Welcome to Tulsa, where music flows through the streets and permeates every corner of the city. Have you ever found yourself in search of the perfect music venue, but never quite sure where to go? Well, look no further! In this article, we will be exploring the best music venues in Tulsa that will leave you feeling ecstatic and wanting more.
By the end of this article, you can expect to have a comprehensive understanding of Tulsa’s music scene, including where to discover new sounds and where to relive the nostalgia of classic tunes. Whether you’re a fan of blues, country or rock, Tulsa has something for everyone. This article will help you navigate the city’s vibrant music scene and turn your night out into an unforgettable experience.
Learn from genuine music enthusiasts about the most popular and underrated music venues in Tulsa. You will discover their inside knowledge through exclusive interviews and insider tips that you won’t find anywhere else. This article provides a solution to your music venue conundrum, answering your questions about where to go and what to expect, with local knowledge and proven success. So, grab a cold drink, a friend, and join us as we delve into Tulsa’s music scene.
Best Intimate Music Venues in Tulsa
Tulsa has a vibrant music scene, and if you are a music lover looking for a more intimate and cozy atmosphere than a stadium or an arena, you have come to the right place. The city has a number of smaller music venues that offer a great experience for music enthusiasts. These intimate music venues play host to some of the best local, national, and international music acts. In this article, we will take a closer look at the best intimate music venues in Tulsa.
Cain’s Ballroom
Cain’s Ballroom is the most famous intimate music venue in Tulsa. It is a historic dance hall that was originally built in 1924 as a garage. It was opened as a music venue in 1930, and since then it has hosted some of the greatest names in music history. Cain’s Ballroom has a capacity of 1,800 people, and its acoustics are fantastic. The venue is known for its wooden dance floor, which is one of the largest in the world.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great acoustics | Ticket prices can be high |
| Famous venue with a lot of history | Can get crowded and hot |
| Large dance floor | No seating available |
- History: Cain’s Ballroom was on the National Register of Historic Places in 2018.
- Legends: The likes of Bob Wills & the Texas Playboys, the Sex Pistols, and Bob Dylan have graced the stage.
- Ticket Prices: While ticket prices can be steep, there are plenty of discounted tickets available if you know where to look.
Cain’s Ballroom is a great venue for music fans who want to experience a piece of history. Its wooden dance floor and great acoustics make it the perfect place to see both established and up-and-coming artists.
The Shrine
The Shrine is a relatively new music venue that has quickly become known as one of Tulsa’s best intimate music venues. The venue has a capacity of 300 people, and it is known for its great sound quality, intimate atmosphere, and low ticket prices. The Shrine is located in the heart of downtown Tulsa, and it is the perfect place to catch a wide variety of music, from jazz to hip-hop.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great sound quality | Parking can be difficult to find |
| Low ticket prices | Drinks can be expensive |
| Intimate atmosphere | No seating available |
- Genre variety: The Shrine offers music from a wide variety of genres, so there’s something for everyone.
- Local love: The venue is very supportive of local artists and often features up-and-coming musicians who are just starting out.
- Size: While some may see the intimate size as a con, others love the opportunity to see their favorite artists up close and personal.
The Shrine is a great music venue for those who want to get up close and personal with their favorite musicians. Its low ticket prices, great sound quality, and intimate atmosphere make it a must-visit spot for music lovers.
Vanguard
The Vanguard is located in the lively Brady Arts District and is one of Tulsa’s most popular music venues. The club has a capacity of 900 people, and it is known for its great sound quality, live music, and vibrant atmosphere. The Vanguard’s eclectic mix of music includes everything from rock and metal to electro and hip-hop. It is also a great venue for dancing, with its large dance floor and colorful lights.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great lighting and sound quality | Can get crowded and hot |
| Large dance floor | Ticket prices can be high |
| Wide variety of music | Drinks can be expensive |
- Vibrant atmosphere: The Vanguard’s lively atmosphere is perfect for music lovers who want to dance and have a good time.
- Large dance floor: The Vanguard’s large dance floor is perfect for those who want to let loose and enjoy themselves.
- Live music: The Vanguard has a reputation for having some of the best live music in the city, making it a great spot for music enthusiasts.
The Vanguard is a great music venue for those who want to dance and have a good time. Its great lighting and sound quality, wide variety of music, and large dance floor make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
Uncovering the Hidden Gems: Tulsa’s Music Scene
As one of the emerging music destinations in the United States, Tulsa has been home to notable musicians and artists such as Leon Russell, Woody Guthrie, J.J. Cale, The Flaming Lips, and more. The city’s music scene spans various genres, from country and rock to jazz and blues. With a diverse range of music venues scattered throughout the city, visitors can easily immerse themselves in the local music culture. In this article, we’ll be discussing the top music venues in Tulsa where visitors can get a glimpse of the city’s thriving music scene.
