OPEN BARS (70)
Antone's Nightclub
🇺🇸Austin, United States
Historically significant as a blues club, Antone's has hosted blues legends like Muddy Waters and B.B. King. It also played a crucial role in launching the careers of rock-influenced artists such as Stevie Ray Vaughan and Gary Clark Jr. While not exclusively a rock venue, its blues roots influence the broader rock scene. - **Website**: [https://antonesnightclub.com/](https://antonesnightclub.com/) - **Music Genres/Subgenres**: Blues, Rock, Blues-Rock
The Fillmore
🇺🇸San Francisco, United States
Franklin Music Hall (formerly Electric Factory)
🇺🇸Philadelphia, United States
Originally opened as the Electric Factory in 1968 at 22nd and Arch (hosting Jimi Hendrix, The Who), reopened at current location in 1995. Renamed Franklin Music Hall in 2018 after sale to The Bowery Presents. Capacity 2,500-3,000. Named 16th best venue in US by Consequence in 2016. Past headliners include David Bowie, Foo Fighters, Coldplay.
Theatre of the Living Arts (TLA)
🇺🇸Philadelphia, United States
Originally a 1908 nickelodeon called Crystal Palace, converted to theatre in 1965. Became concert venue in 1988. First Philadelphia venue to show Rocky Horror Picture Show (1976). Briefly known as "The Fillmore at TLA" 2006-2008. Capacity ~1,000.
Webster Hall
🇺🇸New York, United States
A historic large nightclub and concert venue in the East Village. Webster Hall was originally built in 1886 as a ballroom. In rock history, it's famed for its 1980s stint as The Ritz, one of NYC's top rock clubs. Today, Webster Hall (capacity ~1,400) remains a prime venue for live music and dance nights.
The Great American Music Hall
🇺🇸San Francisco, United States
Franklin Music Hall
🇺🇸Philadelphia, United States
Steeped in Philadelphia music lore, this venue has hosted iconic rock, punk, and metal acts for decades. Its storied past as the Electric Factory (from 1968) is legendary, and the venue remains a city staple for major touring rock and alternative bands.
The Warfield
🇺🇸San Francisco, United States
Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
🇺🇸San Francisco, United States
The Tower Bar
🇺🇸San Diego, United States
Historic neighborhood bar and venue offering live music with focus on rock and alternative bands.
St. Andrew's Hall
🇺🇸Detroit, United States
Originally founded as a Scottish society meeting place, St. Andrew's Hall emerged as a key rock venue by the 1980s. It has hosted groundbreaking acts such as Jane's Addiction, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nirvana, and R.E.M.
Scruffy Murphy's
🇬🇧Birmingham, United Kingdom
A dedicated rock and metal pub with a focus on live music, DJ nights, and a wide selection of beers.
The Roxy Theatre
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
Opened in September 1973 by Lou Adler and Elmer Valentine, The Roxy was designed to be a high-end counterpoint to the grittier Whisky. It is historically significant for bringing theatricality to the Strip, hosting the first U.S. production of "The Rocky Horror Show" in 1974, before it became a film phenomenon.
Bancroft Bar
🇺🇸San Diego, United States
Bastion for rock and punk music in East County. Hosts multiple bands in stacked shows.
The Asylum
🇬🇧Birmingham, United Kingdom
One of Birmingham's premier live music venues, hosting a wide range of rock, metal, and alternative acts, from established international bands to upcoming local artists.
The Sun Rose
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
Situated within the Pendry West Hollywood on the footprint of the former House of Blues, The Sun Rose represents the gentrification of the Strip's music scene. This upscale, 100-150 capacity venue evokes a classic supper club atmosphere while programming cutting-edge jazz, rock, and residency shows.
Keys
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
The address 9039 Sunset Blvd is hallowed ground in rock history, having served as the primary incubator for hair metal through Gazzarri's (1965-1993). After operating as Billboard Live, The Key Club, and 1 OAK, the venue was reborn in 2024 as Keys, operated by The h.wood Group. The multi-level nightlife destination blends electronic music, rock, and hip-hop with Moroccan-inspired architecture and state-of-the-art L-Acoustics sound system.
