The 7 Best Live Music Venues in Vancouver [2024 ]

Good music can be hard to find sometimes, especially in a world that is filled with hundreds of genres and millions of unique tunes. So, to help you expand your repertoire of musical melodies, we’ve sought out the best live music venues in Vancouver.

As a means of helping you figure out if a venue is a good fit for you, we’ve taken the liberty of including patron reviews, venue breakdowns, pros & cons, and more. Let’s begin!

In This Article

How Much Does Live Music Cost in Vancouver?
The Best Live Music Venues in Vancouver
FAQs About Live Music Venues

In this article show

How Much Does Live Music Cost in Vancouver?

Since we’ve got a healthy mix of unique venues in this list, you can expect to pay a wide range of fees for admission. This includes a single purchase like a cocktail or an actual ticket for general admission.

To make things simple, we’ve drawn up this quick cost guide:

Venue	Admission fee
Guilt & Co	Free (with purchase of a drink/food)
Frankie’s Jazz Club	$16.00 – $17.50
Commodore Ballroom	$30.00 – $60.00
Vogue Theatre	$30.00 – $50.00
Rickshaw Theatre	$20.00 – $60.00
Rio Theatre	$10.00 – $13.00
Famous Players Band Entertainment	Contact for more details

As you can see from the prices above, some venues offer much wider price ranges than others. This is mostly due to the various artists who perform at each venue and their inherently varying performance costs.

The Best Live Music Venues in Vancouver

Now that you have an idea of what the base admissions costs are like for venues, it’s time to see what the city has to offer in terms of rhythm, rhyme, blues, and tunes. Here are our picks for the best live music venues in Vancouver!

1. Famous Players Band Entertainment

SERVICES	Weddings Corporate Events
WEBSITE	https://famousplayersband.com
ADDRESS	3381 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4R3, Canada
CONTACT DETAILS	+1 604-725-1272
OPERATING HOURS	24/7

Famous Players Band Entertainment is a Vancouver-based Live Music Band highly recognized in the area that offers its audience a memorable experience when it comes to weddings, corporate occasions, and other similar events.

We like that their talented singers and instrumentalists are able to be flexible when it comes to the genre of music that they are able to play and they readily accommodate the thrilling sounds of the 50s, 80s, and even rock among others.

Past clients who have experienced working with them have commended them for their expertise in the industry and superb world-class performances that thoroughly engaged crowds and made the event truly enjoyable.

Note though that rates of their services aren’t readily available on their website to clients may need to inquire further about other event packages if any that they do offer.

Nonetheless, with their gifted team of musicians at the helm, stellar performances that exceeded past client expectations, and versatility in the field, we highly recommend interested clients to check them out.

Pros

Highly engaging and emphasizes audience interaction
Versatile in accommodating various music genres
Able to adapt to various crowds and events performed at

Cons

Rates and packages of their services aren’t readily available

Customer Reviews

Here are some reviews from their clients:

“Famous players first played at my sisters wedding in 2011 and then my brother’s in 2015. We were thrilled when they were available for our wedding this August 2023. They are incredible and bring the energy and party to life! Everyone was talking about them after our wedding. And they even let me play a song with them at the end! Amazing band!”

“We had the pleasure of hiring Famous Players Band for not just one but three of our children’s weddings. From the moment they started performing the dance floor was packed with guests of all ages. This continued on throughout the entire evening. Their ability to read the crowd and choose their favourite songs kept everyone so upbeat and engaged all night. Each member of the band have such unbelievable talent and their ability to create an incredible atmosphere is amazing! We cannot express enough gratitude to them for making each one of our celebrations unforgettable and one we will always cherish. Famous Players are truly exceptional in every way! We highly recommend them!!”

2. Guilt & Co

SERVICES	Cocktails Bar chow Live music
WEBSITE	https://www.guiltandcompany .com/
ADDRESS	1 Alexander Street, Underground, Vancouver, BC V6A 1B2, Canada
CONTACT DETAILS	Phone number: (604) 288-1704
OPERATING HOURS	Monday: 4 pm – 12 pm Tuesday: 4 pm – 12 pm Wednesday: 4 pm – 12 pm Thursday: 4 pm – 12 pm Friday: 4 pm – 12 pm Saturday: 4 pm – 12 pm Sunday: 4 pm – 12 pm

We’re fairly certain you’ll find at least one new favorite drink here. But, along with a new set of tonics to try, this place also offers an excellent selection of bar blues, R&B, soul, and even jazz.

