Illusions Bar & Theater

My husband and I had a big Baltimore trip planned and this show closed out our last night in the city; it was 100% worth it. It was such a fun and memorable experience, and we enjoyed ourselves thoroughly. The drinks were very tasty and effective. We definitely want to come back to Baltimore and this will be on the top of our list of things to do again.

Really fun experience. It’s impossible to not have a great time, laugh, and be entertained with some amazing magic. Everything here is very deliberate and conscientious to create a cool environment - from the drink menu to the decor to the service, this was a top experience. Won’t spoil the act, but we found ourselves laughing and constantly in awe of the magic. The audience engagement/participation adds an extra element of fun. Everyone will be a part of the show. Overall, we had a great time. We’d bring visitors from out of town and would recommend this experience to anyone looking to have some fun. Thanks for a great afternoon :)

I've lived in Baltimore for 38 years and this is the most fun I've had. Spencer personally greets everyone as they come in and spends time after the show for photos and autographs. Its full audience participation but even for anxiety riddled introverts like me it was a blast. He's kind, charismatic and despite the spooky decor, the place is very welcoming. The place is cozy, not cramped. The decor and music are perfectly complimentary to the atmosphere. These aren't childish tricks but wonderful slights of hand and mentalism. You feel like you've been teleported to a 1920s speakeasy in the best way. It's just mesmerizing. And the drinks are delicious. Bartender and assistant Nicole (who runs all of the behind the scenes) is equally warm, friendly, and talented. Tickets gets you 2 free drinks or you can use one of your tickets for a small souvenir which is nice. 10/10 experience. Truly the best of Baltimore.

Really fun and entertaining. Drinks were exceptional. The decor is fantastic. Highly recommend for a unique date or celebration. Worth the money for sure. There are lots of other bars and shops in walking distance so after the show you can safely walk to other places. Only critique: Chairs aren't very comfortable, so if you have back problems you may have issues by the end of the show.

Okay, I’m so late on this as everything in my life, but tbh I think my tardiness adds to this review. In September of last year I randomly visited Baltimore, looked up cool places, and added Illusions with little expectations… I have not stopped thinking about it. It’s been 9 months, and I can’t stop. Easily the best part of the trip and we cannot wait to come back. From the second we got to the door Spencer greeted us with a smile and a laugh as he took our ticket. I had NO clue he would then jump behind the bar to make our drink with the wonderful Nicole (I got the Devil’s Margarita, still remember how good it was and it’s name, FWIW). Then the actual show was MADNESS. Spencer is an incredible performer, hysterical, personable, and a downright impressive magician. Every trick was better than the last and included people from the audience. Honestly it was one of the funnest things I’ve ever been a part of. When it was over, I could have left a happy man… But Spencer and Nicole invited those that wanted to stick around for a drink and a conversation to stay. We took advantage, probably overstayed our welcome but we so badly did not want it to end. We had a few more drinks and conversations that felt akin to one I’d have with longtime friends. I left that night and immediately pre-ordered 3 decks of their playing cards and have told everyone imaginable about it. 10 out of 10 HIGHLY RECOMMEND if you like fun. The only regret was not getting a picture with Nicole in it 😭!

We've gone twice and both times were fully amazed. Last night brought a group of 12. 12/12 enthusiastically agree, AMAZING time. Great magic, great comedy, great drinks. A Baltimore must see!

We were very impressed by the Illusions Bar and Theater. From the moment we walked in we loved the atmosphere and decor. The drink menu was fun and unique. The show was amazing! It was very funny and interactive. The show was 2 hours long with a short intermission so you really got a good long show with a ton of awesome tricks. Spencer and Nicole could not have been sweeter! They run an amazing business. Definitely a must see when in Baltimore!

Kudos to this Dynamic Duo! My husband took me here for a date and everything was fantastic. The drinks were good and strong, you will definitely have illusions from just one drink. The show was incredibly entertaining. Highly recommend.

This is a must see for every one, exciting entertainment with one and one interaction. Engaging entertainment something you can't find nowadays, plus the adult and non acholic ones are super great. A SUPER MUST EXPERIENC!

