The Columbus Athenaeum

The Athenaeum was a complete secret to me until we went to see the Vindys. This is a pretty cool venue in the downtown area that's just unassuming. We had no idea what the building was or the purpose it served. Turns out the place has a couple of historical theaters for receptions, concerts etc. we were in the small theater and watched the concert from the balcony. My only complaint- super hot inside.

Decent concert venue. Signs weren't super clear on where to enter, but enough people ahead of us popped into a side door that we were able to figure it out. Once inside, plenty of security employees guided us through the different hallways up to the third floor.The space itself is clearly pretty old -- the seats have seen a lot, but it's really cool that there ARE seats in addition to the general admission floor area. As a tall person, it was uncomfortable to turn and face the stage because all of the chairs are aimed toward the center of the floor rather than the stage.For this show (maybe not all shows) the merch tables were inside the venue instead of out in the hallway, which was an interesting choice - it's nice that you don't have to miss any of the show to stand in line, but at one point it gets to be unclear of where the merch line is and where the crowd is just enjoying the show.Since this was my first time, I'm not sure if it's the acoustics of the room or just the mix of this particular show but it was a little difficult to hear, particularly at the beginning of the show. It got a little better further into the show (which makes me lean toward a mix issue, or at least learning the room) but it took me out of some of my favorite songs at the top of the set list.I'd probably go again, but this isn't at the top of my favorite venues list.

Kept wondering what this was, and today saw a show here. It used to be a Masonic temple. Big, with several different rooms for different events. We were in a big theater on the third floor. Acoustics were good, sight lines were good, easy entry and exit for our big group. Beautiful decor. Downstairs I saw another room that could be used for dinners or weddings. Some street parking, some lots. A spot out front for drop offs. A bit rough in back corners, etc., but kept up pretty well. No drinking fountains I could find, on our floor or the one below- figured they would be by the bathrooms there, but no.Definitely a nice spot to see a show or have an event.

I visited the Athenaeum to see the layout of the banquet hall for a wedding reception photography shoot. I called ahead and made arrangements with a pleasant young woman who met and gave me a tour. She allowed me to stay as long as I needed to take preliminary shots and do lighting tests.Our location was quite spacey with good depth to see the front without obstruction. There is a small stage to suit many of your needs and dim lighting, which I assume to be adjustable (see my photos).When I returned the day of the reception, both she and her team of caterers and hosts were nothing but kind to me and the guests for the duration of the evening, going above and beyond to meet my/our needs (despite the fact that I was having a nightmare shooting experience, through no one's fault but fate. Still, they helped me salvage the evening, for which I'm forever grateful).I'll be sure to look them up when/if my kids ever get married (hopefully not before one of them moves out!).

Saw a show there last night. When I bought tickets the email said doors open an hour before the show which would have been 7pm. 2 days before the show they sent out an email saying will call opened at 5, it didnt (when we bought tickets the only option was will call). So everyone lined up for 5pm. The confusion left ppl out in the cold for over an hour. The building had no heat and I mean absolutely freezing. The band even complained several times. The "security" were on power trips and had attitude problems. One came up for no reason at all and gave me crap about seats next to me. 3 ppl who I was NOT with put there coats on the seats and left to go buy food at the bar. Some how this was my problem according to the little lady in the security Tshirt who told me "if you get up to go to the bathroom and someone wants your seat you're out of luck" and was lecturing me about the seats with coats which again were NOT MINE. She was trying to create problems where there were none. You have to climb up a good amount of stairs to get to the actual theater, like 4 flights. The experience I had with staff and instructions put out by them was probably the worst I have had for a show but the theater itself is pretty good for seeing a band. There isn't a bad seat in there but my advice is bring a blanket.

We signed with them for our daughters wedding. Lori has been a pleasure to work with. She is right on top of things and has suggestions as well. The food tasting was delicious and plan on the wedding dinner to be just as delicious! I will add more to this post as our daughter is getting married this weekend!Our daughter married and the service and dinner was everything we imagined! The food was delicious and the service outstanding. Our reception area was spacious for dining and dancing! This was the perfect place to host our event! Lori was wonderful to work with!

First time here; didn't know there were concerts held here but I jumped at the chance to see John Waite's show, which was last night. It was in the small theatre on the 4th floor. It is lovely here. I know there are high school proms, and weddings at this venue, obviously in larger rooms. They had large round tables with chairs arranged for the show and I thought, this is how to see a show. It was comfortable and cushy, and although you could go to the bar for a drink, they also had table service. Everyone was very friendly and efficient. The sound was decent. The ladies room was very nice. There was a balcony and I was glad they were allowing people to sit up there too.

We were there for a music concert. The seats were very old and uncomfortable. The whole no cell phone policy before the open act evening started was ridiculous. The staff was all over people who tried to use them. Very overzealous. The venue is old and needs updated. The railings were not all in place. It didn't seem ADA friendly. I wouldn't recommend this venue for concerts.

Handicap accessible door was locked and had no doorbell! Restrooms we were directed to by signage outside venue room (restrooms were on different floor) had no accessible stalls. Toilets were practically child level and no grab bars or room for wheelchairs or walkers. Shockingly poor accessibility!

If you are looking for a venue that has video screens audio and video equipment, service for dining, excellent food (chef), and professional management you need to book Columbus Athenaeum. Natasha was the event coordinator for my event and she was involved from the beginning to the end. This historical building is so beautiful on the inside you will not need decorations. I highly recommend this event hall you will not be disappointed.Deborah Winters