The Slipper Clutch
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
A "rock 'n' roll speakeasy" hidden behind a neon sign in the back of another bar (The Grayson) in Downtown LA. Features punk, rock, arcade games, highballs and beer.
The Lexington
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
A "classic American rock lounge" famous for its bourbon selection. The upstairs venue is a key stop for touring indie bands and serves as a primary industry hangout.
Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
🇺🇸San Francisco, United States
Renamed in honor of Bill Graham. Hosts rock concerts and various performances.
The Casbah
🇺🇸San Diego, United States
Legendary venue known for hosting major and emerging acts. Hosted Nirvana, Alanis Morissette, and Arcade Fire.
The World's End
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
A world-famous pub and a North London landmark, reflecting the eclectic nature of Camden itself. Located just south of Camden Town tube station. Boasts two bars and a mezzanine balcony seating area. The central area is designed to reflect the open marketplace that once inhabited the location. The pub itself is a large, atmospheric space for drinkers, separate from The Underworld music venue located beneath it.
Rainbow Bar & Grill
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
While primarily a restaurant and bar, the Rainbow is the social hub of the Sunset Strip. Opened in 1972, it served as the "after-party" destination for the Whisky and Roxy. In the 1970s, it was the lair of the "Hollywood Vampires" drinking club, whose members included Alice Cooper, Keith Moon, and Harry Nilsson.
The Fillmore
🇺🇸San Francisco, United States
Iconic for its role in the psychedelic rock era of the 1960s. Hosted The Grateful Dead, Jimi Hendrix, and Janis Joplin under Bill Graham.
The Great American Music Hall
🇺🇸San Francisco, United States
SF's oldest nightclub, known for ornate architecture and diverse performances. Hosted Patti Smith and Tom Waits.
The Warfield
🇺🇸San Francisco, United States
Historic theater and music venue that has hosted legendary acts including Bob Dylan and Nirvana.
Continental Club
🇺🇸Austin, United States
Cornerstone of Austin's music scene, hosting rockabilly to rock acts. Featured Robert Plant and Gary Clark Jr.
Crystal Ballroom
🇺🇸Portland, United States
Historic venue known for its unique wood floor that bounces with the crowd. Hosted numerous national and local rock acts.
Project Orange
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
A modern rock bar located in Battersea near Clapham Junction. Project Orange is a trendy bar known for its rock/alternative theme, offering craft beers, a jukebox/DJ setup, and games (pool, foosball, arcade machines) in a relaxed atmosphere. Known for late opening hours and filling a niche as a dedicated rock bar in South West London.
The Hatchet Inn
🇬🇧Bristol, United Kingdom
Grade II listed 17th-century pub once famed for its gothic rock club nights; now renovated with beer garden and function rooms.
The Scotch of St James
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
Hidden in a cul-de-sac in the aristocratic St. James district, "The Scotch" was the apex of "Swinging London." It replaced the Ad Lib Club as the primary watering hole for the Beatles, Stones, and fashion elite.
The Magic Stick
🇺🇸Detroit, United States
A mainstay of Detroit's rock and alternative scenes, The Magic Stick shares legacy with St. Andrew's Hall in showcasing new and established rock, punk, and indie acts. It is known for cultivating vibrant underground and emerging music scenes.
The Masonic Temple
🇺🇸Detroit, United States
The Masonic Temple is the largest Masonic Temple in the world and a prominent venue for live music in Detroit. It has hosted numerous rock concerts and is an important venue for the local music scene, including rock and alternative genres.
The Moore Theatre
🇺🇸Seattle, United States
Oldest operating theater in Seattle. Grand, seated venue with balcony, ornate architecture, large proscenium stage. 1,800 capacity—graduation stage for Seattle bands.
The Viper Room
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
The Viper Room represents the dark heart of the 1990s alternative scene, yet its physical structure holds a history spanning the entire 20th century. Built in 1921 as Young's Market, the building transformed through multiple incarnations: The Cotton Club (1940s), The Melody Room (1951-1969, a mobster hangout frequented by Bugsy Siegel and Mickey Cohen), Filthy McNasty's (1969-1980s, a "no-photos" celebrity sanctuary), and The Central (1980s-1993, famous for Tuesday jam sessions). Opened by Johnny Depp and Sal Jenco in August 1993 with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, the 250-capacity venue was styled after 1920s Harlem jazz clubs.
