Philadelphia Concert Venues
While you may have heard of the Philadelphia stadiums that have hosted famous acts over the years, there are many local concert venues that lend their stage to a more independent and alternative scene, along with classical and jazz performances.
The Electric Factory
A giant warehouse converted into an entertainment hall, the Electric Factory boasts a large variety of musical acts. From Rock to Rap, Indie to Country, this venue is the place to be on any given day of the week. A balcony overlooks the main floor and stage, providing seating and a more comfortable atmosphere for the over 21 crowd, along with a full bar with reasonably priced drinks. The Electric Factory provides an atmosphere that is a perfect collaboration of both heavy concert goers who enjoy a "mosh pit scene" and those who simply want to have a drink and listen to live music.
World Café Live
Winner of the 2008 AOL.com award for "City's Best Live Music," World Café Live is quite the musical experience.
This three-tiered music hall has been designed to optimize the live performance experience, from sight lines, lighting, and acoustics to green rooms, equipment access, and concierge service. Be sure to check out the restaurant located in the venue which features extensive and eclectic menus. World Café Live also hosts their own radio show so the musical acts are mostly local, however, the Café also hosts bigger names like Edwin McCain and Bloc Party.
Kimmel Center
If you're in the mood for classical music or a dance performance, look no further than the Avenue of the Arts. The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts serves as home to eight Resident Company performing arts organizations, including The Philadelphia Orchestra, Opera Company of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Ballet, Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, American Theater Arts for Youth, PHILADANCO, Philadelphia Chamber Music Society and Peter Nero and the Philly Pops®. Encased in a 150-foot barrel-vaulted glass roof, a grand plaza welcomes you into the center. The extravagant 2,500 seat Verizon Hall, which is shaped like a cello, holds the main stage and is acoustically ideal for all music.
Festival Pier
Listen to your favorite band by the water! During Philadelphia's warmer months, concerts are held at Festival Pier, right along Philadelphia's Penn's Landing. Popular bands and artists like Incubus, 311, The Roots, Snoop Dogg, Jason Mraz, and much more have made appearances there and every summer is filled with a great line-up!
