Top 25 Outdoor Music Venues in the US
Originally published on 7/10/21, updated on 2/03/23
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Summer music season is almost here, and you know what that means: outdoor concerts! Two of our favorite words individually, and when combined, the whole is even better than the sum of its parts.
Where are you thinking of seeing shows this summer? Thinking of packing your bags and touring with your favorite bands? If you get a chance, make sure to check out the many stellar locations on this list. You’ll be glad you did.
Photo: Michael Weintrob
This venue got the bottom spot on the list because we weren’t sure if it’s technically indoors or outdoors, NOT because it isn’t mind-blowingly awesome. Located between Nashville and Chattanooga, the Caverns have been hosting concerts for over 60 years on a stalactite-surrounded stage 333 feet below the surface. It fits up to 1,000 of the concertgoers who were lucky enough to get tickets to its legendary shows. In the heart of Tennessee, the Caverns hosts mostly country and bluegrass groups, with the occasional performance from curious rock, EDM, and jam bands.
On the 2023 Schedule: The Avett Brothers, Get The Led Out (Led Zeppelin Tribute), King Gizzard and The Lizard Wizard, Murder By Death, Bonnaroo Arts And Music Festival 2023 – Foo Fighters, Paramore, My Morning Jacket, The Man, Korn, Pixies, Fleet Foxes, Sheryl Crow, Franz Ferdinand, The Church, Khemmis, Almost Queen, Delta Bombers
Location: 1437 Cumberland Caverns Rd, McMinnville, TN 37110Event Calendar: via My Rock ShowsTickets: via Ticketsmarter
Photo: CC/Wiki Beyond My Ken
If you’ve driven around the Seaport District in South Boston, we’re sure you’ve noticed this large white tent and wondered what it was. We’re pleased to inform you that it is a fantastic outdoor music venue, with a bustling summer schedule for you to enjoy. Opened in 1994, the 5,200-capacity venue is located near the heart of the city, making its diverse-genre shows super convenient to get to.
On the 2023 Schedule: Goo Goo Dolls, Tyler Childers, Sad Summer Festival 2023 By Journeys & Converse, Kidz Bop, Young The Giant With Milky Chance, Walker Hayes, Hippo Campus with Gus Dapperto
Location: 290 Northern Ave, Boston, MA 02210Event Calendar & Tickets: via Live Nation
Photo by Live Nation Indiana Courtesy of Hamilton County Tourism
Formerly known as Deer Creek Music Center, Verizon Wireless Music Center, and then Klipsch Music Center, it seems fair to say that this amphitheater is, and always will be, a music center. Located in central Indiana, a short drive outside of Indianapolis, Ruoff Music Center opened its doors in 1989. Its pavilion and giant lawn can fit over 24,000 concertgoers, making it the largest outdoor venue in the Indianapolis area. Over the years, Deer Creek (or whatever it’s called) has been a favorite place to play for the Grateful Dead and Phish, and it’s still frequented by popular bands every year.
On the 2023 Schedule: Hank Williams Jr., Dave Matthews Band, Dead & Company, Shania Twain , Foreigner, Pantera, Bret Michaels, Kidz Bop, Eric Church, Luke Bryan, Nickelback, Lynyrd Skynard & ZZ Top
Location: 12880 E 146th St, Noblesville, IN 46060Event Calendar & Tickets: via Live Nation
Photo Courtesy of Bethel Woods Center for the Arts
We’re sure you’ve heard of the first music festival that was played at Bethel Woods in mid-August 1969. Bethel Woods Center For The Arts is located on the exact grounds of the legendary Woodstock Music Festival, which brought together acts like Jimi Hendrix, Santana, and the Grateful Dead, plus an estimated 400,000 music fans and an extraordinarily unprepared crew. Today, the venue is much more prepared to handle and host live music events with its beautiful pavilion and lawn, though its capacity is closer to 15,000 guests, and tickets aren’t usually free anymore. Be sure to check out the Woodstock Museum when you visit!
