Local's Pick: Best Live Music Venues in Denver

This Edition of Local's Pick | Where to Rock in Denver & Beyond

November 5, 2024

The Mile High City is known for many things, but most don’t think too much of its local “scene”. Luckily for us, we’re blessed with a great variety of music venues in the Denver area and beyond. Live music is all around us here in Colorado, read on to hear about some of the local’s favorite picks!

Photo of downtown Denver at night, with full moon rising.

Denver Rooms

Let’s break down some of the best rooms in Denver.

Larimer Lounge

A true local’s hang. You won’t want to miss a bill here – some of the best up and coming acts in the area cut their teeth at Larimer. With music just about every night, and a handful of community events thrown in, this is the place to be. Check out the events calendar and don’t miss a beat.

Hip outdoor lounge area adjacent to the venue.

Bluebird Theater

An eclectic theater that brings a number of acts from near and far. Check out the Bluebird for some better known artists that want to play a smaller room. A true local’s favorite.

Exterior photo of the Bluebird Theater in Denver showcasing its design.

The Church Nightclub

If you want top-tier international touring DJs, this is the place. One of Denver’s largest club rooms, this spot attracts hardcore EDM fans along with acts to support their hunger. Don’t miss a Saturday night at The Church.

Vaulted ceilings and complex lighting displays create a unique vibe inside The Church.

Paramount Theatre

The Art Deco charm that is the Paramount Theatre isn’t stuck in the ’30s. This historic theater attracts a number of musical acts, as well as featuring speakers and comics. In the heart of Downtown, right on the 16th Street Mall, the Paramount is a perfect spot to begin your night on the town.

Art Deco interiors of the Paramount in Denver.

"[The theater] is significant not only as an excellent illustration of Art Deco design and craftsmanship and a tribute to an architect who made considerable contributions to the Denver region, but as a unique reflection of a broad social and cultural phenomenon that prevailed in the early decades of the 20th century in Denver and the entire nation."

Mission Ballroom

Boasting the (some say) best sound system in all of Denver, Mission is a 4,000 cap venue all about the locals. All art found inside is done by Denverites and all food/drink served is from local brands. You can listen easy knowing your ticket purchase is going back to the community. The giant disco ball doesn’t hurt, either.

Massive lighting fixtures and a larger disco ball make the Mission a hit.

Live Music Venues Around the Region

You know, Denver doesn’t have to have all the fun. Around our region, there are plenty of other great rooms. We’ve got a few of our favorites below.

Belly Up, Aspen

It’s famous for a reason. Some HUGE acts have played this stage, and many artists seek out Belly Up on cross-country tours. Well sized, with room to groove, and hosting a variety of genres, it’s a venue to check off the list. Loved by locals and tourists alike, stop by next time you’re in town.

Enjoy vibes like this when you visit Belly Up in Aspen.

Vilar Performing Arts Center, Eagle

This intimate theater is operated by a non-profit based in the Vail Valley. It hosts a great variety of shows, including Broadway musicals, jazz acts, rock bands, dance, film, and more. Vilar Performing Arts Center prides itself in being a community resource, holding over 150 events a year.

An intimate, high-end venue in Eagle awaits.

10 Mile Music Hall, Frisco

A cool room in a cool town. Hosting a variety of genres but leaning towards jam, (because who doesn’t like that?) 10 Mile is a beautiful multi-purpose event space in the heart of Frisco. Another place to check off the list when hitting the slopes.

Enjoy the best of the Jam scene at this Frisco venue.

Want to Get Closer to the Action?

Check out some local Denver listings below.

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