The music environment in Toronto, Ontario is very eclectic, from indie rock to house to blues. If you’re an avid concert goer then you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the plethora of live music venues Toronto, Ontario has to offer. The venues span the entire downtown and each is as unique as the music that it hosts. The city highlights some of the best and brightest local and international talent, from big name bands to unknown stars still waiting to be discovered. Many music careers have been launched from performing at the city’s live venues, most notably Broken Social Scene.
Come check out a jam-packed, energy-fueled concert in a bass-driven atmosphere, or catch your favorite artist playing an intimate acoustic set.
Mod Club – 722 College Street
Taking up residence in Little Italy, one of the city’s most culturally infused neighborhoods, Mod Club is among the largest of live music venues. That means that there’s plenty of room to move around, so the claustrophobic types can breath easily. The club is jumping every day of the week. If there’s not a concert talented local DJ’s are spinning the best beats that will keep you glued to the dance floor all night long.
El Mocambo – 464 Spadina Avenue
El Mocambo is one of the city’s smaller venues. Located on the outskirt of Chinatown, El Mo (as it’s referred to by the locals), might be tiny but it houses some big sounds. It has hosted rock Gods such as the Rolling Stones. Thursday-Saturday are by far the bests nights to frequent this legendary venue.
The Silver Dollar – 486 Spadina Avenue
Just steps away you’ll find another small but vibrant music venue. The Silver Dollar has been around for over 50 years now and has changed faces more than David Bowie. The club has most recently transformed into a premier Blues venue.
Massey Hall – 178 Victoria Street
For a bit of nostalgia check out a live show at Massey Hall. Its famous red doors have been open for over a century. Its theatre-like seating and stage position make every seat in the house a good seat. Even though it’s large in size, it’s the perfect venue to see your favorite performer because it feels like a small intimate setting.
The Opera House – 735 Queen Street East
Also on the larger size, the Opera House is a popular in between venue for bands that don’t have the superstar status to play large-scale venues like the Air Canada Centre but who are too famous for those hole-in-the-wall venues where bands go to get their careers jump started. If the show you’re seeing is general admission (which most are) don’t fight for standing room at the front of the stage, grab a spot on the balcony for the best view in the house.
