4 Midwest Venues Ideal for Emerging Indie Artists and Bands

4 Midwest Venues Ideal for Emerging Indie Artists and Bands

One of the things I loved most about being in our band was "breaking in" a new room or venue. It's hard to match the excitement and anticipation of bringing energy to a new stage and connecting with new fans!

Being from Indianapolis, IN there were no shortage of cool clubs, taverns, and awesome atmospheres. But what if we had ventured out just a little more?

The Midwest has an array of great options for independent artists booking their next gigs. From historic venues to beautiful outdoor amphitheatres there are many great locations to choose from.

In fact, if you're an artist or band looking to break in a new room, here are four cool music venues to add to your next Midwest tour.

Fine Line Music Cafe in Minneapolis, MN

The Fine Line Music Cafe is located at 318 N 1st Ave Minneapolis, Minnesota in the heart of the downtown Warehouse District. Taking up the primary two levels of the historic Consortium building built in 1907 the club has resided in this historic site since 1988. 

It's an excellent platform for up-and-coming indie artists as well as intimate shows for major recording artists. Fine Line is a 650-capacity multi-level venue that has hosted many of music’s most influential acts of all time including the Indigo Girls, Sheryl Crow, Maroon 5 and Lady Gaga.

• Visit: https://finelinemusic.com/

Central Park Plaza in Valparaiso, IN

This unique amphitheater venue is located in downtown Valparaiso, Indiana. Central Park Plaza features seating for 150 (on stage) and plenty of room for many more on its lawn area.

According to Grieger, the Valparaiso events team attracts chart-topping bands to the venue every year. This is an excellent choice for a summer show in the beautiful Midwest. It's a great place to enjoy the warm summer nights and a great opportunity to get in front of a lot of new music lovers.

• Visit: https://www.centralparkplazavalpo.com/

Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, IA

If you're ready to rock, you should definitely 'surf.'

A truly historic rock and roll landmark, the Surf Ballroom continues to host many independent artists and major label artists. Located north of Des Moines, The Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa has a capacity of 2,100. According to AKAY Consulting, the Surf Ballroom is on the National Register of Historic Places. Music legends Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and JP “The Big Bopper” Richardson played their last show here.

• Visit: https://www.surfballroom.com/

Metro in Chicago, IL

Only two blocks from the historic Wrigley Field, Metro Chicago is the choice for indie artists coming through the windy city. Located at 3730 N. Clark Street Chicago, Illinois the 1100 capacity concert hall is not only one of the oldest but one of the most famous clubs in the city. Formally Cabaret Metro this multi-level venue has hosted thousands of local and regional independent artists as well as emerging national acts.

• Visit: https://metrochicago.com/

There are tons of opportunities to connect with a new audience just outside of your local music scene and maybe just a liiittle further out from your comfort zone!

If you're travelling through the Midwest or are currently within driving distance, don't be afraid to branch out and look at one of these awesome venues.