The Vanguard
The Vanguard is a live music venue located in the heart of Tulsa’s Blue Dome District. Since its opening in 2013, the venue has become a popular spot for both local and touring acts. With a capacity of 250 people, the venue provides an intimate setting for guests to enjoy live music. The Vanguard is also known for its state-of-the-art sound system, making for an exceptional live music experience.
What Makes The Vanguard Stand Out?
– Intimate Setting – The Vanguard’s capacity of 250 people ensures that guests can get up close and personal with the performing artists.
– State-of-the-Art Sound System – The venue’s cutting-edge sound system provides unparalleled sound quality.
– Diverse Acts – The Vanguard hosts a range of different music genres, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
Pros and Cons of The Vanguard
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Intimate setting – Exceptional sound system – Affordable ticket prices |
– Limited seating – Limited parking options – Not as accessible for disabled guests |
What Visitors Can Expect
Upon entering The Vanguard, visitors will immediately notice the intimate and cozy setting. The interior features dim lighting and a minimalist decor, allowing the focus to be on the live music. The standing room is in the front while the area in the back provides seating for a limited number of guests. The bar offers a variety of drinks, with craft beer being one of their specialties. Visitors should also note that The Vanguard is a cash-only bar.
Overall, The Vanguard is a must-visit for people who appreciate live music and an authentic music venue experience. The venue’s top-notch sound system, intimate setting, and affordable ticket prices make it an excellent destination for visitors of all ages.
Some Notable Performances at The Vanguard
– The Lumineers – Grammy-nominated folk-rock band performed at The Vanguard in 2012.
– Vintage Trouble – American rhythm and blues band performed at The Vanguard in 2016.
– Shakey Graves – Americana singer-songwriter performed at The Vanguard in 2015.
In conclusion, The Vanguard is undoubtedly one of the best music venues in Tulsa. With its intimate setting, cutting-edge sound system, and diverse range of acts, visitors can expect an exceptional live music experience.
Tulsa’s Iconic Live Music Venues: A Must-Visit Guide
The Commodore Ballroom
The Commodore Ballroom is a historic music venue located on Main Street in downtown Tulsa. This iconic venue has been at the forefront of the music scene for more than 80 years and has played host to countless legendary performers.
The History of The Commodore Ballroom
The Commodore Ballroom was first opened in 1929 as a dance hall and quickly became the place to be for music lovers in Tulsa. Over the years, the venue has undergone several transformations, with various owners and management teams coming and going. Despite these changes, the Commodore Ballroom has always remained a popular spot for live music performances.
During its heyday in the 1950s and 1960s, the Commodore Ballroom hosted some of the most famous performers of the era, including Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, and Jerry Lee Lewis. Today, the venue continues to attract a diverse range of musicians, from up-and-coming indie bands to established rock and roll legends.
What Makes The Commodore Ballroom Special?
- Historic Setting: The Commodore Ballroom’s art deco design and vintage neon signage give it a classic feel that sets it apart from most modern music venues.
- Great Acoustics: The venue’s sound system has been specially tailored to deliver top-notch audio quality for every performance.
- Intimate Atmosphere: The Commodore Ballroom’s relatively small size (compared to other venues in Tulsa) makes for a more personal and immersive concert experience.
In addition to these factors, The Commodore Ballroom has a dedicated team of employees and volunteers who are passionate about making every event a success. Whether you’re a musician, a fan, or just someone looking for a fun night out, The Commodore Ballroom is definitely worth checking out.
Pros and Cons of The Commodore Ballroom
Like any music venue, The Commodore Ballroom has its strengths and weaknesses. Here are a few things to consider if you’re thinking about attending a show:
| Pros | Cons |
| Great acoustics | Can be crowded during peak hours |
| Intimate atmosphere | Food and drink prices can be high |
| Friendly staff and volunteers | No parking on site |
Overall, the pros of The Commodore Ballroom definitely outweigh the cons. If you’re looking for a unique and memorable live music experience, this venue should be at the top of your list.
4. The Vanguard: A Perfect Marriage of Modernity and Music
If you want to attend a music venue that has everything, look no further than The Vanguard in Tulsa. This spot prides itself on being a modern, multi-functional facility that is perfect for the city’s music scene. From top-notch acoustics to an eclectic mix of music that includes everything from country rock to punk, The Vanguard has it all.
A Contemporary Venue with Cutting-Edge Sound
One of the key features that sets The Vanguard apart is its state-of-the-art sound system. The venue has invested heavily in top-quality equipment, which means that every performance is crystal-clear and free of any distortion. The acoustics are also top-notch, thanks to the venue’s unique design. This modern, contemporary space is not only visually impressive, but it’s also a treat for the ears.
