When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Urban Lounge
Why Urban Lounge is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Urban Lounge, founded in 2001 and located in downtown Salt Lake City, is a distinguished 21+ music venue and bar that has become a staple for music lovers seeking an intimate yet vibrant experience. Known for its cozy atmosphere and excellent acoustics, it provides an ideal setting to enjoy live performances from both internationally acclaimed touring artists and a diverse range of local talent. With a capacity to host up to 400 guests, the venue balances a lively nightclub ambiance with an inviting lounge space complete with a full bar. Over the years, Urban Lounge has hosted an impressive roster of notable artists such as Purity Ring, Father John Misty, Tame Impala, St. Vincent, and Dinosaur Jr., contributing significantly to the cultural and musical fabric of Salt Lake City. Its mission to nurture and grow the local music community by connecting it with global touring acts has attracted a dedicated and enthusiastic crowd, making it a popular gathering spot for friends looking to enjoy live music in a uniquely personal environment. Additionally, its central location in the city makes it easily accessible, adding to its appeal as a go-to destination for memorable nights out.
Here's what people think of Urban Lounge
As of recent, Urban Lounge holds a 4.4-star rating based on 1163 reviews.
Urban Lounge enjoys a strong reputation, reflected in its solid 4.4-star rating from over 1,160 reviewers. Patrons frequently highlight the venue's intimate atmosphere, which allows for a close connection with performing artists and a more personal concert experience compared to larger venues. Positively reviewed aspects include the diverse and high-quality live acts covering multiple genres, the knowledgeable and friendly staff, and a well-stocked, quality bar that complements the music perfectly. Reviewers often appreciate the venue's commitment to showcasing both emerging local artists and internationally recognized bands, creating a vibrant and eclectic music scene. On the downside, some negative reviews mention occasional issues with sound quality or crowded conditions during peak events, which can affect the comfort of the experience. A few visitors have noted that parking can be challenging given the downtown location, and some desire a wider food selection. Overall, the majority of customer feedback underscores Urban Lounge as a beloved fixture in Salt Lake City’s live music environment, applauded for its atmosphere, artist lineup, and contribution to the local music community.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Waverly Stevens
Great, small, and intimate little venue. Went for the Traitors heavy metal show, and there was a great turnout! Bathrooms are nice, and bartender was good when you couldn't hear, lol 😆
Off The Beaten Path Adventures and Travel (Adventures)
I had never been to the Urban Lounge, and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked it. It also may have ruined big concert venues for me. The reason why this place is much better than the big venues is how close you can get to the bands. We saw Citizen Soldier and Smash into Pieces. Our tickets were not expensive. We got to be feet away from the bands. The big venues you would have to pay an arm and a leg to get that close. There, the ticket was really cheap. What was not cheap was the venue. It was not run down. I liked the establishment. Another reason why the small venues are better is because often the bands will let you meet them. We got to get autographs and pictures with both Citizen Soldier and Smash into Pieces. I would highly recommend this place. This place feels how a true concert should feel. On a side note, the urban Lounge is located at a great spot. There were quite a few restaurants nearby. We saw the normal fast food, Latino, and other establishments. It made it easy to get food before or after the concert. There was also a gas station close by and a grocery store a little ways off. Parking was not a challenge for us. I love places with easy parking.
Jax Littles
If you book a booth, you're really just getting a place to sit. No real table top, no bottle service. There is very little ventilation in here. Luckily the restrooms are clean and don't smell horrible, it was the only place you could breathe when it gets too muggy. Since you can't go outside to catch your breath at all. So if you're an asthmatic... beware. You may find yourself having to go to the restrooms to breathe a little bit. Also, no food at this venue and no outside food allowed. It for sure makes me prefer seeing shows at Aces High Saloon more. Response to Owner response: On November 12th, when we went... they told me I needed to throw out my candy bars because outside food was not allowed. (We didn't try to bring in outside drinks, because that's common sense.) And we asked the bar if there was any food and the bartender said no. We were the 4th group of people in, so it wasn't too busy to ask questions yet. So not sure why we got different info than on here.
Chris Brussow
No frills spot for the best in music in an intimate setting. Significantly improved over the years. If you want an up close experience without the fight of a big crowd or deafening sound levels, this is one of the best places to catch a show. Bathrooms are recently refreshed and the sound in this place is amazing! State of the art sound system. And amazing 21+ venue.
Chris
Fun small venue for smaller bands. I see Friday Pilots Club here. Almost exclusively standing room, but it looks like there's a row of bench seats you can reserve. Sound quality isn't great, but not bad.