When my friend said she wanted to go to a magic show for her birthday celebration I was a little skeptical. But this was such a fun evening out! We went with a very large group for a birthday celebration with a wide range of different ages from 14-70+ and a mixed group of locals and out of towners. Everyone in our party was thoroughly entertained. The illusionist, Spencer Horseman, does a lovely job of engaging everyone in the audience and of providing moments for spectators to become a part of the show. The tickets include 2 drinks, which you can also choose to use for merchandise instead. The drinks were surprisingly well done. I really enjoyed the Hazelnut Espresso Martini. Overall, I think this a great option for an out of the box night out in Baltimore.

Really fun magic show that is both interactive and funny. Spencer is great at getting the crowd involved and his family story and personal background was cool to hear. The bar itself is lined with cool decorations that have a "spooky" sort of theme to it. They seat you at a table and you can order up to 2 drinks for free with the two tickets they give or save those tickets to buy something like a pack of cards or book. I won't spoil any of the show but suffice it to say that this is a great place to take friends and family to for a good time!

When my husband first suggested we go to Illusions a few years ago, I was not convinced (after all, I hadn't been to a magic show in years, if not decades). We continually heard rave reviews from friends and finally decided to scope out tickets (they sell out way in advance!). I vaguely expected a large auditorium style show with a magician on the stage, but was so thrilled to find the intimate, transport-yourself-into-another-era bar that Illusions is held in! The show was captivating and magical and almost surreal. The entire operation is so smooth that it is hard to believe it is run by a dynamic duo of Spencer and Nicole. I love that this was / is a family-owned establishment! In terms of performance, Spencer does an incredible job of entertaining the audience, performing ~magical~ feats, sharing stories, and making sure folks are involved. A note to my fellow introverts who run from interactive events - I am not usually one for audience participation, but was chosen to help in one of the last acts. While a little nerve-wracking, it was still a really fun time and I felt good vibes and good energy from everyone in the room! As others have noted, two cocktails are included in your ticket. They also give you the option of buying something from their magic shop (e.g., magic books, keychains, trick kits, etc.) in case you don't drink or you don't want two mocktails. Such a thoughtful touch! They also allow BYO-small bites to eat before the show or during intermission. We were running late from work before our Friday showing, so grabbed two slices of pizza at Angeli's a few doors down and ate it during intermission. For all of the "why would I come to a magic show" folks and all of the "I would love to try something new" folks - this is definitely worth it. A whole hearted 5 stars from me!

Finally got tickets to see a show here for my boyfriends birthday and it really did not disappoint. It really is the perfect date night or cool experience to share with family and friends. Everything from the communication before the show to the organization of the flow of the night once we arrived there was awesome. Spencer the magician was so interactive with the crowd and really made us feel included with every act he did. He really left me in awe with the tricks he did and it's an experience I will never forget. The bartender Nicole was very sweet and made delicious drinks all night. Would 200% recommend this place to anyone and I hope more people continue to discover it! I plan on coming back!!

Oh my where do I begin I want to start off thatSpencer is quite the Show master! And the place is literally ran by the bartender and him and they got it quite under control it's all amazing. My girlfriends took me there for my b-day and we really didn't know what we were getting but it was very nice and I love the feel of the place! You can't beat the price and includes two drinks and barmaid made her drinks with tender loving care! She was Super nice too!! Spencer you should go on AGT and perform you are that good and then some it's every thing you do!! totally crack me up! Definitely going again you told me Halloween was a fun time so I know I want to go in October but I want to come in summer too! I love your energy!! Thank you for a fun b-day! And for the review some jerk left saying your place was outdated well your reply was straight up you Rock!!! See ya y'all soon'!

