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! read more

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!! read more

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This is the SHIp. Best entertainment value in Baltimore. FACTS. You will not find a better value nor anything more intimate and entertaining. I don't drink but the bar looks extremely stocked for those that do. read more

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 And for the review some jerk left saying your place was outdated well your reply was straight up you Rock!!!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'! read more

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My full review is pictured below (for it was too long for Yelp) for those who like in depth summaries, but my shortened review is this: This show was nothing short of MARVELOUS!!!!! Off the bat, for $60 dollars you get to watch an incredible show that has 2 complimentary drinks included in the price!! That alone is an outright steal!!! The show itself was truly 2 straight hours of pure entertainment! Whether I was mystified by Spencer's tricks or clutching my stomach in laughter at his wit, there wasn't a singular moment that I wasn't enjoying myself! Especially with all the negative things going on in the world right now, this show will bring an ear to ear smile to your face which was much, much needed! 10/10; a billion percent recommend to any and all!!! In our crowd there was folk as young as teenagers to as old as AARP members and all ages in between and not a damn person left that bar without glee written all over themselves!!! I know I will be taking the 2 hour trip to return myself one day and probably multiple times after!!! So if you want to bring out your child-like wonder, laugh until your sides hurt, and kick it with fantastic people, then I highly, highly, highly suggest that you make your way over to Illusions Bar & Theater and have a wonderfully marvelous time!!!!! read more

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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. read more

Illusions Bar & Theater - Bars Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Our group had ages 16 to 76 and we all had a great time. Really amazing magic and totally worth going!!!!

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! read more

We came here for a holiday party. The entertainment was fun and the drinks were amazing. Best Sazerac that I ever had. I will definitely be back. read more

Amazing show. Best time in a long time at a show. A must see. When I Baltimore plan on seeing the show.

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. read more

Illusions Bar & Theater - Bars Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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This place is so special! Great show. World class entertainment in an intimate setting. Buy tickets early!

Illusions Bar and Theater is a magically unique experience. The entertainment was top notch, funny, face paced, and left you looking forward to your next trip. The passion and legacy is one of a kind in Baltimore, so much incredible family history in the business. The theater was super clean and inviting, the drinks were good, surprisingly good for a theater. I would say the best espresso martini in town. The show was great and left my husband wondering how he pulled off the magic at such a high level in one night. I highly recommend the show, go early so you can fully enjoy the space and a great cocktail before it starts. They also have great mock tails available for those not drinking alcohol. I went with 4 other people and we keep messaging today about how much fun we had! I promise the show will not disappoint!!! read more

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what an experience! from the 1-1 indiv check in, the decor, making sure all guest participated, felt the friendliness, warm and welcoming environment. It was really 2 people providing an Amazing and memorable experience. They love what they do, & it shows. I am truly thrilled still. I want to wish this amazing couple many years of success, friendship & love. Thank you again. this was the highlight of my Birthday weekend read more

A hidden Gem. A great night. The show was fast paced, entertaining, energetic, and mind blowing. The drinks were delicious and the vibe was fun. Do yourself a favor and get tickets. read more

We celebrated my son's 15th birthday here, and wow--what an amazing experience! If you're considering visiting, stop hesitating and book now! Everyone in the audience got to participate in some way, which made the show even more engaging. I was blown away when my son was called up--it gave me chills! The two free drinks made by Nicole were fantastic, and even though the site showed only two tickets left, the staff went above and beyond to accommodate our party of five. They were incredibly responsive, answering all my questions within minutes. We're still in awe of the incredible comedy, delicious drinks, top-notch customer service, and, most of all, the mind-blowing illusions. Thank you for making my son's birthday unforgettable! We're already telling everyone we know about this amazing experience. read more

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! read more

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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! read more

This is a "hidden" gem! What an amazing experience my group had at this show. Spencer keeps you on your toes the whole time and incorporates the crowd (in a very comfortable way). We were left in awe excited to come back for more. The price is very reasonable for what you get. I love the story behind this bar and theater as well, you can tell Nicole and Spencer have so much pride in their business. The drinks are spectacular, it is perfectly themed with the ambiance. We felt comfortable and excited the entire time. I wish we lived closer, but this is worth the hour + drive and we will definitely be back. Thanks for an unforgettable night! read more

My husband and I enjoyed an exceptional evening at Illusions Bar & Theater with great friends! The entire experience was impressive from start to finish. Spencer kept the entire audience engaged and part of the experience. The bar/ theatre is a gorgeous space too! I highly recommend it. The magic was astounding! I also laughed until I cried. It was so much fun! Check it out! It's a Baltimore Gem. read more