On the 2023 Schedule: Matt Nathanson, Ladysmith, Black Mambazo, Graham Nash, Shania Twain, New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, Goo Goo Dolls, Zac Brown Band, Rod Stewart & Cheap Trick
Location: 200 Hurd Rd, Bethel, NY 12720Event Calendar: via Bethel Woods Center for the ArtsTickets: BigStub
Photo Courtesy of CMAC Events
One of the many gems of Upstate New York, the Canandaigua Music Arts Center (also known as “CMAC”) is located in the beautiful Finger Lakes region of the state near Syracuse and Rochester. CMAC was opened in 1983 and its arched, shell-shaped pavilion was rebuilt and expanded in 2005. Today, between the gorgeous pavilion and the relaxed lawn, over 15,000 fans pack the center for its concert, theater, and orchestra productions. It’s a popular destination for jam bands passing through the area in addition to local stars, country groups, and plenty more!
On the 2023 Schedule: Kane Brown, Gabby Barrett & Restless Road, Rain – A Tribute to the Beatles
Location: 4355 Lakeshore Dr, Canandaigua, NY 14424Event Calendar & Tickets: via CMAC Events
Photo: Will Byington Photography
Jutting out on a peninsula into Lake Michigan, this venue is a classic Midwest stop for all the biggest acts around. The pavilion first opened in 2005 with a capacity of just 8,000, but in 2013 it was expanded and reopened with a staggeringly huge capacity of over 30,000. It sits next to the heart of Chicago, with a spectacular view of the skyline from anywhere in the venue. Kick back, relax, and enjoy the good life at some of their incredible shows this season.
On the 2023 Schedule: Barenaked Ladies, Dermot Kennedy – The Sonder Tour, Louis Tomlinson, Billy Strings, Young, The Giant with Milky Chance, Dave Matthews Band, Goo Goo Dolls, Beck & Phoenix
Location: 1300 S Linn White Dr, Chicago, IL 60605Event Calendar & Tickets: via Live Nation
Photo Courtesy MGM Resorts
Keeping Vegas’ endless parties alive in style, Mandalay Bay Beach is the city’s largest outdoor music venue, fitting around 12,000 guests. What makes it ultra-cool is the fact that you can enjoy the venue’s reggae, EDM, and ska shows from its massive wave pool to create the ultimate summer pool party.
On the 2023 Schedule: Michael Jackson, Beck & Phoenix
Location: 3950 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119Event Calendar: via MGM ResortsTickets: via MGM Resorts
Photo Courtesy of Harveys Lake Tahoe
Overlooking Lake Tahoe from its southeast corner, with an incredible view of mountain peaks above the lake’s iconic blue water, the Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena (formerly known as Harveys Outdoor Amphitheater) is one of the U.S.’s top destinations for outdoor summer concerts. Besides the fantastic views and music, you’ll catch a bewildering orange sunset over the lake and the mountains behind the stage. Harveys Casino started hosting concerts in 1992, and the amphitheater was later moved to its current spot, where it holds around 9,000 concertgoers. Just a few hours east of Sacramento and the Bay Area, it’s the perfect excuse to spend a weekend at Lake Tahoe, in case you needed one.
On the 2023 Schedule: Illenium, Old Dominion
Location: Highway, 50 Stateline Ave, Stateline, NV 89449Event Calendar & Ticket: via Live Nation
Photo: David Park/Flickr
The Greek Theatre, located on UC Berkeley’s campus and the site of the university’s graduation ceremony, is a destination venue for countless bands. Enjoy the classic Greek column architecture and the rocking music of your favorite artists alongside a spectacular view of the Bay. Opened in 1903 for a student theatre production, the Greek Theatre still hosts both theatre and concerts today. The 8,500-capacity venue pulls in some fantastic talent and is a top outdoor music venue.
