Songs & Summer Nights: 6 Amazing Places to Enjoy Live Music in Downtown Phoenix This Summer
by Joe Barans
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As our summer days heat up, Downtown Phoenix comes alive at night. If you’re looking for a show with an intimate vibe for your night out, you’re in luck because this city’s thriving music scene has plenty to offer.
A band performing on stage at Walter Studios. (Credit: Peter Speyer)
Walter Studios
Electronic Dance Music (EDM) fans will rejoice at Walter Studios’ inclusive lineup of DJs from a wide range of styles and genres, from techno and deep house to classic 1970s disco. The venue is referred to as an “evolving community concept” and also contains a restaurant serving lunch, brunch, and dinner. So, you can grab a bite to eat before dancing the night away! Walter Studios is a unique part of a larger Walter ecosystem of properties across the Valley. To find your next party, check out their event calendar.
Beer and live music on the patio at Greenwood Brewing. (Photo: Greenwood Brewing)
Greenwood Brewing
Kicking off their Summer Sunset Concert Series, this proudly female-owned brewery is located in the Roosevelt Row Arts District. Featuring local musicians on the brewery’s patio stage, these fun, chill shows take place Fridays from 7 – 9 p.m. through August. Enjoy one of their refreshing craft beers, and experience one of Phoenix’s famous sunsets, all while listening to fantastic music. If you’re looking for a romantic date night, this is the perfect spot!
Performers on stage at The Nash. (Photo: Joseph Berg Jazz Photography)
The Nash
Founded by award-winning jazz musician and ASU professor Lewis Nash, The Nash is more than just a venue. It’s the premier center for jazz education, preservation, and culture in Arizona. Given special recognition by Downbeat Magzine as one of the “Great Jazz Venues in the World”, this venue is a gem in the heart of the arts district. If you’re already deeply into jazz, you will appreciate their dedication to showcasing talented artists and promoting the art form. If you are new to this music, and curious to expand your horizons, there’s no better place to start. You can check out their upcoming events here.
Crescent Ballroom exterior and patio. (Credit: Joe Barans)
Crescent Ballroom
With a wide variety of entertainment options, from touring acts to hometown heroes, this historic venue has a show for everyone. Check out their free, weekly showcase of local songwriters every Wednesday starting at 8 p.m. This showcase is conveniently titled Wednesday Wednesday. Enjoy a fun night of trivia on Sunday evenings at 6 p.m. and stick around afterward for the live jazz jam session that starts at 8 p.m. Or, you can just let loose at one of their themed dance parties! View Crescent’s event calendar here.
Valley Bar’s signature alley entrance. (Credit: Joe Barans)
Valley Bar
This sister venue to Crescent Ballroom shines with its own unique identity. As an even more intimate space due to its size, this underground club hosts talented up-and-coming touring acts from across the nation. You’ll find shows spanning all genres, from hip hop to indie pop, so this could be the place where you discover your next favorite artist! For upcoming shows, check out their calendar.
The Van Buren
As the largest venue on this list, this Live Nation managed venue provides a great local opportunity to see prominent national and international touring acts. Many of the hottest rappers, rock bands, comedians, pop singers, and latin artists perform here consistently. Check out their event calendar to see their upcoming shows, and you’ll definitely want to act fast when ordering your tickets, as they often sell out quickly!
So, whether you’re looking for a casual night out, an engaging cultural experience, or a chance to connect with emerging artists, you’ll find that the Downtown Phoenix community has much to offer.
