Step Inside: Velvet Underground in Toronto

“Run Run Run” over to the Velvet Underground to see “What Goes On” “After Hours” — hint, hint, it’s “Rock & Roll.” Named after the famed New York rock band, the Velvet Underground has gone from being a beloved hole-in-the-wall spot for late nights spent dancing to being a lively music venue, rightfully earning its spot in Toronto’s nightlife scene. Learn more about the Velvet Underground and what makes this venue so special below.

Velvet Underground History

Located in the heart of downtown Toronto on the Queen West strip, the Velvet Underground has been a staple in the city’s music scene for over 20 years. The venue first operated as a club that hosted new wave, emo and goth retro dance parties, as well as being the home of weekly live broadcasts by Toronto FM station 102.1 The Edge. After shuttering its doors in October 2015, the building was soon renovated and reopened in February of 2016 as a live music venue. 

In 1995, the Velvet Underground hosted the CD release party for Alanis Morissette’s critically acclaimed album, Jagged Little Pill. Having seen plenty of up-and-coming artists on their ascent to fame, its roster of visiting artists has expanded to include Doja Cat, Jack Harlow, Laufey and more.

Get to Know Velvet Underground

Venue Features

Enhancing the venue’s foundational features, the renovated main room now has a sleek black interior complemented by the original venue’s red brick walls. While the venue has principally operated as a music hall after February 2016, it continues to host various special events and club nights as an ode to the building’s beginnings. The Velvet Underground is well equipped for nights spent on the dancefloor and in the mosh pit.

Seating and Viewing Options

The Velvet Underground has the capacity for 355 fans. All shows are general admission and standing room only. While there are no designated VIP spaces, the Velvet Underground offers VIP experiences that vary from artist to artist. Each VIP package is different, but all typically entail early entry into the venue to ensure easy viewing of the stage. To view the various venue configurations, check out the Velvet Underground’s seating chart. 

Venue Accessibility

Guests of all disability statuses are welcome at the Velvet Underground. If you would like to receive information about accommodations available at the venue, or make arrangements for accommodation at the venue, please email info@thevelvet.ca or call the box office at 647-351-9001.

Parking and Admission at Velvet Underground

The Velvet Underground is located at 508 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON, M5V 2B3. There is no designated parking for the venue, but there is paid public street parking and lots on Queen St. West and the surrounding streets. Doors generally open to ticket holders an hour before show time. Please allot extra time to find parking before showtime. 

Bags up to 12”x6”x12” are allowed in the venue. All bags will be searched prior to entry. Bags that are not clear will be subject to additional search. Additional items not allowed into the venue are outside food and drink, weapons, illegal substances, e-cigarettes, personal vaporizers and cannabis. 

Nearby Attractions

Food & Drink Near Velvet Underground

Enjoy Toronto’s vibrant culinary scene by checking out some of the nearby restaurants before and after visiting the Velvet Underground. Upscale French bistro La Palette is located a couple of doors down from the venue, while the nearby Saku offers guests a taste of their unique sushi-taco fusion. Visitors can also get an authentic sampling of the flavors of Italy by eating at Atelier Pasta, where fresh pasta made in house is served daily. 

In addition to taking advantage of the local food scene, various concessions are available for purchase at the venue. Outside food and drink (including water) are not permitted. Restaurant leftovers may be left at coat check with a fee. 

Hotels Near Velvet Underground

Want to explore all that downtown Toronto has to offer? There are plenty of hotels around to accommodate your stay. The closest hotels to the venue are The Palmerston, which is a quick walk down the block, the Ace Hotel Toronto and the 1 Hotel Toronto – the latter two of which are under 1 kilometer away. If interested in staying a bit further from the venue, some more options include The Clarence Park, Sonder The Slate and the Dragon Gate Inn – Toronto.