The 50 Best Concert Venues in America

The concert experience is a thrilling one. From the time you purchase a ticket until very moment the act takes the stage, anticipation is high. Live shows go beyond the artist. It's more than the wait. It exceeds that first glimpse of the performer, and the jubilation you feel when your favorite song is finally played. The venue itself breathes life into your experience. A space can take a show from completely unforgettable to exceptional.

A quality space makes music come alive, because every small detail—the smell, the sound, your distance from the stage—helps to animate the moment, making each show a unique memory. Whether it's your first concert or your favorite concert, there are certain specifics you'll never forget. While an exceptional performer is crucial, it's where you saw the performance that burns it into your brain. The venue caters to every sense—it's about the right moment in the right place.

Every music venue has something that distinguishes it from the next, whether it be the size, the decor, or the top-notch bar. Reputation holds weight; a long-standing commitment to excellence always resonates with patrons who won't hesitate to spend money on quality. We all know that ticket sales are driven by the talent, but your money goes toward an experience. You get what you pay for, why wouldn't you want the best?

Each of our 50 best concert venues in America improve live performances in their own exciting way. Enjoy the show.

Written by Julian Kimble (@JRK316)

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City: Los Angeles
Address: 943 North Broadway
Capacity: 300
Coolest Feature: The outdoor patio

The Grand Star Jazz Club has held Chinatown down since 1946. It began as a restaurant, then became one of the hottest concert venues in L.A., catering to everything from hip-hop to jazz music. The two level establishment has a bar on each floor and a patio area that can hold up to 100 people. During the Complex decade, the second floor was dominated by Firecracker, drawing L.A.'s hip-hop fans for Friday nights of dancing with reckless abandon.

City: Nashville, TN
Address: 2219 Elliston Pl.
Capacity: 200
Coolest Feature: It's dirty, so wonderfully dirty

Despite its small size, the End has two faces: it's part dive bar and part concert venue. While comparing it to CBGB is certainly a stretch, but in its three decades of existence, the indie-rock hut at Elliston Place has hosted everyone from small, local acts to big names like The White Stripes.

City: Miami
Address: 729 SW 1st Ave.
Capacity: 280 inside, 400 outside
Coolest Feature: The Hidden Kitchen

Don't be hoodwinked by the presence of "ordinary" in the venue's name—this place is anything but. The former Transit Lounge is open everyday until 5 a.m., and aside from being one of Miami's premiere dance clubs, it also doubles as a small concert venue. Bigger isnt' always better, and this club, which also hosts the lauded Hidden Kitchen, will celebrate its one-and-a-half year anniversary this weekend. Ordinary people are still welcome.

City: Chicago, IL
Address: 2424 North Lincoln Ave.
Capacity: 507
Coolest Feature: Its horseshoe-shaped balcony

One of the newer establishments on this list, Lincoln Hall officially opened in October 2009. The mid-sized venue was built inside of the old Fullerton Theatre building, famous for being the spot where FBI marksmen waited to make sure John Dillinger didn't escape from the Biograph Theatre across the street on the night of his demise. Inside of the castle-like exterior are two levels, and the first floor is the best place to soak in the high-quality sound system. The stage is less than three-feet above the ground, giving patrons the impression that performers are literally standing right in front of them. The curtains absorb excess sound and the soundboard is kept well out of the way, creating as much space as possible. Lincoln also features a restaurant, which is open prior to and during sets. Though it's one of Chicago's newest live music venues, it's quickly establishing itself as one of the best.

City: Washington, D.C.
Address: 1115A U Street NW
Capacity: 500
Coolest Feature: The sound system—you can hear it crystal clear a few doors down

In 2010, D.C.'s historic U Street corridoor became home to the cities premier dance party venue, as well as a pretty damn good place to catch a live show. Much of this is because of a remarkable sound system that will have your rib cage rattling even as you're buying some much-needed water at the 7-Eleven next door. It's also because the venue was created by DJs who are aware of the dynamics needed to enjoy the perfect performance. After the descending the steps, you enter a Batcave where the dance floor is encased by two full-bars. The stage is at the front; the spacious DJ booth (which might as well be another stage) is at the back. It's also the house that Moombahton built, as DJ and D.C.-area native Dave Nada created the musical sub-genre in The District. The blend of reggaeton and house pumps proudly through those speakers on a weekly basis.

City: New York, NY
Address: 96 Lafayette St.
Capacity: 480 upstairs, 300 downstairs
Coolest Feature: Custom-made speakers (honorable mention: the smoke machine)

Located right between Walker and White Streets, Santos Party House walks the line between Chinatown and Tribeca. The multipurpose space opened in 2008, acting as a subterranean home to parties hosted by Diddy and Va$htie. DJ Premier and Q-Tip have blessed crowds with amazing DJ sets, but Santos is also responsible for hosting various performances ranging from strange to amazing.

Co-owned by Andrew W.K., Santos was sold out in February 2011 thanks to Odd Future's first New York City performance and A$AP Rocky shut it down in a similar fashion later that year. At the end of last year, Trinidad James headlined his very first show, slapping the industry in the mouth just a week before signing a multimillion dollar deal with Def Jam.

City: Santa Barbara, CA
Address: 1122 North Milpas St.
Capacity: 4974
Coolest Feature: The Scranton Overlook

Located 90 minutes north of L.A., the Santa Barbara Bowl is the county's largest outdoor amphitheatre. Built in 1936 due to the New Deal's Works Progress Administration, it was originally used for pageant's before becoming one of the nation's leading concert venues for guests and artists alike. The Santa Barbara Bowl originally featured a revolving wooden stage that was in place from its original construction until a 1939 storm destroyed it. The second stage, made from concrete, was in place until 2001 renovations.

Speaking of renovations, Santa Barbara County clearly appreciates the venue (and the money it brings in), as continuous tweaks over the past two decades have exceeded $30 million. Its most impressive recent feature is the gorgeous Scranton Overlook, an anonymous gift dedicated to former Executive Director Sam Scranton. Artists from Katy Perry to Radiohead have appeared at the bowl, and the 2013 concert season will begin Memorial Day weekend with the Kings of the Mic Tour. Hopefully, fans will have forgiven LL for "Accidental Racist" by then.