An Influential Venue with Potential for New Artists
In addition to bringing in established acts, The Vanguard is also a major supporter of up-and-coming talent. The venue has become well-known for giving new artists the chance to get on stage and show off their skills. This is particularly impressive given the high caliber of musicians that are already attracted to the space. The Vanguard is becoming increasingly influential in the music industry, and is certainly a spot to watch for anyone interested in the Tulsa music scene.
Pros and Cons of The Vanguard
To better understand what makes The Vanguard one of the top music venues in Tulsa, it’s helpful to compare the pros and cons of the space. Here’s a breakdown:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Modern, contemporary space that is visually impressive | May be too modern for those who prefer traditional music venues |
| Top-quality sound system and acoustics that guarantee a great listening experience | The venue’s popularity means it can be difficult to get tickets for certain shows |
| A perfect mix of established acts and up-and-coming talent | Food and beverage options at the venue may not suit everyone’s tastes |
Why The Vanguard Stands Out Among Tulsa’s Music Venues
While there are many great music venues in Tulsa, The Vanguard has some unique features that make it stand out. Here are some of the reasons why this venue is worth paying a visit:
- The Vanguard is a modern, visually stunning space that feels like it could hold its own in any major city.
- The sound system is truly fantastic, which means that even if you’re standing at the back of the room, you’ll still be able to hear every note.
- The fact that the venue is so supportive of up-and-coming talent means that you never know who you might discover at The Vanguard.
- From a practical standpoint, the location of the venue is excellent. It’s right in the heart of Tulsa, which makes it easy to get to from anywhere in the city.
The Bottom Line: Why The Vanguard Should Be on Your List
All in all, The Vanguard is a music venue that ticks all the boxes. From the high-quality sound system to the eclectic mix of artists that grace its stage, there’s always something interesting happening here. Whether you’re a casual music fan or a dedicated follower of the Tulsa music scene, this venue should be at the top of your list. Just be sure to grab your tickets early, as this is a spot that fills up fast.
5. Outdoor Music Venues: Listen to the Beat Under the Stars
Outdoor music venues are perfect for those who want to enjoy their favorite tunes while having a picnic or relaxing under the stars. If you’re looking for a way to spend your summer evenings, then an outdoor music venue is perfect for you. Tulsa has some of the best outdoor music venues that showcase a diverse range of musical genres. In this section, we will explore some of Tulsa’s most popular outdoor music venues that offer a unique experience to music lovers.
1. The Guthrie Green
The Guthrie Green is a popular outdoor music venue that is located in downtown Tulsa. It is a multi-purpose park that hosts several concerts, events, and festivals throughout the year. The park has a large green lawn where visitors can bring their own chairs or blankets to watch the shows. The Guthrie Green is known for hosting a diverse range of musical genres, including jazz, blues, country, rock, and more. Some of the popular events that are held at The Guthrie Green include the Tulsa Roots Music Festival, Tulsa International Mayfest, and the Blues and Barbecue Festival.
2. BOK Center Plaza
The BOK Center Plaza is an outdoor music venue that is located outside the Bank of Oklahoma Center in downtown Tulsa. It is a popular destination for pre-game and post-game concerts, events, and festivals. The BOK Center Plaza is known for hosting some of the biggest names in music, such as Elton John, Bruno Mars, and Justin Timberlake. The outdoor space can accommodate up to 20,000 people, making it one of the largest outdoor music venues in Tulsa.
3. ONEOK Field
ONEOK Field is a baseball stadium that is located in downtown Tulsa. Apart from being a sporting arena, the stadium also serves as an outdoor music venue. It hosts several concerts and events throughout the year. ONEOK Field is known for hosting music events that cater to a diverse range of audiences. Some of the popular music events that are held at the stadium include the Mayhem Festival, the Hard Red Rocks Festival, and the Rocklahoma Festival.
4. Tulsa Botanic Garden
The Tulsa Botanic Garden is a nature reserve that is located in north Tulsa. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and music lovers alike. The garden hosts several concerts and events throughout the year, including the Summer Music Series. The Summer Music Series is a weekly event that showcases a variety of musical genres, such as jazz, blues, rock, and more. The concerts are held in a beautiful outdoor amphitheater that can accommodate up to 2,500 people.