I booked a private event at Illusions for a corporate get-together with my team, as an alternative to the usual corporate activities. Nicole was very quick to respond via email to my inquiry and I was easily able to set up the date and put down the deposit online. I separately arranged for caterers to come prior to guests' arrival to set up dinner. Illusions has a full bar and gave out 2 drink tickets per guest as part of the package. I ordered the hot chocolate winter special drink and it was delicious. We were given an hour to eat, get drinks, and mingle prior to the show. We picked the shorter, ~45 minute show so that colleagues would have additional time to mingle afterward, and it worked well. The 4 hour time block allotted was great for a Tuesday night. On to the show- like many other reviewers, I found it was exactly as advertised with comedy and wide audience participation. The feedback I received from the team was overwhelmingly positive. It triggered many fun discussions of how we thought each trick was done the following day. Glad to have finally checked Illusions off my Baltimore wish list.

The show was amazing. Crazy good magic and very funny comedy. We had a great time. The atmosphere was very cool. They don't serve food but you get two drinks with your show ticket and they have some really good original drinks. You can bring food in if you'd like but we didn't do that. We just wanted to enjoy the show and we definitely did!

I finally got to see this whole show, and it was everything I wanted and more. I have been wanting to come here since moving to Baltimore, and I was surprised with tickets for my birthday! My partner had already seen the show and was still excited to go back. Let me tell you, it was magical! Spencer is so funny and so talented. All of us enjoyed the show and had a great time, even though we all have different levels of enthusiasm for magic to begin with. I recommend this place so highly to those I talk to that I already know of another surprise birthday happening there in December. It is a Baltimore MUST!

Blown away by an amazing magical and comedic performance! Highly recommend for any occasion! Just FANTASTIC!

What. A. Show! Spencer and Nicole made us feel welcome from the moment they let us into the doors until we said goodbye for the night. Drinks are included, and just about EVERYBODY gets to participate in the show. All the tricks and performances were impressive; those from the latter half will make me lose sleep tonight (as in wondering how the f* did he do that!?). Highly recommended!

Had a great time here. Spencer and Nicole are the ultimate team together. They make this even so fun with their charm, smiles and all together laughs. Spencer is the magician and Nicole is the head bartender. This show is interactive so be prepared to be called on! Trust me, they won't get up and embarrass you in any way or throw knives at you. All the tricks and illusions are centered around cards. I can't remember the exact number of people that each show holds but it might be around 30 or so. Plenty of space around you. You'll be seated at a table facing the stage and bar. They do make their own drinks and during the show, Nicole will come around to get drink orders so you don't have to get up infront of everyone. Absolutely would do this again. Their energy brings the show together and its a lot a fun. Who doesn't want to drink and be a part of card tricks?

This is one of the hidden in plain sight gems in Baltimore I always try to take out of towners. Do you enjoy laughter and amazement? Then this is the place for you. Spencer is a dynamo and a real delight to witness in action. Don't be shy--you may be part of the show. I won't go into too much detail so as not to spoil the surprise but you may find your brain churning as you attempt to figure out how he does what he does!

Very unique experience. Great night out for friends or a date. The illusionist (Spencer Horsman) is a great entertainer and amazing magician. You get 90 minutes (with intermission) of a VERY elaborate card tricks, mind reading, 2 free great drinks, and a very high level magic show with lots of audience participation. No food is served so you could bring snacks. Get there 1/2 hour early for seating and cocktails--- get your tickets a few weeks in advance

Magical Team Building @ Illusions Bar & Theater last night. Thank you to Spencer Horsman & Nicole Bailey for a fabulous event for my team from the National Aquarium. The beautiful art deco space, delicious craft cocktails, Spencer's talent partnered with Nicole's deadpan dry-wit, made for a great evening of collaborative entertainment. Spencer's unique approach to audience involvement turned a standard affair into an unforgettable experience for my team. Spencer's charismatic stage presence set the tone for an evening filled with wonder and camaraderie. I so appreciate Spencer's dedication to ensuring that every member of our team actively participated in the magic. He is a true artist and talent. If you are looking to inject a little magic into your next event, Illusions & Spencer & Nicole can make it happen. Ginna Newton Chief Operating & Financial Officer National Aquarium

