed seats here, so “best seats” simply means standing close to the front of the stage for sight and sound. Surrounding the main hall are adjoining rooms: for example, “The Library” is a smaller, refined space with vintage wood-and-artwork décor, and “The Speakeasy” is an intimate loft-like room with string lights and polished floors (www.weddingwire.com ). These rooms sometimes accommodate smaller bands, DJ sets or lounge-style events and may have a few chairs and sofas. In between these is the “blank canvas” warehouse space that can be arranged flexibly for events (www.weddingwire.com ). Outdoors, there is a brick-paved courtyard (the Front Garden) that offers an open-air stage or gallery area – useful in good weather and sometimes used for vendor markets or live acoustic sets (www.weddingwire.com ). Because the layout is open, sightlines are generally good: even on the back wall you can usually see the entire stage, though people often crowd toward center. It’s wise to avoid standing directly beside the large speaker stacks at the sides of the stage, as the sound can be deafening there. If you seek a quieter spot, try standing off to the side toward the room’s back corners, but note that it will be farther from the stage. For some shows the venue may place folding chairs or cocktail tables along the sides or back of the main hall – these are first-come for ticket holders who want to sit. Sometimes a raised catwalk or balcony (the “Gallery Row” upstairs) serves as extra standing room and overlooks the main floor; artists and art studios line these upper halls. Acoustic-wise, the tall metal roof and hard walls can create a lot of natural echo, so loud rock concerts here feel very powerful – definitely bring earplugs if you are sensitive. Smaller spaces like the Library and Speakeasy have lower ceilings and moderate PA systems, so they sound more contained. Special set-up notes: the Factory is beer/wine licensed (thefactorystpete.com ) and often has bars opened at the side of these spaces. There is typically a designated photo vantage point (the Front Garden and loading areas) for photographers. Bathrooms are located inside and near exits (plenty of signage is posted). In general, plan to stand rather than sit unless a show specifically offers seating. Wherever you choose, the Factory’s open, industrial layout lets you experience the event fully — just pick a good angle, maybe slightly angled to the center for best viewing, and enjoy!
Getting There and Parking
The Factory St. Pete is very accessible by car, bike, or public transit. The exact address is 2622 Fairfield Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33712 . From the Interstate highway (I-275), drivers can take the MLK Street exit (Exit 21 southbound) or Central Avenue exit (Exit 20 northbound) and follow local signs toward the Warehouse Arts District (www.floridarama.art ). The venue sits just a few minutes south of Tropicana Field and downtown St. Pete; it is literally along the Pinellas Trail bike path. For on-site parking, FloridaRAMA (Building 5 inside The Factory) provides several complimentary lots. The North Parking Lot (enter off Fairfield Ave S) and a South Parking Lot (off 7th Ave S) are both free to visitors (www.floridarama.art ). There are also numerous striped street parking spaces on surrounding side streets (metered in the daytime) and some unmetered spaces further south along Fairfield. If those fill up, a few nearby public lots can be found online, but friends typically just arrive early and use the free lots or nearby side streets. Importantly, the parking is ADA accessible: the venue advertises *“free and accessible parking”* in its lots (www.floridarama.art ), and designated disabled spots are available close to the entrances. The Pinellas Trail also has dozens (149 in fact) of bike racks around the property for secure bicycle parking (www.floridarama.art ), so biking is a popular option (it’s a flat, easy ride from downtown or Shore Dr). Public transit is available via Pinellas Suncoast Transit routes: for example, PSTA Route 34 stops at 34th Street S & Fairfield Ave (only one block from The Factory) providing connections to downtown St. Pete and beyond. Rideshare (Lyft/Uber) and taxis can drop passengers off at the Fairfield Avenue entrance for convenience. If coming by foot from downtown, note it’s roughly 0.5–1 mile south (about a 15–20 minute walk from Central Avenue’s core). In summary: driving and carpooling is most convenient with free on-site parking (www.floridarama.art ); cycling is very easy thanks to the Pinellas Trail (www.floridarama.art ); and public bus or ride-hail works if you plan that mode. The venue’s main gateway is on Fairfield Ave (look for The Factory’s sign); from there it’s a short walk to the door. On event nights, allow extra time to find a parking spot nearby if traffic is heavy.
