Our 7 favorite Indianapolis music venues
Indianapolis music lovers, do we have some fun venues for you!
Whether you enjoy cuddling up in intimate spaces or love outdoor festival vibes, Indianapolis has so many diverse spots to enjoy new and favorite artists. CityMom and musician, Kim, has been to all these venues over the years, and each and every one holds a special place in her heart!
Here are our 7 favorite Indianapolis music venues:
1. Chatterbox Jazz Club
Located in the Arts in the Independent Restaurant and Theater District, Chatterbox Jazz Club offers a cozy dive bar feel inside and a breezy patio right on Massachusetts Ave., where you will feel like a regular even if you’re a first-timer! Check out their Facebook page to stay in the loop on performances and cover charges.
2. The Vogue Theatre
The Vogue gets all the nostalgic points for those of us who grew up in Naptown! Located in the heart of Broad Ripple, this historic space started as a premier movie theater in 1938. It was converted into a top music venue in 1977 as a truly eclectic neighborhood scene with a rich history of hosting the most world-renowned artists of all time.
The Vogue nightclub keeps this rich history alive by continuing to attract national artists, local artists, and industry-leading DJs! Check out The Vogue's website for its diverse offerings—There is truly something for everyone! We love grabbing a bite to eat in Broad Ripple before rocking the night away at The Vogue!
3. Rock the Ruins at Holliday Park
For us, a perfect Indianapolis summer night is all about outdoor music at a historic venue! Rock the Ruins brings diverse touring artists to the ruins at picturesque Holliday Park just north of downtown Indianapolis.
GET READY TO ROCK THE RUINS:
In addition to live shows and great music, expect to find yummy food trucks, cold drinks, and shady spots to rock the night away. Bring your own chairs or blankets, and check out the best ways to park. The best part for us as locals? The proceeds from Rock the Ruins series support Holliday Park Foundation initiatives to keep this vibrant park and its programs alive and well.
4. The Melody Inn
Need a little punk rock in your life? You’ll love Melody Inn, home to Punk Rock Night every Saturday. Tucked away in the Butler-Tarkington neighborhood, Melody Inn is one of the oldest bars in Indianapolis. (est. 1935) The local acts range from open mic nights to blues, a little hillbilly happy hour, to open mic comedy. Cover is usually $5, parking is free, and beer, ciders, and snacks are plentiful!
5. Black Circle Music Bar
If you’re a metal mama, Black Circle Music Bar is the vibrant music scene for you! Black Circle features local musicians alongside national touring artists and has a great spot for sipping local craft beers or ciders on a warm summer night. Bonus, right next door (with a shared patio) is Beacon by the Path, a great place serving up delicious sandwiches and sides (tater tots—yum) with vegan and gluten-free options!
6. The Jazz Kitchen
Located in South Broad Ripple, or SoBro as the locals call it, The Jazz Kitchen is newly renovated. It is a hidden gem with world-class jazz, a sultry cocktail lounge, food, and an incredible Latin dance party on Thursdays. Check out the schedule for nights without a cover versus ticketed nights. Snuggle up with your honey or dance the night away at The Jazz Kitchen!
7. HI-FI and HI-FI Annex
If Fountain Square is your vibe, with all its cute shops and yummy restaurants, have we got the place for you! HI-FI is a fairly intimate venue in the Murphy Arts Building in the heart of Fountain Square. Expect to experience an up-close view of local up-and-comers alongside national touring artists, where shows happen nearly every day of the week! Check the age restrictions before you go. Some shows at HI-FI are 18+, while others are 21+.
If you have young concert-goers, check out HI-Fi Annex. The Annex is HI-FI’s festival-style outdoor music venue in partnership with Upland Brewing. It’s located right behind the Murphy Arts Building, and we love it for the whole family!
Looking for more outdoor venues? Check out White River State Park, Rathskeller Restaurant (in the heart of downtown!), and Riverside Park.
Prefer to be inside? Don't miss taking in a live concert at the Slippery Noodle Inn, The Murat Theatre Egyptian Room, or see the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra at Hilbert Circle Theatre.
These smaller Indianapolis venues have so much to offer, so if you’re curious, get off the beaten path and enjoy a night exploring a new venue!
Ready for more? See theCityMoms prep for summer concert season in with Indy Now