City: Miami
Address: 2826 North Miami Ave.
Capacity: 300
Coolest Feature: The El Bolero Room

This 3,500-square-foot venue, located in the historic Wynwood Arts District, is the best indie club in Miami for live music, hands down. It features two rooms and an outdoor patio. The first floor sports two Vairline monitors and an 8' x 16' stage, while another monitor downstairs displays the main stage's action. It's small, only holding a maximum of 300 people, but the parking lot can be used as an outdoor venue on particularly packed nights (if you're down with that kind of vibe).

In 2011, it added another weapon to its repertoire: the El Bolero Room. Inspired by 1940s-era Chicago, it's decked out with antique decorations that were lifted from consignment shops. It's the obvious place to go once you're done checking out the art in Wynwood.

City: Salt Lake City
Address: 750 Kilby Ct.
Capacity: 250
Coolest Feature: The fire pit

A venue surviving over a decade is quite the accomplishment. Opening its doors in 1999, Kilby Court is Salt Lake City's longest-lasting music club for all ages. It's a small venue where garage bands become stars, mostly because it looks and feels like a garage. This place is old school; it's cash only, but that won't stop you from getting up close and personal with the band on stage, and other patrons (if the place is packed). Don't let the fire pit fool you, either—it might give you the impression that Kilby Court is all "kumbaya," but it can get it pretty intense on the right nights.

City: Brooklyn, NY
Address: 61 Wythe Ave.
Capacity: 600
Coolest Feature: The top-notch grub, courtesy of Blue Ribbon

As one of the 100 coolest places of the Complex decade, Brooklyn Bowl is a gem near the waterfront in Williamsburg. Housed by the old Hecla Iron Works building, Brooklyn Bowl offers something special, aside from 16 bowling —live music. It's a dark, carnival-like multi-purpose room where bowling is rarely the main attraction. It sports a large dance floor that will make you feel like you're attending the prom in a slightly rustic barn, even if you're watching Talib Kweli on stage. Catch Questlove trading in his drum set for turntables or a secret Kanye show during the G.O.O.D. Fridays era that's as secret as a Kanye show can be. Oh, and the food (provided by Blue Ribbon) is a flourish of superiority, especially the fried chicken.

City: Philadelphia
Address: 334 South St.
Capacity: 1000
Coolest Feature: The bar. Tucked away to the left of the stage, you never have to worry about spilling your drink during the show.

Better known as the TLA, the Theatre of Living Arts resides on South Street in Philadelphia, roughly a block away from the famous Laff House. In its early days, it served as a popular destination for the grindhouse films of the '70s and '80s, most notably for its midnight showings of the cult classic Rocky Horror Picture Show.

After briefly hosting Broadway shows during the '80s, the TLA became exclusive to live concerts, save for the "Thunder Gun Express" episode of It's Always Sunny where the exterior was made to look like a movie theater, perhaps as a nod to its origins. The fact that it retains that old school movie theater aesthetic is its strongest selling point, and its midnight movie history will make it difficult to shake images of Tim Curry in drag, especially as you watch The Weeknd perform a stripped down version of "Wicked Games."

City: Los Angeles
Address: 2301 North Highland Ave
Capacity: 18,000
Coolest Feature: Its band shell

Ninety years ago, the Hollywood Bowl opened with a Los Angeles Philharmonic performance conducted by Alfred Hertz. As the largest natural amphitheatre in the world, it seats close to 18,000 people and its design is rooted in the amphitheatres found in ancient Greece and Rome. It's perhaps best known for its shells, which rest below the Hollywood sign that adorns the Hollywood Hills. First built in the late '20s they were used to improve the acoustics and lasted until 2003, when they were replaced with new shells for the 2004 summer concert season. Due to its status as the largest venue of its kind in the country, artists hope to shut it down when they perform.

The Beatles' 1964 and 1965 performances were recorded and later released as The Beatles at the Hollywood Bowl, while The Doors wowed their audience with an astonishing performance in 1968. The Hollywood Bowl also witnessed the final Genesis performance in 2007, just four years before Phil Collins stepped away from the music business. Due to its proximity to Hollywood, the Hollywood Bowl has popped up in several Hollywood productions, appearing in A Star Is Born, Beaches, Escape from L.A. and Yes Man. Californication fans will also remember it from a second season episode where Lew Ashby attempts to woo Karen with a private concert.

City: Cambridge, MA
Address: 472 Massachusetts Ave.
Capacity: 575 (Downstairs at the Middle East)
Coolest Feature: Of the four venue complex, the best is arguably the Downstairs at the Middle East

Open since 1974, the Middle East Restaurant and Nightclub prove that a great venue doesn't have to hold thousands. True to its name, the venue began as a Lebanese restaurant before slowly transitioning into a prime spot for live music in the late '80s. Its success and reputation around the Greater Boston area as one of the best live concert venues has allowed the Middle East to expand. In subsequent years, it has added the Upstairs at the Middle East, the Downstairs at the Middle East, the ZuZu and The Corner. These days, it's a complete complex, a far cry from the family owned restaurant. Though it's regarded as one of the best indie rock spots in the area, it's also become one of the top hip-hop clubs, drawing the likes of Wu bredren Killah Priest and Masta Killa, as well as Philly's Jedi Mind Tricks.

City: Los Angeles
Address: 366 North La Cienega Blvd.
Capacity: 130
Coolest Feature: Their no cell phone rule forces you to enjoy performances, old school style

When the original Largo moved from the spot on Fairfax that it held down for nearly 20 years, fans had to wonder whether or not it would stay true to its history when owner Mark Flanagan moved it into the old Coronet Theatre building. That was only 5 years ago, and while it hasn't come close to eclipsing its predecessor, it's done a fine job of upholding tradition. The Coronet Theatre was built in 1947 and stars including Charlton Heston and Glen Close have performed there in the past. In addition to carrying on the name of the Largo, it's also continued one of its most famous residencies: that of producer and Kanye favorite Jon Brion, who still performs once a month. Long live the Largo.

