Commodore Ballroom Vancouver
Vancouver's iconic Commodore Ballroom: a legendary live music venue with a sprung dance floor and intimate stage views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience live music magic
Commodore Ballroom Vancouver
Best Time
Experience live music magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vancouver's iconic Commodore Ballroom: a legendary live music venue with a sprung dance floor and intimate stage views.
"It's my fave venue, love the size and bouncy floors."
🎯 Arrive Early for GA
Line up early for general admission to snag a spot near the stage.
💳 Cashless Payments Only
Be prepared to pay with card only; no cash accepted for drinks or merchandise.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Bouncy Dance Floor
Main Floor
Experience the legendary sprung dance floor that adds an extra layer of energy to every performance.
Intimate Stage Views
General Admission Floor
Get up close and personal with your favorite artists on the main floor, offering incredible proximity to the stage.
Balcony Seating (Reserved)
Balcony
For a more relaxed experience, reserve a seat in the balcony for a great view without the standing.
Iconic Live Music History
Entire Venue
Soak in the atmosphere of a venue that has hosted countless legendary performers over the decades.
Planning Your Visit
General Admission & Seating
Age Restrictions & Cashless
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for GA
Line up early for general admission to snag a spot near the stage. +1
💳 Cashless Payments Only
Be prepared to pay with card only; no cash accepted for drinks or merchandise.
🆔 Valid ID Required
This is a 19+ venue, so bring your government-issued ID for entry.
🪑 Reserve Seating
If you need to sit, book reserved seating in advance as tables are often taken. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for GA
Line up early for general admission to snag a spot near the stage. +1
💳 Cashless Payments Only
Be prepared to pay with card only; no cash accepted for drinks or merchandise.
🆔 Valid ID Required
This is a 19+ venue, so bring your government-issued ID for entry.
🪑 Reserve Seating
If you need to sit, book reserved seating in advance as tables are often taken. +1
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bartenders can offer water if you're feeling thirsty, especially during hot shows.
🎶 Check Set Times
Set times are usually announced on the day of the show.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Commodore Ballroom is a beloved Vancouver music venue known for its energetic atmosphere and intimate stage views, especially on its famous sprung dance floor. While drink prices are high and sound quality can be inconsistent, its historic charm and proximity to artists make it a favorite for many. +1
"Loved this venue!
It has enough space for the crowd to spread out.
I counted 4 bars which is great, you don’t have to wait too long for your drink.
Bartenders were friendly, I felt thirsty and they gladly offered me water.
The sound was not overwhelming, just right.
The stage was big and both bands seemed comfortable.
Loved the upper level with tables and chairs- some needed rest after jumping and dancing."
Marta Stashevska
"Love this venue, one of the only concert venues that I actually like how the speakers and balance of the volume sounds in the crowd. & the layout makes a lot of sense, very comfortable place to be for a long period of time. (saw flipturn play last month)"
kate cheeto
"I've been enjoying a vast range of diverse genres of musical excellence at the Commodore for over 30 years, especially because the venue has a wonderfully bouncy dance floor🕺🏽💃 With the combination of the cost of a general admission floor ticket, as well as arriving early enough, I've always been able to get myself situated against the barrier, front and center for nearly every performance! What's better, is coming to see up-and-comers here, who then come back the following years to pack Rogers Arena as their musical careers take off! Awolnation, last month, were amazing, with the bonus of 2 great opening bands! I've seen dozens of unknowns here, who've become the stars of the present. Conversely, the Commodore is a venue for many established performers who have already spent years on world tours, with award-filled careers, and don't fill grand stadiums any longer. A perfect example of the latter, was last week, when Tom Morello from Rage Against The Machine performed... with his young, teenage son ripping guitar solos behind this kid's little head! It was remarkable to be so close as to look in their eyes and feel their sweat! My 20-year-old self took over, sliding me into the inevitable mosh pit! There's no way for a similar experience elsewhere without spending a few thousand for VIP seating. I'm disappointed in my timing for getting sick because I had to miss the Macy Gray show last night🤦♂️ I usually attend at least 1/2 dozen shows at the Commodore every year! You won't be disappointed... unless you don't like your drinks in plastic glasses🍻 It's noteworthy to say that their coat check system gives me the comfort of leaving all my things with the diligent staff so I can jump around without hindrance!"
Colin F
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Commodore Ballroom is conveniently located on Granville Street, making it easily accessible by public transit. Several bus routes stop nearby, and it's a short walk from the Canada Line Skytrain station.
Granville Street can be busy at night. While some find it safe if you walk with purpose and stay aware, others advise caution. It's generally fine if you head directly to and from the venue.
While there are paid parking lots and street parking in the vicinity, public transit is often the most convenient option due to the venue's central location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Commodore Ballroom is a 19+ venue and strictly checks IDs at the door. There are no ways around this if you are underage.
General Admission (GA) is standing room on the main floor. Reserved seating, often at tables, usually costs extra and guarantees you a spot to sit. +1
For popular shows, lining up early is recommended to get a good spot on the general admission floor. Some suggest arriving a few hours before doors open.
No, the Commodore Ballroom has a strict no in-and-out policy. Once you're in, you're in for the night.
Yes, tables and seats are often reserved in advance for an additional fee. If you don't reserve, you might be able to snag a free table if you arrive very early, but there's no guarantee. +2
🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience
Sound quality can be hit or miss. While the PA system is good, the mix can depend on the band's sound engineer. Some find it excellent, while others report issues with clarity or volume balance. +1
Drinks at the Commodore Ballroom are considered expensive, which is common for many venues. Some suggest bringing your own weed instead of paying for overpriced beers.
Yes, there is a coat check available, which is convenient for storing your belongings so you can dance freely.
The vibe is generally energetic and intimate, especially on the main floor. It's known for its bouncy dance floor and a crowd that enjoys live music.
Yes, the venue has multiple bars, which helps minimize wait times for drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal cameras are allowed, but professional photography equipment (like DSLRs with large lenses) may be restricted. It's best to check the specific event's policy.
The front of the general admission floor offers the most intimate shots. The balcony can provide a wider view of the stage and crowd.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🎶 Music Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Seating and GA
However, there are some reserved seating options, typically at tables around the perimeter or in the balcony. These seats usually come with an additional cost and can be booked in advance. Redditors advise that if you require seating due to mobility issues or simply prefer it, reserving a table or balcony seat is highly recommended, as unreserved tables are scarce and not guaranteed.
It's important to note that the 'seated tickets' on some platforms might refer to these table reservations rather than general seating. For those opting for GA, be prepared for a lively atmosphere and potentially a hot, crowded environment closer to the stage.
The Commodore's Sound and Atmosphere
However, the sound quality at the venue receives mixed reviews. While some find the sound system to be well-balanced and not overwhelming, others report it can be 'hit or miss.' This inconsistency is sometimes attributed to the touring band's sound engineer not being familiar with the venue's acoustics, or the house engineer's mix being overruled.
When it comes to drinks, expect them to be on the pricier side, a common trend in Vancouver venues. Some patrons suggest bringing your own alternative to alcohol to save money.
Navigating the Venue and Age Restrictions
A crucial detail for potential attendees is that the Commodore Ballroom is strictly a 19+ venue. Valid government-issued identification is required for entry, and there are no exceptions for underage individuals. This policy is consistently enforced, so ensure you and your companions meet the age requirement.
Granville Street itself can be a lively area, especially at night. While generally safe if you remain aware of your surroundings and walk with purpose, it's advisable to head directly to and from the venue.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit