Welcome to the heart of Vermont’s music scene! Burlington, VT is a small city that packs a big punch when it comes to live music venues. For music lovers, navigating through the many choices of bars and clubs in Burlington can be an overwhelming task. But don’t fret! In this article, we’ll guide you through some of the best music venues in Burlington, highlighting the unique atmosphere and diverse music genres they offer.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a complete understanding of what the Burlington music scene has to offer, and where to go for a night out of great live music. Whether you’re a local resident, university student, or just visiting the area, you’ll be able to plan your next night out with ease. Imagine being able to confidently recommend a venue to your friends or finding your new favorite artist in Burlington’s vibrant music scene! This article has the potential to change your whole perspective on the music community in this area and enhance your musical knowledge beyond your wildest dreams.
No need to worry about missing any great venues on your next night out! The knowledge you’ll gain from reading this article is based on hours of research and first-hand experiences. We’ve discovered the best spots for the liveliest and most unique nights of music. Get ready to soak up the music history of Burlington and learn the secrets of Burlington’s nightlife!
Best Live Music Venues in Burlington, VT
Burlington, Vermont is famous for its vibrant arts culture, and live music is no exception. The city boasts a variety of music venues that attract both local and international artists. Here are the top live music venues in Burlington, VT that you should not miss out on.
Nectar’s
Nectar’s is one of the most famous live music venues in Burlington, VT, and it has been a staple of the city’s music scene since it opened its doors in 1975. The venue has hosted several iconic bands like Phish and Twiddle, and it continues to attract a diverse range of musicians from different genres.
- History: Nectar’s was established in 1975 as a bistro and became a music venue when two members of the band Phish began working there in the early 1980s. The restaurant is famous for introducing the original “Phish Food” ice cream flavor.
- Atmosphere: Nectar’s has a casual and intimate atmosphere, with a small stage area and a dance floor in front of it. The walls are adorned with music memorabilia, giving the venue a nostalgic feel.
- Capacity: Nectar’s can accommodate up to 450 people and has a full bar that serves a wide variety of drinks and pub food.
- Sound Quality: The sound quality at Nectar’s is top-notch, thanks to the venue’s state-of-the-art sound system and highly trained sound engineers.
- Pros: Nectar’s is known for its great live music shows at reasonable prices. The venue has a loyal fan base and a welcoming staff.
- Cons: The venue can get crowded during peak hours, and parking can be a challenge.
Higher Ground
Higher Ground is a multi-level music venue that has been operating in South Burlington since 1998. The venue caters to different music genres and has hosted both local and international artists such as Mumford & Sons, Post Malone, and Twenty One Pilots.
- History: Higher Ground was originally located in Winooski, VT, before it moved to its current location in South Burlington in 2004. The venue has three different performance spaces: the Ballroom, Showcase Lounge, and the Backstage.
- Atmosphere: Higher Ground has a spacious, industrial-chic vibe with high ceilings and a balcony overlooking the stage. The venue also has a full bar and restaurant, making it a great place to hang out before and after a show.
- Capacity: The Ballroom can accommodate up to 1100 people, while the Showcase Lounge has a more intimate setting with a capacity of 300 people.
- Sound Quality: Higher Ground is known for its top-notch sound quality, thanks to its high-quality sound equipment and experienced sound engineers.
- Pros: Higher Ground offers a diverse range of music genres and has a spacious and comfortable atmosphere. The venue also offers a VIP package that includes early access to the show and a reserved seating area.
- Cons: The venue can get noisy, especially during sold-out shows, and parking can be limited.
ArtsRiot
ArtsRiot is a music venue and restaurant that serves as a hub for the local arts community. The venue hosts live music shows, art exhibitions, and other cultural events and is known for promoting up-and-coming artists.
- History: ArtsRiot was established in 2011 and has since become a popular destination for music lovers and art enthusiasts. The venue is also known for its community-driven events and initiatives.
- Atmosphere: ArtsRiot has a laid-back and funky atmosphere, with a restaurant/bar area that serves locally sourced food and drinks. The venue also has an outdoor area for summer concerts and events.
- Capacity: ArtsRiot can accommodate up to 400 people and has a relatively small stage area.
- Sound Quality: The sound quality at ArtsRiot is good, although not as high-quality as some of the other venues on this list.
- Pros: ArtsRiot offers a unique blend of music and arts programming, making it a great place to discover new talent. The venue also has a strong focus on community engagement and offers a variety of events and initiatives that support local artists and organizations.
- Cons: The venue can get crowded during peak hours, and the sound quality may not be as high-quality as other venues on this list.
| Venue | Capacity | Atmosphere | Sound Quality | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nectar’s | 450 | Intimate, nostalgic | Top-notch | Reasonable prices, loyal fan base, welcoming staff | Crowded during peak hours, parking can be a challenge |
| Higher Ground | 1100 (Ballroom), 300 (Showcase Lounge) | Spacious, industrial-chic | Top-notch | Diverse range of music genres, comfortable atmosphere, VIP package | Noisy during sold-out shows, limited parking |
| ArtsRiot | 400 | Laid-back, funky | Good | Unique blend of music and arts programming, community engagement | Crowded during peak hours, sound quality may not be as high-quality as other venues |
In conclusion, Burlington, VT has a diverse and vibrant music scene that can cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you are looking for an intimate and nostalgic setting or a spacious and modern venue, Burlington has something to offer.
Music Venues in Burlington VT: An Overview
Burlington, Vermont is a hub of musical activity with a vibrant and eclectic music scene that caters to various tastes and musical preferences. The city is home to numerous music venues ranging from cozy coffeehouses to expansive concert halls, showcasing both local and national talent. Here is an overview of some of the most popular music venues in Burlington:
Flynn Theatre
The Flynn Theatre, located at 153 Main St, is a historic venue that opened in 1930. The venue underwent renovations in 1981 and since then has been a popular performance venue. The theatre is known for its stunning Art Deco architecture and acoustics, that provide an intimate setting for concerts, comedy shows, plays and performances. The theatre is equipped with state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems to provide a high-quality experience to both performers and attendees.
Higher Ground
Higher Ground, located at 1214 Williston Rd, is another popular music venue that has become a staple of Burlington’s music scene. The venue caters to a range of genres and has hosted various concerts, comedy shows, and other events since its inception in 1998. Higher Ground features two separate venues, the Ballroom and Showcase Lounge, which can collectively host up to 1,250 people.
The Ballroom, equipped with a full stage, state-of-the-art sound and lighting, caters to larger music events, while the Showcase Lounge offers a more intimate setting for smaller events. Higher Ground has hosted many big names in the music industry, including Radiohead, The Lumineers, and Pearl Jam.
Nectar’s
Nectar’s, located at 188 Main St, is another popular music venue that has been a staple of the Burlington music scene for decades. The venue is famous for being the spot where the band Phish played some of their earliest shows in the 1980s. Nectar’s hosts a variety of live music events including rock, jazz, blues, and reggae shows as well as open mic nights.
One of the unique features of the venue is the rotating line-up of bands and musicians that showcase their talents in the “3-0-3 Club”. The 3-0-3 Club allows local musicians and bands to perform for a crowd and work towards the opportunity to play a full gig at the venue.
ArtsRiot
ArtsRiot, located at 400 Pine St, is a unique music venue in Burlington that doubles as a restaurant and bar. The venue is known for its quirky atmosphere, graffiti artwork, and eclectic music offerings. ArtsRiot has a small stage that has been host to many local and nationally recognized artists such as Dawes and Shakey Graves.
The venue tends to focus on indie and alternative genres of music, providing a platform for local musicians to share their music with a larger audience. ArtsRiot also hosts many community events and charity benefits throughout the year, with the idea of bringing together the community through music and arts.
Comparing Burlington’s Music Venues
Here is a comparison table of some of the key features of Burlington’s music venues:
| Venue | Capacity | Genres | Atmosphere |
| Flynn Theatre | 1,411 | Musicals, Plays, Jazz, Rock and other events | Intimate, Historic |
| Higher Ground | 1,250 | Rock, Punk, Hip Hop, Alternative and other events | Lively, High-energy |
| Nectar’s | 325 | Jazz, Rock, Blues, Reggae and other events | Cozy, Nostalgic |
| ArtsRiot | 150 | Indie, Alternative, Experimental and other events | Quirky, Artsy |
- Capacity: The maximum number of attendees the venue can accommodate.
- Genres: The type of music and events the venue predominantly caters to.
- Atmosphere: The overall vibe and aesthetic of the venue, including architecture, decor, and lighting.
In conclusion, Burlington’s music venues offer a diverse range of musical experiences, catering to a variety of musical genres and preferences. Whether you are looking for a cozy coffeehouse or an expansive concert hall, Burlington has it all. Attendees can expect high-quality performances, exceptional acoustics, and unforgettable experiences from these venues. Burlington’s music scene is a must-visit destination for music lovers who enjoy discovering new artists and attending live performances.
The top places to catch live music in Burlington, VT
Burlington, VT is known for its vibrant live music scene with venues that cater to all music tastes. From intimate settings to larger venues, the city offers a variety of options for music enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll highlight the top places to catch live music in Burlington, VT.
Nectar’s
Nectar’s is Burlington’s most iconic live music venue, known for its connection to the rock band, Phish. The venue has been around since 1975 and was a frequent spot for Phish to perform. Nectar’s has a capacity of 450 and has hosted multiple genres of music from jazz to punk rock.
- Music Genres: Jazz, Reggae, Funk, Blues, Indie Rock, and more
- Weekend Night Performers: Various Local Bands and Touring Acts
- Food and Drink Options: Full-Service Bar including Famous Lasagna Specials, Hot-Vt Kielbasa, BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos, Falafel Platters and more.
- Pros: Historic, Iconic Reputation, and Diverse line-up of artists.
- Cons: Limited Parking Spaces
Nectar’s is where Phish began its legendary career, and the venue has continued to book top-notch performers. The intimate space provides a unique concert experience, and the venue is known for its lively atmosphere.
The Higher Ground
The Higher Ground is a popular nightclub that has been entertaining music lovers for over two decades. The venue has won the “Best Nightclub in Vermont” award multiple times and has been recognized nationally for hosting up-and-coming artists.
- Music Genres: Alternative Rock, Hip-Hop, Indie Rock, Metal, and more
- Weekend Night Performers: National and International Touring acts.
- Food and Drink Options: Beer and Wine
- Pros: State of the art sound and Lighting technology, Large Capacity.
- Cons: Higher Prices for tickets and Drinks
The Higher Ground hosts performances for local musicians and nationally recognized artists. It has a standing capacity of 400 and is known for its excellent sound quality and lighting technology. If you’re looking for a guaranteed great concert experience, The Higher Ground is worth a visit.
Club Metronome
Club Metronome is a nightclub located on the second floor of Nectar’s building. The venue offers an intimate setting for live music with a capacity of 250. Club Metronome has been around since 1993, and it hosts a variety of genres, including electronic, hip-hop, and indie.
- Music Genres: Electronic, Indie Rock, Reggae, Hip-Hop and more
- Weekend Night Performers: Local Bands and Touring Acts
- Food and Drink Options: Full-Service Bar
- Pros: Intimate Experience, Affordable Prices for Drinks and tickets
- Cons: Small Capacity may lead to overcrowding during popular nights.
Club Metronome has hosted popular musicians such as Girl Talk, Passion Pit, and Rusko. It’s the ideal place to catch live music in an intimate setting, and it has a reputation for being a fun location.
| Venue | Capacity | Music Genres | Weekend Night Performers | Food and Drink Options | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nectar’s | 450 | Jazz, Reggae, Funk, Blues, Indie Rock, and more | Various Local Bands and Touring Acts | Full-Service Bar including Famous Lasagna Specials, Hot-Vt Kielbasa, BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos, Falafel Platters, and more. | Historic, Iconic Reputation, and Diverse lineup of artists. | Limited Parking Spaces. |
| The Higher Ground | 400 | Alternative Rock, Hip-Hop, Indie Rock, Metal, and more | National and International Touring acts. | Beer and Wine | State of the art sound and Lighting technology, Large Capacity. | Higher Prices for tickets and Drinks. |
| Club Metronome | 250 | Electronic, Indie Rock, Reggae, Hip-Hop and more | Local Bands and Touring Acts | Full-Service Bar | Intimate Experience, Affordable Prices for Drinks and tickets. | Small Capacity may lead to overcrowding during popular nights. |
In conclusion, Burlington, VT has a selection of music venues that provide an incredible variety of genres, local artists, and renowned performers. Whether you’re looking for a captivating music experience or a night out with friends, these venues offer it all. From the iconic Nectar’s to the state-of-the-art Higher Ground, Burlington’s live music scene is worth discovering.
Burlington, VT’s Must-Visit Music Establishments
When it comes to a vibrant music scene, Burlington, Vermont has plenty to offer. This small town may not seem like a musical mecca, but it boasts a variety of music venues that are worth checking out. In this article, we’ll introduce you to four of the best music establishments in Burlington VT.
1. Higher Ground
A brief Introduction
Higher Ground is a live music venue located in South Burlington, VT. It was established in 1998 and has since become a go-to spot for touring and local artists alike. The venue consists of two rooms, which can hold 400 and 700 guests, respectively. Higher Ground has hosted artists such as Bob Dylan, Death Cab for Cutie, and The Flaming Lips.
The Pros and Cons of Higher Ground
Here is a quick breakdown of the pros and cons of Higher Ground:
- Pros:
- Higher Ground has a great sound system and incredible lighting.
- The venue is spacious and offers a great view of the stage from almost any spot in the room.
- Higher Ground caters to a variety of genres, making it a versatile choice for musicians and music lovers.
- This venue has a welcoming atmosphere, with friendly staff and a relaxed vibe.
- Cons:
- The location is not convenient for downtown visitors, as it is located about ten minutes outside the city.
- Higher Ground can get crowded, so getting a good spot requires arriving early.
- The ticket prices can be steep for certain shows, especially for popular or big-name performers.
A Comparison Table of Higher Ground with other music establishments
| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Higher Ground | South Burlington | 400-700 | Great sound system, versatile, friendly atmosphere | Not convenient location, crowded, expensive tickets |
| Nectar’s | Burlington | 250 | A legendary spot with a long history of hosting famous names. | The acoustics are not great, and the space can get cramped. |
| The Monkey House | Winooski | 100 | Intimate setting, low-key vibe, affordable tickets. | It can get very loud, and parking can be difficult to find. |
2. Nectar’s
A brief Introduction
Nectar’s is a live music venue and restaurant located in downtown Burlington. It was opened in 1975 and has become a landmark in the local music scene. Nectar’s has hosted a variety of artists in its day, including Phish, Grace Potter, and Blues Traveler.
The Pros and Cons of Nectar’s
Here is a quick breakdown of the pros and cons of Nectar’s:
- Pros:
- Nectar’s has a historical significance, having been the starting point of Phish’s early career.
- The food is delicious, and the venue’s bar is well-stocked.
- The live music usually starts early, with some shows beginning as early as 7 pm.
- Nectar’s is conveniently located in the center of downtown, making it easy to get to from most parts of the city.
- Cons:
- The acoustics are not great, which can be a problem for certain types of music.
- The space is somewhat cramped and crowded, making it difficult to move around during busy shows.
- The venue can get extremely hot, as there is no air conditioning.
A comparison table of Nectar’s with other music establishments
| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Higher Ground | South Burlington | 400-700 | Great sound system, versatile, friendly atmosphere | Not convenient location, crowded, expensive tickets |
| Nectar’s | Burlington | 250 | A legendary spot with a long history of hosting famous names | The acoustics are not great, and the space can get cramped. |
| The Monkey House | Winooski | 100 | Intimate setting, low-key vibe, affordable tickets | It can get very loud, and parking can be difficult to find |
3. The Monkey House
A brief Introduction
The Monkey House is a cozy music venue located in the town of Winooski, just across the river from Burlington. It has a relaxed atmosphere and a friendly staff, making it a great spot to discover new music. The venue hosts a variety of genres, including indie rock, punk, and folk.
The Pros and Cons of The Monkey House
Here is a quick breakdown of the pros and cons of The Monkey House:
- Pros:
- The Monkey House has an intimate setting, perfect for discovering new artists.
- The venue is affordable, with most shows costing $10 or less.
- The space is clean and well-maintained, with good acoustics for a small venue.
- The staff is friendly and helpful, making for an enjoyable experience.
- Cons:
- The parking can be difficult to find, especially during busier periods.
- The sound can get extremely loud, which may be uncomfortable for some patrons.
- Due to its small size, it can be challenging to get a good view of the stage.
A comparison table of The Monkey House with other music establishments
| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Higher Ground | South Burlington | 400-700 | Great sound system, versatile, friendly atmosphere | Not convenient location, crowded, expensive tickets |
| Nectar’s | Burlington | 250 | A legendary spot with a long history of hosting famous names | The acoustics are not great, and the space can get cramped. |
| The Monkey House | Winooski | 100 | Intimate setting, low-key vibe, affordable tickets | It can get very loud, and parking can be difficult to find |
4. Radio Bean
A brief Introduction
Radio Bean is a coffee shop and music venue located in the heart of downtown Burlington. It has been open since 2000 and has become a staple in the local music scene. Radio Bean hosts a variety of genres, including folk, jazz, and indie rock. The venue has a cozy atmosphere and a laid-back vibe, making it the perfect spot to catch some live music while enjoying a cup of coffee.
The Pros and Cons of Radio Bean
Here is a quick breakdown of the pros and cons of Radio Bean:
- Pros:
- Radio Bean has a unique atmosphere, with live music happening in the same space as a coffee shop.
- The venue is affordable, with most shows costing $5 or less.
- The staff is friendly and accommodating, making for a cozy and welcoming experience.
- The coffee and food are delicious, making Radio Bean a great spot for a meal or snack as well as live music.
- Cons:
- The venue can get crowded and noisy, which can be distracting during a performance.
- Due to its small size, it can be challenging to get a good view of the stage.
- The acoustics are not perfect, but they are decent enough for most shows.
A comparison table of Radio Bean with other music establishments
| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Higher Ground | South Burlington | 400-700 | Great sound system, versatile, friendly atmosphere | Not convenient location, crowded, expensive tickets |
| Nectar’s | Burlington | 250 | A legendary spot with a long history of hosting famous names | The acoustics are not great, and the space can get cramped. |
| The Monkey House | Winooski | 100 | Intimate setting, low-key vibe, affordable tickets | It can get very loud, and parking can be difficult to find |
| Radio Bean | Burlington | 50 | A unique atmosphere, enjoyable coffee and comfort food. | Crowded and noisy at times, smallness can result in a less than perfect view of the stage. |
In conclusion, Burlington VT is home to some fantastic music establishments, each with its own unique vibe and appeal. Whether you prefer the indie rock scene at The Monkey House or the coffee shop music at Radio Bean, there’s something for everyone in the local music scene. Keep exploring and discovering new venues, and don’t forget to support local musicians along the way.
5. The Monkey House: The Little Indie Club That Could
Founded in 1978, The Monkey House is a small and intimate venue that prides itself on showcasing local indie and alternative music. It is located in the heart of Winooski, just a few miles from downtown Burlington. Despite its small size, The Monkey House has managed to host some of the biggest names in indie rock, including Arcade Fire and Vampire Weekend.
The History of The Monkey House and Its Unique Characteristics
The Monkey House was originally a hole-in-the-wall bar that served as a hangout spot for local artists and musicians. After being purchased by current owner Lee Anderson in 2007, the bar was transformed into a music venue. Anderson’s goal was to create a space that catered to the local music scene and provided a platform for emerging talent.
One of the unique characteristics of The Monkey House is its intimate setting. The venue has a capacity of only 100 people, which allows for an up-close and personal concert experience. The stage is only a few feet from the audience, giving concert-goers a chance to interact with the performers.
Another characteristic that sets The Monkey House apart is its commitment to local talent. The venue only books local and regional acts, which has helped to establish a loyal following among Vermont musicians and fans.