City: Asheville, NC
Address: 101 Biltmore Ave.
Capacity: 1100
Coolest Feature: Its private club, Pulp, which displays a live feed of shows taking place on the main stage

Located in downtown Asheville, The Orange Peel is a shining jewel of the South. The building has a history as an epicenter for entertainment, as it served as the Skateland Rollerdome for over a decade beginning in 1950. Its origins as a concert venue began when it became home to several R&B and soul clubs, the most popular of which was (you guessed it) The Orange Peel. Early performers included The Commodores—imagine watching Lionel Richie & Co. croon their asses off during their early days, mutton chops and all.

After nearly three decades of vacancy, the spot reopened in 2002, bearing the same name as a tribute to the venue's history. It quickly established itself as one of the best live music clubs in not only the South, but the entire country. In 2009, renovations increased its capacity to 1,100 and added a smoking deck to the club's north side. Management also went the extra mile and added Pulp, a private club located on The Orange Peel's lower level. Pulp compliments its full bar with an HD television that displays all shows taking place on the main stage above. The Orange Peel has a history of putting on new talent as well booking the legends, so everyone from Ice Cube to the most obscure acts have blessed the stage. The original managers would be damn proud.

City: Atlanta
Address: 1099 Euclid Ave NE
Capacity: 1050
Coolest Feature: Side seating with tables

This treasure of Little Five Points first opened as a movie theater in 1940. After the theater closed in 1962, it lay dormant for over 20 years before being transformed into the Ellis Theater in the mid-'80s, only to abruptly close once more in 1988. It finally became the Variety Playhouse in 1989, thanks to producer Paul Blaine, and made the transition to a live music venue the following year. For the past twenty years, it has hosted several acts ranging from The New Pornographers to Gnarls Barkley, and the likes of Phish and They Might Be Giants have also recorded live albums here. The Variety Playhouse has withstood several tests and earned multiple "Best of Atlanta" awards over the years, including Creative Loafing's "Best Concert Venue" award every year for over a decade. Don't act like you're not impressed.

City: Chicago
Address: 1354 West Wabansia Ave.
Capacity: 150 (by generous estimates)
Coolest Feature: It looks like a shack; you'd walk right by it if you didn't know what you were looking for

The name is an intimation of this small venue's past: it was originally intended to be secluded from the public and it opened illegally back in 1934. The Hideout has withstood its origins as a shanty to become the place where everybody knows your name for a host of Sicilian gents during Prohibition, and eventually, one of the best rock venues of the 20th and 21st centuries. It's the place that Jack White permanently marked with his vomit; a place where Phantom Planet filmed the video for "California" (yep, The OC's theme song), and a place where people gathered after the tragedy of September 11 for comfort. This is where Chicagoans let it rip the same way their parents and grandparents did back when they were young, wild, and free.

City: Austin
Address: 912 Red River St.
Capacity: 1000
Coolest Feature: The indoor stage features a handmade canvas screen

Incorporating northeast Native American culture, the Mohawk was built in 2006 by Austin residents and looks to locate untapped talent and introduce them to a local crowd hungry for a new music fix. Cheap drinks can be had in the Green Room and music can be enjoyed at two different performance locations: an indoor stage where acts have little choice but to get acquainted with the crowd, and an outdoor stage that's best suited for larger concerts.

The indoor stage features a handmade canvas screen and a backdrop made from rescued materials. The outdoor stage, with its 21' x 16' wooden plank stage, is the place to be; in addition to seating, there are elevated patios that provide a better look at the main event. Oh, and there's a rockwall waterfall—how could anyone be mad at that?

As you'd assume, the Mohawk becomes even more of a prime location every March when SXSW rolls into town. Vans and Fat Possum Records teamed up this year to present the Official Vans SXSW Showcase, complete with performances by Ghostface Killah, Iggy and the Stooges and The Specials; expect equal awesomeness next year.

City: Norfolk, VA
Address: 317 Monticello Ave.
Capacity: 1500
Coolest Feature: It has a basketball court

The story of the Norva began in 1917 when it first opened as a Vaudeville theater, eventually evolving into one of the best movie theaters in the area through the '70s. By the time the '80s rolled in, it was converted into a Downtown Athletic Club until a 1998 renovation project. In 2000, it reopened with a James Brown performance, still retaining its classic look.

Whether you're on the first floor or the overlooking balcony, you feel the full force of the building's acoustics, which are powered by a V-DOSC sound system. On the second floor, there are both tables and a VIP section, and each floor features sizeable bars. The talent get the royal treatment: In addition to several dressing rooms, there's an indoor basketball court and a dining room decorated with autographed drum heads.

City: New York
Address: 425 Lafayette St.
Capacity: 190
Coolest Feature: Its dark, hole-in-the-wall aura makes you feel like you're in a secluded jazz club

By January of 2007, Amy Winehouse's second album, Back to Black, had been dominating the U.K. thanks to the pain that Winehouse's voice infused over Mark Ronson's masterful '60s-esque production. She was on the incline, but it was her performance at Joe's Pub in Noho—her American debut—that made her a star. The performance drew the likes of Jay-Z, and Winehouse captivated her very first American crowd with those now classic ballads of lost love. It was just another moment in the history of Joe's Pub.

Since opening in 1998, Joe's Pub has been one of the most respected venues in New York City for artists that have been already been stamped by the industry and those still looking to crack the code. Its hole-in-the wall aesthetic made it famous, but a 2011 renovation allowed for increased capacity, making it easier for everyone in attendance to catch the action on stage. Often you'll find that it's the smaller venues like Joe's Pub where untapped talent is discovered, where artists on the verge take the next step in their careers and established acts return to pay homage. It's a must-attend if you're in New York; you never know which star-in-the-making you'll catch next.