The Central Saloon
🇺🇸Seattle, United States
Seattle's oldest surviving saloon, established 1892. Located in Pioneer Square, Victorian-era rebuilding post-Great Fire of 1889. Long, narrow "shotgun" style room with high ceilings, exposed brick walls. Brick reflects high frequencies, wooden floors/bar absorb low end—created "live" room that demanded volume.
Kensington Club
🇺🇸San Diego, United States
Holds second oldest liquor license in San Diego. Enduring bar and music venue offering local and national acts.
Exit/In
🇺🇸Nashville, United States
Legendary Nashville venue deeply ingrained in rock history. Hosting premier cutting-edge acts for over 50 years.
3rd & Lindsley
🇺🇸Nashville, United States
Highly regarded mid-sized venue for blues, Americana, and rock performances. Attracts national touring acts.
Mercy Lounge
🇺🇸Nashville, United States
Part of Cannery complex. Strong presence in rock, alternative, and indie scenes with energetic shows.
Theatre of the Living Arts
🇺🇸Philadelphia, United States
A South Street institution since the 1960s, the TLA is known for its intimate club atmosphere and iconic marquee. It's a favorite stop for national and local acts in rock, punk, and indie, with a history stretching back to the city's musical golden age.
Ortlieb's
🇺🇸Philadelphia, United States
Reopened and revitalized as a nightclub/live venue, Ortlieb's carries on a rock and dive bar legacy in Northern Liberties, hosting a mix of local and touring bands.
The Flapper
🇬🇧Birmingham, United Kingdom
Independent live music venue and pub, known for its canalside location and support for local and touring rock/metal bands.
The Troubadour
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
Opened in 1957 by Doug Weston, The Troubadour functioned as a community center for the Laurel Canyon folk-rock set. It was famously the place where The Eagles' Don Henley and Glenn Frey first met at the bar, leading to the formation of one of the best-selling bands in history.
The Stone Pony
🇺🇸Asbury Park, United States
Opened in 1974, The Stone Pony is the beating heart of the "Jersey Shore Sound." While Bruce Springsteen never technically had a residency there, the venue is inextricably linked to his lore. Springsteen and the E Street Band would frequently make unannounced appearances, jamming with house band The Asbury Jukes led by Southside Johnny.
Motor Oil Cocktail Garage
🇪🇸Barcelona, Spain
Re-branded successor to Bollocks Bar; rock-themed cocktail garage with burgers and DJs.
Never Never Land
🇯🇵Tokyo, Japan
More than a bar; a political and cultural institution. Became the headquarters for the "Save Shimokitazawa" movement, a grassroots campaign that fought against the government's plan to bulldoze the neighborhood for a highway. The owner, Kenji Shimodaira, is a key community figure.
Harvard & Stone
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
Industrial, factory-style bar with a focus on American spirits and R&B/Rock. Features live bands nightly, often free admission. Creates a "neighborhood bar" feel with a grittier edge.
Knucklehead
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
A biker-friendly dive bar in Hollywood that hosts comedy and rock shows. Carries the torch of the authentic, no-frills dive bar, a dying breed in the era of bottle service.
The Black Heart
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
The Black Heart is a renowned rock and metal pub in Camden, often described as a "heavy metal hotspot". Nestled in a lamplit, brick-walled back alley near Camden Town Tube Station, it is about a fifteen-minute walk from King's Cross St. Pancras. The interior is decked out in exquisite all-goth attire; its walls painted black and smattered vibrantly with music artwork, fairy lights sparkling in the dimness, unisex bathroom stalls plastered with band stickers and extremely entertaining graffiti. The downstairs bar is a bustling social hub for metalheads and night-creatures from all walks of life, offering craft beers, shots (including the 'Lucky Sod' Irish liqueur), cocktails, and mocktails.
