Last Updated on Sep 15, 2025
New York City is one of the greatest cities in the world for live music, offering an unparalleled range of venues that cater to every genre and vibe imaginable. From iconic arenas like Madison Square Garden and Yankee Stadium that host global superstars, to intimate gems like Bowery Ballroom and Music Hall of Williamsburg where you can catch rising indie acts, NYC’s music scene pulses with energy and variety. Whether you're into jazz at Carnegie Hall, EDM at the Brooklyn Mirage, rock at Terminal 5, or outdoor summer shows at Forest Hills Stadium, there's a perfect stage for every kind of music lover in the city that never sleeps.
Capacity 1,125
The Ambassador Theatre, located in the heart of Broadway, is a historic and intimate venue known for hosting world-class musicals. With a seating capacity of 1,125, it offers a classic theatrical experience in a beautifully preserved 1920s setting. It has been home to long-running productions like Chicago, attracting audiences with its cozy ambiance and prime location on West 49th Street.
Capacity 1,506
A cultural icon in Harlem, the Apollo Theater is one of the most famous performance venues in the United States. Seating 1,506 guests, it has a rich legacy of launching legendary careers in music, comedy, and dance. Known for its “Amateur Night” and deep roots in African-American history, the Apollo remains a vital stage for contemporary and legacy artists alike.
Capacity 19,000
Located in Brooklyn, Barclays Center is a state-of-the-art arena with a seating capacity of 19,000. It's the home of the NBA’s Brooklyn Nets and a premier destination for major concerts, family shows, and entertainment events. Its modern architecture and convenient location make it a popular choice for both sports and live performances.
Capacity 2,894
The Beacon Theatre is a historic, art deco-style venue located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. With 2,894 seats, it’s renowned for its exceptional acoustics and intimate yet grand atmosphere. The theater hosts a wide array of performances, from legendary musical acts to comedy shows and special events.
Capacity 575
Tucked into the Lower East Side, the Bowery Ballroom is a beloved music venue known for its intimate setting and stellar sound quality. With a capacity of 575, it provides fans a chance to see rising stars and indie icons up close in a uniquely atmospheric space featuring vintage touches and a basement lounge.
Capacity 1,761
With a 1,761-seat capacity and large stage, the Broadway Theatre is perfect for musicals and big productions. Located on Broadway, it combines a spacious interior with rich theatrical history.
Capacity 600
Brooklyn Bowl in Williamsburg is a hybrid venue offering live music, bowling, and dining. Its 600-person space regularly features funky lineups, from indie bands to jam sessions, in a laid-back, high-energy environment.
Capacity 6,000
This immersive 6,000-person outdoor venue in East Williamsburg is famous for electronic music and next-level production design. The Brooklyn Mirage is a top nightlife destination with panoramic visuals and an industrial-chic vibe.
Capacity 2,500
A newly revived treasure, the Brooklyn Paramount boasts a 2,500-seat capacity and Art Deco elegance. Once a movie palace, it now hosts concerts, comedy, and other live performances in a stunning setting.
Capacity 1,800
This 1,800-capacity venue in East Williamsburg blends warehouse aesthetics with top-notch acoustics. Brooklyn Steel attracts major indie, alt-rock, and electronic acts in a standing-room format that makes every show feel electric.
Capacity 3,671
Opened in 1891, Carnegie Hall is one of the world’s most prestigious concert venues, hosting classical, jazz, and contemporary music performances. Its 3,671-seat Stern Auditorium offers exceptional acoustics and elegance.
Capacity 45,000
Home to the New York Mets, Citi Field in Queens seats 45,000 fans and blends modern design with nostalgic charm. It’s not only a baseball stadium but also a massive venue for concerts and festivals.
Capacity 1,058
The Ethel Barrymore Theatre is the only remaining Broadway house built for the Barrymore family. With 1,058 seats, it offers a cozy setting for acclaimed plays and classic productions.
Capacity 13,000
Located in Queens, Forest Hills Stadium blends historic charm with a modern concert setup. With a 13,000-seat capacity, it provides a unique open-air concert experience in a leafy residential neighborhood.
Capacity 1,025
Just steps from Union Square, Irving Plaza is a 1,025-capacity venue known for hosting up-and-coming artists, cult favorites, and lively rock shows in a historic, multi-level space.
Capacity 3,000
A sprawling, 3,000-capacity warehouse venue in Queens, the Knockdown Center hosts boundary-pushing music, art installations, and immersive nightlife events in a flexible industrial setting.
Capacity 19,500
Madison Square Garden, located in Midtown Manhattan, is one of the most iconic arenas in the world. With a 19,500-seat capacity, it’s home to the Knicks, Rangers, and a must-stop venue for major concerts and events.
Capacity 82,500
Located just outside NYC in East Rutherford, NJ, MetLife Stadium is a behemoth with an 82,500-person capacity. Home to the Giants and Jets, it also hosts concerts by global superstars and large-scale events.
Capacity 3,850
The Metropolitan Opera House is the largest classical music theater in North America, seating 3,850. It showcases world-renowned operas, ballets, and orchestral performances in a setting of unmatched grandeur.
Capacity 650
This Williamsburg venue offers an intimate 650-person space for indie music and alternative artists. Known for its great sound and hip crowd, it's a go-to for discovering the next big act.
Capacity 16,000
Long Island’s Nassau Coliseum seats 16,000 and has hosted everything from hockey games to concerts and family shows. A recent renovation modernized the space while preserving its community feel.
Capacity 13,855
An open-air amphitheater set along the coast in Wantagh, NY, this 13,855-seat venue offers scenic views and a strong summer concert lineup, making it a seasonal hotspot for live music fans.
Capacity 2,000
This sleek, high-tech venue in the heart of Times Square holds up to 2,000 guests. It’s a modern space for concerts, corporate events, and special performances, offering immersive audio-visual experiences.
Capacity 19,500
Located in Newark, NJ, the Prudential Center is a 19,500-seat arena home to the New Jersey Devils and host to major concerts and sports events. It's a major player in the NYC metro entertainment scene.
Capacity 6,015
An Art Deco masterpiece, Radio City Music Hall seats 6,015 and is home to the world-famous Rockettes. It’s one of the city’s most celebrated stages for concerts, holiday shows, and awards ceremonies.
Capacity 3,000
Located in Hell’s Kitchen, Terminal 5 is a massive, multi-level venue with a 3,000-person capacity. It’s known for raucous concerts and high-energy performances across genres like EDM, rock, and hip-hop.
Capacity 499
This off-Broadway complex features multiple stages, the largest holding 499 seats. Located in Times Square, it’s home to popular productions like The Office! A Musical Parody and other niche performances.
Capacity 1,500
The Town Hall is a historic 1,500-seat venue in Midtown that has hosted everything from political debates to jazz concerts. Known for its rich acoustics and welcoming ambiance, it remains a cultural touchstone.
Capacity 19,000
Located next to Belmont Park, UBS Arena is a modern, 19,000-seat venue and home to the New York Islanders. Opened in 2021, it offers a premium experience for sports and live entertainment.
Capacity 2,500
This historic East Village venue has been reimagined for a new era while preserving its legendary status. With a 2,500-person capacity, Webster Hall is a staple for live music, club nights, and special events.
Capacity 1,600
A Broadway favorite, the Winter Garden Theatre features a wide stage and 1,600 seats, making it ideal for lavish musicals and big-name productions. It has hosted hits like Cats and The Music Man.
Capacity 54,251
Located in the Bronx, Yankee Stadium is home to the New York Yankees and a symbol of baseball excellence. With a capacity of over 54,000, it also serves as a venue for concerts, soccer matches, and community events.