City: New Haven, CT
Address: 300 York St.
Capacity: 1000
Coolest Feature: The wall displaying the names of past performers

Toad's Place got its start in the mid-1970s as a restaurant. Just a few years later, it made a successful transition to music venue, and legends like Muddy Waters were among the first batch of performers. By the 1980s, Toad's had become a reputable venue, attracting the likes of Billy Joel, who recorded "Los Angelenos" from his Songs in the Attic album here in 1980.

As the '80s came to a close, The Rolling Stones blessed Toad's stage, starting their Steel Wheels tour here in 1989 with an extremely exclusive show. The following year, Bob Dylan performed his very first live show in 25 years, making up for lost time with a five-hour performance—his longest to date at that time. During the aughts, Toad's fought through allegations of serving liquor to minors and to this day, its somewhat rundown interior represents years of work put in by performers and appreciative fans alike.

City: Los Angeles
Address: 2700 North Vermont Ave.
Capacity: 5801
Coolest Feature: The seats are built on an incline, ensuring there isn't a bad seat in the house

Owned by the city of Los Angeles, the award-winning venue is hidden inside of Griffith Park, the second-largest city park in the state of California. Seating just under 6,000 people, the Greek Theatre was built by Samuel Tilden Norton in 1929 in the image of a Greek temple. Because the seats were built on an incline, patrons are treated with excellent lines of site; there isn't a bad seat in the house. Though it's hardly tiny, the Greek Theatre has been awarded North America's Best Small Outdoor Venue several times and has withstood performances from the likes of Tina Turner, Elton John, The Who, and Alicia Keys. Then, there's the Hollywood factor—remember Get Him to the Greek? This is the Greek that Aaron Green was tasked with getting Aldous Snow to.

City: Philadelphia
Address: 1003 Arch St.
Capacity: 1200
Coolest Feature: The stage curtain retains that burlesque show aesthetic

In 1870, the Arch Street Opera House opened its doors, eventually changing its name to the Trocadero Theatre, or simply "the Troc." Originally used for burlesque and vaudeville performances, the theater thrived as an art house cinema through the '70s before making the transition to a dance club during the sweat-soaked mid-'80s. It was a short-lived phase, as it quickly became a popular destination in Philly for live music.

The Trocadero has undergone several changes over its 140-plus years of existence, but remains the lone Victorian theater from the 19th century still operating in the country. In 1973, it joined the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places and was added to the U.S. Register of Historic Places in 1978. The Troc is the type of place where you can witness Ghostface Killah solicit song requests from the crowd during an encore, and praise the Philadelphia Eagles, despite being a New York Giants fan.

City: Chicago
Address: 3730 North Clark St.
Capacity: 1100
Coolest Feature: Smart Bar, the basement dance club

Metro was born on the North Side of Chicago in 1982 after owner Joe Shanahan decided hold a show in the bigger room located in the old Northside Auditorium Building. The first performers at the $5 grand opening show were a then-unknown band from Georgia who went by the name of R.E.M. The success of this performance led to local bands flocking to the venue, and the club was soon booking talent from all over the country.

In terms of local acts, both the Smashing Pumpkins and Liz Phair have cut their teeth on the Metro stage. Smashing Pumpkins played their first and final shows here before getting back together (in some capacity) years later. Sadly, the Metro is where Jeff Buckley filmed his lone concert DVD before passing away in 1997 and was host to one of Shannon Hoon's last shows with Blind Melon in 1995, as the singer died of a cocaine overdose a month later. After helping to break new talent, Metro would grow to welcome prominent music figures such as Joe Strummer, Prince, Bob Dylan, Prince, and George Clinton.

City: Wantagh, NY
Address: 1000 Ocean Pkwy.
Capacity: 15,000
Coolest Feature: A beautiful view of the water, splendid for tailgating

Originally used for musicals, the Nikon at Jones Beach was born as the Jones Beach Marine Theater in 1952. The very first show was A Night in Venice, setting the tone for future performances until its value as a music venue was recognized during the '80s. During the early '90s, the theater underwent a large scale renovation, and the capacity was pushed to over 11,000 thanks to the addition of a second level. It would be renovated once more in 1998, increasing the number to its current capacity of 15,000.

In 2008, Rock the Bells came to Jones Beach and Nas brought out Jay-Z for performances of "Black Republican" and "Success." Last June, Drake shut Jones Beach all the way down with his Club Paradise Tour, reuniting Dipset for an impromptu performance. Near the end of 2012, the Nikon Theater was severely damaged by Hurricane Sandy, but a restoration plan was launched to have the venue ready for the summer concert season, which begins May 31 with a Band Perry and Rascall Flatts performance.

City: Austin
Address: 801 Red River St.
Capacity: 2200
Coolest Feature: The BBQ—duh

Stubb's, already adored for its sinfully delicious BBQ, entered the world of live music during the 1970s when southern rock legends such as Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, and Muddy Waters would play for food. Don't let the modest looking stage fool you, this is one of the country's most reputable live music venues and others can't provide guests with the one-two combo of amazing music and nourishment. Enough about the food though. Stubb's was super clutch during SXSW, hosting a showcase that featured the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Lissie, The Specials, Sky Ferreira, and Vampire Weekend this past year. SPIN also held their SXSW party at Stubb's, where Kendrick Lamar, Solange, and Trinidad James all performed. You can't beat great food and great music; you just can't.

City: New Orleans
Address: 225 Decatur St.
Capacity: 843
Coolest Feature: Home to the largest collection of folk art in the country

New Orleans is a musical city. That assessment isn't based on viewings of Treme, it's due to the city's rich musical history, which is echoed through its House of Blues. Located in the N.O.'s historic French Quarters section, the venue opened in 1994, quickly becoming an elite live music destination for tourists and locals alike. It also features a restaurant that's decorated with art courtesy of self-taught folk artists. There are nearly 300 pieces covering the restaurant and concert hall walls, making it the largest collection of folk art in the country.

It features top notch acoustics, the type of equipment that would literally make the saxophone on Curren$y's "Famous" come to life—and that actually happened. The music didn't really come to life, but Spitta has rocked several shows at the New Orleans House of Blues, including a 4/20 performance that was the opening date on his Stoned Immaculate tour last year. How fitting. He also celebrated his 32nd birthday here last month and was surprised with a Chevy Camaro and a Ferrari cake. We've never seen a pothead so happy to be gifted with something other than weed.

