Toronto’s vibrant live music scene is a magnet for music lovers of all kinds, offering an eclectic mix of venues that cater to every genre imaginable. Whether you’re craving an intimate jazz session or a high-energy rock concert, the city has something for everyone. With legendary spots like Massey Hall and hidden gems that champion local talent, Toronto’s best live music venues set the stage for unforgettable nights. From budget-friendly venues to larger concert spaces, the options are endless, making Toronto a haven for live music enthusiasts. In this guide, we’ll explore the top live music venues in Toronto, highlighting the best places to enjoy live music across the city, so you can experience the thrill of live performances firsthand without missing a beat.
The Best 20 Live Music Venues in Toronto
- Massey Hall
- The Phoenix Concert Theatre
- The Horseshoe Tavern
- Danforth Music Hall
- The Opera House
- Lee’s Palace
- The Cameron House
- The Drake Underground
- The Mod Club (now called Axis Club)
- The Dakota Tavern
- Lula Lounge
- The Rex Hotel Jazz & Blues Bar
- Velvet Underground
- The Garrison
- The Rivoli
- The Hideout
- Scotiabank Arena
- The Baby G
- Adelaide Hall
- The Great Hall
Massey Hall
Massey Hall is one of Toronto’s most iconic live music venues, known for its rich history and breathtaking acoustics. Established in 1894, this historic venue has hosted legendary performances by artists like Gordon Lightfoot, Neil Young, and Bob Dylan. The hall is revered for its incredible sound quality, making it a top choice for a wide range of genres, including rock, folk, classical, and jazz. With a capacity of around 2,500, Massey Hall offers an intimate yet grand setting for live performances. Following recent renovations, the venue now boasts state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems while preserving its classic charm. For those seeking a memorable concert experience in Toronto, Massey Hall remains one of the best live music venues in Toronto.
Address: 178 Victoria St, Toronto, ON M5B 1T7, Canada
Capacity: 2,752
Contact: +1 416-872-4255
The Phoenix Concert Theatre
The Phoenix Concert Theatre is one of the top live music venues in Toronto, known for its dynamic atmosphere and versatility. Located in the heart of downtown, The Phoenix can accommodate up to 1,350 people, making it an ideal spot for both rising stars and major acts. The venue is divided into different spaces, including the Main Room, the Parlour, and the Balcony, each offering a unique concert experience. Known for hosting a wide array of genres, from indie rock and pop to electronic and hip-hop, The Phoenix is a go-to place for live music in Toronto. Its industrial-chic vibe, great sightlines, and high-energy performances make it one of the best places to enjoy live music in Toronto.
Address: 410 Sherbourne St, Toronto, ON M5X 1K2, Canada
Capacity: 1,350
Contact: +1 416-323-1251
The Horseshoe Tavern
The Horseshoe Tavern is a legendary institution in Toronto’s live music scene, having opened its doors in 1947. Known for its gritty, no-nonsense atmosphere, this venue has seen performances from some of the biggest names in rock and alternative music, including The Rolling Stones, The Tragically Hip, and Blue Rodeo. With a capacity of 400, The Horseshoe Tavern offers an intimate setting where fans can get up close and personal with their favorite bands. The venue is particularly famous for its indie and rock performances, but it also hosts country, punk, and blues acts. If you’re looking for a place that embodies Toronto’s live music culture, The Horseshoe Tavern is one of the best live music venues in Toronto to visit.
Address: 370 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 2A2, Canada
Contact: +1 416-598-4226
Danforth Music Hall
Danforth Music Hall is one of Toronto’s best live music venues, renowned for its impressive art deco architecture and versatile event space. Originally built as a movie theater in 1919, the venue has since evolved into a premier concert hall with a capacity of 1,500. The Danforth Music Hall is celebrated for its excellent acoustics and intimate setting, making it a favorite spot for both artists and audiences. This venue hosts a wide range of performances, from rock and indie bands to comedians and theatrical shows. Located in Toronto’s vibrant Greektown, it offers easy access to some of the city’s best dining options, making it a top live music venue in Toronto for an unforgettable night out. Discover the city’s best musical restaurants that combine live performances with unforgettable dining.