We had an AWESOME family day at Illusions Magic Bar & Lounge. The 2 hour magic show was soooo fun and funny! Our magician, Spencer, was an amazing host. He kept us thoroughly entertained throughout the show and even had us all participate in the tricks (my mom, sister, and cousin were called to the front lol). Each ticket included 2 drinks/person. The bartender, Nicole, provided us with strong drinks and great service. I got the orange trick which is basically a orange crush . It was delicious! They also have non-alcoholic drinks for people who do not drink alcohol. I highly recommend this show for people age 13 and older though we only had 1 kid at out show (age 15). Overall this was extremely fun. We celebrated my Aunt's 60ish birthday and even got a video of her doing a golden girls twerk lol. FYI: Illusions is located in fed hill so finding parking was very challenging. Leave early enough to find parking because the show starts ON TIME. You will not be permitted to enter late. Also pay for parking because they were towing a lot of cars out there. It may be better to catch a Lyft/Uber to save time on busy days. Magic show tickets can be found on eventbrite.

Omgosh this was the best thing EVER! Clearly I'm a child at heart because I was enthralled the entire time. The atmosphere is gothic, old school magician which is a very fitting homage. The service and drinks are top notch too. But the performer Spencer and the bartender/assistant Nicole are a wizard and witch. You can't convince me otherwise. Spencer is very charismatic, engaging and funny. Youll definitely be entertinained throughout the show. It was a brillantly compelling experience that I defintely will be revisiting and will highly recommend to anyone that wants to listen to a grown woman excitedly recap.

Spencer is amazing and you need to come check out his show ASAP! That's the review!! Haha! Ok seriously I had no idea what to expect but I'm so glad I attended this show. This isn't going to be your typical magic show. There's comedy mixed in there. You just have to come see for yourself. I don't want to give away too much. They're open Fridays and Saturdays and always sell out so get your tickets in advance. Doors open at 7 and they allow you to bring your own food but you must finish eating by 8! Tickets come with two drink tickets. The drinks aren't weak at all. Thanks Nicole, amazing bartender! Perfect for a girls night out or a date night! They're available to do private events so consider them if you want something that's not your typical night out! Highly recommend!!!

Great entertainment! Illusions and stories are wonderful! Great drinks and ambiance. Visiting Baltimore, this was a great outing!

Illusions is a hidden gem! Spencer's magic show was nothing short of phenomenal. The way he effortlessly captivated the audience with his sleight of hand and illusions was truly impressive. The cozy atmosphere of the bar heightened the experience, making it feel like a private performance just for us. Nicole's expert mixology skills were the cherry on top. Can't wait to come back for more magic!

Illusions provided an excellent family friendly entertainment. Yummy drinks with a fun atmosphere. I will definitely be returning with friends and family.

My second time at Illusions in 3 months; this time with my daughter and son, to celebrate my son's 21st. They absolutely LOVED the show. It was just as entertaining, jaw dropping and funny as the first time I was here! Love how Spencer interacts with the crowd and engages each person in his acts. Nicole is such a talented bartending mixologist, that her cocktails are simply magical. If you haven't been yet, you are truly missing out. Book your tickets and just go! You won't regret it! Until next time Illusions and thanks again for another awesome time!

Great show , keeps his audience involved the bar venue is amazing you'll laugh and have an amazing time .

Service was great and you get free drinks with your ticket purchase every one is involved in the show.

A great evening of storytelling, magic that will amaze, laughter and fun! Also great local beers in addition to other alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages. A Baltimore gem!

The drinks were very good and the entertainment was outstanding. A fun night. Highly recommend for something different

I got tickets to this show back in 2020 during Covid and wasn't able to go due to the pandemic. I had a credit to use and 3 years later I was finally able to make it. Spencer, the owner of illusions who runs the show, was so incredibly kind and worked with me to get me a reservation. He was super responsive via email and his show was amazing! Not your typical magic show, super entertaining and amusing. He's hilarious and even adds a little psychological mind reading element which was fun.. It's set in a prohibition era/speakeasy style bar where he performs the show so you're seated at tables instead of an auditorium or theatre. He also engages the whole audience in the show which makes for a fun and more intimate experience. Your ticket also includes 2 cocktails and their drinks are great! I definitely recommend booking at least 2 weeks in advance because the shows sell out quick! (Understandably so)

I would come again and again. Spencer is amazing and fun. The price is fair and the drinks are amazing too! Parking is tricky in fed hill so Uber/Lyft is best. He will include the audience but respectfully. Overall great show that changes so definitely visit if in Baltimore!