On the 2023 Schedule: Cannons, Phish, Jon Pardi, Lewis Capaldi Seven Lions, Sylvan Esso, The Postal Service & Death cab Cutie
Location: 2001 Gayley Rd, Berkeley, CA 94720Event Calendar: via Hearst Greek TheatreTickets: via Ticketmaster
Photo: Will Cox Photography
Located in the heart of the aptly named Symphony Woods, Merriweather Post Pavilion (lovingly called “MPP” by fans) was originally built for the National Symphony Orchestra and designed by famed weirdo architect Frank Gehry. It opened in 1967, with some minor updates and redesign since then, like the addition of solar panels to its huge wooden roof. It’s hosted legendary acts including Led Zeppelin, The Who, and Jimi Hendrix, and the 20,000-capacity venue continues to host an action-packed schedule each year.
On the 2023 Schedule: Noah Kahan, Young the Giant with Milky Chance, Dave Matthews Band, Shania Twain, Luke Bryan, Illenium, O.A.R. & Goo Goo Dolls, Tyler Childers, ZZ Top & Lynyrd Skynyrd, Arctic Monkeys, Beck & Phoenix, The Postal Service & Death cab Cutie, Zac Brown Band
Location: 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy, Columbia, MD 21044Event Calendar & Tickets: via Live Nation
Photo Courtesy of Ravinia Festival
Opening in 1904 and home to the oldest outdoor music festival in the U.S., Ravinia is located in a secluded forest just north of busy Chicago. Its peaceful park grounds are the perfect place for a fun day with the family, followed by a calming concert in the evening. Ravinia is the home of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, with daily performances throughout their festival all summer long. The pavilion holds a little over 3,300 guests in an intimate setting, whether it’s for a jazz, classical, rock, or pop show.
On the 2023 Schedule: Gateway Brass Collective, Zuil Bailey and Victor Santiago Asunción, Rhythm Future Quartet
Location: 418 Sheridan Rd, Highland Park, IL 60035Event Calendar: via RaviniaTickets: via Ravinia
Photo by Dave Bigler, Courtesy Saratoga Performing Arts Center
Since its opening in 1966, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (also known as “SPAC”) has hosted countless musical, theatre, and dance acts. It’s home to the New York City Ballet and the Philadelphia Orchestra, and it’s a favorite stop for huge bands — particularly, jam bands — on their tours. SPAC is located in the middle of a 2,400-acre nature park and preserve, with geysers and springs within a short hike from the 25,000-capacity venue. The pavilion has a unique mezzanine level above the pit, not to mention a great view from anywhere on the enormous lawn. It’s the perfect place to spread out your picnic blanket and enjoy a show after a beautiful hike this summer.
On the 2023 Schedule: Dead & Company, Dermot Kennedy, Kidz Bop, Dave Matthews Band, Matchbox Twenty, Zac Brown Band, Eric Church, ZZ Top & Lynyrd Skynyrd
Location: 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866Event Calendar & Ticket: via Live Nation
Photo by aLive Coverage, Courtesy of Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp
In the heart of downtown Nashville along the banks of the Cumberland River, Ascend Amphitheater is one of the coolest urban outdoor music venues. Concert attendees are treated to a fantastic view of the Nashville skyline, the starry night sky, and an epic show all at once. The facade on the stage looks like a mix of retro 1920s art deco architecture and futuristic 1980s space-age functionalism, but don’t be fooled — Ascend opened for the first time in 2015. With an intimate capacity around 7,000, there isn’t a bad place to sit in the whole amphitheater. But if you really want an ascendant experience, try to get one of the 100 spots in the VIP boxes, rising above the crowd for a spectacular view of the city and show.
On the 2023 Schedule: Whiskey Myers, Koe Wetzel, Ruston Kelly, Walker Hayes, Foereigner, Young The Giant with Milky Chance, Louis Tomlinson, Youngblud, Arctic Monkeys, Mt. Joy
Location: 310 1st Ave S, Nashville, TN 37201Event Calendar: via LiveNationTickets: via Ticketmaster
Photo: Neubauer Media, Courtesy of Logjam Presents
There are few places in Montana that aren’t breathtakingly beautiful, and the KettleHouse Amphitheater is no exception. Located just outside Missoula on the banks of the Blackfoot River, the amphitheater became an instant hit after its opening in summer 2017. It comfortably fits 4,000 concertgoers to appreciate the spectacular canyon view and how-could-an-artist-this-huge-play-a-venue-this-small? live acts simultaneously. Just so you know: yes, you can fly to Missoula, and the amphitheater is just a short 15-minute drive from the airport. See you there!
