7 Underground Concert Venues In Las Vegas
When people think of Las Vegas, their minds often jump to its bustling boulevards, neon marquees, and towering resorts. The Strip is, after all, a stretch of land synonymous with…
Rock band performing onstage
gorodenkoff via Getty ImagesWhen people think of Las Vegas, their minds often jump to its bustling boulevards, neon marquees, and towering resorts. The Strip is, after all, a stretch of land synonymous with splendor and spectacle. Sin City hosts a ton of world-famous artists beneath its canopy of lights. However, much like the desert that cradles the city, underground concert venues have multiple layers.
Making It Personal
Venture just a bit beyond the mainstream, and you'll find yourself immersed in a Sin City that many overlook. As a result, the music isn't just background noise or a grand spectacle. It's the soul of intimate spaces, places where every note resonates with palpable emotion. Every lyric tells a tale and every performance feels personal. It's in these tucked-away corners that the city’s true musical soul, diverse and vibrant, comes alive, offering an alternative narrative to Vegas' globally recognized entertainment scene.
Beyond the neon glow of The Strip, houses a plethora of underground concert venues, where raw talent and passion often overshadow stage effects and marketing prowess. These venues, colloquially known as "hole-in-the-wall" places, offer patrons a unique musical experience, teetering between raw energy, soulful performances, and an ambiance that's a world apart from the usual. It's a world where artists and audience share a connection, a mutual respect, and a shared love for the craft. You're not just a face in the crowd here; you're part of a closely-knit musical community.
Go And Feel The Music
Imagine an evening where the stage is just a stone's throw away, where the buzz of the strip fades quietly into the background. Instead it's replaced by soulful tunes and very intimate conversations. It's a side of Vegas that promises not just entertainment. In fact, it instead leads you on a journey into the city’s pulsating musical heart. Are you ready to embark on this musical voyage?
1. Double Down Saloon
Location: 4640 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89169
Hours: Open 24 Hours
Branded as the "Anti-Vegas," this punk rock haven thrives on its eclectic music range. From surf rock to hardcore punk, Double Down offers an auditory experience you're unlikely to forget, complemented by its unconventional drink choices.
2. The Dive Bar
Location: 4110 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89119
Hours: Open 24 Hours
The Dive Bar might seem unassuming from the outside, but inside it's bursting with energy. Known for its punk, rock, and metal shows, it offers a gritty, unpolished side of Vegas' music scene. It’s a haven for those seeking a no-frills music experience.
3. The Griffin
Location: 511 E Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101
Hours: 5p.m. to 2a.m. Mon-Wed and 12p.m. to 2a.m. Thurs-Sun
Here they combine medieval-inspired interiors with a contemporary music scene. The Griffin is the Downtown Vegas go-to spot for those seeking indie rock performances in a moody, fire-lit atmosphere.
4. Artifice
Location: 1025 S 1st St #100, Las Vegas, NV 89101
Hours: 8p.m. to 2a.m. Tues-Sat
As the name suggests, Artifice is all about art — and that includes music. Located in the Arts District, it boasts a bohemian vibe, regularly hosting experimental music, underground DJs, and eclectic genres that mainstream venues often overlook.
5. Velveteen Rabbit
Location: 1218 S Main St, Las Vegas, NV 89104
Hours: 5p.m. to 12a.m. Sun-Thurs and 5p.m. to 2a.m. Fri & Sat
A bar with a penchant for the artistic, Velveteen Rabbit not only offers craft cocktails but also an intimate setting for live music. Their events calendar is a blend of various genres, offering something unique for every music aficionado.
6. The Sand Dollar Downtown
Location: 3355 Spring Mountain Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89102
Hours: 4p.m. to 4a.m. Daily
While recognized among locals for its bluesy vibe, Sand Dollar Lounge is an underrated gem when it comes to live music. From rock to soul, this venue, revamped from its original 1976 roots, ensures an evening filled with melodies and memories.
7. The Space
Location: 3460 Cavaretta Ct, Las Vegas, NV 89103
Hours: Non-Traditional Business Hours - Check Website for Events
Tucked away from the bright lights of the Strip, The Space offers a versatile venue for a variety of performances, from intimate acoustic sessions to lively theatrical acts. Its cozy ambiance and commitment to showcasing both local and touring talent make it a favorite among those seeking an authentic Vegas music experience beyond the mainstream.
