Madison’s got no shortage of live music. Our readers have asked repeatedly about how and where to get ahead of musical acts heading into town.

Not every venue is the same. We know budgets, location, and vibe can be important when you’re looking to jam out.

Let’s start with the big guys…

The Sylvee | 25 S. Livingston St. | COVID-19 policy

Upcoming performances: Chris Lane, Still Woozy + Leon Bridges in 2022.
Hosts concerts from both cultural icons and emerging artists with a capacity of about 2,500 people.
Pro tip: You can rent out the venue for private parties — aka your own personal concert.

Majestic Theatre | 115 King St. | COVID-19 policy

Upcoming performances: Houndmouth + The Floozies in 2022.
Holds 600 attendees for shows, stand-up comedy, and theme parties for all Madisonians.
Pro tip: If the box office isn’t open, you can purchase tickets at The Sylvee.

Alliant Energy Center | 1919 Alliant Energy Center Way | COVID-19 policy

Upcoming performances: MercyMe + Keith Urban in 2022.
Holds 10,231 attendees, with several concession stands available.
Pro tip: You can park onsite in one of 5,800 spaces for $8.

Orpheum Theatre. | Photo by @sethelschlager

Now we’ve got the can’t miss classics…

Orpheum Theatre | 216 State St. | COVID-19 policy

Upcoming performances: Amos Lee in April 2022.
Has a capacity of 1,697 + is on the National Register of Historic Places
Pro tip: In addition to music, Orpheum has a ton of live comedy shows in 2022 starting February.

High Noon Saloon | 701 E. Washington Ave. | COVID-19 policy

Upcoming performances: The Ghost of Paul Revere and Wilderado in 2022.
Some bar seating available, mostly standing room.
Pro tip: You can get merch from the venue here.

Overture Center | 201 State St. | COVID-19 policy

Upcoming performances: Dancing with the Stars Live Tour, Hairspray, Watchhouse in 2022.
Hosts concerts, orchestras, plays, musicals + more in its 7 venues.
Pro tip: Grab a drink or house-made dessert before the show.

Barrymore Theatre | 2090 Atwood Ave. | COVID-19 policy

Upcoming performances: The Mavericks and Marc Maron in 2022.
Has hosted concerts, films, plays, and community events since 1987.
Pro tip: Has an ADA entrance, seating, and restroom.

Overture Center for the Arts. | Photo by @overturecenter

A little something intimate…

The Bur Oak | 2262 Winnebago St.

Upcoming performances: Talisk and Sam Weber in early 2022.
A capacity of 130 provides a homey space to enjoy local entertainment.
Pro tip: All seating is first come, first served.

The North Street Cabaret | 610 North St. | COVID-19 policy

Upcoming performances: Son Del Atlantico and Caravan Swings in January 2022.
An intimate and cozy space with tables + standing room.
Pro tip: They have a full bar and kitchen with a regularly rotating menu.

Cafe Coda | 1124 Williamson St.

Upcoming performances: Tony Castañeda Latin Jazz Band on New Year’s Eve.
A vibrant jazz club featuring local + world-class artists, plus pastries, cocktails + dance classes.
Pro tip: Cafe Coda will be closed through Feb. 2, but check out the membership program for concert vouchers + an extensive streaming library.

Ivory Room Piano Bar | 116 W. Mifflin St.

Upcoming performances: Nightly shows, New Year’s Eve performance TBA.
A high energy, all-request dueling piano bar with a lengthy craft beer + cocktail list.
Pro tip: Ivory Room is open Thurs.-Sat., but get the gang together for a private event Sun.-Thurs.

Don’t stop the music —we regularly add all these local venues + more on our monthly events calendar.

Let us know if we missed your favorite spot.