On the 2023 Schedule: Brett Young, Seven Lions, Death Cab for Cutie, Little Big Town, Robert Plant & Alison Krauss, Les Claypool, Trampled By Turtles, Rain – A Tribute to Beatles, Rebelution, Bonnie Raitt
Location: 605 Cold Smoke Lane, Bonner, MT 59823Event Calendar & Tickets: Concert 50
Photo Courtesy of Starlight Theatre
One of the few (and one of the largest) self-producing theatres, the Starlight Theatre has a rich history dating back nearly 100 years. Romania’s Queen Marie visited Kansas City in the 1920s, inspiring the city to build an outdoor performance venue. Construction finally began in 1949 and the theatre opened in 1950. Since then, it’s hosted a combination of Broadway musicals and concerts on the stage beneath its iconic castle-like facade. It’s become a mainstay and landmark of Kansas City, and continues to host shows for audiences up to its 8,000 capacity each summer.
On the 2023 Schedule: Robert Plant & Alison Krauss, Whiskey Myers, Tenacious D., Goo Goo Dolls, Chicago, Louis Tomlinson, Tyler Childers, Matchbox Twenty
Location: 4600 Starlight Rd, Kansas City, MO 64132Event Calendar: via Starlight TheatreTickets: via Starlight Theatre
Photo: Uladzik Kryhin/Shutterstock
Everyone thought Bill Graham, the iconic San Francisco promoter, was crazy when he built the futuristic-looking Shoreline Amphitheatre in 1986. Not only was the giant fiberglass tent unprecedented (and nobody knew what it would sound like), but Shoreline was built on the site of a massive landfill in the heart of Silicon Valley! When viewed from above, Shoreline is actually the shape of the Grateful Dead’s “stealie” logo, and after a few performances there, the Dead had figured out how to make it sound wonderful and pack its 22,000 capacity. Floods of fans still fill its giant lawn for huge shows today.
On the 2023 Schedule: Shania Twain, Janet Jackson, Nickelback, Brantley Gilbert & Josh Ross, Rod Stewart & Cheaptrick, Lynyrd Skynrd & ZZ Top, Foreigner
Location: 1 Amphitheatre Pkwy, Mountain View, CA 94043Event Calendar & Tickets: via Ticket Squeeze
Photo: Joe Shlabotnik/Flickr
On the shores of Long Island overlooking Zachs Bay, the Jones Beach Theater is a fan-favorite outdoor venue for summer shows. The stage itself juts out into the bay, making it look as though performers are walking on water throughout the night. Opened in 1952 as a venue for musicals, this perfect location was later used for concerts and expanded to fit 15,000 fans. It suffered from severe flooding and structural damage during Hurricane Sandy in 2012, leading to a $20 million renovation, but it was a triumphant moment when concerts resumed for an exciting summer season in 2013. It will take more than a hurricane to wash away Jones Beach Theater.
On the 2023 Schedule: Luke Bryan, Kidzbop, Matchbox Twenty, Dave Matthews Band, Foreigner, Goo Goo Dolls, Alice Cooper + Rob Zombie, Zac Brown Band
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Location: 895 Bay Pkwy, Wantagh, NY 11793Event Calendar & Tickets: Jones Beach
Photo Courtesy of TicketMaster Blog
Located between Cleveland and Akron, Blossom Music Center is one of the most beloved outdoor music pavilions in the U.S. Surrounded by hundreds of acres of National Parks Service land, the venue proudly points its odd-looking, pyramid-shaped dome skywards while music legends rock out in its hidden forest enclave. Opened in 1968, it’s the home of the Cleveland Orchestra and is frequented by up to 23,000 music-lovers for each show.
