Atlanta Live Music Guide: Where to Catch a Show Anytime
Atlanta has every size stage, bar and venue to offer live music, daily. For any scale of show, whether an acoustic set or a full-on band and national touring stage, here’s a quick list to experience a strong sampling of Atlanta's major live music venues.
The Tabernacle
First a church, later Atlanta's House of Blues, now a live music landmark in its own right, The Tabernacle is a sought-after stage for nationally tour stops to Atlanta, as well as audiences seeking general admission to two levels of prime viewing surrounding the stage.
Aisle 5
A small-feel venue with 300 seats located in Little 5 Points, Aisle 5 hosts a wide variety of acts (250+ a year!) to all styles of music.
The Masquerade
The Masquerade is still going strong in its new spot in Underground Atlanta. The Masquerade’s levels of Heaven, Purgatory and Hell host nearly 700 live music shows a year.
Smith's Olde Bar
A stalwart live music stage in a Midtown Atlanta location, Smith’s Olde Bar has hosted some of the most prominent names in music and promises something for everyone with two music rooms, plus pool, dining and a thriving bar area.
The Drunken Unicorn
Don’t mind the dark and grunge vibe because it’s at The Drunken Unicorn near Ponce City Market where you’ll find a wide variety of live music and even a film festival.
Terminal West
Known for excellent acoustics and stage lighting, the medium-sized venue Terminal West was once an iron smelting room and has been transformed into a premiere live music venue while maintaining the original factory aesthetics.
Northside Tavern
Once a gas station but now Atlanta’s home of the blues since 1972, Northside Tavern is a beacon of live music that promises roots music seven days a week.
The Fox Theatre
International acts flock to The Fox Theatre. And so do their audiences. From Broadway musicals to the best of live music’s touring acts today, the Fox is a national live music landmark, Atlanta centerpiece and an experience within its own legendary walls.
Variety Playhouse
This landmark venue originated in the 1940s and has since earned its reputation as one of the best spots in the city to catch a show. At Variety Playhouse, you can find national touring acts on a stage surrounded by historic charm and acoustic integrity.
Center Stage
This staple of the Atlanta music scene offers Center Stage, Loft or Vinyl for any of the venue’s intimate live music experiences, where every seat is within prime view of premier sound, lighting and iconic concerts in Midtown Atlanta.
Eddie's Attic
Eddie's Attic is a live music anchor of Atlanta, even if the address is Decatur. One of Georgia's most cherished live music landmarks and listening rooms, if any Atlanta artist gets their start locally, Eddie's Attic captured their footprint.