The Pros and Cons of The Monkey House
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Intimate setting – Opportunity for up-close interaction with performers – Commitment to local and regional talent – Affordable ticket prices |
– Limited capacity may make it difficult to get tickets for popular shows – Limited food and drink options – Located in Winooski, which may be less accessible to those outside of the immediate area |
The Most Memorable Performances at The Monkey House
Over the years, The Monkey House has hosted a wide range of memorable performances. Here are just a few:
- The Arcade Fire (2005) – This show was part of Arcade Fire’s first U.S. tour, and it was their first time playing in Vermont. The band played to a packed house and put on a high-energy performance that left a lasting impression on everyone who was there.
- Vampire Weekend (2008) – Vampire Weekend played at The Monkey House just a few months before their debut album was released. The show was sold out and the band’s infectious melodies and witty lyrics had everyone dancing and singing along.
- Flying Lotus (2012) – This show was part of Flying Lotus’s Cosmogramma tour, and it featured cutting-edge visuals and an immersive audio experience. The venue’s small size made it feel like a private party, and the crowd was buzzing with excitement throughout the entire set.
How The Monkey House Has Contributed to Burlington’s Music Scene
The Monkey House has played a crucial role in shaping Burlington’s music scene. By providing a platform for local and regional talent, the venue has helped to foster a vibrant and diverse community of musicians. The venue has also provided a space for fans to connect with artists and experience live music in an intimate setting.
One of the ways that The Monkey House has contributed to Burlington’s music scene is by hosting the annual Waking Windows festival. This multi-day, multi-venue event showcases national and international acts alongside local talent, and it has become one of the city’s most anticipated events.
Overall, The Monkey House may be small, but it has had a big impact on Burlington’s music scene. Its commitment to local talent and intimate concert experience make it a must-visit venue for anyone who loves live music.
FAQs about Burlington VT Music Venues
What are the top music venues in Burlington VT?
Some of the top music venues in Burlington VT include Higher Ground, Nectar’s, ArtsRiot, Club Metronome, and The Monkey House. Each of these venues offers a unique ambiance and a variety of performances from local and national artists.
Which music venue in Burlington VT is best for indie music?
The Monkey House is one of the best music venues in Burlington VT for indie music. They feature local and touring bands, and the intimate setting provides an excellent opportunity to experience live indie music.
Does Higher Ground offer seating during performances?
Higher Ground offers both standing room and seating options during performances. Be sure to check the ticket information beforehand to see which shows offer seated tickets.
What type of performances can I expect at ArtsRiot?
ArtsRiot offers a variety of performances, from live music and comedy shows to art exhibitions and community events. Their space has a unique industrial feel and features a restaurant and bar as well.
Does Club Metronome have a cover charge?
Club Metronome typically has a cover charge on weekends and for certain events, but they do offer free shows on occasion. Be sure to check their website or social media pages for updates on cover charges and upcoming events.
How can I find out about upcoming shows at Nectar’s?
The best way to find out about upcoming shows at Nectar’s is by checking their website or social media pages. They post regular updates on their events and ticket information.
Does Higher Ground have parking available?
Higher Ground offers limited on-site parking, but there are several nearby parking lots and street parking available as well. Be sure to arrive early to secure a parking spot.
Is The Monkey House open every night of the week?
The Monkey House is not open every night of the week, but they do have regular events scheduled throughout the month. Be sure to check their website or social media pages for their current schedule.
Can I bring my own food and drinks to ArtsRiot?
No, ArtsRiot does not allow outside food and drinks. However, they do have a full-service restaurant and bar on site with a variety of food and drink options available.
Is there an age limit for shows at Club Metronome?
Yes, Club Metronome is a 18+ venue, and they do require a valid ID for entry. Be sure to check each event’s age requirement before purchasing tickets.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Burlington VT has a thriving music scene with several top-notch venues to choose from. Whether you’re into indie music or prefer more mainstream performances, there is something for everyone. From Higher Ground’s comfortable seating to The Monkey House’s intimate setting, these venues offer a diverse range of performances and events. After reading this article, be sure to check out their websites and social media pages to stay updated on upcoming shows and events. Thanks for reading, and we hope you enjoy your time exploring Burlington VT’s music scene!