Columbus, Ohio Concerts & Live Music Venues

Columbus, Ohio, is home to a vibrant and ever-growing live music scene. From historic rock halls to modern arenas, the city offers something for every music lover, sports fan, and entertainment enthusiast. Whether you’re looking for world-famous touring artists, local indie bands, or family-friendly performances, ColumbusLocalMusic.com provides a complete guide to upcoming concerts, live events, and tickets across the city.

This page covers major venues, mid-size halls, underground clubs, and outdoor festivals, giving you all the information you need to plan an unforgettable night out in Columbus, Ohio.

1. Nationwide Arena

Nationwide Arena is one of Columbus’ largest and most versatile entertainment venues. Located in downtown Columbus, the arena hosts major concerts, NHL games (Columbus Blue Jackets), and large-scale special events.

• Capacity: ~20,000 for concerts
• Key Features: Luxury suites, multiple seating levels, premium access
• Popular Events: Rock concerts, pop tours, hip-hop shows

Nationwide Arena is ideal for fans who want a full-scale concert experience with professional sound, lighting, and amenities.

2. Value City Arena (Schottenstein Center)

Located on the Ohio State University campus, Value City Arena hosts NCAA basketball games, concerts, and family shows. Its modern design, high capacity, and central location make it a top venue for both local fans and visitors.

• Capacity: ~19,500 for concerts
• Seating Options: Floor/general admission, lower-level, upper-level, club & premium, accessible seating
• Events: Pop, rock, hip-hop, and EDM concerts; sports tournaments; family shows

3. KEMBA Live! (Formerly Lifestyle Communities Pavilion)

KEMBA Live! is a mid-to-large outdoor venue in Columbus that is perfect for summer concerts and festivals. With flexible seating and lawn areas, it attracts large audiences for live music, festivals, and special events.

• Capacity: ~6,000–20,000 depending on setup
• Genres: Pop, rock, country, electronic music
• Tip: Lawn seating is great for a relaxed summer evening concert

4. Newport Music Hall

Known as the longest-running rock club in the world, Newport Music Hall is a historic venue in Columbus’ Short North Arts District. This intimate club is famous for hosting legendary rock bands and indie artists.

• Capacity: ~1,700
• Seating: Primarily general admission, some reserved areas
• Genres: Rock, alternative, indie, hip-hop

5. Express Live!

Express Live! combines indoor and outdoor stages to offer a versatile concert experience. This venue is known for summer festivals, live pop and hip-hop shows, and hosting international touring artists.

• Capacity: 5,000–10,000
• Tip: Check upcoming shows for VIP passes and early access tickets

6. The Bluestone

The Bluestone is a popular mid-size venue for both local and touring bands. Known for its excellent acoustics and lively atmosphere, it hosts a wide range of musical genres.

• Capacity: ~550–600
• Genres: Rock, pop, alternative, indie
• Tip: Ideal for fans who prefer an up-close concert experience

7. Summit Music Hall

Summit Music Hall offers a standing-room-only floor and small balcony, making it a favorite for indie, alternative, and emerging artists.

• Capacity: ~600
• Experience: Intimate and energetic, perfect for die-hard fans

8. The Basement & Skully’s Music-Diner

These venues are underground music hubs in Columbus, hosting indie bands, local artists, and alternative shows. They are smaller but provide personalized and high-energy concert experiences.

• Capacity: 150–400
• Tip: Great for discovering new talent in the Columbus music scene

9. Ace of Cups & Woodlands Tavern

These venues are intimate bars and clubs, popular for local indie, acoustic, and rock acts. Perfect for casual nights out with friends, offering a close connection to the artists.

• Tip: Check weekly schedules as local bands rotate frequently

10. Lincoln Theatre & Southern Theatre

For jazz, classical, and theatrical performances, Lincoln Theatre and Southern Theatre provide historic charm with modern amenities.