All these genres of music lend themselves nicely to the bar’s dimly-lit modern interior and laid-back atmosphere. When you pair all of this with their top-notch cocktails, you get a recipe for an enjoyable live music experience.

Many artists who perform at this particular establishment are based in and around British Columbia. So, by featuring up-and-coming musicians as opposed to big international names, Guilt & Co. also offers an opportunity for people to support local talent.

Overall this place’s diverse music choices and killer cocktails make it a prime location to enjoy live music. So long as you don’t mind listening to newer artists, you’ll be rewarded with a night full of fun, enjoyable moments.

Pros

Wide range of live music
Great cocktails
Supports local artists
Good snacks & bar chow

Cons

Small dance floor
Some performers are still unestablished

Customer Reviews

These patrons couldn’t be happier with their experience at Guilt & Co:

“Guilt & Co does a great job at creating an underground jazz bar vibe. The menu had lots to offer from popcorn to cheese fondue and everything we ordered was delicious. The venue has stringent COVID protocols and I felt very safe throughout the evening. The staff was very friendly and offered excellent insights into their array of cocktails. I was so happy to find a space to safely enjoy live music and will be back soon. Highly recommend!” – Derek D.

“Great cocktails and great ambience! Went yesterday (Monday night) and they had an amazing guitarist and pianist playing very cool jazz / swing. Ordered their Old fashioned and requested it to be made with Mezcal and tequila. Tired out to be brilliant! Their other cocktails are really good too.” – Trishla J.

3. Frankie’s Jazz Club

SERVICES	Italian food Wine Cocktails Beer Jazz Blues Live music
WEBSITE	http://www.frankiesjazzclub.ca/
ADDRESS	755 Beatty St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2M4, Canada
CONTACT DETAILS	Phone number: (604) 688-6368
OPERATING HOURS	Monday: 4 pm – 10 pm Tuesday: 4 pm – 10 pm Wednesday: 4 pm – 10 pm Thursday: 4 pm – 10 pm Friday: 4 pm – 10 pm Saturday: 4 pm – 10 pm Sunday: 4 pm – 10 pm

As the name implies, Frankie’s is one of the few establishments on our list that focuses specifically on jazz and blues performances. To pair with their live entertainment, this jazz club offers a ton of pasta, entrees, and appetizers.

The majority of the food at Frankie’s is of the Italian variety, which gives the place an upscale fine-dining feel. But like all great Italian establishments, Frankie’s also offers classic cocktails, local beer, and wine.

In terms of in-house entertainment, the club’s jazz and blues shows take place three nights a week starting on Thursdays. While these shows aren’t free, their admission fees are certainly reasonable, with general admission usually going for less than $20.

Unlike others, they also have an After Dark series, on Fridays and Saturdays. There is a late night menu, and tickets are only $10!

On the whole, if you’re a jazz enthusiast, a blues buff, or just someone who enjoys good music, then this place is certainly a fine option. Also, it doesn’t hurt that many of the club’s performers are local jazz stars and blues kings.

Pros

Great for those who enjoy jazz & blues
Serves delicious Italian fare
Reasonable admission fees

Cons

Only offers jazz and blues music

Customer Reviews

Whether you’re new to jazz or an avid fan, you’ll find an abundance of it at Frankie’s:

“We visited Frankie’s Jazz Club during TD International Jazz Festival. It had recently reopened for more days of the week and we were lucky enough to be there for the first Monday open since the pandemic. We had excellent food and service (I believe they share a kitchen with the Italian restaurant next door). Last but not least, the jazz show. On this particular night we had Steve Lloyd Quartet play their Sins and Virtues set. More reputable acts to come this week and beyond. Great place and great location for a drink and some jazz. Feels like life is back to normal and life is better with Jazz at Frankie’s.” – Anthony T.

“We came on the first evening they reopened after the health restrictions loosened up. It was so nice to listen to live music, enjoy good food and see familiar regulars once again. We had the meatballs, fungi pizza and their beet and beef salad this time. Great friendly service as always.” – Delaney B.

4. Commodore Ballroom

SERVICES	Live music concerts Cocktails Beer
WEBSITE	https://www.commodoreballroom.com/
ADDRESS	868 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1K3, Canada
CONTACT DETAILS	Phone number: (604) 739-4550

If you’re a longtime Vancouver resident, then it shouldn’t be too much of a surprise to see the Commodore Ballroom on this list. With over 90 years of service in the live music industry, this establishment has played host to a literal wall of household names.

