live music toronto

The Best Live Music Venues in Toronto

The best live music venues in Toronto are havens for performers and those who love a good evening of entertainment. Big touring acts and local favourites alike have graced these stages, nestled within venues with good sight lines, sweet sound systems and lots of history.

Here are the best live music venues in Toronto.


The Danforth Music Hall
1

The Danforth Music Hall

This giant venue is situated on the street for which it's named seats 1,400 (yes, in real seats) and the floor is slightly inclined for great views of the stage. It was originally constructed as a theatre in 1919 and was first called Allen's Danforth, and began hosting live acts in the 1970s.

Horseshoe Tavern
2

Horseshoe Tavern

This historic bar at Queen and Spadina is one of Toronto's oldest, having played host to such acts as Willie Nelson, Stompin' Tom Connors, Talking Heads, MC5 and Rolling Stones. They have billiards, a small front patio and a history that stretches back to the 1940s.


Lee's Palace
3

Lee's Palace

This large, high-ceilinged Annex venue has both sitting and standing room so you can choose your own adventure for a performance, whether you prefer sipping a drink on the sidelines or moshing in the pit. It's well known for the detailed technicolour mural that decorates the front facade.

History Toronto
4

History Toronto

The Beaches now has this newer venue where all the biggest names come  to perform in a state-of-the-art space. Holding 2,500, they have the option of premium seating, and you can also host your own private events here.


Phoenix Concert Theatre
5

Phoenix Concert Theatre

This huge and popular spot near Sherbourne and Wellesley measures 18,000 square feet and contains three spaces: a main room, a mezzanine overlooking the main room that seats 100 and has a VIP bar, and a self-contained parlour with its own lighting and sound system.


Massey Hall
6

Massey Hall

Near busy Yonge and Dundas, this venue is packed with 127 years of history. The grandiose building has been going through a major revitalization, expanding with new theatre spaces and a seven-storey tower. One thing will never change, though, and that's the international stars that come to play here.

The Dakota Tavern
7

The Dakota Tavern

This little basement haunt at Dundas and Ossington is a haven for country and bluegrass fans, where it's not out of place to get up on the small dance floor and do a little do-si-do with your sweetheart. Sidle up to a barstool, order a bourbon, and let another night of live programming begin.


Opera House
8

Opera House

This Riverside institution has been around for over a hundred years. First opening in 1909, it was originally known at The Plaza Theatre, transforming into the Opera House in 1989. The 12,000-square-foot space has a 900-square-foot stage, three bars and a coat check. 

Lula Lounge
9

Lula Lounge

Those looking for a dinner theatre vibe and more global music genres can head straight to this community hub on Dundas West, easily spotted by its giant light-up sign. They're known for hosting Latin nights on weekends with dance lessons, a live band and DJ, plust no previous experience or partner is required.

Lead photo by

Hector Vasquez at Dakota Tavern


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The Best Live Music Venues in Toronto

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