James AllenGet ready to groove because we’re about to dive into the coolest live music spots in town! From cozy joints with intimate vibes to epic concert halls that’ll blow your mind, this city has it all.
So, if you’re ready to discover where the magic happens, buckle up and let’s take a tour of Toronto’s top live music venues!
The Danforth Music Hall
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Address: 147 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 1N2
Contact details: +1 416-778-8163
Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: Open 24 hours
The Danforth Music Hall is considered an OG live music spot here in Toronto! Just imagine this: there’s room for 1,400 music enthusiasts, and thanks to some clever floor design, you won’t find a bad seat in the house.
You can easily hop on their website to scope out the lineup of awesome shows and concerts heading your way. But wait, there’s more! Classic architecture, top-notch sound quality, and even when it’s packed, The Danforth Music Hall keeps that cozy, intimate vibe alive and well.
So, if you’re all in for that historic charm-meets-live music scene, trust us, this place is a must-visit. And here’s a juicy tidbit for you – before or after the show, don’t miss the chance to hit up their restaurant next door for some scrumptious pre-show bites and post-show drinks.
| Pro tip: There’s no valet parking but there’s paid public parking on Danforth Avenue and nearby streets. You can also check out the Green P lot behind Shoppers Drug Mart, just across the street. |
Horseshoe Tavern
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Address: 370 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 2A2
Contact details: +1 416-598-4226
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM
The Horseshoe Tavern has been a Canadian musical icon since 1947! This spot is famous for its diverse lineup of performers. It’s the ultimate spot to chill with a drink and soak up some live tunes, whether you’re after a relaxed vibe or a wild night out.
Quick heads up for you newbies: make sure your ID is in tow. And sorry to break it to you, but they’ll give your bags a little once-over at the door, so stash that extra pre-party booze at home.
It’s also better to lace up those speedy shoes because snagging a seat or table is like grabbing hotcakes at a brunch spot – they vanish in a flash! Unless you’re cool with it, be prepared to rock the standing O the entire time.
Once you’re inside, it’s a whole different world – another bar, a chill table area, and a rad checkerboard dance floor in the back. And don’t sleep on it – hit their website for some cool band merch.
| Pro tip: So, here’s the deal: no food here, folks. It’s all about the drinks and the music. Grab a bite before you come and then head in for some top-notch entertainment. |
Lee’s Palace
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Address: 529 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M5S 1Y5
Contact details: +1 416-532-1598
Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday: 8:00 PM – 2:30 AM; Friday to Saturday: 8:30 PM – 2:30 AM
Lee’s Palace is one of those hidden gems tucked in The Annex neighbourhood on Bloor Street West, offering good times and better music.
You definitely don’t want to miss the everyday concerts with seriously talented performers. And let’s not forget about “The Cave” on the second floor – it’s the perfect spot for those of us who love to hit the dance floor!
And here’s the deal – Lee’s Palace offers three levels to suit your mood. You can kick back with a drink, soak up the vibe, or dive straight into the dance party.
| Pro tip: Diehard fans will love the floor – it’s like a caged-in pit. And the middle level offers the best stage view, with elevated booths along the side walls. |
History Toronto
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Address: 1663 Queen St E, Toronto, ON M4L 1G5
Contact details: +1 416-260-5566
Opening hours: Open 24/7
Experience History, one of Toronto’s ultimate live music and entertainment venues that’s taking things to the next level! Picture this: with a massive 2,500-person capacity, History is located in the vibrant Beaches neighbourhood in the east end, close to Woodbine Park and Ashbridges Bay.
It’s all about that up-close and personal vibe with your favourite artists, creating memories that’ll last a lifetime. Plus, whether you’re into snagging convertible general admission or scoring reserved seating, History has options for every event.
And let’s talk about the lineup—from rock to pop to indie—History hosts concerts across a variety of genres. Think performances by Sam Roberts Band, Mau P, and Marta, with past shows featuring rock heavyweights like Machine Head and Beartooth.
Ready to join the fun? Snag your tickets online at Ticketmaster or swing by the venue box office.
| Pro tip: We recommend adding parking to your ticket purchase for a guaranteed spot in the lot closest to the venue. It’s convenient, located at 1167 Eastern Avenue (right behind the venue, just south of the Green P). |
Phoenix Concert Theatre
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Address: 410 Sherbourne St, Toronto, ON M5X 1K2
Contact details: +1 416-323-1251
Opening hours: Depends on event and concert schedules
Welcome to The Phoenix Concert Theatre – where the party never stops and live performances take center stage in a massive 18,000-square-foot space! For over two decades, this spot has been buzzing with thousands of performances and all sorts of events.
Let’s kick things off with the Main Room – it’s got everything you could need for an epic night out: top-notch sound and lighting, five bars to keep the drinks flowing, a massive stage that sets the scene for unforgettable performances, and even a retractable 10-foot screen for those extra special moments.