There's something special about New Orleans' House of Blues. Maybe it's the "Crazy Quilt," or it could be that the closer you get to the Delta, the stronger the magic is. Blame it on that special box under the stage.

City: Seattle
Address: 1426 1st Ave.
Capacity: 1130
Coolest Feature: The Green Room lounge, where Nat King Cole performed back in the day

The Showbox was established in 1939, lasting through some of music's most polarizing periods. In its 74 years of existence, it has featured everyone from Duke Ellington to the Ramones to Kanye. Because it's located in Seattle, it played a crucial role in the Grunge era, helping to propel acts like Pearl Jam to stardom. Owned by AEG Live since 2007, the venue survived a '60s stint as a furniture showroom to become a huge contributor to the music scenes of both Seattle and the entire country.

City: New York
Address: 239 West 52nd St.
Capacity: 3200
Coolest Feature: Visible whenever David Letterman ventures outside of the studio on the Late Show with David Letterman

The Roseland Ballroom we all know and love today was built in a old ice skating rink, serving as a versatile location for everything from birthday parties to concerts. It's had its trials and tribulations: a teen was shot and killed on the dance floor in 1984 and Fiona Apple crumbled before a sold-out audience only to storm off the stage in 2000. Still, it remains one of New York's best spots for shows, as a number of live albums have been recorded here and many pivotal performances have taken place here.

In August 2011, Beyoncé held four concerts where a select number of fans witnessed Bey perform 4 in its entirety. Portishead recorded its 1998 album Roseland NYC Live here following a 1997 show, and Nicki Minaj treated fans to a two hour free concert on the final U.S. date on her Pink Friday Tour last summer. Most recently, Justin Timberlake crooned his way through an 18-song set while backed by an 11-man band to a room full of MasterCard members. Oh, and of course there was Nirvana's infamous July 1993 performance, where Kurt Cobain reportedly overdosed in his hotel room prior to the show. Remarkably, he was revived and still managed to perform.

City: Washington, D.C.
Address: 620 T St. NW
Capacity: 1100
Coolest Feature: The huge television screens by the stage

Just down the street from Howard University in Northwest D.C., the "Theater of the People" opened its historic doors in 1910, providing a stage for the likes of James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and Stevie Wonder. After withstanding the Great Depression, damage from riots following Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s assassination and despit being added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1974, it seemingly shut its doors for good in 1980. At the time of its closure, it was the U.S.'s oldest venue featuring black artists. For 30 years, it sat on T Street, slowly rotting away before a $29 million renovation plan was launched in 2010. The money was well spent, as the Howard Theatre made its triumphant return in April 2012 with a welcome back concert powered by native son Wale.

The restored Howard Theatre is the brightest building in the area, sporting a glorious exterior that now draws stares because of its beauty. Inside, patrons are greeted by portraits of famous performers before walking into the main room. The second level features orchestra-style seating and the $2 million sound system blasts music throughout the entire venue. There are two full bars on each level and huge television screens that singer Amel Larrieux says add to the building's "fancy, schmancy" aura. Larrieux, who's appeared at the Howard Theatre several times since its reopening, told us it's one of her favorite places to perform.

When Chuck Brown, the Godfather of Go-Go music passed away last year, his viewing was held at the Howard Theatre, a true testament to the building's deep roots within the community. D.C. legends who have passed on including Brown and Marvin Gaye would be proud if they saw the Howard Theatre today.

City: Los Angeles
Address: 5515 Wilshire Blvd.
Capacity: 771
Coolest Feature: One of the very first art deco theaters on the Miracle Mile

Situated along the Miracle Mile, the El Rey Theatre is its OG art deco theater. After opening in 1936, it spent nearly fifty years as a movie theater before being converted to a dance club during the 1980s. It finally became a music venue in 1994, just a few years after being named a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument.

Though the decor is without question its greatest asset, the intimate venue boasts an amazing soundsystem and a special VIP lounge to compliment the ballroom and full stage. Imagine how imagine how amusing it must've been to think that you saw Lana Del Rey at the El Rey after a few drinks. It's one thing to see a show, it's another to enjoy it because of the level of care put into the venue just as much as the magic that takes place on stage. That's what separates the El Rey from other places.

City: New York
Address: 1260 Avenue of the Americas
Capacity: 6,000
Coolest Feature: The world's largest stage curtain

Inhabiting the 12-acre stretch of history that is Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall opened its doors to the public two days after Christmas in 1932. Serving as the big sister to Samuel Roxy Rothafel's Beacon Theatre, Radio City Music Hall has seen over 300 million people pass through its doors for theater, films, and concerts in its 80 years of operation. Consisting of nearly 6,000 seats across 2 acres, Radio City Music Hall is the world's largest indoor theatre. Its auditorium is 160 feet wide and 84 feet tall; patrons will feel lost in the configuration of arches and staircases.

The Great Stage, which was designed by Peter Clark, is over 60 feet tall and 100 feet wide, and thanks to the gorgeous gold stage curtain (the largest in the world), undoubtedly one of the most visually impressive indoor concert halls you'll lay eyes upon. There are over 25,000 lights in the music hall capable of producing four-color stage lighting which helps the inside of the venue achieve a Kubrick-like effect; it really looks like you're staring at the sun. Aside from hosting the Grammy's, Tony's, MTV Video Music Awards, and the NFL Draft, Radio City Music Hall has also attracted the biggest names in music. It was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1978.

City: Athens, GA
Address: 285 West Washington St.
Capacity: 500
Coolest Feature: Aided in the advancement of the punk and New Wave movements in the South

After enduring several early iterations, one of rock's most iconic and influential concert venues finally settled into its current position in 1991. The 40 Watt Club has graduated from its humble beginnings on College Avenue as a 1979 Halloween party hosted by Pylon's drummer Curtis Crowe to playing a significant role in the development of both the punk rock and New Wave movements. It moved a few doors down during the spring of 1980, then made two more moves before finding a permanent home on West Washington Street. During those transitional years, it launched the careers of R.E.M., the B-52's, Pylon, and The Whigs, and has enlisted the talents of Patti Smith, Sonic Youth, Run-DMC, Nirvana, the Black Crowes, The Killers, Snoop Dogg—er, Lion, and Gnarls Barkley.

