Bell House | Brooklyn

The Bell House is a popular performance venue located in Gowanus, Brooklyn, offering a dynamic mix of live music, comedy shows, podcast recordings, and private events. Since its opening in 2008, it has become a staple of Brooklyn’s cultural scene, known for its eclectic programming and inviting atmosphere.

Venue Overview

Address: 149 7th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11215.

Capacity: The Bell House can accommodate up to 500 standing guests or 250 seated in the main performance space, making it a versatile venue for both large and intimate events. The front lounge area offers a cozy, more casual setting.

Ambiance: Housed in a former 1920s printing factory, the space retains much of its industrial charm, featuring 25-foot high arched wooden ceilings, chandeliers, and an 88-foot-long barrel-vaulted ceiling. This unique architectural style gives the venue a striking atmosphere that balances both vintage and modern elements.

Bar: The venue includes a full-service bar offering craft cocktails, local beers, and a selection of wines, creating a relaxed environment for attendees to enjoy before or after events.

Types of Events

The Bell House is known for hosting a wide range of events, including:

Live Music Performances:

The Bell House is home to a variety of music genres, from indie rock to hip-hop and electronic. It features both up-and-coming and established artists. The venue’s acoustics and intimate setting make it an excellent place to enjoy live performances.

Comedy Shows:

The Bell House is also a popular spot for stand-up comedy, attracting top comedians from around the country. Past performances have included big names like John Mulaney, Maria Bamford, and Demetri Martin.

Podcast Recordings:

The Bell House has become a popular location for live podcast recordings. Podcasts like "The Moth," "Comedy Bang! Bang!", and "The Last Podcast on the Left" have recorded episodes in front of a live audience at the venue.

Private Events:

The Bell House offers the option to host private events such as weddings, corporate parties, and birthday celebrations. Its spacious layout and central location in Brooklyn make it an ideal venue for such gatherings.

Event Highlights

Some of the standout events held at The Bell House include:

Comedy Shows: The venue regularly hosts performances from famous comedians such as Maria Bamford, Demetri Martin, and The Moth StorySLAM, which features real people telling personal stories on stage.

Live Music: Artists and bands from various genres perform at the Bell House, including indie rock, electronic, folk, and pop. These performances often feature a mix of established acts and up-and-coming talent.

Upcoming events include:

Demetri Martin: The Quick Draw Tour on June 14, 2025.

The Moth StorySLAM on June 25, 2025.

Maria Bamford on October 3, 2025.

History and Ownership

The Bell House was founded in 2008 and has become one of Brooklyn's leading cultural venues. Originally an independent venue, it was acquired by Live Nation in 2024, leading to some changes in programming, particularly an increase in focus on established acts, especially in the comedy genre. This change has sparked some concern among local artists who worry about the future of smaller, emerging acts, but others see it as a way to ensure the venue’s long-term viability.

Atmosphere and Community

The Bell House is known for its welcoming, casual atmosphere. The spacious venue features a bar area, comfortable seating, and a dance floor for more active events. Visitors can enjoy the venue's charming vintage interior while also attending a variety of performances, creating an immersive experience.

The venue is a cultural hub for Brooklyn residents and tourists alike, offering not just an event but a place to engage with Brooklyn's creative scene. It has hosted a number of community events, making it a key spot for locals to gather, enjoy entertainment, and socialize.

Accessibility

Location: The Bell House is located in the Gowanus area of Brooklyn, a neighborhood known for its mix of residential buildings, local businesses, and vibrant cultural scene.

Public Transportation: The venue is easily accessible by subway and bus. The F and G trains are nearby, with the F train stopping at Carroll Street and the G train at Fourth Avenue/9th Street. It’s also a short distance from the Smith-Ninth Street station.

Parking: While street parking can be limited, visitors often use public transportation or nearby parking lots.

Visit Information

Phone Number: (718) 643-6510.

The Bell House remains one of the most beloved venues in Brooklyn, offering an eclectic mix of live entertainment and a warm, inviting environment for both performers and guests. Whether you're attending a live music show, comedy night, or podcast recording, The Bell House provides a unique and enjoyable experience.