Things to consider as a band looking to book a gig and for fans wanting to see a live show:
Location & parking – is venue easy to access? Do they have ample parking? Is the area served by Uber/Lyft/taxi or public transportation?
Atmosphere – is it family friendly or only 21+. Some venues allow for families (kids allowed until a certain time at night, usually 10 pm)
Cover charge – Generally speaking, most people don’t mind paying a cover charge to see live music, as long as it’s reasonable. Some venues don’t have a cover; most others are $10 per person on average. Venues realize they are going to make money on the liquor/food sales. In most cases, the cover charge helps pay the band.
I have also been to venue that charged $30 just to walk in the door without guaranteed seating. It was standing room only. Obviously, I’m not a fan of such venues because if I am going to pay $30, I expect at least a seat or a table to set down my drink.
Distractions from music/band – A few venues are more like sports bars with TV’s, pool tables, video games, etc. Depending on the location of the stage, these distractions effect not only the patrons but also for the playing musicians. During the performance, the TVs should be turned off if within sight of the band/patrons in the stage area.
Inside only or outside (weather permitting) – venues that have both indoor and outdoor options are great for the summer months. People generally like to be outside during nicer weather, as long as there is some type of shelter (tent or covered patio, etc.) from the blazing sun or light rain.
Stage – should be large enough for band to be able to move around. A small stage may work fine for a 3- or 4-piece group, but when you have larger bands with 6 or 7 members, there’s going to be spacing issues not just with the equipment, but for the musicians. When musicians can move during the show, it makes for a better performance. A riser for the drummer is a nice touch so they are not hidden behind the other band members.
Space for dancing – it goes without saying that a good band is going to have the crowd (especially women!) wanting to dance/rock out in front of the stage. There should be sufficient space between the stage and the seating area to accommodate and encourage audience participation.
Sound & lighting – does the venue provide in house sound/lighting options for the band? Do they have their own sound tech on staff? The sound system is incredibly important for the audience. No one instrument should be overpowering and all vocalists should be heard clearly even from the back of the room. Obviously sound check prior to showtime is a priority.
Bands it doesn’t hurt to ask your audience if they can hear you okay after your first song – they will likely let you know what you might need to adjust.
Adequate seating/tables – Does the venue have tables &/or chairs? Picnic tables? Can you bring your own chair (typical for outdoor summer fests). During summer months I carry my own folding chair in my trunk just in case.
Reserved table options – Several venues have RSVP “purchase table” options ranging from $80 – $120 for a table with 4 chairs. This is a good option for those who want a guaranteed seat. It also includes the cover charge. However, venues who offer this option should consider a check-in time for those reserved seats. For example: patrons check in by 15 minutes post-show time otherwise those empty table/seats can be opened up for those folks who are standing room only looking for a place to sit & set their drinks/food down.
I was recently at a venue where every single table and side chair was marked “reserved”, yet many of those seats remained empty the entire show and several folks were left standing the whole time. I don’t mind paying for a seat; just make them available and have an adequate amount to accommodate paying patrons.
Food options – Does the venue offer food? Always a good idea especially when there’s alcohol being served. Simple foods such as appetizers (nachos, cheese sticks, wings, burgers, pizza) are adequate, but a full menu is good as well.
I have been to a venue that doesn’t offer ANY food options although they say you can ‘bring it in’ from an outside vendor. However, there were not many choices nearby to get something to eat.
Even if they don’t have a full kitchen, they could offer limited items that could be served heat & eat via microwave or packaged foods/cold sandwich options.
Promotion – does the venue advertise the upcoming shows on their website and/or social media?