City: New York
Address: 204 Varick St.
Capacity: 450
Coolest Feature: Despite its reputation in the hip-hop community, the "Home of Universal Music" caters to many different genres

Another one of our 100 coolest places of the Complex decade, SOB's has emerged as one of the city's leading hip-hop venue and nightclubs in its 31 years of operation. Sounds of Brazil opened its doors in SoHo back in 1982 because owner Larry Gold felt the neighborhood needed to tap into musical gifts created by the Afro-Latino Diaspora. So, although it's well-known and well-respected within the hip-hop community, it caters to a range of genres, welcoming legends such as Marc Anthony and Tito Puente to the stage. Still, hip-hop fans know it as the stage where careers take off, as Kanye, Kid Cudi, Wale, and Kendrick Lamar have all performed there early in their careers.

Arguably the best and most recent example of the venue's power is Drake's May 2009 performance. After floating on the success of So Far Gone for a few months, Drake's performance before a packed house of fans and curious industry types proved the then-unsigned rapper was no gimmick. A star was born on that night four years ago, another historic moment at the "Home of Universal Music."

City: Mountain View, CA
Address: 1 Amphitheatre Pkwy.
Capacity: 22,500
Coolest Feature: The design was inspired by the Grateful Dead's Steal Your Face image

When its construction was finally finished in 1986, the massive Shoreline Amphitheatre became one of the country's go-to destinations for large scale festivals. Shoreline holds 22,500: There's space for 16,000 people on the lawn and 6,500 reserved seats. It was built according to the image on the Grateful Dead's Steal Your Face album, and the Dead blessed the giant amphitheatre with their first performance in October 1987. In 2002, footage from that show and a June 1990 show were compiled and released as View from the Vault, Volume Three. Dave Matthews Band's Live Trax Vol. 17 also consists of footage from a July 1997 show that took place at Shoreline. In its 26 years of operation, it's hosted a remarkable 4th of July show, Ozzfest, the Warped Tour, Lollapalooza and the Lillith Fair.

In addition to playing homebase for festivals and shows from the most popular performers in the world, it's also served as the perfect location for symphonies and orchestras over the years. The Shoreline's sound is nothing to scoff at— its sound system is remarkably crisp, even in open space. Smoking is allowed, which means guests can proudly puff loud while enjoying shows, but good luck trying to sneak alcohol in.

City: New York
Address: 125 East 11th St.
Capacity: 1,500
Coolest Feature: Of all four levels and five separate rooms, the Grand Ballroom is the best

Crowned as the "Jewel of the Village," Webster Hall was built in 1886 by Charles Rentz. It was used for balls which grew increasingly wilder during the prohibition days, and once it was over, Webster Hall hosted one "The Return of John Barleycorn," one of the most amazing celebrations of the time period.

During the '50s, it opened itself up to new musical genres, hosting performances by artists like Tito Puente and Woodie Guthrie. RCA Records even utilized Webster Hall as a recording venue for a period, and The Ritz ate a lot of its lunch during the '80s by allowing rising rock acts to showcase their talent here. When The Ritz moved, Webster Hall acted on its vacancy, reclaiming its throne following a 1992 vacancy that added state of the art lighting, audio, and video technology. The club hasn't looked back since. Performers ranging from the Misfits to Alicia Keys have all performed, and in 2008, both Webster Hall and its Annex were named a New York City landmark.

City: Los Angeles
Address: 3790 Wilshire Blvd.
Capacity: 2,220
Coolest Feature: The five-teared floor, which rests on incline from stage

The Wiltern opened its famous doors in 1931. Sporting an interior designed by G. Albert Lansburgh, the space has become easily recognizable thanks to its art deco work, which consists of elaborate plaster and murals courtesy of Anthony Heinsbergen. Stationed diagonally in Koreatown and perched to the heavens, the 12-story Pellissier Building, named for the family that owned the land where it was developed, is covered in terra cotta and was built with narrow windows to make the tower seem taller than it is because no buildings in L.A. could be taller than city hall until the '50s.

The Wiltern was originally built with the intention of hosting vaudeville productions, but has become arguably the best live venue in the city since the mid-'80s. Since becoming a concert venue, the Wiltern has hosted the likes of Jack White and Eddie Vedder, and a $1.5 million renovation in 2002 removed the orchestra level seats, adding a five-teared floor that rises up from the stage which has afforded all patrons a better look at the stage. Both the theater and the Pellissier Building have been declared a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument and were added to the National Register of Historic Places.

City: Quincy, WA
Address: 754 Silica Rd.
Capacity: 23,000
Coolest Feature: The gorgeous views of the Columbia River and Columbia gorge canyon

Owned by Live Nation, this 20,000-plus capacity amphitheatre resides on the Columbia River, providing stunning views of the river and the Columbia gorge canyon. It also offers remarkable sight-lines to the main stage; no matter where you're seated, you're treated to a full view. The Gorge is clutch in the warmer months, hosting the Sasquatch Festival each Memorial Day Weekend, the Warped Tour, Ozzfest, Lollapalooza, and the Area: One and Area2 festivals. In 2007, Pearl Jam released a seven-disc box set consisting of performances recorded September 2005 and July 2006. Legacies on legacies.

