Agora Theater & Ballroom

You step off Euclid Avenue right into the security line outside the Agora, and the sidewalk buzzes with people smoking before the doors open. It's a huge landmark building that doesn't feel stuck in the past once you're inside the lobby. Security checks bags fast, and the bouncers don't mess around, so keep your ID ready before you hit the threshold.

Once you're past the entrance, the main room hits you with heavy bass rattling the floorboards. The ballroom floor slopes down toward the stage, meaning you'll actually catch the set even if you're stuck behind a tall group near the soundboard. It's loud, hot, and packed shoulder-to-shoulder when a big touring rock band rolls through town. Grab a drink at the side bar before the main act starts because the line grows fast.

Heading up to the balcony gives you a clear view of the pit, though the ushers watch the stairs like hawks so you can't sneak down front for a better angle. Merch is usually crammed near the coat check corner, and someone's dropped a bright red plastic cup right near the flickering exit sign...