Whisky a Go Go
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
The cornerstone of the Los Angeles rock scene and the first live music venue inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Founded by Elmer Valentine, Mario Maglieri, and Phil Tanzini on January 16, 1964, the club was modeled after the Parisian discotheque of the same name. Upon opening with Johnny Rivers as headliner, the club introduced a female DJ who played records from a suspended glass cage and began dancing—birthing the "go-go dancer" phenomenon that became a staple of 60s nightlife globally.
The Ealing Club
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
If there is a "Ground Zero" for British rock and blues, the historical consensus points to this basement opposite Ealing Broadway station. Opened in 1959 as a jazz venue, it became the focal point for the nascent British R&B scene in 1962 under Alexis Korner and Cyril Davies.
Warsaw
🇺🇸New York, United States
Unlike DIY spaces that vanished, Warsaw survived by embracing its roots. Housed in the Polish National Home (built 1914), this community center moonlights as a 1,000-capacity rock club.
PSYCHO Rock & Roll Club
🇪🇸Barcelona, Spain
Intimate bar/club with live gigs and DJ sets spanning rock, punk, garage and post-punk.
The Devonshire Arms
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
Affectionately known as "The Dev," it is Camden Town's devoted home to the musical underground and one of London's leading goth and metal venues. Features a mock-Tudor façade and a buzzy and dark interior. It's described as a goth pub with serious attitude and a haven for goths and metalheads. A place where lovers of rock, goth, punk, and metal congregate.
Sincopa Bar
🇪🇸Barcelona, Spain
Punk-rock dive famed for vintage décor, mojitos and nightly rock playlists.
Subside Bar
🇬🇧Birmingham, United Kingdom
Rock and alternative music bar known for its late-night hours and DJ sets.
The Crown
🇬🇧Bristol, United Kingdom
Historic market-area pub with rock/metal soundtrack upstairs and 300-cap basement venue for gigs and club nights.
La Machine du Moulin Rouge
🇫🇷Paris, France
Located adjacent to the world-famous Moulin Rouge cabaret in Pigalle, this venue was historically known as La Locomotive (or "La Loco"). In the 1960s, it was the largest nightclub in Paris and the temple of the "Yé-yé" pop movement. It hosted The Beatles and The Who, serving as a bridge for British rock entering French culture.
The Garage
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
Opened in 1993, The Garage is a rite-of-passage venue for touring bands. It has hosted secret shows by The Killers and a seminal 1994 gig by Jeff Buckley.
Lucerna Music Bar
🇨🇿Prague, Czech Republic
Part of Lucerna Palace complex built by Václav Havel's grandfather. Cultural hub long before the war. Famous round stage became center of post-revolution celebration.
Madame Siam
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
An underground carnival-themed bar created by the Houston Brothers (known for speakeasy concepts like Good Times at Davey Wayne's). Features live music and maintains the theatrical rock aesthetic of Hollywood.
100 Club
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
The oldest independent music venue worldwide. Located at 100 Oxford Street, its history stretches back to 1942 when it operated as the Feldman Swing Club. During World War II, the basement venue served a dual purpose: a jazz club and an informal air-raid shelter. Anecdotes describe patrons "jitterbugging" while German bombs fell on London, fostering a spirit of resilience that would define the club's future identity.
Antone's Nightclub
🇺🇸Austin, United States
Historically significant as a blues club. Launched careers of Stevie Ray Vaughan and Gary Clark Jr.
Arlene's Grocery
🇺🇸New York, United States
Retaining the façade of the Puerto Rican bodega/butcher shop it replaced, Arlene's Grocery helped transform the Lower East Side into a rock destination in the mid-90s.
The Library
🇺🇸New York, United States
East Village book-lined punk dive famed for its jukebox and B-movie projector nights.
Big Red
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
An institution for the North London rocker. Designed as an American dive bar with booths and neon signs, Big Red is a late-night hub for the biker and rock community.
Cart and Horses
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
Famously known as "The Birthplace of Iron Maiden". A traditional East End pub transformed into a shrine for Iron Maiden fans, with photos, posters, and memorabilia. It has a dedicated rock bar and museum space, including a replica of the original stage. The main bar area serves drinks and food, remaining accessible even when the basement venue hosts ticketed gigs. The band's December 21, 1976 show with new guitarist Dave Murray is legendary.