On the 2023 Schedule: Louis Tomlinson, Matchbox Twenty, Robert Plant & Alison Krauss, Shania Twain
Location: 1145 W Steels Corners Rd, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223Event Calendar & Tickets: Blossom Music Center
Photo Courtesy of The Greek Theater
Not to be confused with Berkeley’s Greek Theatre, “The Greek” in L.A. is another spectacular California outdoor venue. L.A.’s Greek Theatre is situated in Griffith Park; a quiet respite near the center of the sprawling metropolis. Enjoy the park’s dozens of acres, including hiking trails, golfing, and picnic grounds. And while you’re wandering around, you may come to the clearing and discover the theatre — you’d never even know that you’re in the heart of America’s second-largest city. Built in 1929 and seating nearly 6,000 guests, the Greek Theatre is a must-see, classic outdoor venue.
On the 2023 Schedule: Keshi, Sabrina Carpenter, Ne-Yo, Robin Thicke & Mario, Lewis Capaldi, The Whispers, Placebo, Hippo Campus & Gus Dapperton, Billy Strings, Brett Young
Location: 2700 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027Event Calendar & Tickets: Events Ticket Center
Photo: Brett Bergen Photography
Nearly equidistant from Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison, and Rockford, Alpine Valley is the second largest amphitheater in the U.S., with a staggering capacity of around 37,000 attendees. Over the years, Alpine Valley has been a favorite venue for huge bands, especially jam bands including the Grateful Dead and Phish, who essentially put it on the map. It has also hosted other legendary acts including Bruce Springsteen, Pearl Jam, Dave Matthews Band, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Eric Clapton, and Aerosmith. Over the years, it has opened and closed for shows a few times, and the famed venue still hosts the hottest bands around.
On the 2023 Schedule: Dave Matthews Band, Jimmy Buffet
Location: 2699 Co Rd D, East Troy, WI 53120Event Calendar: via Live NationTickets: via Live Nation
Photo by Jenise Jensen Courtesy of Town of Dillion
Like the KettleHouse Amphitheater, the Dillon Amphitheater is a relatively recent and remote build. Reopened after expanding and renovating in 2018, there are few venues more beautiful. The 3,600-capacity pavilion and lawn are located on the shore of Lake Dillon in the heart of Summit County, Colorado, about an hour and a half west of Denver. While you sit back and enjoy some of the biggest acts around, you’re surrounded by a spectacular 360-degree view of the Rocky Mountains, with peaks still covered in snow even in July and August. Bear in mind that if you travel from sea-level, your drinks will be twice as effective — just one perk of seeing shows in Colorado. Either way, make sure you stay hydrated, kick back and relax Colorado-style (whatever that means to you — we don’t judge), and enjoy the show.
On the 2023 Schedule: Umphrey’s McGee, Rainbow Kitten Surprise, The Death South, Dispatch, Young The Giant with Milky Chance, Gregory Alan Isakov, Greensky Bluegrass
Location: 201 W Lodgepole St, Dillon, CO 80435Event Calendar: via Dillon AmphitheaterTickets: via ShowClix
Photo by Kate Russell, Courtesy of the Santa Fe Opera
Nestled in the Jemez and Sangre De Cristo Mountains just outside Santa Fe, the art capital of the Southwest, the Crosby Theatre boasts a spectacular view and stunning architecture. The audience seating rises like a wave to capture the sounds of the stage under its magnificent curved roof. A small, 2,000-capacity intimate venue, the Crosby has been home to the Santa Fe Opera since its opening in 1957. They don’t host many other genres, but if you’re an opera fan, there’s no better place to see your favorite plays.
On the 2023 Schedule: Santa Fe Opera
Location: 301 Opera Dr, Santa Fe, NM 87506Event Calendar: via Santa Fe OperaTickets: via Santa Fe Opera
Photo: chirajuti/Shutterstock
No venue can match the sparkly, firework flamboyance of the Hollywood Bowl. It’s the country’s largest natural outdoor amphitheater, and since opening in the 1920s, it has become one of the most iconic outdoor venues in the U.S. Different shell designs surround the stage, providing fine-tuned acoustics and a colorful aesthetic when viewed from the expansive 18,000-capacity lawn. The venue exploded with fame when The Beatles performed there in the 1960s, and it has also showcased Fred Astaire, Tina Turner, and Aretha Franklin. Today, the Hollywood Bowl is still one of the most coveted stages for acts from around the world, and it’s also a home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Be sure to check out the free Hollywood Bowl Museum during the day when you go visit.