What an experience the Illusion Magic Bar is!!!! A sultry atmosphere, great drinks, and an amazing show. What more could you ask for, for a night of entertainment. The Illusion Magic Bar has always been on my things to do list, so I was more than ecstatic to hear a friend of mine was planning a birthday party at the bar. The moment you step inside Illusions you're transferred to a new world of magic. Decked out in mystery from floor to ceiling with all sorts of magic motif, the Illusion Magic Bar takes you back in time to speakeasy days. And Spencer lures you into his mysterious world with slight of hand magic that leave your jaw dropped in amazement and your mind wondering "how'd he do that". This hidden gem with an interactive show is a must do when in Baltimore.

BEST SHOW EVER!!! So funny and the drinks are amazing!! Perfect for groups and very interactive. You will be shocked and laughing the whole time the magician is hysterical and so talented!! The tricks will keep you up at night for sure

We absolutely loved our experience here! Spencer Horseman is a talented magician who puts on an engaging show that gets everyone involved! You also get two drink tickets included with your purchase (great selection of mocktails too). Cocktails were fun to choose from and very tasty....talented bar tender as well. We recommend to anyone visiting the city or local to the area. So glad we finally made it in.

Inside: The place is small, outdated and dry looking. There are a few low top tables in the front and high top tables in the back... only 2 rows of tables. Best seats are in the middle, but you won't miss anything sitting elsewhere. Table selection was first come first serve. The bar is almost half the size of the seating area. I absolutely hated the video footage that was on the TV (some very old and outdated video). Bathroom was clean and spacious, 1 stall for each gender. Staff: I didn't care for the magician. The bartender was okay. It was very cold outside. The magician came outside to ask which customer was here first as if he wanted us to wait outside to process each customer. I immediately told him it doesn't matter who came here first, we are all done with standing in the cold smh I didn't like the vibe I got from him and neither did the 2 customers that were outside with us. Show: It was okay. If you are looking for something to do, then pay the overpriced ticket amount and show up early to pick your table. The magician does card tricks and reads people mind. He has some little jokes in between his 'magic'. Crowd participation is across the board. He doesn't just select people from one side of the room. Parking: Street parking is tight, unless you don't mind walking a little... garage parking requires a short walk Note: You can bring food, but have to eat it before the show starts. You don't have to use all of your drink tickets at the beginning. The bartender comes around after the show starts to see if you want anything. Also, you can go up to the bar during the break in the middle of the show.

Illusions Bar & Theater is an awesome place to go! Amazing magic! Spencer will wow you with his mentalism talent and Nicole will stun you with unique craft cocktails. Definitely a don't miss place in Baltimore!!

Highly recommend for anyone that lives in or is just visiting Baltimore. It was an incredibly fun, entertaining, and mind blowing afternoon spent.

WOW! What a great show. We had such a fantastic time. The show has it all: crowd participation, comedy, great drinks (thank you, Nicole). Spencer will blow your mind with illusions and magic. He is legit! Seriously, Google him!

First time visiting and what a treat! An amazing Baltimore find. The show will leave you wondering "how?". Whether for a special occasion or just a fun date night, Illusions is a great choice. Drinks were great and the magician makes you so comfortable

5 out of 5! My boyfriend and I visited this lounge for Spencer's show - and wow, were we in for a show. Covid protocol, it was a small showing - only eh, maybe 12 people present. 16 maximum - I honestly didn't count. You were required to wear your mask walking the venue and upon entering, for those questioning. Tickets included 2 drinks - either of your choosing, or from their drink menu. Sidebar, parking is not included but there is plenty of street parking available with paid meters surrounding them. And then anyway, the show began. It was very interactive - choosing people from the audience to assist with card picking and the simple participation in the magic. A solid 2 hour show with a brief 15 minute intermission to break us up - just enough time to use the bathroom and get another drink. And even at the end of the show, Spencer stayed on the floor to take pictures, sign autographs and simply be a sweet soul. My boyfriend and I made him laugh during his show - almost ruining the trick during our 5 minutes of showtime - and we continued to laugh at it after the show. Spencer is a great guy, very family oriented - and we truly cannot wait to travel to see him in another city. Truly.