Cliff Bell's
🇺🇸Detroit, United States
Although primarily known as a jazz venue, Cliff Bell's has a deep historic importance in Detroit's music scene and has hosted diverse musical types including rock and storytelling events. The venue underwent a restoration in 2006, preserving its original 1930s Art Deco style.
Dingwalls
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
Opened in 1973, Dingwalls was instrumental in the punk timeline and Camden Lock's transformation into a music destination.
CLOSED BARS (107)
The Ranch
🇬🇧Manchester, United Kingdom
Mercy Lounge (Cannery Ballroom)
🇺🇸Nashville, United States
Opened January 2003 in historic 1883 flour mill/cannery building. Added 1,000-capacity Cannery Ballroom in 2005. Hosted Steven Tyler, White Stripes, Adele, Black Keys, Bon Jovi. Transformed into Cannery Hall in 2023.
Frankenstein’s
🇺🇸Portland, United States
Popular NW Portland dance/music venue active 1971-1972. Later became Sack's Front Avenue. Hosted Portland bands including Brown Sugar, Seafood Mama, Sunnyland Band, Holy Modal Rounders.
Eric's
🇬🇧Liverpool, United Kingdom
The Rathskeller
🇺🇸Boston, United States
Kenmore Square cellar that launched The Cars, Pixies, Mission of Burma.
Bijou Café
🇺🇸Philadelphia, United States
Opened October 4, 1972 in space formerly housing Showboat jazz club (where Coltrane, Dizzy Gillespie played). Capacity 250-300. Hosted U2's first Nashville appearance (December 1980), Miles Davis, Barry Manilow, and comedy from John Belushi, Chevy Chase, Gilda Radner.
Rebels
🇬🇧Sheffield, United Kingdom
The Chestnut Cabaret
🇺🇸Philadelphia, United States
West Philadelphia rock club operating 1978-1994, later reopened as The Blockley (2009-2013). Hosted Billy Bragg, Butthole Surfers, MC 900 Ft. Jesus. The Pretenders played unannounced show here night before Live Aid 1985.
Rodney Bingenheimer's English Disco
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
Created by KROQ DJ and publicist Rodney Bingenheimer ("The Mayor of the Sunset Strip") with encouragement from David Bowie to bring British Glam Rock to Los Angeles. This mirrored, kitschy storefront served as a clubhouse for Led Zeppelin, The Stooges, T. Rex, and The New York Dolls.
Tokusanhall
🇯🇵Nagoya, Japan
Winterland
🇺🇸San Francisco, United States
Kings Village Rock Grounds
🇺🇸Austin, United States
Short-lived but influential outdoor venue for rock concerts.
Ripley's
🇺🇸Philadelphia, United States
Another South Street club that was a major stop for rock and alternative acts in the late 20th century.
The Rainbow Theatre
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
With a capacity of 3,000, The Rainbow allowed punk to scale up. Originally a cinema, it became a major rock venue in the 1970s.
Harp Bar
🇬🇧Belfast, United Kingdom
The Main Point
🇺🇸Philadelphia, United States
A suburban folk club with national renown, The Main Point hosted both folk luminaries and rock/folk rock acts. The venue is remembered for intimate performances by legends like Bruce Springsteen and Jackson Browne before its closure.
The Crawdaddy Club
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
Founded by impresario Giorgio Gomelsky, The Crawdaddy Club in Richmond was the first venue to fully capitalize on the R&B explosion. Named after Bo Diddley's "Doing the Craw-Daddy," a staple of the Stones' set.
Tropic Club
🇬🇧Bristol, United Kingdom
Frankenstein's
🇺🇸Portland, United States
Popular rock club during the rock club boom after OLCC restrictions lifted.
Rum Runner
🇬🇧Birmingham, United Kingdom
Jekyll & Hyde
🇺🇸Portland, United States
Notable rock club from late 20th century Portland scene providing venue for punk, alternative, and rock shows.
Winterland
🇺🇸San Francisco, United States
Major venue in the 1960s and 1970s, hosting iconic acts like The Sex Pistols and The Grateful Dead.
