There are so many amazing, cool, hip and classy places to enjoy the wide variety of music that comes through the city. If you’re not sure where to start, check out our overview of some of our favorite music venues!
The Barbary (951 Frankford Ave)
The Barbary is Philly’s go to dive bar/music venue. It has a no-frills, anything-goes atmosphere in a purposefully grungy setting. They offer a wide variety of DJ sets, punk shows and indie rock concerts. The drinks are inexpensive and the dance floor is always packed. This is the perfect place to let loose and get a little crazy!
Underground Arts (1200 Callowhill St)
Underground Arts is, well, exactly what it sounds like, a venue for lesser known, often lower-key performers. The atmosphere is bare bones with a touch of class and they have an excellent food and drink selection. This venue attracts a lot of indie performers. We would definitely recommend keeping an eye on their concert calendar for some off-the-beaten-path shows.
Trocadero Theatre (1003 Arch St)
The Troc, as it is affectionately referred to, is a surprisingly spacious theatre, hidden in the heart of Chinatown. This venue truly focuses on fun and entertainment with a wide variety of musicians on the rise, movie nights and themed dance parties. The Troc is a staple of the Philadelphia music scene and we can’t recommend their 21+ Monday Movie night enough!
Theatre of Living Arts (334 South St)
The TLA is a fantastic venue and an amazing piece of Philadelphia history. The venue has an almost surreal look with high ceiling and chandeliers. There is plenty of space, the bar is decent and the sound is excellent. The concert schedule at the TLA is always packed and there is no shortage of variety, from top 40 to old favorites to amazing relatively unknowns. No matter what your taste in music is, you can probably find something you want to see at the TLA. Plus it’s on the always bustling South Street!
PhilaMoca (531 N 12th St)
PhilaMoca is relatively new to the Philly music scene, but they are having a big impact. They host a lot of modern and bizarre performances as well as movie screenings and artistic events. The area is intimate and stripped down which gives the whole place a relaxing, right at home feel.
World Café Live (3025 Walnut St)
World Café Live is one of Philly’s classiest venues. They have top-notch food, a wonderful wait staff and comfortable seating. They host many surprisingly famous performers and you will have no problem getting right up to the stage. We would definitely recommend checking out their concert schedule. If you have never been to World Café, you will not regret checking it out.
Morgan’s Pier (221 N. Columbus Blvd)
Morgan’s Pier is a delightful outdoor venue that overlooks the Delaware River and provides a breathtaking view of the Ben Franklin Bridge. They have a fully stocked bar, excellent foods and yummy desserts. Their concert schedule does not disappoint and they offer a lot of free shows during the summer months, including a Sunday kid-friendly outdoor dance party! There is no better way to spend a summer night than hanging out at Morgan’s Pier and listening to some good music.
Electric Factory (421 N. 7th St)
The Electric Factory is a classic Philly venue and Philadelphians of all ages have fond memories of this place. Electric Factory shows are always enjoyable and the atmosphere tends to be rambunctious in the best way possible. The rough-and-tumble atmosphere is a good representation of what the Philly music scene is all about.
The Mann Center (5201 Parkside Ave)
Ah, The Mann Center, how we love you! After spending a lot of time in indoor venues with limited space, the Mann Center is a huge relief. This outdoor venue has an unlimited amount of space and really caters to customer service. They have multiple snack bars and even occasional food trucks in the venue. It’s hard to beat the atmosphere at The Mann with its spacious lawn seating, giant statues and view of the Philly Skyline. It is an absolutely gorgeous place to see your favorite bands.
Union Transfer (1026 Spring Garden Street)
Union Transfer has quickly become one of Philly’s favorite venues. The location is convenient, the shows are always fun and the atmosphere is perfect. They have three bars, a concession stand and even a coat check. This venue basically oozes class and is definitely our favorite places to see a concert in Philadelphia.
So if you’re looking for a concert, check the schedules on any of these venues and you’re sure to find something you’ll remember for a lifetime!