Address: 147 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 1N2, Canada
Capacity: 1,500
Contact: +1 416-778-8163
The Opera House
The Opera House is a stunning historic venue located in Toronto’s Riverside neighborhood. Originally built in 1909 as a Vaudeville theater, it has evolved into one of the best live music venues in Toronto. With a capacity of around 850, The Opera House offers an intimate yet grand atmosphere, making it ideal for both up-and-coming acts and established artists. Known for its diverse lineup, the venue hosts performances spanning rock, metal, hip-hop, and electronic music. The Opera House is particularly popular for its vintage charm, featuring high ceilings, a large stage, and intricate architectural details. As one of the top live music venues in Toronto, it provides a memorable experience for both artists and fans.
Address: 735 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4M 1H1, Canada
Capacity: 950 (680 Main Floor and 270 Balcony)
Contact: +1 416-466-0313
Lee’s Palace
Lee’s Palace is a staple in Toronto’s live music scene, famous for its graffiti-covered exterior and dive bar vibe. This venue, located in the Annex, has been a launching pad for many indie and alternative bands since it opened in 1985. With a capacity of 550, Lee’s Palace offers an intimate experience for fans of rock, punk, and indie music. It’s known for hosting legendary acts like Nirvana, The Smashing Pumpkins, and Arcade Fire early in their careers. The two-level venue includes the dance club upstairs, making it one of the best places to enjoy live music in Toronto and continue the party afterward. Lee’s Palace remains an iconic spot for live music in the city. Combine a night of live music with an unforgettable bachelorette party by exploring our top recommendations for bachelorette celebrations in Toronto.
Address: 529 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M5S 1Y5, Canada
Capacity: 450
Contact: +1 416-532-1598
The Cameron House
The Cameron House is a beloved live music venue that perfectly embodies the spirit of Toronto’s Queen West neighborhood. Known for its cozy and eclectic vibe, this venue has been a hub for live music in Toronto since the 1980s. With a capacity of around 100, The Cameron House offers an intimate setting for local artists to perform genres such as folk, jazz, blues, and alternative rock. The venue features two performance spaces: the front room, known for its laid-back atmosphere, and the back room, which hosts more energetic performances. The Cameron House is celebrated for nurturing local talent and remains one of Toronto’s best live music venues for discovering emerging artists.
Address: 408 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 2A7, Canada
Contact: +1 416-703-0811
The Drake Underground
The Drake Underground is a trendy, underground venue located in the basement of the famous Drake Hotel in Toronto’s West Queen West district. Known for its cutting-edge programming, The Drake Underground is one of the top live music venues in Toronto for indie, electronic, and experimental music. With a capacity of 200, it offers an intimate and immersive experience, making it a favorite spot for music lovers seeking out new and innovative sounds. The venue is also known for hosting art installations, DJ nights, and cultural events, making it a versatile space that reflects Toronto’s dynamic creative scene. For those looking to explore the city’s contemporary music landscape, The Drake Underground is one of the best places to enjoy live music in Toronto.
Address: 1150 Queen Street West, Toronto, Ontario M6J 1J3.
The Mod Club (now called Axis Club)
The Mod Club, now rebranded as the Axis Club, is one of Toronto’s most versatile live music venues. Located in Little Italy, this venue has a capacity of 620 and is known for its modern design, high-quality sound system, and immersive lighting. The Axis Club hosts a wide variety of genres, including indie rock, electronic, pop, and hip-hop. Over the years, it has been a popular stage for both local talent and international artists. The venue’s intimate setting allows for a close connection between performers and the audience, making it one of the top live music venues in Toronto for an up-close concert experience. The Axis Club remains a vital part of the city’s live music scene, offering a perfect balance between cutting-edge performances and a vibrant atmosphere.
