Looking for something new to try this weekend? Bored with the same old spots on the Delmar Loop? This week’s suggestion to pop your Washington University bubble is the Old Rock House, located downtown at 1200 South 7th St. One of this venue’s best quirks is its colorful history dating back to its founding in 1818 as a fur-trading warehouse. The Old Rock House eventually became a saloon “known from Minneapolis to New Orleans as one of the liveliest spots along the shores,” where “steamboat captains and millionaires shared drinks with Mark Twain and Eugene Field, “ according to the Landmarks Association of St. Louis. Ultimately destroyed in the 1950s to make room for the Arch, the venue re-opened in 2007 with the self-professed intention of becoming “The Premiere Concert Venue in St. Louis.”

The Old Rock House stands out among concert venues in St. Louis because of its diversity in experience, eats, drinks and music. Featuring a mezzanine, standing room only, a dining area and a full bar—all of which offer perfect stage views due to the linear layout—this place was built to cater to the individual. There’s even a downstairs lounge for those looking to take a break from the action. No matter how you prefer to enjoy your concerts, you can do so at the Old Rock House. This same diversity extends to the food and beverage options. Unlike other local venues all with the same bland beer and chips, the Old Rock House features a diverse menu with everything from hummus to flat breads to wings. For the over-21 crowd, the enticing mirror-backed bar offers the same level of eclecticism. It appears that you can feel equally comfortable ordering a Schlafly and a martini—quite the feat.

Lastly, the music. The range of shows on the Old Rock House calendar never ceases to amaze me. One night, there may be a rave-style electronic show while the next might feature a Nashville-based rock band. This unexpected blend of genres allows for exploration as well as some of the most unique crowds I’ve encountered. On this note, I have never had a negative encounter with another concert attendee or staff member at the Old Rock House, which, frankly, is rare these days. Maybe it’s the intimacy of the venue or maybe it’s just a quality group, but other concertgoers tend to be very respectful of personal space, and the bartender is always willing to give a great food or drink suggestion.

Unfortunately, the Old Rock House remains a relatively undiscovered gem among the Wash. U. community. So do yourself a favor and pick a free night to go check it out. To fully enjoy the experience, don’t plan ahead—just check that there’s a show and buy a ticket at the door. It will be cheaper than The Pageant or the Fox Theatre and 10 times the adventure. The Old Rock House is too good for us to keep ignoring.