Best Concert Venues in San Diego for Unforgettable Live Music

From intimate clubs to expansive arenas, San Diego features an impressive array of concert venues. This guide outlines the finest locations for live performances in and around San Diego, giving you insight into what to anticipate when attending an event at these renowned venues.

House of Blues San Diego

House of Blues in San Diego showcases a captivating stage along with a restaurant that serves delicious cuisine. Pros: House of Blues features prominent artists and bands. Cons: Parking in downtown can be challenging. Tidbit: Known for having one of the best concert sound systems available.

Location: 1055 5th Avenue, San Diego, 619-299-2583

Belly Up Tavern

This beloved local venue in Solana Beach is ideal for enjoying performances by non-mainstream artists. Despite some sight line challenges due to the unusual layout, the venue epitomizes a fun ambiance. Pros: Unique artist bookings and a vibrant surf atmosphere. Cons: Popular shows can become overcrowded. Tidbit: Most tickets are priced under $30.

Location: 143 S Cedros Avenue, Solana Beach, 858-481-8140

Humphreys

With only 1,300 seats, Humphreys located on Shelter Island offers an intimate atmosphere for its summer concert series. Pros: Scenic waterfront views. Cons: Limited seating space and some noise disturbances from the bar area. Tidbit: If you arrive by boat, you can enjoy the concerts for free from the marina.

Location: 2241 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, 800-745-3000

CalCoast Credit Union Open Air Theatre

Situated on the San Diego State University campus, this 4,600-seat amphitheater boasts excellent sight lines and sound quality. It’s important to tread carefully in the steep aisles. Pros: Attractive campus setting. Cons: Concrete seating can be uncomfortable, and fewer acts are frequent performers nowadays. Tidbit: Arrive early to catch sound checks from outside.

Location: 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, 619-594-0234

Sleep Train Amphitheatre

This extensive amphitheater, recently rebranded from its previous names, sets a concert stage in Chula Vista. It attracts major artists, filling a void in San Diego’s concert scene. Sleep Train Amphitheatre accommodates 20,000 guests, half of whom can enjoy the concert from the general admission lawn. Pros: Ample legroom and a spacious facility. Cons: Limited traffic access and visibility challenges if seated behind taller attendees. Tidbit: Large video screens greatly enhance the viewing experience.

Location: 2050 Entertainment Circle, Chula Vista, 619-671-3500

Viejas Arena

Also located on the SDSU campus, the 12,000-seat Viejas Arena (formerly Cox Arena) serves as a dual purpose venue for basketball and concerts. Pros: Steep angles enhance sight lines. Cons: The facility has a more functional feel than luxurious. Tidbit: Convenient cup holders on seats enhance the experience, and be mindful not to park on nearby streets to avoid tickets.

Location: 5500 Canyon Crest Drive, San Diego, 619-594-7315

Copley Symphony Hall

This renovated former movie theater built in 1929, known as Copley Symphony Hall, offers remarkable acoustics and a stylish atmosphere. Pros: Exceptional sound quality and a sophisticated ambiance. Cons: Limited parking can be an issue. Tidbit: Do not miss the stunning chandelier that adorns the hall.

Location: 750 B Street, San Diego, 619-235-0804

Sycuan Live & Up Close Theatre

This cozy theater at Sycuan Casino provides an inviting concert atmosphere with a capacity of about 500 seats. It hosts some well-known acts, making for a memorable night out. Pros: The intimate environment and proximity to casino gaming. Cons: The gaming atmosphere outside can disrupt the concert experience, and the range of acts may vary. Tidbit: Consider dining at the Wachena Falls Cafe, renowned for its quality cuisine.

Location: 5469 Casino Way, El Cajon, 619-445-6002