Every single thing about the show was absolutely wonderful and amazing from the drinks from the awesome bartender to the politeness of the audience to the spectacular Spencer truly in all and will definitely be going back. I highly recommend seeing this show. We attended on 11/30/2024 read more

Illusions Bar & Theater - Bars Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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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 read more

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

Illusions Bar & Theater - Bars Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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This place was awesome. The magician Spencer is talented and funny. He was great. Still blown away with his performance. No idea how he did it. The drinks were great, venue was very cool. read more

This has been on my list for sometime and was so excited to see the show. We had such a fun time. Spencer is an amazing entertainer-- a magician, mentalist and comedian. He got nearly everyone involved in some way. The drinks were great too! Highly recommend for any special occasion or just a fun night out. read more

Illusions Bar & Theater - Bars Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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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! read more

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! read more

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Great show, definitely a fun night out! And the drinks and service are top tier. Would definitely recommend.

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 read more

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

Illusions Bar & Theater - Magic show and venue - Bars Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

This amazing place is a wonderful gem that everyone should visit in their lifetime. I've never experienced anything like it and I'm delighted to be able to witness this amazing show. I can't say enough about Illusions. Nicole and Spencer are wonderful. So talented and welcoming. Thank you for the wonderful ambiance and amazing show. You made a bunch of strangers feel like old friends. Thank you! read more

Illusions Bar & Theater - Spencer wowing the audience - Bars Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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) read more

I'm so glad my wife saw an article in The Washington Post about this bar and magic show. Today (4/26/25), we drove from St. Mary's County to Federal Hill in Baltimore to see the show, having no idea what to expect. What we found was an absolute gem--Spence's performance was nothing short of remarkable. I've seen many magicians in my life, including some of the biggest names in Las Vegas, and Spence's talent and showmanship rival any of them. His blend of sleight of hand, comic timing, mentalism, and personality made for an unforgettable afternoon. The intimate and unique setting is the perfect venue for a magic show, allowing Spence to engage the entire audience throughout the performance. Adding to the experience, his wife, Nicole, expertly handles the mixology department, providing table service during the show. Not only did Spence mesmerize us with his magic, but he also personally greeted us at the door and showed us to our seats. This family-owned, small business is a true diamond in Baltimore--one that you absolutely must experience for yourself. read more

Friends and I attended the magic show at illusions and it was a fantastic evening. Spencer was entertaining and personable. In addition to showing mind blowing magic tricks. I intend to go back again. read more

Spencer is AMAZING!!!! He is such an engaging magician and his personality is genuine and top notch. This will also be my go to place when I visit Baltimore. The place is nice and intimate. There is so much meaningful memorabilia there from Spencer's life and I hope to check out more of it during my next visit. I didn't know about his custom tank until after I left so now I have to be sure to really check it out when I go back to Baltimore I Googled Spencer after my 3rd visit there and was really touched by his life as a magician and the background story of his parents. You can tell that he truly loves and is passionate about what he does and it shows in his presentation and personality. As of the writing of this review, they do not serve food here but you are welcome to bring your small plates of choice with you and they have really nice cocktails made by his lovely wife. The show is always interesting and Spencer manages to engage every audience member.....who does that????!!!!! SPENCER DOES and he is exceptional at it read more

Wow. Let's start at the very beginning. I hear it's a very good place to start. When you first enter into this very immaculately decorated bar/theater you're greeted by the two sweetest and genuinely kind humans who run the entire operation. ( I don't know if y'all know this but running a small business is fucking hard and the two of them manage to do it all with ease and flair). After you are seated you are given two drink tickets and are able to choose from their extensive list of both cocktails and mocktails. I am a gin girly so I had my eye on the French 75 ( which was frickin delish!). The show is fun and interactive and creates a beautiful feeling of community. As a fellow performer and bartender I couldn't help but immediately feel at home. Live theater/magic is important. It brings folks from all walks of life together and for even just a few hours you're all connected under a sense of wonder and mystique. It's good for the soul and you don't get that experience sitting at home on your couch. Thank you Nicole and Spencer for creating a space like Illusions; your dedication and hardwork is felt. 10/10; 5 Stars on Yelp; Would definitely visit again. Cheers! read more

A fantastic night of magic and connection! Spencer's energy is contagious, and the whole crowd had a blast! And Nicole's signature cocktails are DIVINE! read more

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. read more

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! read more

Illusions was absolutely amazing! My husband planned it as a surprise for my birthday and we had so much fun! Spenser is truly a one of a kind magician who keeps the crowd guessing! The drinks were excellent and the atmosphere is unique and engaging!! read more