How to reach Urban Lounge
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Why Urban Lounge may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Urban Lounge with your friends?
Urban Lounge stands out as an ideal spot to gather with friends because it offers an intimate and vibrant atmosphere coupled with live music that keeps the energy alive throughout the night. With a strong reputation as a 21+ venue in the heart of Salt Lake City, Urban Lounge attracts both touring and local musicians nearly every day, making it a hub for music lovers who enjoy discovering new sounds and enjoying unforgettable performances. The lounge's compact setting allows for a close-up experience where you and your friends can connect not just with each other but with the artists on stage, fostering a social and immersive environment. Moreover, the lounge's 4.4-star rating from over 1,100 reviews speaks to its popularity and consistent positive experiences despite some criticisms—most patrons note the friendly, down-to-earth staff and vibrant crowd. Whether planning a casual night out or a special meetup, Urban Lounge offers a blend of quality entertainment, community vibe, and ease of access, making it a prime location to rally your group and enjoy quality time together.
What activities can you enjoy at Urban Lounge for a group meetup?
Urban Lounge primarily centers around live music performances, placing it firmly on the map for music aficionados and groups seeking an engaging night out. Almost every night features either an up-and-coming local band or a touring act, covering a spectrum of genres that appeal to diverse musical tastes. This makes it perfect for groups who appreciate live entertainment rather than just casual dining or drinking. It also means your meetup can have an exciting soundtrack, with each visit potentially offering a fresh soundtrack and experience. Besides music, the lounge provides a full bar with a variety of drinks, though some reviewers note that the menu aligns with local regulations, which can limit alcohol options. The intimate size of the lounge encourages social interaction, both within your group and with fellow attendees, making it easier to mix and meet new people if your group is open to expanding. Because Urban Lounge hosts events and shows nearly every day, it is always buzzing with activity, ensuring that your meetup will be anything but dull.
Why is Urban Lounge perfect for a group meetup?
Urban Lounge excels as a meetup venue largely due to its combination of ambiance, accessibility, and entertainment offerings tailored to groups. The venue’s downtown Salt Lake City location makes it easy for everyone to arrive without hassle, whether by public transit or rideshare, practical for groups coordinating their arrival times. Inside, the layout allows for comfortable mingling without overwhelming crowds, which is critical when you want to enjoy conversations or celebrate with friends. The staff's friendliness as reported by many guests contributes to a welcoming environment—one where groups feel accommodated and relaxed. Add to this the frequent live shows, and you have a place that guarantees shared memories anchored by music, creating a natural icebreaker for groups new and old. Despite some operational criticisms from a few reviews, many emphasize that the overall vibe and consistent quality of entertainment and company keep them coming back. All these factors together solidify Urban Lounge as an ideal venue to rally friends and family.
What should you expect about the environment and service at Urban Lounge?
Visitors to Urban Lounge can generally expect a relaxed and friendly environment driven by a passion for music and local culture. Staff members are often described as approachable and genuine, contributing to a homey, safe atmosphere that encourages return visits. However, there have been mixed reviews regarding management and customer service, with a minority expressing frustration over communication and management responsiveness. Nonetheless, the overwhelming majority of patrons highlight the positive social vibe and solid entertainment value. The lounge is noted to have a casual dress code and an unpretentious setting, which makes it easy for groups to drop in after work or on weekends without the pressure of formal attire. The drinks menu respects local alcohol laws, a factor to keep in mind when planning your group's night out. Overall, this blend of a welcoming environment combined with occasional hiccups speaks to a venue focused more on the music and community experience than on polished commercial glitz.
Can Urban Lounge accommodate different types of group events?
Yes, Urban Lounge is flexible enough to accommodate a range of group events from casual meetups to more structured celebrations like birthday parties or gatherings around a concert. Thanks to its nearly daily lineup of live shows, groups can plan their visit around specific performances that match their interests, creating a unique shared experience. The venue’s layout supports socialization and group seating while maintaining an intimate concert feel, which is often a challenge for larger venues. While the lounge predominantly operates as a music venue and bar, it also offers a straightforward, no-frills space that can be personalized by groups looking to enjoy an evening focused on entertainment and camaraderie. Planning events with them might require early correspondence, as management communication has been highlighted as a challenge, but the venue’s popularity and overall atmosphere make it worthwhile. For groups aiming to combine live music with socializing in a downtown locale, Urban Lounge is a dependable option.