Underground Arts ADA Accessibility Review: Philly, PA w/ Comeback Kid, Defeater, and Orthodox.

Underground Arts ADA Accessibility Review

Underground Arts, located at 1200 Callowhill Street in Philadelphia, is a well known venue for punk, metal, hardcore, and alternative music fans. As part of our mission at Beyond The Barrier to advocate for disability inclusion at concerts, I recently attended a show featuring Comeback Kid, Defeater, and Orthodox to assess the venue’s accessibility.

Orthodox

General Experience

Overall, my experience at Underground Arts was positive. The venue has an industrial, intimate feel, which can often pose challenges for accessibility. However, the staff went above and beyond to ensure I was accommodated and had a smooth experience.

Entrance and Accessibility

One major concern was the main elevator not working. I received mixed explanations—one staff member said it doesn’t operate on weekends, while another mentioned it was temporarily out of service. This could be a significant issue for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments. Despite this, the venue staff quickly provided an alternative by guiding me through a side entrance. Upon exiting, the staff were patient with me while I gathered by belongings and spoke to one of the bands. The process was seamless, and I appreciate that they didn’t hesitate to offer a solution.

Security and Support

A big shoutout to the head security guard, which sadly I did not get his name. He was not only aware of the chaotic nature of the show but also proactive in ensuring my safety. He allowed me to shoot from areas that worked best for me and checked in to offer assistance when needed. Once in awhile I'd throw a "thumbs up" in his direction to let him know I was okay, considering a few times I could feel his eyes on my back. Having security staff that genuinely cares about accessibility makes a huge difference in the concert-going experience.

Comeback Kid

Restrooms and Additional Accessibility Features

I didn’t get a chance to check out the bathrooms, but from online information, the venue does provide accessible restrooms, along with easy access to the bar and merch areas.

Final Thoughts

Underground Arts has a lot going for it in terms of accessibility, especially with its attentive staff and willingness to accommodate guests. However, the unreliable elevator situation is a drawback that could be a dealbreaker for some. If you plan to attend a show here and require accessibility assistance, I recommend calling ahead at to ensure a smooth experience.

At Beyond The Barrier, we’ll continue pushing for venues to improve accessibility so that all music fans can enjoy their favorite bands without barriers. Stay tuned for more venue reviews, and let’s keep advocating for change in the live music scene!