City: Los Angeles
Address: 8430 Sunset Boulevard
Capacity: 1,000
Coolest Feature: Tin from the gin mill where Robery Johnson allegedly sold his soul to the devil

In its 19 years on the Sunset Strip, the House of Blues Los Angeles has been critical in defining West Hollywood's identity. Don't let the appearance fool you; it may resemble a large shack, but it's home to some of the most impressive architecture and art you'll witness at a live music venue. The building is coated with tin taken from a gin mill that sat just 500 feet from the Delta crossroads spot where blues singer Robert Johnson made his fabled deal with the devil, and retains a box of Delta mud that's kept under the stage as a homage to a supernatural commitment to music. On July 4, 1996, 2Pac delivered an iconic performance, stealing the show from headliner Snoop Dogg in one of his final live shows. The summer of '96 was a hot one for hip-hop, and 'Pac turned the temperature up to the max, spewing venom at his perceived adversaries. The passionate performance is now part of the building's legacy, no doubt fueled by the contents of that metal box underneath the stage.

City: New York
Address: 2124 Broadway
Capacity: 2,800
Coolest Feature: The huge Greek goddesses beside the stage

Considered Radio City Music Hall's "older sister," the Beacon Theatre—along with its little sister—was fathered by Samuel "Roxy" Rothafel. It opened its doors in 1929, and like several theaters of that era, was used primarily for vaudeville acts, films, and operas. In 1982, it was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places; there's such a deep appreciation for the building's art deco appearance that a judge prevented plans to turn it into a club during the '80s because it would forever ruin the architecture.

Big artists can't come to New York without performing at the Beacon, so name a legend and they've probably played there. The Allman Brothers made it a point to play there every year, putting on a show every year for 20 years starting in 1989. Managed by the Madison Square Garden Company since 2006, the Beacon has also hosted VH1's Divas Live and a 2006 Rolling Stones performance (a private birthday show for Bill Clinton) was filmed and eventually became the Scorsese-directed Shine a Light two years later.

City: Las Vegas
Address: 4455 Paradise Road
Capacity: 4,000
Coolest Feature: The furthest distance between the stage and any seat is just 155 feet

If you're looking to enjoy a show in a large arena while in Las Vegas, The Joint is among Sin City's finest. Housed by the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, the showroom is a premiere venue for rock concerts passing through Vegas. The Joint's original incarnation closed in February 2009 with a Mötley Crüe performance—the perfect sendoff, and reopened triumphantly in April 2009, literally bigger and better. The current Joint now boasts a capacity of 4,000 spread out across three levels; there are about 700 seats on the balcony, as well as table and box seating inside of a VIP section. But, perhaps best of all, patrons are afforded an up close and personal experience with performers, as the furthest distance between the stage and any seat in the house is just 155 feet.

City: Philadephia
Address: 421 North 7th St.
Capacity: 3,000
Coolest Feature: The upper level allows patrons to see some of the action backstage

When the original Electric Factory closed 40 years ago, the city of Philadelphia was robbed of one of its greatest concert venues. Thankfully, that absence was temporary; it was resurrected in 1994 and stationed between Willow and Spring Gardens Streets. Since its revival nearly two decades ago, the Electric Factory has rapidly became one of the leading venues in America.

It's huge, holding as many as 3,000 people in a warehouse-like space that also sports an upper level that allows patrons infatuated with every facet of the concert-going experience to see some of what's going on backstage. The Electric Factory caters to all crowds, booking acts from Fall Out Boy to Nas. Memorable moments include a fateful Nas show when he brought Quan out to perform "Just A Moment," and the crowd picked up the slack when Quan forgot the lyrics. And, of course, almost everytime the Roots perform, they always bring out at least one special guest.

The Electric Factory is also nestled between Northern Liberties and Old City, so anyone who's bold and enjoys walking can trek to both following the show.

City: New York
Address: 17 Irving Pl.
Capacity: 1,200
Coolest Feature: A huge stage on the second floor made for twerking to the very best southern hip-hop classics of the '90s

New Yorkers and concert junkies alike know that Irving Plaza was famous long before Jay-Z, Beyoncé and Solange popped up at an April 2012 installment of the infamous Grits & Biscuits party. Christened Irving Hall in 1860, the three-level structure served as a ballroom, a burlesque house and a community center for Polish Arms veterans before coming into its own as a music venue during the late 1970s. Early performers included the Ramones and Talking Heads, establishing Irving Plaza as promoter of punk and new wave from its onset. A decade later, the Ramones would play what was supposed to be their very last show at Irving Plaza, as the building was slated to be destroyed and turned into condos.

Fortunately for patrons and artists, it was rescued, thriving through the '90s and into the aughts before being revitalized by Live Nation in 2007. The company attempted to change the name to "The Fillmore New York at Irving Plaza" as a nod to the Fillmore East, but public outrage after the original marquee was taken down prevented that. A replica of the old marquee was created, because some things just aren't meant to be tampered with, even when millions of dollar are involved.

City: Atlanta
Address: 152 Luckie St. NW
Capacity: 2,600
Coolest Feature: The original pipe organ can be seen behind the stage

A sacred place indeed, the Tabernacle first opened its doors over a century ago as the The Broughton Tabernacle. The church remained popular in the Atlanta area until after the 1996 Olympics, when it was remodeled into a House of Blues. The Blues Brothers reunited for their very first performance here, and legends including Al Green, James Brown, and Johnny Cash all performed when the Olympics came to the A.

The House of Blues' run in Atlanta was short-lived, and the club was renamed the Tabernacle in 1998. It's since welcomed everyone from Madonna to Atlanta's own Black Crowes to Adele. It even survived a tornado that severely damaged the building, reopening just a few months later featuring improvements and artwork from the painter who originally opened the House of Blues in 1996.

City: Los Angeles
Address: 9081 Santa Monica Blvd.
Capacity: 400
Coolest Feature: Home to the debut performances of an endless list of legends

Since its 1957 founding, this West Hollywood nightclub has created a storied history that includes the debut performances of artists including Buffalo Springfield, Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, and Metallica. Landmark moments include Richard Pryor recording his debut album Richard Pryor in 1968 and Pearl Jam performing their very first show under the name Pearl Jam.

This is also the very place where an impressed David Geffen went out on a limb and signed Guns N' Roses after witnessing their first show, where Neil Diamond introduced Elton John for his very first show in the U.S., and where Fiona Apple's first performed. Hell, even the original blunt brothers Cheech and Chong were discovered here. It's served as the launch pad for countless legends, and to this day remains one of the go-to live music venues for acts passing through L.A. Not bad for a place that began as a coffee shop.

