Simply getting into the club sets the Wetlands apart and provides clues that it is low on ego and high on social awareness. The pompous line behind the velvet rope, a trademark for city clubs, is absent. Instead, a wheel-chair accessible ramp leads from the sidewalk to the door. The Wetlands caters to ages 18 and up and even allows entry without the intrusive frisk associated with large concerts and with other urban clubs. We made our way inside and up to the bar for a pint of the Wetlands own lager, appropriately called Wetlands Reserve.
Beer is served only in glasses.
In keeping with the club's vision of environmental consciousness, plastic cups are prohibited. The main bar lies a few steps up from the main floor in its own wooden enclosure. The railings surrounding the bar area are topped with press clippings on environmental and social issues, even sporting a few quotes of wisdom from lesser and well known sages. Scanning over the main floor of the club, two things stand out. First, the stage faces to the side of the club instead of toward the front as is the layout in most music venues.