Inside the Venue
When you walk in, expect an artsy, industrial atmosphere. Entry is usually through the FloridaRAMA lobby on Fairfield Avenue (Building 5) or via the main loading-area doors on 26th Street. Staff will scan or take tickets, and you may be asked to show ID for age verification (most concerts are 21+, and bartenders will card for drinks). Security is in effect: inside some events you’ll find a simple bag check or wand scan, so plan to have pockets cleared of loose items. Once inside, the factory has concrete floors, exposed beams and creative lighting, so footwear is often casual – many people wear sneakers or boots. The vibe is relaxed but edgy. You’ll see art installations, murals and creative lighting as soon as you enter, reflecting the venue’s gallery roots. Keep an eye out for rotating exhibitions on the walls. If the bar is open, the main drink stand will accept credit/debit cards (FloridaRAMA has a drink license (thefactorystpete.com )). Cash might be needed only for food trucks or merch – but even those often have card readers. Speaking of food, The Factory generally does not have a full kitchen (yet). Instead, on many show nights local food trucks or pop-up vendors park outside the entrance offering snacks, pizza or tacos. If you arrive very hungry, plan to grab something from a truck outside, or eat beforehand. There is no policy forbidding outside food entirely, but security may ask groups not to bring picnic baskets inside. Drinks are strictly controlled: you cannot bring in outside alcohol, just what the venue serves at its bars. (If you have a sealed water bottle or personal travel cup, it’s usually fine.) The Factory advertises as beer and wine licensed (thefactorystpete.com ), so cocktails and craft brews are on offer, but in limited variety. Enjoy responsibly – the staff will cut off anyone visibly drunk. Inside the crowds, cell-phone reception is generally fine (the concrete does not block service too much), and the venue often has at least a basic Wi-Fi or guest network available for events (if needed, ask staff). Public restrooms can be found by following signs – there are multiple, including accessible stalls. Coat check is sometimes offered on cooler nights, but if not, hats and extra layers can be stored under your seat or [if at a standing show] handed to friends you trust. The general atmosphere is upbeat and safe; the crowd is usually mixed ages (mostly 20s–40s) and vibes creative. Smoking is not allowed inside any building (and Florida law forbids indoor smoking), though there may be an outdoor smoking area. Finally, remember that The Factory is a social place – people often chat in line or intermission. Keep valuables tucked away (standard concert caution), and if you need help, friendly staff and even performing artists are often approachable. Overall, inside The Factory you’ll find an upbeat “warehouse-party” environment: lively music or film on the screen, visible art on the walls, the clink of glasses, and the buzz of a creative crowd enjoying the event.
Nearby Amenities
Because The Factory is a bit off the beaten path, it’s wise to plan around nearby options. Immediately next door (along the Pinellas Trail) are several food and drink options. In particular, a cluster of craft breweries is within easy walking distance (www.cltampa.com ). For example, Bayboro Brewing, 3 Daughters Brewing, Pinellas Ale Works and Cage Brewing are all just blocks away (www.cltampa.com ). These breweries have taprooms and some tables where you can grab a pre-show beer or a snack from their limited food menus. On warm days, the brewery patios and the Tram Car Cafe bike lounge (on the Pinellas Trail) are popular hangouts. For dining beyond beer, the nearest sit-down restaurants are a short drive away. A few blocks south on Fairfield is an IHOP and Wing House, and north on 34th Street there are pizza and sandwich shops (and fast food). Downtown St. Pete’s Central Avenue has dozens of restaurants (from bars like Stella’s to upscale spots like Annata), about a 5–10 minute drive or 20-minute walk from The Factory. If you want cocktails, the historic 600 block (central core) is about 1 mile north and has trendy bars. For a quick bite very close by, check for food trucks around The Factory on event nights, or local sandwich shops on 26th Street. Bars in the immediate area include the brewery taprooms and a few dive bars on 22nd Avenue, but note many of those are closed on Mondays/Tuesdays if you have a late show. If you plan to extend your night after a show, ride-sharing back to downtown or to your hotel is available until fairly late; otherwise remember the bus times if you rely on transit. As for accommodations, travelers often stay at hotels near Tropicana Field (such as the Courtyard Marriot or Hilton Bayfront, about 0.7 miles away) or along 34th Street (Wingate or Fairfield Inn). Within a 2-mile radius there are many hotels to choose from with rates that typically range from moderate to mid-level. Finally, if you need services: restrooms, convenience stores or gas stations can be found at the corners of 34th & 26th or 34th & 4th within a few blocks. Overall, while The Factory’s block is mostly art/goods spaces, a short walk or drive will get you many restaurant and bar choices to fill out your evening around a show.