5 Unique Spaces for your Next Concert

Even after completing more than 2,100 shows on Side Door, we still love reading the post-show reviews raving about the intimacy of the performance and the connection between the audience and the artist.

(If you have a Side Door Artist or Host profile, you can select one review to highlight on your profile)

We believe nothing beats the magic of an intimate show, whether in a living room or a bookstore — it's not just the home concert venue that can provide the backdrop for a memorable night.

Check out some of our newest unique live music spaces that we love, including a pair of urban living rooms, a historic oceanfront lodge, and even a lush national park forest. We'll see you at a show.

1. The Brockton, Toronto, ON

This Toronto home in Brockton Village is perfect for a special night between gigs on a larger tour, a secret show (like Ten Kills the Pack played a sold-out show this spring), or a night in the city. Opt for a chair or lounge on a cozy cushion spot on the floor; the open concept gives everyone a feeling of being in the front row.

"We're inspired to share our space to celebrate and connect with arts and culture," owners Sara and Geoff write in their home venue description.

The Brockton can host shows on the main floor and in the backyard. Don't forget to bring the merch. The Brockton shows typically sell out.

2. Old Confidence Lodge, Riverport, NS

Smell the ocean air and experience some history in this 150-seat seaside music hall that boasts a five-foot tall performance stage, floor seating, and a balcony with beautiful leather chairs. "The acoustics are excellent," notes the space description. Bonus: included is an upstairs studio fully wired for recording. You're in for an unforgettable evening in the 94-year-old building that retains the past's charm and personality, described as "It's a place to record history."

3. Drea’s Place, Philadelphia, PA

South Philadephia has a long past of house concerts. Drea’s Place, a tiny South Philly home venue, strives to host performances, prioritizing queer musicians.

"To create a space that's intimate and feels safe for both the artist and audience is really important and makes everyone involved to feel good about the event," Drea told The South Philly Review.

The living room provides a warm and cozy performance space that can seat about 30. Drea notes in the space description, "the rooftop is exceptionally fun in warmer weather and has a great city skyline view."

4. Crimson Lake Provincial Park Amphitheatre, Rocky Mountain House, AB

When we say, 'any place is a venue,' we mean it. Nestled on the eastern edge of the Rocky Mountains, Crimson Lake Provincial Park Amphitheatre is one of the locations for its summer "Music in the Forest" concert series presented by Alberta Parks. Enjoy live music in the 120-seated amphitheatre surrounded by pristine forests and rolling hills. Don't worry about lodging Artists; one night of camping is included!

5. The Jarvis House, Portland, CT

A landmark in Porltand’s Historic District, a Victorian built in the mid-19th century, The Jarvis House is a vibrant yet relaxing space for live music. Host Coreyanne is a lifelong musician seeking to book Celtic musicians of “every ilk.” The Jarvis also offers a space for lodging for artists. Make this a tour stop halfway between New Haven and Hartford and only minutes from Wesleyan University.

Ready for a magical night? Explore shows near you. Or a book a consultation call to learn how you can turn your unique space into a venue.