On the 2023 Schedule: Reba Mcentire, Phish, Willie Nelson, Ricky Gervals, Andrea Brocelli, Game of Thrones Live Concert Experience, Matchbox Twenty, Shania Twain, Janet Jackson & Ludacris, King Gizzard and The Lizard Wizard, Jill Scott, Louis Tomlinson, The Beach Boys
Location: 2301 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068Event Calendar: via Hollywood BowlTickets: via Ticketmaster
Photo: Al Case/Flickr
Sometimes it’s a good thing when a venue is in the middle-of-nowhere. The Gorge is certainly remote, but it’s situated in such a giant panorama that you’ll never hear anyone complaining about the drive. Instead, it’s the ultimate outdoor-concert pilgrimage destination, complete with a campground alongside the over 20,000-capacity amphitheater. Located on the brink of a — you guessed it — giant gorge, with the Columbia River flowing underneath and the Cascade Mountains majestically sitting on the horizon, countless bands have described their visits to the Gorge as being intensely spiritual. One visit to the Gorge will change your life, and you’ll want to make the trek again forever.
On the 2023 Schedule: Illenium, Brandi Carlie, Joni Jam, The Highwomen & Tanya Tucker, Beyond Wonderland, Dead & Company, Dave Matthews Band, Eric Church, Jelly Roll & Hailey Whitters
Location: 754 Silica Rd NW, George, WA 98848Event Calendar & Tickets: Big Stub
Photo: Michael Weintrob
Story has it that indigenous tribes used the perfect natural amphitheater of Red Rocks for moonlit rituals for thousands of years. Can you blame them? Then, in the early 1900s, promoters came along and decided to formally incorporate the land into a music venue, building a stage and 10,000-capacity arena seating between the two enormous 300+ foot tall, red sandstone rocks. It opened for shows in 1941 and exploded during the 60s and 70s, beginning with the publicity brought by The Beatles’ performances. Ever since, Red Rocks has been flooded with season after season of concerts from the best bands in the world.
Locals refer to it as a “cathedral of music,” and there is a magic in the air at Red Rocks that simply can’t be found at any other venue. As the sun sets, concertgoers are treated to a breathtaking view of Denver and the surrounding plains, located on the horizon just above the stage. Everyone who’s anyone plays, or has played, at Red Rocks, and until erosion washes it away, it will forever be the greatest outdoor music venue in the U.S. And here’s a fun fact: after headlining a show at Red Rocks, performers are given a small piece of the rock to keep as a souvenir to remind them of (what I assume is) one of the most incredible nights of their entire lives.
You can visit Red Rocks during the day and hike around its many trails, circling around martian-looking red rock formations. You also can visit the free museum, which is sort of like a mini Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, listing all the performers who have graced the sandstone stage.
If you only visit one venue on this list, it’s got to be Red Rocks. Stare up at the legendary rock pillars and absorb the moment to make unique concert memories and solidify the peak of your outdoor music venue pilgrimage.
On the 2023 Schedule: Dabin, Dom Dolla, Mersiv, Tchami, Boogie T, Yeat, Subtronics, Bob Moses & Ben Bohmer, The Marley Brothers, Sofi Tukker, Wiz Khalifa & Joey Bada$$, Sudden Death, Goth Babe, Peekaboo, Gorgon Cit
Location: 18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80465Event Calendar: via Red RocksTickets: via Ticketmaster
Now that you’ve explored the venues, it’s time to get out there and go see some music! What concerts are you looking forward to this summer? Did we miss any ‘secret’ venues that you love and expect to become popular over the next few years? Leave a comment below!
Source: https://gardencourte.com
Categories: Outdoor
This post was last modified on 08/10/2023 22:45
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