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Factory St. Pete stands out for its uniquely local, gritty character and its role reviving an old industrial area. Unlike a polished arena or nightclub, it wears its industrial past on its sleeve: you still see the original factory walls and utility piping, now covered in murals and neon art. This authenticity gives it a draw for both artists and audiences. Local press noted that this project was driven by a desire to avoid generic chain-venues, instead creating “something unique, innovative, exciting” for their hometown (stpetecatalyst.com ). Indeed, founders emphasized that walking through The Factory should feel like an adventure: “walk into the galleries, go to the restaurant, go to Fairgrounds… I see these as complimentary,” said owner Tom Gaffney (stpetecatalyst.com ). In practice this means the lines between art exhibit, performance hall, and hangout bar are blurred here – a visitor might come for a concert and end up strolling through an art show or grabbing a beer at the taproom. Historical moments have already made The Factory local lore: for example, in 2021 it hosted the Shine Mural Festival, when dozens of artists (from around the U.S.) painted giant, sunset-themed murals on its exterior walls (www.tampabay.com ). The space is also known for long concerts where the crowd spills onto the patio, and for intimate art openings where neighbors bump into each other admiring the same exhibit. Many artists and musicians cite The Factory as a favorite because it feels “homegrown” – the sound may get loud and the floor can rumble, but the setting feels genuine. Even its occasional controversies – like the 2022 social media scare about a rumored closure – underscored how much it had become a community institution (management quickly reassured everyone it would stay open) (www.tampabay.com ). In short, The Factory’s appeal comes from its creative energy and local flavor: it’s not simply a business, but a canvas for public art, a stage for diverse voices, and a gathering spot that reflects St. Pete’s offbeat spirit. Its ongoing expansions (plans for a restaurant, outdoor games and more murals (stpetecatalyst.com )) are being done with the explicit intent to enhance, rather than erase, what makes it feel special. Many visitors leave feeling that The Factory captured something of St. Pete itself – energetic, a bit unconventional, and always artsy – making every visit more than just a night out.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Factory is wheelchair-friendly. The parking areas include ADA-accessible spots (www.floridarama.art ) and the entrance has ramps. All event rooms are on ground level. Restrooms include at least one fully accessible stall. Service animals are welcome; other pets are not allowed unless it’s a designated pet-friendly event. The surrounding streets have some level ground, but use caution on the brief sidewalk slopes. If you need special accommodations, contact the box office in advance and they will advise.
What to Bring/Not to Bring: Pack light. Security is usually mild but larger bags (bigger than a purse or small backpack) may be searched. It’s safest to bring only essentials: your ticket (printed or on your phone), ID (especially for 21+ shows), a credit card/cash, and maybe earplugs (some concerts get very loud). A small reusable water bottle is fine – they often have free water stations – but outside alcohol or large coolers are not permitted. Note the Florida law: no outside booze of any kind inside. Cameras and phones are usually okay for photos (many people film with phones), but professional camera equipment (DSLRs, tripods) often require prior permission from event staff. Smoking is not allowed indoors (there may be a designated area outside). Dress codes are extremely casual – think jeans, band T-shirts, sneakers or boots. It can get warm in the crowd, so layers are smart (you can always stash a jacket under a table or take it off). The floor can be dusty on concerts, so dirt-friendly shoes are wise if it’s been dry.
What to Expect: Expect progressive, artsy vibes. Every event is a little different – one night might feel like a club DJ show with strobe lights, another night like an indie art reception with wine and gallery talk. The venue itself is largely indoor, so weather only really affects travel to/from. On a busy night, arrive early: doors typically open 30–60 minutes before showtime. Early arrival also helps you get a good spot (especially for unreserved GA). Lineup announcements often happen freely via social media, so check Facebook/Instagram the week of the show. Technology works well enough: most cell networks have service indoors here, though you may see a few dead spots against certain walls. Wi-Fi might not be reliable, so plan accordingly (e.g. save your Uber app ready to open).
Avoid These Pitfalls: A few common mistakes: (1) Don’t assume re-entry. Once you leave the building (for a smoke break or food run), you generally cannot come back in without paying again. (2) Don’t block exits for long. Staff will clear any lingering shade or blocking around doorways, so step aside. (3) Don’t crowd the edges at a sold-out show – squeeze forward or use some elbow room near a pillar for breathing space. (4) Don’t ignore local art. The Factory has rotating exhibits and crafts, so take time during the event to walk around – you might discover an installation or vendor stall worth a look.
