The Electric Factory
(215) 627-1332
421 N Seventh St
Philadelphia,
PA
19123
39.9591
-75.1501
Neighborhoods: North Philadelphia, North Philadelphia East
Hours:
Box office open on day of event only
What People Are Saying About The Electric Factory
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
In Short
The original Electric Factory opened in February of 1968 at 22nd & Arch Streets, and is looked back upon as one of the East Coast's most influential rock music clubs ever. A new Electric Factory, designed in the free-flowing spirit of the original, opened in a former warehouse at 7th and Willow streets in 1996. It has since played host to everyone from Bowie to the Backstreet Boys.
User Reviews
crimsonrose
November 13, 2008
So I went to the Puddle of Mudd concert yesterday. It was awesome!! Everyone was having such a good time. I expect there to be bumping, hitting, jumping around, dancing, singing along, stepping on toes, moshing at any concert, especially when you're so close together and having a good time. But I do have a problem, not with people drinking, but with those heavily intoxicated who came in that way or had too many to drink there, or were just inconsiderate, obnoxious people who were sober, that decided to start acting like fools, jumping on people, knocking people down, starting fights, blowing chunks a few feet in front of the stage, all which also happened last night. The problem I have is that it was an all ages concert, and there were all ages there. I saw a few who were about 8 or 9 yrs old in front. Now these inconsiderate people, who were actually not teens but in their 20s, were causing people who didn't want to participate in this extreme, to get hurt trying to get away from them, or hurting others by crashing into them at full speed. One woman ended up with a bruised and bloody cheek. Whatever, they're adults, if they enjoy hurting themselves so be it. But they put the kids who were there in jeopardy. And there was no crowd control. If you are going to advertise an all ages event then certain measures should be taken to ensure the safety of all ages there, especially of the younger kids and teens who have every right to be in front and do not want to be involved in the EXTREME activities I mentioned initiated by ADULTS not teens or kids. Most of Red and Puddle of Mudd was spent trying to keep away from the jerks. Props to all of the people, most of them TEENS, who looked out for and protected some of the women and kids that were there. You did what the bouncers/ security are paid to do, but neglected to do. Electric Factory dropped the ball on that one this time. I cannot recommend this as a place to bring any minors. And that's a shame.
read full review
sammyslammy1
March 30, 2007
I went to the Electric Factory to see the Take Action! Tour. The place is very crowded, which adds to the expierence. I did not check out the bar because I am under 21, but it looked nice with good views. The building is pretty cool, it being made from an old warehouse. Acoustics are alright and it does great pretty hot when in the crowd. Food and drinks and merch are easily accessable and are not too overpriced. There is not many security, except to enforce no smoking.
read full review
todger
November 13, 2006
The Electric Factory was a good experience. I was at the EF this past weekend for the artist Imogen Heap. This was my first time there and I had no expectations going in. Prior to entering I extinguished my cigarette (Remembering the laws in Philadelphia regarding smoking in public places.) I proceeded through security which was extremely thorough and made my way inside. There is a small entrance area where they were selling non alcoholic drinks, food, and merchandise. Straight ahead the place opens up and you are standing in the Factory. The ceilings are so high up thay get lost in scaffolding and darkness above. There are Two very large screens on the wall ensuring you the ability to see the artist on stage up close even if you are at the back of the room. Upstairs is the 21 and over crowd. I saw two bars and they also provide wait staff allowing you to stay in your seat and have drinks without having to get up. I asked one of the bouncers about the smoking policy. He was extremely polite and helpful. He explained about the laws in philly and that they did not allow reentry and actually apologized for it. Wow usually at other places its just a simple "NO". Impressed by the staff. I noticed too that this was an all ages show. A great venue for parents i suppose if they want to take their teen kids to see a show but wanna keep an eye on em too. The sound system was ok but keep in mind it used to be a factory/warehouse not a concert hall. If you wanna sit and have a great view of the stage from above, go early. Drinks are avg price for Philly and the staff was really helpful. The rest is up to the "Artist" you go to see whether or not the show is good or bad. By the way...the show was Awesome. Great venue Polite staff Safe and secure just enjoy the show!
read full reviewThe Details on The Electric Factory
Know Before You Go:
The Factory is a bit cavernous, which means acoustics can be boomy and imprecise, but the atmosphere is tres hip, allowing folks to sit still or mingle, depending on their mood.
The Extras:
Hosting everyone from Jimi Hendrix to the Dead, the club enjoyed two years of fame and controversy (then-Philly Mayor Frank Rizzo vowed to turn it into a parking lot) before closing as bigger venues starting drawing artists away.
