10Best: Concert venues across the USA
It takes more than a talented musician to make a great concert. It's also the setting. "People want to lose themselves in the atmosphere. It just heightens the experience, says John Huber, chief operations officer for Moo Creative Media, which creates concert visual displays for top artists like OneRepublic and Brad Paisley. Huber, who has traveled the country producing shows, shares his favorite venues to catch a performance with Larry Bleiberg for USA TODAY.
Red Rocks Amphitheater
Denver
This visually stunning natural venue is literally surrounded by red rocks, and has hosted several shows that have become hit live albums from artists like U2, Dave Matthews and Neil Young. Located in a park, it also offers hiking and fitness events. "It is hands down my very favorite place in the world to see a show. It's a freak of nature. It couldn't have happened any better," Huber says. 720-865-2494; redrocksonline.com
The Ryman Auditorium
Nashville
This National Historic Landmark, the former home of the Grand Ole Opry, is the mother church of Nashville and country music, Huber says. "I don't know if there's any place that would have more music history." The theater offers tours, and hosts a wide range of contemporary acts from country to Americana to rock. 615-889-3060; ryman.com
Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion at Meadowbrook
Gilford, N.H.
Huber was always glad to see this venue on the schedule when he was touring. "It's just a really cool little weekend getaway, surrounded by a quaint little picturesque New England bed and breakfast community." Located on Lake Winnipesaukee, it has been nominated several times as Venue of the Year by the Academy of Country Music. 603-293-4700; meadowbrook.net
Madison Square Garden
New York
This iconic Manhattan arena lives up to its reputation. "It's a piece of American history. It has bragging rights associated with it. I don't think anyone in the U.S. would not know Madison Square Garden if you mention the name," Huber says. It's also a memorable place to catch a performance. You can see a great show there. They definitely do it right. They know what they're doing." 212-465-6741; thegarden.com
Fenway Park
Boston
The home to the Boston Red Sox also hosts about five concerts every summer. Music lovers not only get great shows, but they also have a chance to visit an historic baseball park, which enhances the experience. "Even before the artist goes on, the audience is in the moment," Huber says. 877-733-7699; redsox.com
The Gorge Amphitheater
Quincy, Wash.
This remote amphitheater provides sweeping views of the Columbia River, and offers camping exclusive to concert goers. "It's a great place to be outdoors, see amazing scenery and at the same time see an awesome live show," Huber says. You get this really pure sound from the artists. The back of the stage is literally a cliff. I've heard stories of people losing guitar cases off it." 509-785-6262; gorgeamphitheatre.net
Greek Theatre
Berkeley, Calif.
Owned by the University of California, Berkeley, this open venue is built in the style of an ancient Greek amphitheater. "You get this cool juxtaposition of a modern city and the classical theater around you," Huber says. "The acoustics are pretty killer as well. The Greeks were designing theaters before there were PA systems." 510.548.3010; apeconcerts.com/venue_greekTheatre.cfm
Hollywood Bowl
Los Angeles
In car-centric L.A., this legendary outdoor site is easily reached on foot from nearby Hollywood tourist sites. But it also stands out for acoustics. "They really nailed it," Huber says. "There are plenty of amphitheaters that look like shacks. Hollywood Bowl is not one of those. You can tell they really took pride," Huber says. 323-850-2000; hollywoodbowl.com
The Tabernacle
Atlanta
Often called the Tabby, this former church once had a congregation of more than 4,000. Left vacant for years, it was revamped as a performance venue to attract crowds attending the 1996 Olympics. "It's a phenomenal sounding, very good-looking room," Huber says. "We all end up in Atlanta sometime, and when you're there, you should catch a show." 404-659-9022; tabernacleatl.com
Circuit of the Americas/Austin360 Amphitheater
Austin
This music venue is part of a racetrack, but still has a great vibe and sound. With a capacity of 14,000, it isn't overwhelming. "You have all the key factors you need to have a great time and be entertained," Huber says. "Austin is one of the top cities in America and, I would even say in the world right now. Anyone that's looking to travel to see music now would want to visit." 512-301-6600; austin360amphitheater.com