Age & ID: Most shows are 21+ due to alcohol sales. Always carry a government ID if you plan to drink or attend a 21+ event. Minors are only allowed if an event is explicitly all-ages (these are rare; check the event listing). Any 21+ show will strictly enforce ID. The staff knows how to spot fake IDs, so it’s best not to try.
Parking & Travel Tips: If renting a car, remember that big events can fill lots quickly. Early arrival (1-2 hours before) ensures a space. When exiting late at night, the nearest main roads are MLK and Central Avenues – watch for lights before merging. If using public transit, check the latest PSTA schedules (last bus on Route 34 is usually around 10pm or midnight). Rideshares drop off/pick up on Fairfield; have your driver stop as close to the entrance as possible.
Insider Tips: If you want front-of-stage access for popular gigs, arrive very early and stay vigilant – enthusiastic fans often line up well in advance. For quieter shows, the elevated rear areas (the Gallery Row) can be surprisingly comfortable viewing spots with less jostling crowd. In general, be friendly – the community here is known to be welcoming. Artists and organizers mingle; a simple compliment to a performer can lead to backstage chats. Also, check if the day’s event participates in any special categories: e.g. museum nights sometimes offer discounts for art students or have a “first drink free” happy hour.
Weather and Seasons: The venue is primarily indoors, so rain won’t cancel a scheduled show. However, in extreme storms the neighborhood can see brief street flooding – it’s Florida, so watch local weather if driving in a torrential downpour. In summer months the inside can get steamy, so hydrating is key. In winter (Dec–Feb) the FloridaRAMA lobby and bars are heated, but nights can still be cool; bringing a light jacket is wise.
Overall, coming to The Factory is like going to a fun, local art party with live performances. Follow the rules, arrive safely, and you’ll find most visitors and staff very helpful. Bring an open mind – you might catch a gallery opening before a punk-rock set, or strike up a conversation with an artist over a beer. Enjoy the unique mix of sights and sounds; that’s exactly what makes The Factory St. Pete a memorable venue.
How do I buy tickets for shows at The Factory St. Pete?
Tickets are usually sold through the event promoter or the venue’s online announcements. Check The Factory’s social media or events page for official links. Many events offer advance online sales, and sometimes door tickets if available. For sold-out shows, tickets occasionally appear on secondary markets, but it’s safest to buy from the announced source. There is typically no walk-up box office open except on event nights.
What are typical ticket prices for events at The Factory?
Prices vary widely. Local indie acts or open-mic nights might charge $10–$20. Larger touring concerts or festivals often range $30–$50 or more. Comedy shows and film screenings often fall in the $15–$30 bracket. Student, group or early-bird discounts may apply. Special headline events or full-day festivals can exceed $60. Always check the specific event listing for pricing.
Are there age restrictions at The Factory St. Pete?
Many events at The Factory are 21+ because alcohol is served. If a show is 21+, you’ll need a valid ID to enter. Some family-friendly or daytime events (like certain film screenings or art fairs) are all-ages; these will say so on the event info. If you’re unsure, contact the promoter. As a general rule, if alcohol is being sold at the event, expect a 21+ policy.
What is the seating layout – is it all general admission?
Yes, most shows are general admission. The main stages are open-floor area where people stand. For some events, there may be a limited number of chairs or tables along the edges, but these are first-come, first-served. Smaller rooms in the building may have poker tables or sofa seating. There are no fixed assigned seats; everyone is free to move around. The best viewing spots are usually near the front of the stage. If you need to sit, plan to arrive early and stand near a peripheral space where seating might be available.
Is The Factory St. Pete wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Factory was recently renovated with accessibility in mind. The parking lots have marked ADA spots (www.floridarama.art ). Entrances have ramps or level sidewalks. Inside, doorways and restrooms accommodate wheelchairs. The multi-room layout is mostly on one floor. If you need any assistance, staff are generally helpful. There’s plenty of room on the warehouse floor for a wheelchair to move among the crowd. If you plan to attend and have specific mobility needs, contacting the venue ahead of time is recommended.
Where can I park when attending an event?
There are free parking lots dedicated to FloridaRAMA (inside The Factory campus). You can park in the North Lot (off Fairfield Ave S) or the South Lot (off 7th Ave S) at no charge (www.floridarama.art ). There are also street parking spots on nearby side streets (some metered). These fill up on big nights, so arriving early helps. Bicycles have 149 bike rack spaces available (www.floridarama.art ). If those are full, nearby retail lots may have paid parking. Rideshare or taxi drop-offs on Fairfield are also easy if parking is tight.