City: Minneapolis
Address: 701 North 1st Ave.
Capacity: 1,500
Coolest Feature: The stars located on the exterior, which bear the names of its most notable performers

Minneapolis residents and traveling music junkies know that First Avenue gets its name because it rests on the corner of First Avenue and 7th Street in downtown Minneapolis. The building was built in 1937, originally a Greyhound Bus Depot, and was appreciated because of its décor and (at the time) top notch amenities. In 1970, it became a nightclub, opening with by Joe Cocker and his band, Mad Dogs and Englishmen (insert "With a Little Help from My Friends" joke here). The venue would experience several more name and management changes before adopting the name "First Avenue" on New Year's Eve, 1981.

First Avenue got its biggest boost during the '80s thanks to the Purple One himself, Prince. Aside from using First Avenue crowds as testing ground for new music, Prince also featured the club in Purple Rain. Some of the classic album was recorded here, and it was the primary setting for nearly the entire film. First Avenue closed briefly in 2004 due to financial issues but swiftly reopened. April 3, 2010 became First Avenue Day, commemorating the club's 40th anniversary, and solidifying First Avenue's place in pop culture history.

City: Golden, CO
Address: 18300 W Alameda Pkwy.
Capacity: 9,450
Coolest Feature: The huge, slanted rock that sits behind the stage

Since its opening in the early 1940s, the enormous open-air amphitheatre has been one of the most treasured locations for live performances in America. Owned and operated by the city and county of Denver, it includes thousands of seats built on an incline before a stage, all of which sit 6,450 feet above sea level. Built almost completely by Mother Nature herself, the Red Rocks Amphitheatre contains two massive monoliths—Creation Rock and Ship Rock—that control the acoustics within the venue.

It's first notable performance came during August 1964 when The Beatles appeared for the only date on their U.S. tour that wasn't sold out. Go figure. In 1971, roughly 1,000 people without tickets attempted to scheme their way into a Jethro Tull concert, leading to a tense standoff with police that resulted in rock concerts being banned at Red Rocks for five years.

During the summer of '83, U2's landmark performance was edited into Live at Red Rocks: Under a Blood Red Sky; the show also birthed two songs which appeared on their live album of the same name. Other artists to release material recorded at Red Rocks include Stevie Nicks, Dave Matthews Band, Neil Young, and Incubus. Most recently, Mumford & Son filmed their "I Will Wait" performance, eventually releasing it as the official video a few weeks later. Due to its reputation and stunning geological attributes, it's easy to understand why the Red Rocks Amphitheatre was previously one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

City: San Francisco
Address: 1805 Geary Blvd.
Capacity: 1,150
Coolest Feature: The many concert posters that plaster the walls

Dating all the way back to the '60s, The Fillmore has been instrumental in launching careers, including legends like Carlos Santana, the Grateful Dead, Otis Redding, Jimi Hendrix, and Cream. Following a 4th of July show in 1971, The Fillmore closed, becoming just another local club for over a decade.

But after Graham's 1991 death, it reopened for good in 1994, when 4 Non Blondes shocked everyone in attendance, opening the concert with a rendition of Zepplin's "Whole Lotta Love," before turning the stage over to Smashing Pumpkins and others. Nearly twenty years after it was brought back to life, The Fillmore West remains one of the country's most storied music venues.

City: Washington, D.C.
Address: 815 V St. NW
Capacity: 1,200
Coolest Feature: the Backbar, where you can imbibe beneath the venue

Widely regarded as one of the best (if not the best) venue on the East Coast, the 9:30 Club is the seed from which D.C.'s early-'80s atlernative music scene grew. Since moving to its current V Street location, the 9:30 Club has been home to countless historical music moments, including back to back performances by Bob Dylan following his Kennedy Center Honors acknowledgement, the Smashing Pumpkins celebrating the release of Zeitgeist, and the beginning of the new Alice in Chains' 2009 world tour.

The 9:30 Club has four full bars that serve everything from the hardest of liquors to non-alcoholic beverages. And if you're just looking for a boost, there's a coffee bar that slings caffeine to eager fiends. But the best place to grab a drink is at the Backbar. Located beneath the venue, it's a great place to kill time, especially while waiting for 2 Chainz to arrive from Philly after performing at the Made in America concert. Don't smoke in there, though—D.C. has an indoor smoking ban and security isn't lenient. People have gotten the boot for bakin' during Wiz Khalifa's Waken Baken tour.

Puff-free zone aside, Iimagine watching Method Man begin his set from the rafters amid the crowd before performing his signature crowd walk and seeing an injured Curren$y bring a sofa onstage for ambiance. It's little things like this that have earned 9:30 Club the distinction of being Billboard Touring Awards' best bar for four years straight.

City: New York
Address: 6 Delancey St.
Capacity: 550
Coolest Feature: The killer balcony views

There are many music venues in New York City, but none have more personality than the Bowery Ballroom. The building where it resides was built at the end of the 1920s, just before the stock market plummeted. In the 15 years since its opening, the Bowery Ballroom has made visiting the Lower East Side a necessity for performers who venture into the city. The sound system, which resonates perfectly through each level, is the city's elite. The Bowery Ballroom is a magnet, drawing both the best talentand the most passionate followers who are fortunate enough to score a ticket. How often have you heard about a Bowery show being sold out? How many times has it left you incensed because you were missing out? Exactly.

Since its inception, the Bowery Ballroom has been where careers have been rerouted and born. In November 2010, Kanye delivered one of his best rants, addressing the trajectory of his career and the lamestream media's attempts to crucify him on the night My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy was released. In December 2011, cover girl Lana Del Rey sold out the Bowery out with her first New York City performance; the show—discussed ad nauseam—was the moment Del Rey's phoenix emerged from the ashes of Lizzy Grant.

The Bowery Ballroom has even gone Hollywood in recent years, appearing as one of the many destinations featured during the music-lover's wet dream that is Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist. There are concert halls, and then there is The Bowery. Bow down to the ultimate venue.