Costermonger
🇬🇧Birmingham, United Kingdom
Pub that hosted rock and metal gigs.
Shibuya Yaneura
🇯🇵Tokyo, Japan
Shinjuku JAM
🇯🇵Tokyo, Japan
The Intrepid Fox
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
A historic pub with roots dating back to 1784, named after statesman Charles James Fox. Originally at 97-99 Wardour Street, it became a prominent goth and heavy metal venue by the 1970s. Known for its distinctive dark, goth-rock aesthetic, featuring black-painted interiors, a mock graveyard, and other macabre decorations. It was a key meeting point for the goth and metal scenes. After closure in 2006, it reopened at 15 St. Giles High Street (2007-2014) before final closure.
The Pound
🇬🇧Belfast, United Kingdom
The Rock Garden
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
Canecão
🇧🇷Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The Paradise Theater
🇺🇸New York, United States
A "Wonder Theatre" built in 1929—an atmospheric masterpiece designed to look like an Italian garden under a starry sky. One of few major concert venues in the Bronx.
Planet X
🇬🇧Liverpool, United Kingdom
The Magnet
🇬🇧Liverpool, United Kingdom
Circo Voador
🇧🇷Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Jilly's Rockworld
🇬🇧Manchester, United Kingdom
Rafters
🇬🇧Manchester, United Kingdom
The Channel
🇺🇸Boston, United States
1,700-cap South Boston rock bar where U2, Ramones, Metallica played early tours.
Re-bar
🇺🇸Seattle, United States
Eclectic venue bridging LGBTQ+ scene, art scene, and rock scene.
The Ruskin Arms
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
Palace of Auburn Hills
🇺🇸Detroit, United States
Although primarily an arena, it was an iconic venue in the Detroit metro area, hosting notable rock concerts such as Bob Seger and others. Its scale was different from smaller clubs but significant nonetheless for rock touring history in the area.
Club Quattro Nagoya (first site)
🇯🇵Nagoya, Japan
The Speakeasy Club
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
"The Speak" represented the decadent exclusivity of the rock aristocracy in the late 60s. Managed by Laurie O'Leary (friend of the Kray twins) and Roy Flynn, it operated as a late-night haven for musicians, agents, and label executives.
Hammersmith Palais
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
The Hammersmith Palais is immortalized not for a great gig, but for a disappointing one. In The Clash's "(White Man) In Hammersmith Palais," Joe Strummer recounts visiting June 5, 1977, for an all-night reggae showcase.
The Chase
🇺🇸Portland, United States
Historic launch site where The Kingsmen recorded "Louie Louie". Seminal venue in early Portland rock scene.
Gazzarri's
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
Strip landmark that broke The Doors in the 60s and hair-metal titans (Poison, Warrant) in the 80s.
The Vogue
🇺🇸Seattle, United States
Grunge fashion HQ and tiny stage that hosted Alice in Chains, Tad and Mudhoney.
Cyprus Tavern
🇬🇧Manchester, United Kingdom
Banana Hall
🇯🇵Osaka, Japan
The Marquee Club
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
The British equivalent of the Fillmore—a space that did not just host bands but defined entire eras of music. Originally opened in 1958 as a jazz club at 165 Oxford Street, its move to 90 Wardour Street in Soho in 1964 placed it at the physical and cultural center of "Swinging London." The Marquee is where British rock was forged, from the R&B boom through psychedelia to punk and the New Wave of British Heavy Metal.
Uonna Club
🇮🇹Rome, Italy
Via Labicana basement where Litfiba, CCCP and the Italian underground played inches from the bar counter.
Swinging Sporran
🇬🇧Manchester, United Kingdom
Pandora's Box
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
Located on a triangular traffic island at Sunset and Crescent Heights, Pandora's Box became the flashpoint for the Sunset Strip Curfew Riots of 1966.
The London Fog
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
A brief but transformative venue in rock history. Before they were the house band at the Whisky a Go Go, The Doors played The London Fog, just west of the Whisky. Playing to empty rooms for $5 a night.
