Some of our favorite concert venues: Did your favorite make our list?

Is there ever one place that you find yourself going to shows at over and over again? Maybe its because the crowds are always invested in the shows, or it is a small, standing-room only space. Maybe they have great security or free parking.

No matter what the circumstances are, the contributors at APU have listed our favorite places to see a show, all over the world! Here is our list of our top venues to catch a show at.

Please note that this list is in no particular order, just a plain old generic list!

1. Stage AE- Pittsburgh, PA

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First on our list comes from contributor Ashley, as she tells why traveling an hour away from home and into a different state, is her ideal concert journey.

“I live in Ohio about an hour from Cleveland and an hour from Pittsburgh. When it comes to concerts, artists usually make stops in both cities so I base my decision on which shows to attend on a few circumstances. Aside from which date I can attend, one of the most important aspects to me is venue. As an avid concert go-er I have been to multiple venues in both cities. By far my favorite though is Stage AE in Pittsburgh, PA. It doesn’t matter where you are standing, I have never complained about my view. Instead of being a crowded mess of people there is room to breathe. There is an outdoor and indoor stage. I prefer the outdoors, but with the PA weather the indoor stage is also convenient. There is a pit area in front of the stage which tends to get a little wild and a fence between the pit and the hill for those who want to just relax and enjoy the show. It’s a small intimate venue which gives you the chance to be closer to the performers. Bathrooms are always clean and convenient. Drinks and food aren’t super expensive. Its easy to get in and out of the venue, never a long wait in line. Parking is convenient and easy to get out as well. It is also conveniently located right next to Heinz field which is a really cool view. Pittsburgh is just an awesome city to see in general and there is so much to do right around the venue.”

2. House of Blues- Orlando, FL

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Next on our list is the House of Blues, located in Florida. Brett tells us all about her favorite venue, located in the most magical place on earth; Walt Disney World.

“I love to catch a show any and everywhere, but for me The Orlando House of Blues holds a special place in my heart. Many firsts have happened at this venue for me. I saw my first general admission show there, and don’t shun me for this but it wasn’t a rock show. I crowd surfed for the first time at the HOB and have met some great friends while pitting to my favorite bands. It’s a fairly large venue but in a packed show you are surrounded by people sharing the same experience – and in that the venue creates one of the most intimate shows. In terms of safety, which unfortunately is a topic we have to focus on in music, I feel the most secure at the HOB. Most venues are located downtown, and can be sketchy walking back your car after a show ends. Which the HOB at Disney Spring in Orlando there is tons of security on the property and well lit (free) parking. Which is a win in my case. I’ll always come back to the House of Blues.”

3. The Webster Underground- Hartford, CT

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Holding the third spot on our order is my favorite concert venue. The Webster Underground in Hartford, CT.

When one of my favorite bands goes on tour, I always check if The Webster is one of their show destinations, because I know that it will be one that I can’t miss. There is just something about getting front row to the stage, literally being an arms-length away from your favorite singers.

The first show that I saw at The Webster was Set It Off in the summer of 2016. To this date, it has been the best show that I have been to, and secured my love for concert going. Beforehand, I wasn’t really into crowds or moshing, and I am super short, so it was hard for me to get a good view at places that were standing room only.

The Webster changed that. Originally built as a movie theater, it now holds two stages, and has great shows going on almost every single night of the week. The huge marquee on the outside shines with the shows coming in the recent days, and its location on a corner makes it seen from all angles of the street.

Anywhere you stand you will get a great view, and it is an intimate space. Even though there are two stages, they aren’t all that big, and they make the show feel closer. You’ll be talking to the people around you, all sharing stories of the band you are about to watch tear up the stage.

The Webster also offers a parking lot, and although concert-goers have to pay to use it, it is definitely a better alternative than parking on the crowded street. Security is also well taken care of, making the shows as safe as possible.

4. Gramercy Theatre- New York City

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Next, Tori tells us about her favorite venue in all of The City, Gramercy Theatre.

“Whenever anyone asks me what my favorite venue is I don’t even have to think twice about it: easily Gramercy Theatre in NYC. Standing room only venues tend to be my favorite kind of concert halls because they make you feel more connected with both the artist and the fans around you. With Gramercy Theatre’s capacity capping at 500 people, every show gives you that intimate feeling regardless of where you are sitting or standing.

Additionally, as someone who utilizes a wheelchair, safety and accessible accommodations are always at the top of my list and Gramercy’s security and staff always go above and beyond to help me. Not only have I experienced it, but I have also witnessed the caring nature everyone who works there shows to each concert go-er. Besides the safety, security and appearance of the venue, I personally have had some of my best memories of not only seeing my favorite bands, but also being introduced to my future favorite bands at this venue over the ten years I’ve been seeing concerts here. Combine the comforting, intimate atmosphere with their unparalleled security and staff, it’s easy to see why this venue is at the top of my list.”

5. Manchester Academy- Manchester University Students’ Union- UK

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Next on our list comes a place that you can’t find in The States. Contributor Evie gives us the inside scoop on her favorite venue in the UK, the Manchester Academy.

“Manchester Academy is an iconic music venue, housed by the University of Manchester’s Students’ Union.  The Academy has a lot of history, dating back to 1963, it hosted the likes of Pink Floyd and Stevie Wonder.  Let’s not forget Manchester locals, The Stone Roses and Oasis too, who have both graced the Academy stage multiple times.

As well as the Academy, you’ve also got Academy 2 and Academy 3 which have a smaller capacity and offer lesser known acts the perfect chance to play to their dedicated fans.  Academy 2 and 3 have chilled atmospheres, making it easy to hang out with bands at the merch tables after their sets.  There’s something pretty special about seeing your favourite band at this venue and years later watching them headline arenas. 

Manchester Academy is in a great location and easy to get to in the car or on the train and of course, perfect for the local students.  We can’t not mention how great Manchester is for a night out too, that is, if your bed isn’t calling you after a high-energy gig.

If you find yourself in Manchester, it’s always worth checking out what talented band they’re hosting. This venue facilities all types of gig-goers, whether you prefer to hang at the bar with a beer, get right up in the barrier or even in the pit – there’s just nothing better than an intimate gig venue.”

6. The Agora Theatre and Ballroom- Cleveland, OH

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Next, We travel back to the middle of the country, to hear from Tabitha, and her favorite venue; The Agora Theatre and Ballroom.

“The Agora Theatre and Ballroom located in Cleveland Ohio has always been a personal favorite. It’s holds memorable shows from The Wonder Years to Underoath. The venue has recently undergone renovations making all its historical value shine. It’s gorgeous structures add a unique touch that can’t be found elsewhere. The Agora has previously had a room called the Marilyn Manson room where Manson would store his things for a period of time. This highlights how iconic the venue is and not only just high quality sound system.”

7. The Metro- Chicago, IL

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Rounding out the end of our list is John, and his favorite spot to catch a show; The Metro.

“My venue entry is the Metro in Chicago. Sort of like the House of Blues, smaller venues make the most sense. Every show at The Metro is personal. There’s a relationship type of presence where it feels like it’s just you and the band performing. Going to a festival with a lawn just isn’t the same once you witness your idols 15 feet away from you!”

There you have it, some of APUs favorite venues to see a show at!

If one of your favorites in on this list, be sure to let us know! Or, if its not, let us know too.

A huge thank you and shoutout to everyone who helped me make this piece. Be sure to check out Ashley, Brett, Tori, Evie, Tabitha and John’s work on the site, because they produce some great content!