The San Diego music scene is home to various concert venues, ranging from water front parks to rooftop bars. With a range of intimate venues and outdoor festivals, San Diego has a variety of venues that will not disappoint. Here is our guide to our personal favorite spots in the greater San Diego area.

The Belly up - solana beach

The Belly Up opened up in 1974, amid the prime time of rock and roll. At their start, the Belly Up had no stage and only a few mics. However, the venue has come a long way since its beginning. With a capacity of 600, this smaller venue allows for an intimate setting with a large concert feel. Musical icons including the Killers, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Etta James, and even the Rolling Stones have stepped foot on this stage. The Belly Up is a restaurant by day, and a concert venue by night, allowing concert-goers to enjoy a bite to eat before the show. 

Humphrey’s by the bay - SHELTER ISLAND

At Humphrey’s by the Bay, concert-goers get the full San Diego concert experience with views of sailboats on the marina and silhouettes of palm trees. The outdoor venue has hosted a wide range of artists including Bob Dylan to The Beach Boys. With a capacity of 1400, Humphrey’s hosts a variety of different shows ranging from rock to folk to international music. If you are looking to get the full San Diego experience, Humphrey’s is the perfect coastal venue.

QUEEN BEE’S - NORTH PARK

Located in the heart of North Park, one of San Diego’s trendiest neighborhoods, Queen Bee’s is an arts and cultural center that hosts some of San Diego’s most intimate shows. The venue was originally established by a Puerto Rico native who had dreams of providing a safe space for musicians, artists, and community members. Queen Bee’s is one of San Diego’s smaller venues, with a capacity of only 250. The venue is nothing short of ordinary, with bamboo floors, chandeliers, and custom ceiling fans. Not only does Queen Bee’s host intimate concerts, but it is also home to the popular vintage markets that have taken over the San Diego fashion scene.

MUSIC BOX - DOWNTOWN

Established in 2015, Music Box is one of San Diego’s newer concert venues. Located in the heart of Downtown, the venue can hold up to 700 people. The venue offers an incomparable experience, with a three story infrastructure and outdoor balconies that allows for exceptional stage views from every angle. Music Box has hosted a wide range of artists, including Billie Eilish’s first ever San Diego concert.

THE OBSERVATORY - NORTH PARK

The observatory is a historic venue, nearly 100 years old. The venue is full of character, with spanish-rennaissance inspired detailing and beautiful red and gold interior. This concert venue is a popular concert spot for locals, located on the main strip in North Park. The 1,200 capacity venue hosts a variety of genres including pop, rock, alternative, and their leading genre: indie. The venue has hosted over 475 indie performances. In the more recent years, The observatory has hosted artists including Steve Lacy, Peach Pit, and The Backseat Lovers.