Address: 722 College St, Toronto, ON M6G 1C5, Canada
Capacity: 618
The Dakota Tavern
The Dakota Tavern, located in Toronto’s West End, is one of the city’s most beloved live music venues, especially for fans of folk, country, and bluegrass. With a cozy, rustic atmosphere reminiscent of an old-timey saloon, The Dakota Tavern offers a laid-back yet lively environment where music lovers can enjoy intimate performances. The venue has a capacity of around 120, making it perfect for acoustic sets and sing-along nights. The Dakota is also known for its famous “Bluegrass Brunch,” where patrons can enjoy live bluegrass music while indulging in a hearty breakfast. It’s the best live music venue in Toronto for those seeking an authentic and down-to-earth experience, with a focus on roots music.
Address: 249 Ossington Ave, Toronto, ON M6J 3A1, Canada
Contact: +1 416-850-4579
Lula Lounge
Lula Lounge is one of Toronto’s best live music venues for Latin, salsa, jazz, and world music. Located in the Dundas West neighborhood, this vibrant venue offers a unique mix of live music and dance, with a focus on Latin American culture. The space features a large stage, a dance floor, and a dining area, allowing guests to enjoy live performances while dining on Latin-inspired cuisine. With a capacity of 250, Lula Lounge provides an intimate yet energetic setting. The venue is especially known for its salsa nights, where live bands and DJs create an infectious rhythm that fills the room. Take a deeper dive into the city’s musical legacy with the famous Toronto bands, from Rush to The Weeknd. Lula Lounge is one of the best places to enjoy live music in Toronto if you’re looking for a lively, cultural experience with a global twist.
Address: 1585 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6K 1T9, Canada
Contact: +1 416-588-0307
The Rex Hotel Jazz & Blues Bar
The Rex Hotel Jazz & Blues Bar is a cornerstone of Toronto’s live music scene, especially for jazz enthusiasts. Located on Queen Street West, this iconic venue has been hosting live jazz performances for over 40 years. The Rex offers an intimate setting with a capacity of around 120, making it one of the best live music venues in Toronto for those who want to experience jazz and blues up close. The venue features performances seven days a week, showcasing both local talent and international artists. With its relaxed, old-school vibe and commitment to high-quality music, The Rex is a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Toronto’s jazz culture. If you prefer a more casual vibe with live tunes, explore the top bars with live music in Toronto for a perfect mix of entertainment and atmosphere.
Address: 194 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1Z1, Canada
Contact: +1 416-598-2475
Velvet Underground
Velvet Underground is one of the top live music venues in Toronto, known for its edgy atmosphere and eclectic lineup of artists. Located on Queen Street West, this venue has a capacity of 300, making it an intimate space for live performances. Velvet Underground is particularly popular for rock, punk, indie, and electronic music, attracting both local talent and international acts. The venue is also known for its immersive lighting and sound system, which creates an electric vibe during shows. Beyond concerts, Velvet Underground hosts themed parties and DJ nights, making it one of the best places to enjoy live music in Toronto while also soaking in a vibrant nightlife experience.
Address: 508 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 2B3, Canada
Contact: +1 647-351-9001
The Garrison
The Garrison is a popular live music venue located on Dundas Street West, offering a raw and minimalist space for indie, rock, and electronic performances. With a capacity of 300, The Garrison provides an intimate setting for concertgoers who want to be close to the action. The venue is well-known for supporting Toronto’s indie music scene, hosting emerging artists and underground bands. It features a large stage, excellent acoustics, and a laid-back atmosphere, making it one of the best live music venues in Toronto for discovering new talent. The Garrison also hosts film screenings, comedy nights, and art events, offering a diverse cultural experience for its visitors. Toronto’s nightlife isn’t just about live music; discover the best comedy night clubs for an evening of laughs and unforgettable memories.