Which public transit goes to The Factory?
The most convenient bus is PSTA Route 34, which stops at 34th St S & Fairfield Ave – only a block from the venue. This connects St. Pete’s downtown with the south side. Check the PSTA schedule for times. The SunRunner bus line doesn’t come as close. Otherwise, you could take a taxi/rideshare from the nearest major hub. The Pinellas Trail runs alongside the facility for cyclists, and downtown bike rentals or scooters are an option on dry days.
Can I bring food and drinks inside?
Outside alcohol is not allowed – The Factory only permits drinks purchased from its bars, which serve beer, wine and some cocktails (thefactorystpete.com ). Sealed water bottles or non-alcoholic drinks are usually okay. Outside food is generally discouraged; the venue often encourages patrons to use on-site vendors. (Many events have food trucks parked outside – try those or eat beforehand.) There’s no full kitchen inside, so plan to dine either under your own arrangements or at near-by eateries.
What are the dress and bag policies?
The dress code is casual or “artsy.” Jeans, T-shirts, sneakers or boots are very common. There is no formal dress requirement; come as you are. Bag policies: large backpacks or suitcases may be checked or turned away at the door. Try to bring just a small bag or none. Security may ask to open or check bags; cooperation speeds entry. During summer nights it can get humid inside, so lighter layers are better. Closed-toed shoes are a good idea for standing events.
Are cameras or video recordings allowed?
Personal cameras and smartphone photography are generally permitted. You will see many audience members taking photos or short videos. However, professional video cameras, DSLRs, tripods, or lighting setups usually require the performer’s or venue’s permission. If planning to take lots of photos, be mindful of the crowd and avoid bright flashes during dark shows. Always respect any performer’s objection to recording; if an artist has posted “no recording” before the show, follow that rule to avoid confiscating by staff.
Does The Factory host any recurring events?
Yes. One major recurring event is the city-wide Second Saturday Art Walk (5–9pm), during which The Factory and FloridaRAMA open their galleries for free community exhibits (thefactorystpete.com ). Many local music promoters also hold regular weekly or monthly dance nights, DJ showcases and open mic nights at the venue. Film festivals (Sunshine City Film Fest in January and Black Art & Film Fest in February) are annual highlights. Keep an eye on The Factory’s calendar – they often have a “classic” event like a New Year’s Eve party or a Halloween costume event each year as well.
What is FloridaRAMA, and how is it related to The Factory?
FloridaRAMA is the immersive art museum and interactive exhibit created by Liz Dimmitt, which occupies Building 6 of The Factory complex. It began as “Fairgrounds St. Pete” (opened 2021) and later rebranded as FloridaRAMA (www.tampabay.com ). Though it is a separate ticketed attraction specializing in hands-on Florida-themed art installations, it shares the same address and operates under The Factory’s umbrella. The Factory acts as the “campus” around it; you can walk from FloridaRAMA’s galleries right into the main Factory *warehouse* spaces, studios and cafes. In practice, many visitors experience both: for example, an art exhibit admission plus a concert in the main hall. Liz Dimmitt remains FloridaRAMA’s director and an anchor presence within The Factory.
Is The Factory family-friendly for visiting with kids?
Mostly no, since many (though not all) events are 21+ and geared to adults. If you plan to bring children, look specifically for family-friendly events. Occasionally The Factory hosts daytime workshops or art fairs aimed at families; these will be explicitly advertised as “all ages” and usually have no alcohol on-site. In general, though, nights at The Factory are adult-oriented (live music, bars, late hours), so attending with young children is not common. For parents: there are no child-only areas, and minors cannot stay alone. Always check the event details first.
Does The Factory allow re-entry?
No. In most cases once you enter, you cannot leave and come back again on the same ticket. This is especially true when alcohol is being served (to enforce the 21+ rule). So if you step out for any reason, be prepared that you might have to buy a new ticket if you try to return later. Plan accordingly (use the restroom or get food before the show starts).
Are there coat checks or storage?
Sometimes. On busy winter nights, the venue may offer a small coat check (paid or free). If not, you should keep jackets and bags with you. During summer shows this is rarely an issue. If security assigns a coat check, it will be by the main entrance. Otherwise, you can usually hang items on a railing or keep them under a table. Theft is uncommon, but keep valuables on you.