5. River Spirit Casino Resort’s Paradise Cove
River Spirit Casino Resort’s Paradise Cove is an indoor/outdoor music venue that is located in Tulsa. It is a popular destination for those who want to enjoy a night of music and entertainment. The outdoor space can accommodate up to 5,000 people, making it one of the largest outdoor music venues in Tulsa. Paradise Cove is known for hosting some of the biggest names in music, such as Brad Paisley, ZZ Top, and Alice Cooper. The venue also has an indoor space that can accommodate up to 1,500 people.
| Venue Name | Location | Capacity | Events Hosted |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Guthrie Green | Downtown Tulsa | 10,000 | Tulsa Roots Music Festival, Tulsa International Mayfest, Blues and Barbecue Festival |
| BOK Center Plaza | Downtown Tulsa | 20,000 | Elton John, Bruno Mars, Justin Timberlake |
| ONEOK Field | Downtown Tulsa | 18,000 | Mayhem Festival, Hard Red Rocks Festival, Rocklahoma Festival |
| Tulsa Botanic Garden | North Tulsa | 2,500 | Summer Music Series (Jazz, Blues, Rock, etc.) |
| River Spirit Casino Resort’s Paradise Cove | Tulsa | 5,000 (outdoor), 1,500 (indoor) | Brad Paisley, ZZ Top, Alice Cooper |
- The Guthrie Green is known for hosting a diverse range of musical genres, including jazz, blues, country, rock, and more.
- ONEOK Field hosts music events that cater to a diverse range of audiences.
- Tulsa Botanic Garden hosts the Summer Music Series that showcases a variety of musical genres, such as jazz, blues, rock, and more.
- River Spirit Casino Resort’s Paradise Cove is a popular destination for those who want to enjoy a night of music and entertainment.
- BOK Center Plaza can accommodate up to 20,000 people, making it one of the largest outdoor music venues in Tulsa.
Outdoor music venues are a great way to enjoy music while taking in the beautiful surroundings. Tulsa has some of the best outdoor music venues that showcase a diverse range of musical genres. From The Guthrie Green, BOK Center Plaza, ONEOK Field, Tulsa Botanic Garden, to River Spirit Casino Resort’s Paradise Cove, visitors are sure to find a music venue that suits their unique musical tastes. With their capacity to accommodate thousands of visitors, these venues are perfect if you’re looking to enjoy a night of music with a large group of friends or family. So what are you waiting for? Visit one of these outdoor music venues and enjoy a night of music under the stars.
FAQs – Music Venues in Tulsa
What are some of the best music venues in Tulsa?
Some of the best music venues in Tulsa include Cain’s Ballroom, The Vanguard, The Shrine, BOK Center, and Brady Theater. These venues are known for their acoustics, atmosphere, and the quality of their shows.
What types of music can I expect to hear in Tulsa music venues?
Tulsa music venues host a variety of genres including country, rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, and folk. Some venues specialize in a particular genre, while others cater to an eclectic mix of music.
Are music venues in Tulsa suitable for all ages?
Most music venues in Tulsa are open to all ages, although some may have age restrictions for certain shows. It’s important to check the venue’s website or call them beforehand to confirm the age restrictions.
What is the dress code for music venues in Tulsa?
Most music venues in Tulsa are casual, with no strict dress code. However, some venues may have dress codes for certain events, so it’s always best to check beforehand.
How can I purchase tickets for shows at music venues in Tulsa?
Tickets for shows at music venues in Tulsa can be purchased on the venue’s website, at the box office at the venue, or through third-party ticketing websites such as Ticketmaster or StubHub.
What is the capacity of Cain’s Ballroom?
Cain’s Ballroom has a capacity of 1,800 people.
How can I find out about upcoming shows at Tulsa music venues?
The best way to find out about upcoming shows at Tulsa music venues is to check the venue’s website or social media pages. You can also sign up for their mailing list to receive updates and notifications about upcoming shows.
What is the address for The Vanguard?
The address for The Vanguard is 222 N. Main Street, Tulsa, OK 74103.
Do music venues in Tulsa serve food and drinks?
Most music venues in Tulsa serve food and drinks, and some even have full-service bars and restaurants. However, some venues may restrict food and drinks during certain events, so it’s best to check beforehand.
Are there any free music events in Tulsa?
Yes, there are several free music events in Tulsa throughout the year including the Tulsa Roots Rocks the Green concert series, Guthrie Green’s Summer Concert Series, and The Gathering Place’s Sunday Concert series.
Conclusion
Tulsa is home to some of the best music venues in the region, offering a diverse range of music and shows to cater to all tastes. From Cain’s Ballroom’s historical charm to The Vanguard’s intimate atmosphere, there are venues to suit every preference. It’s easy to purchase tickets online, and numerous free music events throughout the year make it accessible for everyone. After reading this article, be sure to check out some of the upcoming shows at Tulsa’s music venues and enjoy a night of great music and entertainment.