The Trip
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
Located in the former Crescendo jazz club, The Trip was short-lived but impactful. Hosted The Velvet Underground and The Byrds during the crucial 1965-1967 period when the Sunset Strip was becoming the epicenter of rock counterculture.
The Granary
🇬🇧Bristol, United Kingdom
The Palomino
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
Known as the "Grand Ole Opry West," The Palomino was the most important country venue on the West Coast. While rooted in country, by the 1980s it became a hub for Cowpunk and Rockabilly.
Madame Wong's West
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
Esther Wong's expansion into the Westside, significantly larger than the Chinatown original (formerly The Fox and Hounds restaurant). Attracted different demographic and became major stop for touring acts.
The Limelight
🇺🇸New York, United States
Crown jewel of Peter Gatien's nightclub empire, housed in the deconsecrated Church of the Holy Communion (built 1844 by architect Richard Upjohn). Gothic Revival architecture—stained glass, soaring arches, stone corridors—created transgressive, otherworldly atmosphere.
The Square Club
🇬🇧Cardiff, United Kingdom
Golden Eagle
🇬🇧Birmingham, United Kingdom
The Bottom Line
🇺🇸New York, United States
A celebrated showcase club in Greenwich Village on the NYU campus. The Bottom Line became known for its high-quality sound and for hosting legendary performances, especially by singer-songwriters and rock acts on the rise. Seating ~400, it had a cabaret-style table setup.
The Cooperage
🇬🇧Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
The Clarendon Hotel
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
A large old pub/hotel complex in Hammersmith that became a legendary music venue. The Clarendon's upstairs Ballroom and downstairs Broadway bar were home to pivotal alternative music events from the late 1970s through 1988. Most famous as the host venue for Klub Foot, the epicenter of London's psychobilly scene throughout the 1980s.
The Barrel Organ
🇬🇧Birmingham, United Kingdom
The Country Club
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
A massive 1,000-seat venue in a former Sav-On drug store in the San Fernando Valley. During pay-to-play Strip era, The Country Club was the Valley's major concert hall.
The Broken Doll
🇬🇧Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
The Toucan Club
🇬🇧Cardiff, United Kingdom
Wapentake
🇬🇧Sheffield, United Kingdom
Fforde Grene
🇬🇧Leeds, United Kingdom
The Limit
🇬🇧Sheffield, United Kingdom
Maritime Hotel
🇬🇧Belfast, United Kingdom
Madame Satã
🇧🇷São Paulo, Brazil
Noites Cariocas
🇧🇷Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rock Stock
🇲🇽Mexico City, Mexico
Apollo Theater
🇯🇵Nagoya, Japan
La Batuta
🇨🇱Santiago, Chile
Radio Londra
🇮🇹Rome, Italy
Trastevere cellar that mixed rock, punk and new-wave long before DJs turned it into a dance hotspot.
Rockotitlán
🇲🇽Mexico City, Mexico
El Trolley
🇨🇱Santiago, Chile
Rock-Ola
🇪🇸Madrid, Spain
Epicentre of "La Movida"; hosted The Smiths, Echo & the Bunnymen and local heroes.
The Crobar
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
An iconic Soho rock and metal bar, affectionately dubbed the "beer-soaked jewel of London's metal community". It was located on Manette Street. Known for its endearingly grubby décor, a killer jukebox (which even spawned a compilation album), an extensive bourbon collection, and a welcoming, unpretentious atmosphere that felt like home even when it was brand new. It was a quintessential dive bar for metalheads and rock fans.
Knaack Klub
🇩🇪Berlin, Germany
Prenzlauer-Berg institution that hosted Die Ärzte, Rammstein and countless indie showcases in its 70s/80s heyday.
Na Chmelnici
🇨🇿Prague, Czech Republic
Žižkov's freedom-era rock bar where underground acts like Tři Sestry & Pražský Výběr finally played openly.
Bus Palladium
🇫🇷Paris, France
Pigalle's mythical rock bar where Stones, Gainsbourg & the French "yé-yé" scene mingled.
Klub Park
🇵🇱Warsaw, Poland
Student-run wooden lodge on Pola Mokotowskie where rock bands and Juwenalia parties raged for decades.