Address: 1197 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1X3, Canada
Contact: +1 416-519-9439
The Rivoli
The Rivoli, located on Queen Street West, is a versatile live music venue that has been a staple of Toronto’s entertainment scene since the 1980s. Known for its cozy and intimate setting, The Rivoli has a capacity of around 200 and offers a mix of live music, comedy, and cabaret performances. The venue has a rich history of hosting notable acts in the early stages of their careers, including the Barenaked Ladies and Blue Rodeo. The Rivoli is known for its diverse lineup, featuring indie, rock, folk, and jazz performances. With its casual yet stylish ambiance, The Rivoli is one of Toronto’s best live music venues for those seeking a laid-back evening filled with great tunes.
Address: 334 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 2A2, Canada
Contact: +1 647-494-4540
The Hideout
The Hideout, now located on College Street, is one of Toronto’s best live music venues for fans of rock, blues, and indie music. Known for its relaxed and unpretentious atmosphere, The Hideout offers a capacity of 150, making it an intimate spot to enjoy live performances. The venue is celebrated for its strong commitment to local artists, regularly featuring Toronto’s best up-and-coming bands. With its warm lighting, brick walls, and lively bar, The Hideout creates an inviting space for both performers and fans. In addition to live music, the venue often hosts themed nights and special events, ensuring that there’s always something exciting happening. For an authentic and down-to-earth live music experience, The Hideout is a must-visit spot in Toronto.
Address: 2282 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4E 1G6, Canada
Contact: +1 416-693-2727
Scotiabank Arena
Scotiabank Arena is Toronto’s premier venue for large-scale concerts and events, often hosting world-renowned artists and performers. With a seating capacity of approximately 19,800, this massive venue offers state-of-the-art sound and lighting, ensuring a top-notch concert experience. Scotiabank Arena is best known for its ability to accommodate major tours and performances across genres, from pop and rock to hip-hop and country. Its central location in downtown Toronto makes it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. As one of the best live music venues in Toronto for large-scale performances, Scotiabank Arena is a must-visit for fans looking to see their favorite global superstars in an impressive setting.
Address: 40 Bay St., Toronto, ON M5J 2X2, Canada
Capacity: 19,800
Contact: +1 416-815-5500
The Baby G
The Baby G is one of Toronto’s most intimate live music venues, located on Dundas Street West. With a capacity of around 150, it’s a small yet vibrant space that focuses on showcasing indie, electronic, and experimental music. The venue is known for its minimalist design, high-quality sound system, and a strong commitment to supporting emerging artists in the local scene. The Baby G offers an up-close and personal experience for music lovers, making it one of the best places to enjoy live music in Toronto for those who prefer a more underground vibe. The venue also hosts DJ nights and themed events, adding to its eclectic appeal within the city’s live music landscape.
Address: 1608 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6K 1T8, Canada
Contact: +1 416-546-8840
Adelaide Hall
Adelaide Hall, located in the heart of Toronto’s Entertainment District, is a versatile live music venue known for its modern design and intimate setting. With a capacity of 475, it strikes a perfect balance between a small club vibe and a larger concert space, making it one of the top live music venues in Toronto. Adelaide Hall is renowned for hosting a wide variety of genres, including rock, pop, hip-hop, and electronic music. Its multi-level layout and excellent acoustics create an engaging concert experience for both artists and audiences. The venue’s sleek aesthetic and central location make it a popular spot for music lovers seeking a night out in Toronto’s bustling downtown scene.
Address: 250 Adelaide St W Second Floor, Toronto, ON M5H 1X6, Canada
The Great Hall
The Great Hall is a historic live music venue located on Queen Street West, known for its stunning architecture and elegant event space. Built in 1889, this venue exudes old-world charm with its high ceilings, large windows, and ornate details. The Great Hall has a capacity of up to 500 and is known for hosting a diverse range of live performances, including indie rock, classical concerts, and electronic music events. Its versatility allows it to be used for concerts, weddings, and cultural events, making it one of Toronto’s best live music venues for a wide array of audiences. The venue’s rich history and beautiful ambiance create a unique atmosphere that sets it apart from other concert spaces in Toronto.