Feeling a bit fancy or just want a killer view of the action? Take a stroll up to The Balcony. It’s cozy lounge seating for 100, a VIP bar, and the best sights on the stage – it’s like having your private viewing party!
And for those who crave a more intimate vibe, they’ve got The Parlour. Tucked away next to the Main Room, it’s got its own sound and lighting setup, making it perfect for smaller gatherings or private events.
| Pro tip: Quick heads up – they’re not serving food at the moment, so it’s a good idea to grab a bite before heading in for a one to two-hour concert. |
The Garrison
Address: 1197 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1X3
Contact details: +1 416-519-9439
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 6:00 PM – 2:45 AM
So, have you heard about The Garrison? It’s the Swiss Army knife of venues from live music and hangout bar vibes to comedy shows and epic dance parties—it’s the go-to spot for music lovers.
Now, let’s talk about those dance parties – they’re an absolute blast. It’s where everyone comes together for a night of pure fun and dancing.
And speaking of vibes, the intimate setting of the venue amps up the excitement even more. Plus, the sound quality? It’s next level, setting the stage for a night you won’t forget.
But a word to the wise – great sound means things can get lively. It’s not a bad idea to stash some earplugs in your pocket, just in case you need a break from the sonic adventure.
| Pro tip: The Garrison can get pretty lively, and it can get warm inside. Before you go, check the weather outside so you won’t end up feeling hot and sticky halfway through the show. |
DROM Taberna
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Address: 458 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 2A8
Contact details: +1 647-748-2099
Opening hours: Monday to Wednesday: 6:00 PM – 2:00 AM; Thursday: 6:00 PM – 4:00 AM; Friday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 4:00 AM; Sunday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM
So, listen up – there’s this awesome spot called DROM Taberna over in Queen West, and let me tell you, it’s not your run-of-the-mill pub restaurant. They’re rocking live music and a menu that’s a total Eastern European flavour explosion, bringing you the best from Poland, Ukraine, Russia, and beyond.
You’ve got to check out their website for all the cool events they’ve got going on. From dance lessons to Arabic jazz performances to solo acts raising awareness, there’s always something unique happening at DROM (which, by the way, means “safe journey”).
Their menu? It’s a total game-changer, with something for everyone – whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or a meat lover. We highly recommend trying the cevapi and goulash; they’re absolutely fantastic!
| Pro tip: Oh, and one more thing to keep in mind – they’re only taking bookings for groups of six or more at the moment. |
The Dakota Tavern
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Address: 249 Ossington Ave, Toronto, ON M6J 3A1
Contact details: +1 416-850-4579
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 6:30 PM – 2:00 AM
Let’s talk about The Dakota Tavern – it’s more than just a music venue; it’s a cozy hideaway that’s been around for over 16 years, hosting some of Canada’s top artists on its intimate stage. Tucked away in a little basement spot at Dundas and Ossington, it’s a haven for country and bluegrass fans.
From members of Barenaked Ladies to The Skydiggers, Broken Social Scene, and beyond, The Dakota Tavern has seen them all grace its stage. Imagine getting up on the small dance floor for a cute do-si-do with your sweetheart – it’s totally the vibe here.
And the staff? They’re some of the coolest cats you’ll ever meet. Trust us, it’s the perfect spot for a chill night out – cozy, intimate, and packed with awesome tunes.
| Pro tip: If you’re planning to drink all night, you should know that their drinks can be on the pricey side. |
The Cameron House
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Address: 408 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 2A7
Contact details: +1 416-703-0811
Opening hours: Monday to Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM; Wednesday to Saturday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM; Sunday: 6:00 PM – 2:00 AM
The Cameron House is like a cultural hotspot on Queen West, giving musicians and visitors a place to jam out, connect, and hang out.
Once you step inside, you’ve got two areas to choose from – the front and the back – and let me tell you, each one has its special vibe. Some guests dig the roominess of the front, while others prefer the cozy feel of the back room, depending on how they’re feeling.
And, no matter where you end up, you’re guaranteed to catch some seriously talented musicians doing their thing. It’s pretty clear how popular it is – just take a peek during peak hours and see the place packed to the brim!
| Pro tip: Hey, a quick reminder – The Cameron House is for folks 19 and older, so don’t forget to bring your ID along for the ride! |
The Rex
– Media from therextoronto
Address: 194 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1Z1
Contact details: +1 416-598-2475
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Let’s dive into The Rex – Toronto’s jazz gem that’s been keeping the music scene alive for years. Imagine this: over 60 shows every month featuring top-notch musicians from Canada and beyond.
You’ll feel the spaciousness – none of that cramped feeling you get elsewhere when you step inside. Here, you’ve got plenty of room to chill, groove, and let the music take you on a journey.
And get this – they usually serve up not one but two live performances every single day. Plus, they’ve got budget-friendly prices, so you can enjoy world-class music without breaking the bank.
| Pro tips: The live shows kick off at 5:30 PM and 8:30 PM, and it’s usually around $10 per person. If you want to snag the best seats, aim to roll in 15-30 minutes early. |
