Everyone Should Visit These 12 Great Music Venues In New Jersey
New Jersey is a haven for upcoming musicians, home to legends, and it is filled with places to enjoy live music. A quick glance at a band’s list of tour dates reveals one, if not more, New Jersey stops most of the time. From basement shows to bars and arenas, New Jersey covers a broad spectrum. As an avid music lover myself, I know this list only scratches the surface. But, if you are looking to find concerts to attend, start by checking out some of these venues:
Starland Ballroom is a beloved venue that first opened in 2003. In November 2012, Hurricane Sandy damaged it, and the venue had to close for 10 months. It reopened in September 2013, and they have been getting amazing acts coming through again ever since.
This venue became a part of New Jersey in 1922. Its historic charm provides great atmosphere once inside, and the venue brings a variety acts through its doors from rock legends to indie bands.
This is another historic New Jersey icon. It is located right on the beach providing gorgeous views from the outside. This venue has booked bands such as The Beach Boys, the Pixies, and Van Halen among many, many others.
The name says it all -- this venue served as a starting point for Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi among other legendary acts. To this day it books amazing bands, and the Stone Pony Summerstage provides fun summer events to attend. It is one of the most iconic New Jersey venues, and definitely worth checking out!
After changing ownership Maxwell's threw a farewell bash, but the new owners have brought back music to this venue. It focuses primarily on local acts, but you should come here to check out a piece of New Jersey history.
This vintage bowling alley and bar is another one of Asbury Park's gems. It hosts a variety of events from concerts to the New Jersey Beard and Mustache Club beard competition. Asbury Lanes attracts a big punk music scene and provides an intimate setting.
The Saint is another great venue to see in Asbury Park. It serves as an excellent place for local musicians to hold shows, and it also attracts big name acts.
The Stanhope House is a small venue located in a quiet New Jersey town. In the past it focused on blues music, but now its show range from rap to pop punk and folk. Be sure to check out the beer garden during the warmer months!
Rounding out some of the Asbury Park venues is the classic Wonder Bar. It pulls through a variety of acts including some lesser known bands. On top of booking good live bands it also hosts Yappy Hours during the summer for dog owners and benefit events.
Here we enter some of the larger venues in New Jersey starting with PNC Bank Arts Center. You haven't experienced a concert in New Jersey until you have been to the lawn here. Plus, it is a short drive from the beach on the Parkway.
Loren Kessell
It recently went through a name change, but this is another great outdoor venue in New Jersey with nice views of Philadelphia across the water.
Besides being home to the New Jersey Devils hockey team, Prudential also hosts big arena shows. Acts such as The Rolling Stones and Muse have played here.
Get out there and see what New Jersey’s music scene has to offer! What are some venues you like to go to for shows?
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