In case you’re new to the lower mainland or just someone passing through, this venue is a must-visit for any music lover. To see how amazing the Commodore Ballroom is, all you need to do is take a look at the previous bands and groups that have performed here.

These artists include timeless idols like David Bowie and Iggy Pop, as well as generation-defining groups like Nirvana, U2, and the Beastie Boys. If that’s not enough, the Commodore has even hosted more recent talents like Lady Gaga, Maroon 5, and Snoop Dog.

Now, granted, you might not catch these artists on your next visit to this iconic Vancouver music venue. However, the Commodore Ballroom can still offer a wide variety of carefully chosen local talents for you to enjoy.

Pros

One of the oldest music venues in Vancouver
Frequented by many famous artists
Located in the heart of Downtown

Cons

Tickets can be rather expensive

Customer Reviews

These patrons can certainly attest to the amazing quality of the Commodore Ballroom:

“This is a classic that should be enjoyed by all. I have had Very good night in seed very good artists over the years.I highly recommend that when you’re able to you take a chance and buy a ticket and go spend a great evening out with friends and family.” – Brian S.

“The Commodore is one of my favourite venues for a bit smaller scale shows. It offers a level of intimacy that most other places don’t. They have a decent selection of drinks and being on Granville it’s super easy to get to with transit. It’s a great place to see any brand of music that you like!” – Dan R.

5. Vogue Theatre

SERVICES	Live music concerts Standup shows Theatrical performances
WEBSITE	https://voguetheatre.com/
ADDRESS	918 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1L2, Canada
CONTACT DETAILS	Phone number: (604) 688-1975
OPERATING HOURS	Monday: closed Tuesday: closed Wednesday: closed Thursday: 12 pm – 6 pm Friday: 10 am – 6 pm Saturday: 12 pm – 6 pm Sunday: closed

As one of the few original establishments remaining along Vancouver’s theatre row, the Vogue Theatre was originally intended to be a movie house and performing arts venue. Nowadays, it has become one of the city’s hottest live music venues.

Over the course of 70 years and several renovations, the Vogue Theatre has done away with its projectors and movie screen. It now resembles a classic opera house complete with balconies, auditorium seats, and an orchestra space front and center.

When the orchestra space isn’t being used, patrons are welcome to find a place at the foot of the stage and dance their hearts out. And with such a wide selection of musical performances throughout the year, this is exactly what most patrons tend to do.

All in all, the Vogue Theatre hosts over 200 performances a year, many of which include stand-up comedy, creative performances, and of course, live music. If you’re in search of a music venue with an updated list of hot talents, then this is the place to visit.

Pros

Hosts new popular artists
Has 70 years of experience in the industry
Extremely large auditorium

Cons

Only open 3 days a week

Customer Reviews

Despite originally being a movie house, the Vogue Theatre has made quite a name as a live music venue:

“A good place to see and play live music on the Granville strip. Live music most nights of the week, Sunday is always the country music night. The staff are friendly & helpful, the sound is always good, drinks are good, and vibe is good” – Taylor P.

“This bar is a good place to go for all age groups.

The live music is always great and there’s actually a good amount of seating if you feel like sitting for a drink . Or you could dance around on the dance floor. The staff is always super helpful and sooooo nice ! Good place to go if you’re looking for a fun night out that everyone can kinda enjoy” – Paige E.

6. Rickshaw Theatre

SERVICES	Live music Indie bands Rock concerts
WEBSITE	http://www.rickshawtheatre.com/
ADDRESS	254 E Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1P1, Canada
CONTACT DETAILS	Phone number: (604) 681-8915
OPERATING HOURS	Monday: 10 am – 6 pm Tuesday: 10 am – 6 pm Wednesday: 10 am – 6 pm Thursday: 10 am – 6 pm Friday: 10 am – 6 pm Saturday: 10 am – 6 pm Sunday:10 am – 6 pm

The physical layout of the Rickshaw Theatre is not unlike that of the Vogue Theater with its massive stage and spacious auditorium. This makes a lot of sense since the Rickshaw Theater was also repurposed from a cinema into a concert hall.

One major difference from the Vogue Theater, however, is in the types of artists that call the Rickshaw home. Whereas other venues provide a wide variety of genres for patrons to enjoy, the Rickshaw focuses mainly on rock, metal, punk, and funk bands.

