The National - Richmond, Virginia

The National: A Premier Richmond Music Venue

The National, located at 708 E Broad St, Richmond, VA 23219, United States, is a highly regarded live music venue and concert hall that has become a cornerstone of Richmond’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene. It consistently draws both local and touring acts, offering a diverse range of musical performances to a dedicated audience. The venue’s success is built upon a commitment to providing a memorable and comfortable experience for patrons.

Location and Accessibility

Situated in the heart of Richmond’s Arts District, The National benefits from its central location and easy accessibility. The address, 708 E Broad St, places it within walking distance of numerous restaurants, shops, and other cultural attractions. For visitors traveling by car, ample parking options are available nearby, although, as some patrons have noted, parking can occasionally be challenging. However, the venue’s staff consistently works to manage traffic flow and ensure visitor convenience.

Phone: 8046121900 provides a direct line of communication for inquiries and event bookings. The website, thenationalva.com, offers comprehensive information about upcoming events, ticket purchasing, and venue details.

Features and Amenities

The National distinguishes itself through a combination of features designed to enhance the concertgoing experience. The venue boasts a unique, slanted floor that provides excellent sightlines from almost any vantage point. This architectural element is a key differentiator, allowing attendees to enjoy a clear view of the stage regardless of their location. Multiple bar areas are strategically placed throughout the space, ensuring convenient access to refreshments.

• Wheelchair-accessible entrance and wheelchair-accessible toilet facilities are available, demonstrating a strong commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.
• Credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments are accepted, streamlining the transaction process for patrons.
• A dedicated bar on site caters to the diverse beverage preferences of the audience.
• Toilets are readily accessible throughout the venue.
• A restaurant provides dining options for those seeking a full meal before or after the performance.

The venue’s layout encourages a lively and engaging atmosphere. Patrons have reported enjoying the ability to move between different areas, whether it’s to grab a drink or find a more comfortable seating spot. The slanted floor facilitates unobstructed views of the stage, creating an immersive experience for all attendees.

Guest Feedback and Reputation

The National consistently receives positive feedback from its patrons, as evidenced by its impressive 2928 reviews on Google My Business with an average opinion of 4.6/5. Many reviewers highlight the venue’s intimate and comfortable atmosphere, praising the attentive staff and proactive crowd management.

Specific comments frequently emphasize the venue's unique design elements, such as the slanted floor and multiple bar areas. Several patrons have described The National as their “favorite venue ever,” noting the beautiful space and the ease with which they can enjoy the show from any location. The venue’s staff, including individuals like Greg and the team assisting with water distribution, are consistently commended for their friendliness and helpfulness. The ability to easily transition between floor and upper-level seating, offering a fantastic view even from the back of the floor, is another frequently cited positive aspect.

The attentive and proactive staff are consistently lauded for their ability to maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all patrons. Their efforts to keep the crowd contained are frequently mentioned as a key factor in the positive overall experience. The venue's overall atmosphere is consistently described as ‘chill,’ ‘intimate,’ and ‘beautiful’ – characteristics that contribute significantly to its popularity.

Specialties: Live music venue, Concert hall. The National serves as a vital platform for both established and emerging musical artists, enriching the cultural landscape of Richmond.

👍 Reviews of The National

Diane C. (. G. C.

4/5

Yes, the parking is iffy but the staff was so nice. Shoutout to Greg and the guys working that handed out waters.
The venue was small but comfortable,slanted floor and multiple bar areas.
The staff stayed attentive and was proactive in keeping the crowd contained.

Felicia P.

5/5

Perhaps my favorite venue ever! We started out in the floor and after our bones started to tire out we went upstairs to sit and rest and still had a fantastic view! The floor is on a slant and so you can see the stage so well even from far back on the floor. Beautiful intimate and chill space!

Ryan N.

4/5

Been here for quite a few shows, love the stage and the sound quality, all the workers are great, tickets are usually very affordable. Mostly all standing. Only complaint… drinks are insanely expensive. Like wildly expensive. Double digits for a Miller Lite is insane to me. Other than that though, great venue in the heart of Richmond City!

Ben

1/5

Was excited for this show. Purchased the VIP package being that I am a huge Fetus fan. I’m a little older, so sitting is pretty much a must. Selected a balcony seat which had an amazing view…. until an obese woman decided to stand in front of everyone, eclipsing the stage. In between songs myself and other patrons asked her to please sit down so we could see. Consequently, she complained to the staff that we were complaining. Staff approached me and said there was nothing they could do because she was the owner’s daughter (or something?). She stood throughout the entire show. I assume out of spite. Such inconsiderate and rude entitlement. Will never come back.

Bands, however, were great and interactive with audience.

Layne G.

4/5

It's a great venue, I really enjoyed the show I saw there. The staff was great too

Meresa M.

4/5

Great music venue. We enjoyed the show and the great seating. Historic theater with beautiful design. Clean restrooms and the bars were nice!

Wes T.

4/5

Absolute great venue and an awesome lineup. Almost all the time I would have given it five stars but a $14 Pabst Blue ribbon is just a bit silly

Shane O.

5/5

Small venue that attracts big names. The sound carries no matter where you’re at as well. Tickets are also very affordable.

Diane C. (. G. C.

4/5

Yes, the parking is iffy but the staff was so nice. Shoutout to Greg and the guys working that handed out waters.
The venue was small but comfortable,slanted floor and multiple bar areas.
The staff stayed attentive and was proactive in keeping the crowd contained.

Felicia P.

5/5

Perhaps my favorite venue ever! We started out in the floor and after our bones started to tire out we went upstairs to sit and rest and still had a fantastic view! The floor is on a slant and so you can see the stage so well even from far back on the floor. Beautiful intimate and chill space!

Ben

1/5

Was excited for this show. Purchased the VIP package being that I am a huge Fetus fan. I’m a little older, so sitting is pretty much a must. Selected a balcony seat which had an amazing view…. until an obese woman decided to stand in front of everyone, eclipsing the stage. In between songs myself and other patrons asked her to please sit down so we could see. Consequently, she complained to the staff that we were complaining. Staff approached me and said there was nothing they could do because she was the owner’s daughter (or something?). She stood throughout the entire show. I assume out of spite. Such inconsiderate and rude entitlement. Will never come back.

Bands, however, were great and interactive with audience.

Layne G.

4/5

It's a great venue, I really enjoyed the show I saw there. The staff was great too

Meresa M.

4/5

Great music venue. We enjoyed the show and the great seating. Historic theater with beautiful design. Clean restrooms and the bars were nice!