A wholesome, fun, relaxing, and exciting, unique Baltimore experience. The show was engaging, creative, personable, and funny, the drinks were beautiful, delicious, and according to the vibe of magic and whimsy, but, most notably, hosts Spencer and Nicole demonstrated quintessential community and hospitality as they set everyone at ease while appropriately and adventurously using humor to tease (very kindly) and engage. The experience helped me meet other Baltimore locals and tourists and truly enjoy my Friday evening. In fact, Spencer and Nicole demonstrated immense understanding allowing friends to still attend the event despite being late from an accident on the way to the venue, despite the understandable need to let the show go on. I felt that I was amoung friends and family while being awed by magic of which I am unable to explain. Also, the drinks were some of the best I have ever had. Would highly recommend attending on a Friday the 13th in the halloween season -- the vibes were immaculate. I would re-attend this event a dozen more times.

just got back from the show and I have to say I haven't laughed that much or been that amazed at the magic! great location ,great ambiance, good drinks and a fabulous show! I highly recommend you catching the show

Really fun and engaging experience! We loved the drinks, the magic, and the general vibe of this bar Highly recommend the afternoon show on the weekend as the crowd is a bit more low key but the show is just as incredible!

Great show, great drinks, great energy! Had a great time with friends, love that tix come with 2 drink tickets!!

What a perfectly fun evening!! If you are even remote entertained by illusions or "magic" then this is a great event for you! Love the energy, the tricks, the humor, everything! There were some unruly guests and Spencer's handled them perfectly! Great tricks, great drinks and an incredibly fun and well worth it evening!!!

Hubby gifted me a date night at Illusions. Great show!!! Pro's: -Beautiful atmosphere and theater -Shout out to the bartender, Nicole. She made excellent drinks and always made sure our glasses were full, even during the show -Spencer has great humor, energy, and tricks that involved every one in the room -The card tricks were amazing and of course puzzling of "how?!" -Perfect unique date night! Con's: -Not a show for little kids. I would say teens would be ok -Wish there were more illusion tricks than cards -No food or snacks served. I get the munchies when I have a drink or two ;-) You will not be disappointed in the show!! Would love to do this again on a double date!

Awesome unique experience with an inspiring family history. Illusion, comedy and magic rolled into one intimate "show"

I came to Illusions with my family, including my semi-professional magician father, and we had an amazing time. Growing up watching magic shows all the time, I have high standards for this kind of entertainment, and Spencer Horsman did not disappoint. Spencer is your entertainment, and when we came he was also checking you in, seating you, mixing drinks, and busing tables. Truly a one man show! Your $60 ticket includes 2 drinks from a menu of beer, wine, and genuinely good and crafty classic cocktails and some unique riffs. The magic show itself is fabulous and the drinks are great. This is an awesome and unique place to have in Baltimore, and is the perfect night out. I'm looking forward to a date-night return visit!

Illusions bar was an original way to spend a night out. The host was funny and impressive and the drinks were strong which made things more fun !!!

A great experience. The show is great and Spencer is very entertaining. The drinks were tasty and there is beer available if you prefer. I had non-drinkers with me and they had great options too!

Exceptional experience!! We had such an amazing time!!! I would highly recommend. Every aspect was wonderful. We are definitely going back!!!

We had a wonderful time celebrating our friend's birthday at Illusions Bar & Theater. We were enthralled and entertained from the moment we sat down. Oh and it was my first irl magic show so I had pretty high expectations! So much fun!!

Such an awesome experience! Spencer is such a great magician! The bar is a very cool location and Nicole is a kickass bartender! The show, the drinks, the people, the atmosphere, I wish I could give a higher rating! All top notch. Go check them out!