Address: 1087 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1H3, Canada
Contact: +1 416-792-1268
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Affordable and Budget-Friendly Live Music Venues
Toronto is home to a vibrant live music scene, and you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy it. There are several affordable and budget-friendly live music venues in Toronto that deliver high-quality performances without compromising on experience.
- The Horseshoe Tavern is a perfect example, known for its rich history and intimate shows with affordable ticket prices. The Cameron House is another gem, offering a cozy setting and a lineup of local talent, often with no cover charge.
- For those who prefer an indie vibe, The Dakota Tavern hosts folk, country, and bluegrass acts at reasonable prices. Lee’s Palace is also a favorite, offering a gritty atmosphere and budget-friendly tickets for indie and rock fans.
These venues ensure that you can experience Toronto’s best live music venues on a budget while enjoying a fantastic night out.
Concert Spaces in Toronto
When it comes to larger concert spaces in Toronto, the city offers a range of iconic venues that host major performances.
- Scotiabank Arena is the go-to venue for big-name artists, accommodating nearly 20,000 people with state-of-the-art sound and lighting. It’s the largest concert venue in the city, making it a top destination for international tours.
- Massey Hall, while smaller with a capacity of 2,500, is one of Toronto’s best live music venues for its unparalleled acoustics and historic charm.
- Budweiser Stage, located by the waterfront, is a unique open-air concert venue with a capacity of 16,000, perfect for summer shows.
These concert spaces in Toronto are ideal for experiencing high-energy performances in iconic settings that offer a memorable music experience.
Key Takeaways
- Toronto offers a wide range of live music venues catering to all genres, from indie and jazz to rock and electronic, ensuring there’s something for every music lover.
- Historic and iconic venues like Massey Hall, Scotiabank Arena, and The Opera House are must-visits for major performances, offering excellent acoustics and memorable experiences.
- Affordable venues like The Horseshoe Tavern, The Cameron House, and Lee’s Palace provide quality live music experiences without breaking the bank.
- Smaller venues like The Dakota Tavern and The Baby G offer cozy, intimate spaces perfect for discovering local talent and enjoying up-close performances.
- Toronto’s larger concert venues like Budweiser Stage and Scotiabank Arena are ideal for big shows and international tours, offering state-of-the-art facilities and large capacities.
- Live music venues are spread across Toronto’s neighborhoods, from downtown hotspots to hidden gems in eclectic areas like Queen West and Dundas West, enriching the city’s cultural landscape.
- Many venues, such as The Rex Hotel Jazz & Blues Bar and Lula Lounge, actively support local talent, providing a platform for emerging and established artists alike.
FAQs
- Where can I find affordable live music in Toronto?
Affordable options include The Horseshoe Tavern, The Cameron House, Lee’s Palace, and The Dakota Tavern. - What venues support local Toronto artists?
The Cameron House, The Rex Hotel Jazz & Blues Bar, and Lula Lounge actively support local talent. - Where can I see live indie music in Toronto?
Indie music lovers should check out Lee’s Palace, The Garrison, and The Baby G. - What live music venues in Toronto also offer dining options?
Lula Lounge offers a Latin-inspired dining experience alongside live music. - Where can I find jazz and blues music in Toronto?
The Rex Hotel Jazz & Blues Bar is the go-to spot for jazz and blues in Toronto. - What is the best live music venue for Latin and world music in Toronto?
Lula Lounge is the top choice for Latin and world music performances in Toronto. - Where can I go for live music and dancing in Toronto?
Lula Lounge and The Drake Underground are great options for live music with a dancefloor. Continue the fun at one of the city’s best dance clubs.