Forest Hills Stadium
An awesome outside venue in the heart of Queens where you want to see a big show in the summer or early fall. There’s both GA standing and stadium seating, so you can choose your own adventure. You can find lots of food and drink options inside the stadium, and the staff is super helpful and friendly.
The Sultan Room
The Sultan Room has quickly become one of our favorite venues. It’s a great spot for a smaller show inside or a sunset show on the roof. The wall behind the stage downstairs features an epic light display that we didn’t know we needed, but we do. The roof has a chiller vibe and smaller stage with room to sit or dance. If you’re hungry, there’s an awesome sit down restaurant, The Turk’s Inn, that’s decorated like the inside of your quirky great-aunt’s house. For a faster bite, the Döner Kebab takeout window never disappoints.
Knockdown Center
Knockdown is an awesome space that hosts a range of awesome artists and events. There’s the indoor space where you’ll be most winter, “The Ruins” space outdoors where you’ll be groovin’ during the summer and fall, and “The Basement” club where you’ll be year-round in the wee hours of the morning.
Radio City Music Hall
One of the most quintessential venues in NYC, right in the heart of midtown. Catch the legendary marquee sign on your way into the Art Deco-inspired theater, which is beautiful on the inside and has great sound.
Kings Theatre
The historic Kings Theatre features a brightly-lit marquee sign and immensely high walls and ceilings, every inch of which are decorated with intricate gold moldings and ornate hand-painted artwork. Although it’s a seated venue, it’s got a solid soundsystem, and you’ll find most people up and dancing at shows here, especially in the pit.
Elsewhere
Elsewhere is a unique venue in the heart of Bushwick. There are several different stages (The Roof, Zone One, The Hall and The Loft) to host all types of artists, parties, club nights, & more. Our favorite stage is the roof with its wavy lights and cheeky view of the city skyline.
Mercury Lounge
A smaller venue in the heart of the Lower East Side that has a dive bar and an intimate vibe. It’s where you’ll catch artists early in their careers as they are coming up. A lot of notable acts play their first NYC show here!
Brooklyn Made
While newer to the Bushwick live music scene, Brooklyn Made is becoming a neighborhood staple, and once you go, you’ll see why. It’s an all-in-one venue with a sick stage and a lounge area with a pool table. There’s also Cafe Mezcal, the connected mezcal bar & restaurant that’s great for pre or post show, or both. We also appreciate that they sell earplugs for $1 a pair.
Beacon Theatre
Touting some of the best sound quality in New York, any show at the beautiful Beacon Theatre is always a good time. The theater is technically seated, but you’ll be dancing in front of your seat quickly.
Music Hall of Williamsburg
Music Hall of Williamsburg is a great venue right in the heart of Williamsburg, always bringing an eclectic lineup of artists who span multiple genres. The sound inside is solid, and so many artists play here right before they blow up. Pro tip: the elevated platforms on either side of the dance floor are typically less crowded and have a great vantage point.