J.C. Dobbs
🇺🇸Philadelphia, United States
South Street bar that booked Nirvana, Pearl Jam and Green Day pre-fame.
Medusa's
🇺🇸Chicago, United States
Wrigleyville all-ages goth/rock club famed for Nine Inch Nails & Ministry sets.
Off Ramp Café
🇺🇸Seattle, United States
Club where Pearl Jam debuted (as Mookie Blaylock) and Soundgarden filmed videos.
Gold Rush
🇺🇸Nashville, United States
Elliston Place dive that fuelled Music City's rock underground and fed generations with "Gold Rush Burgers."
Bookie's Club 870
🇺🇸Detroit, United States
Cass Corridor dive that hosted Iggy Pop, Dead Boys and Detroit's first punk festivals.
The Goldhawk Social Club
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
This working men's club in Shepherd's Bush was the home turf of The Who. The band's relationship was symbiotic; the audience was composed largely of local Mods—the very demographic Pete Townshend was writing for.
The Greyhound
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
A historic pub-turned-rock venue in West London. The Greyhound featured a large backroom music hall that hosted many up-and-coming bands during the crucial Pub Rock and early punk era. It bridged multiple scenes from Irish folk in the 60s, to bluesy pub rock in early 70s, to punk gigs in the late 70s.
The Hullabaloo / Aquarius Theatre
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
An Art Deco masterpiece built in 1938 as the Earl Carroll Theatre with a "Wall of Fame" and double revolving stage. In 1965, it became The Hullabaloo, a teen club hosting The Lovin' Spoonful and The Yardbirds. By 1968, it transformed into the Aquarius Theatre, home to the LA production of Hair.
Aeroanta
🇧🇷São Paulo, Brazil
Madame Wong's
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
Chinese-restaurant-turned-rock bar that booked The Police, Oingo Boingo and The Go-Go's before they hit arenas.
Armadillo World Headquarters
🇺🇸Austin, United States
Cosmic-cowboy bar where Willie Nelson met ZZ Top and punk met outlaw country.
Bijou Café
🇺🇸Philadelphia, United States
Operated by the Electric Factory team, the Bijou was an upscale club hosting rock, folk, jazz, and comedy—an important, if short-lived, stop for eclectic live music.
Bogiez Rock Club
🇬🇧Cardiff, United Kingdom
Bristol Bierkeller
🇬🇧Bristol, United Kingdom
Cavernous Bavarian-style rock bar; 1990s home to student alt nights and early shows by Nirvana & Arctic Monkeys.
Bull & Gate
🇬🇧London, United Kingdom
A Grade II listed pub with a long history as a music venue, particularly from the 1980s until 2013. Hosted a wide range of indie, rock, and alternative acts in its backroom venue, run by promoters like Jon Beast (Timebox/Hype!) and later Club Fandango.
Bunkr Parukářka
🇨🇿Prague, Czech Republic
Cold-war fallout shelter turned beer-&-rock bunker on Vítkov hill; famous for anarchic concerts and graffiti.
Café Einstein
🇦🇷Buenos Aires, Argentina
Chestnut Cabaret
🇺🇸Philadelphia, United States
A midsize rock club that hosted up-and-coming national acts in the rock, punk, and metal scenes in the late 20th century, supporting touring bands and local crews alike.
Club Lingerie
🇺🇸Los Angeles, United States
A hip nightclub and live venue on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood, active primarily in the 1980s. Club Lingerie was known for an eclectic booking policy – hosting rock, punk, funk, rap, and more. In the '80s music scene, it was a place where up-and-coming local bands and even national acts would play more intimate showcases, and it doubled as a trendy dance club on off-nights.
Cobo Hall
🇺🇸Detroit, United States
Once a pillar of Detroit's live music scene, Cobo Hall was famous for hosting major rock concerts including Alice Cooper in 1984. It played a significant role in the city's rock concert history before transitioning away from music events.
Mayfair Ballroom
🇬🇧Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
Duchess of York
🇬🇧Leeds, United Kingdom
Edwards No. 8
🇬🇧Birmingham, United Kingdom
Multi-floor metal bar known for thunderous sound, cheap drinks and queue-round-the-block Fridays.