• Capacity: 1,200–1,500
• Events: Jazz concerts, theater productions, touring performers

Columbus also has multiple outdoor venues that host live music festivals, community concerts, and seasonal events:

• Scioto Mile – Riverfront park hosting large outdoor concerts
• Genoa Park – Open-air venue for festivals and concerts
• Goodale Park – Community events, summer concerts
• Alum Creek Amphitheater – Mid-size summer concerts
• Wolfe Park – Smaller outdoor music events

Outdoor venues are perfect for summer concerts and festivals, allowing fans to enjoy music with scenic views and a relaxed atmosphere.

Columbus features cultural and university-affiliated venues for live performances beyond mainstream concerts:

• Mershon Auditorium (OSU) – Concerts, lectures, classical music
• Weigel Auditorium – Smaller university events and local performances
• Wexner Center for the Arts – Contemporary music and experimental shows
• King Arts Complex – Jazz, R&B, and cultural events
• Ohio Theatre – Historic theatre with world-class performances

These venues cater to specialized audiences, cultural enthusiasts, and those seeking a refined concert experience.

Buying tickets in Columbus is easy and secure through ColumbusLocalMusic.com.

Fans can purchase tickets for:

• Concerts at major venues like Nationwide Arena and Value City Arena
• Mid-size music halls like The Bluestone or Summit Music Hall
• Local and indie shows at Newport Music Hall, Ace of Cups, or The Basement
• Outdoor festivals at Scioto Mile, Genoa Park, or Alum Creek Amphitheater

Last-Minute & Sold-Out Tickets

• Many Columbus venues offer resale tickets for sold-out shows
• Check frequently for last-minute availability
• Purchase online to ensure authenticity and secure entry

Most Columbus venues are centrally located, with good access to public transportation, rideshare, and parking:

• Downtown venues (Nationwide Arena, Express Live!, Newport Music Hall) – Multiple parking garages, COTA buses, and rideshare drop-offs
• Campus venues (Value City Arena, Mershon Auditorium) – On-campus parking lots, shuttles, and public transit
• Outdoor venues – Street parking and dedicated event lots

Tips for visiting Columbus venues:

• Arrive early for high-demand shows
• Check venue-specific parking maps
• Consider rideshare for downtown or festival events

1. Where can I buy tickets for Columbus concerts?
Tickets can be purchased online at ColumbusLocalMusic.com, including last-minute and resale options.

2. What are the major music venues in Columbus, Ohio?
Major venues include Nationwide Arena, Value City Arena, Newport Music Hall, KEMBA Live!, and Express Live!

3. Are there general admission options?
Yes, many venues offer floor/general admission for concerts, including Newport Music Hall, Summit Music Hall, and Express Live!

4. Are Columbus venues accessible?
Most major and mid-size venues provide wheelchair-accessible seating and amenities for guests with accessibility needs.

5. How early should I arrive for concerts?
Doors typically open 60–90 minutes before showtime. For high-demand concerts, arriving earlier is recommended.

6. Are there outdoor music events in Columbus?
Yes, Scioto Mile, Genoa Park, Goodale Park, and Alum Creek Amphitheater host seasonal concerts and festivals.

7. What genres of music are popular in Columbus?
Rock, indie, pop, hip-hop, country, jazz, electronic, and classical music are all widely represented.

8. Can I find family-friendly concerts in Columbus?
Yes, venues like Value City Arena, Ohio Theatre, and outdoor festival spaces host family shows and kid-friendly performances.

Columbus is constantly growing as a live music hub, with venues of all sizes offering weekend concerts, festivals, and local shows.

Some notable venues to explore beyond the major arenas include:

• The Bluestone
• Summit Music Hall
• Ace of Cups
• Lincoln Theatre
• Southern Theatre

Stay updated on upcoming events to never miss a concert in Columbus, Ohio.

Don’t miss out on the best live music and concerts in Columbus. Whether it’s a major touring artist, a local indie show, or a summer festival, Columbus has venues to match every taste.

Browse upcoming events and buy tickets online at ColumbusLocalMusic.com to ensure your spot. With reliable ticketing, easy access, and detailed venue information, planning your next night out in Columbus has never been easier.