Iconic New York Venue – Irving Plaza

Irving Plaza History

As a famous song about New York City goes, if you can make it there, you can make it anywhere — but first, you have to make it at Irving Plaza. In midtown Manhattan, just steps from Union Square, Irving Plaza is a 1,200-capacity venue that has long served as a crucial rung on the music-industry ladder, signaling an artist’s transformation from club-filling phenom to theater headliner. Built in 1860, the building served as a hotel, union meeting hall, performing-arts space and Polish community center before assuming its current form as a concert venue in 1978, becoming a permanent pillar in New York’s ever-changing live-music landscape.

Irving Plaza Performers

The opening of Irving Plaza was fortuitously timed to capitalize on punk’s rise from urban subculture to national phenomenon, and in its early days, the venue played host to rising scene stars like Blondie and Talking Heads. Since then, playing Irving Plaza has been a rite of passage for countless alternative-rock acts making inroads into the mainstream, from the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Replacements in the ‘80s to The Strokes and White Stripes in the 2000s. It’s also a popular pit stop for stadium acts looking to do a one-off performance in a more intimate space, including U2, Pearl Jam and Paul McCartney.

Planning Your Visit to Irving Plaza

Conveniently located near New York’s bustling Union Square (home to various outdoor markets) and steps away from one of the city’s busiest subway junctions (14th Street–Union Square Station), Irving Plaza is surrounded by numerous fast-food restaurants for a quick pre-show bite.

Irving Plaza Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Irving Plaza parking options?

As with all destinations in the heart of Manhattan, it’s highly recommended you take the subway or taxi to Irving Plaza. But if you must drive, there are several paid parking lots within blocks of the venue (just be prepared to pay anywhere from $25 to $50 for the privilege). Consult the venue’s website for a map of nearby options.

Does Irving Plaza serve food?

Snacks and light refreshments are available at the venue’s bars.

What are the seating options at Irving Plaza?

With very few exceptions, Irving Plaza is a general-admission and standing-room-only venue. Rest assured, though, there are couches throughout if you need to get off your feet.

What are Irving Plaza’s safety & security guidelines?

Irving Plaza allows clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags (maximum size 12”x6”x12”). Small clutch bags are also permitted (maximum size 4.5”x6.5”). For a complete list of security guidelines, including COVID-19 protocols, visit the Irving Plaza website.