This key detail makes this theater perfect for metalheads and rockers who want an authentic live music experience. Though the stage is partitioned off from the rest of the crowd, patrons can still rock to the music on the spacious dancefloor.

If you’d prefer to just sit back and enjoy the music, then you’ll be thrilled to know that there’s ample seating behind the dance floor. Because the auditorium seats are slightly raised, you also won’t have to worry about not having a good view of the band.

Pros

Great for rock lovers
Has a dance floor and auditorium seats
Accessible to people with disabilities

Cons

Located in a relatively rough area of town

Customer Reviews

The Rickshaw has played host to many unforgettable experiences over the years:

“I adore this venue, great employees, a wonderful event pretty much every time, I have too many memories to share we would be here for a year reading my review. From the amazing management to the bouncers, you folks are legends.”- Kevin E.

“One of the most quintessential spots in Vancouver. I’ve seen so many bands here and have made so many memories in the building. It’s classic theatre in a nutshell.”- Nathan J.

7. Rio Theatre

Rio Theatre is a multimedia venue that accommodates all types of cinemas, stage, and mainstreaming services that has a seating capacity of around 420 people. Built way back in 1938, they mainly capitalize on their unique programming that showcases a wide range of sci-fi, horror, thriller, and action films specially for family viewing.

They have since then been undergoing constructive renovations and tried to be up to date with the current trends in the industry by making changes on their facility accessibility. Furthermore, they have expanded their accommodations by offering a bar for drinks and a concession menu as well.

The website presents well all practical details of the theatre and the schedule of the movies being showcased in an easy-to-read calendar of events. Though, for clients looking for on demand viewing, rental rates vary based on the dates and times they book it.

Clients will also have less hassle when it comes to their location since they are near a transit station and even have numerous parking spaces all for free.

Pros

Exemplary snack selection
Relevant classics shown
Informative website

Cons

Specializes in showcasing movies and films

Customer Reviews

Here are some reviews from their clients:

“I always have a fantastic time when I see a film at The Rio. Since the pandemic, it’s the only movie theater I have been to, and I’ve seen a number of films here. Great selection of snacks and drinks, including alcohol, some great cult classics and also new films too! I’ve even seen some incredible directors talk about their films and some of the most memorable moments of my life. You may even see some other events as well, including burlesque and all sorts of other performances. Nothing but good times! LONG LIVE THE RIO. By far the best theater in Vancouver. 🖤”

“I always love coming here. I’ve come a few times for special events or showings, but I’ve also swung by for regular showings. Always a great time and the concession as some extra treats. The Rio is a genuine Vancouver, especially East Vancouver, staple. Highly recommended!”

FAQs About Live Music Venues

Do live music venues sell food and drinks?

It depends. For standard concert halls and pure music venues, patrons can expect a bar service and some snacks but nothing in line with a full meal.

Alternatively, for music clubs and live music bars, patrons will see at least one meal on the bar menu.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Even if a venue doesn’t serve food and drinks, patrons are still discouraged from bringing their own. This is to avoid any spills and mishaps that may require cleanup while also reducing undiscarded trash within the venue.

In certain cases, though, if a patron has a condition that requires them to have their own food or drink, many venues will take exception after a quick call.

Where do people with disabilities sit in concert halls?

Concert halls that are accessible to people with disabilities will usually have a balcony area with an unobstructed view of the auditorium stage. Alternatively, a person with a disability may be given special seating near the stage with a quick route for easy entry and exit.

Is it possible to reserve seats at a venue?

Most venues with general admission will practice the “first come, first served” rule. This means that there will be no seating reservations of any kind, and patrons are left to find their own preferred seats.

With that said, in some music clubs, patrons do have the option to phone ahead to reserve a specific table.

Now that we’ve got you up to speed on some of the best live music venues in Vancouver, all that’s left is to pick your venue of choice. To make things easier we’ve linked each venue’s website so you can check on concert dates and showtimes.

In case you’d prefer a much more tranquil showcase of the arts, we’ve made a list of the best art galleries in Vancouver. Just like with this list, you’ll have access to reviews and breakdowns to help you pick the best art gallery based on your own tastes.

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The 7 Best Live Music Venues in Vancouver

The 7 Best Live Music Venues in Vancouver

How Much Does Live Music Cost in Vancouver?