Fans with their hands raised, illuminated by purple and pink stage lights overhead.
Maine has something special to offer music lovers. The Pine Tree State is home to large sports stadiums, fancy concert halls, and quaint music bars. In recent years, Maine has seen tours from the likes of the Dave Matthews Band, Kenny Chesney, and Mumford and Sons. Gone are the days you would have to drive down to Boston to enjoy the big names as they are coming in packs to Maine’s best music venues across the state.
Maine Savings Amphitheater, Bangor, ME
Maine Savings Amphitheater (formerly Darling’s Waterfront Pavilion) in Bangor is Maine’s largest open-air amphitheater situated on the banks of the historic Penobscot River. Every summer the venue hosts big names like Jason Aldean, Tim McGraw, the Dave Matthews Band, and the Zac Brown Band. Located just two hours north of Portland, Maine Savings Amphitheater is a popular venue to see a show.
Stone Mountain Arts Center, Brownfield, ME
Stone Mountain Arts Center does not attractive the big names, but it does attractive some of New England’s best local musicians. Based in the beautiful western mountains of Maine, Stone Mountain Arts Center offers a gorgeous barn with views of the mountains and always serves mouthwatering local food. Stone Mountain Art Center is a favorite venue for artists like Lyle Lovett, Joan Armatrading, and the Indigo Girls.
State Theater, Portland, ME
Located just down the street from the Port City Music Hall is the historic and much larger State Theater. Designed in 1929 with Spanish, Italian, and Art Deco aesthetics the theater showcased various acts up until 2006 when it closed its doors. It reopened again in 2010 and is now home to shows like the Pixies, Of Monsters of Men, and the Goo Goo Dolls.
The Camden Opera House, Camden, ME
The historic Camden Opera House opened its doors in 1894 with a performance of “Maritama” by the Boston Opera Company. Over the years the venue has hosted films, big bands, and musical performances from world-renowned musicians. The Camden Opera House is a great venue to see the Maine Youth Rock Orchestra and other lesser known artists.
The Strand Theatre, Rockland, ME
The historic Strand Theatre in Rockland has been entertaining people since 1923. Remodeled in 2005, the theater is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, the Strand Theatre is a multi-use venue offering the best independent films, live musical performances and concerts, and stage performances.
Mixers Nightclub & Lounge, Sabattus, ME
Located in Sabattus, Mixers Nightclub & Lounge is open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The club hosts themed parties and live music events every weekend. Upcoming shows include Eds Meds, The Ge3ks, and plenty of cover bands to keep you dancing all night long.
Cross Insurance Arena, Portland, ME
Opened more than 40 years ago, the Cross Insurance Arena (formerly the Cumberland County Civic Center) is southern Maine’s largest arena. Over the years it has hosted the likes of Elton John, Toby Keith, and John Mayer. Check out the events calendar to find when your favorite artist is coming for a show.
Portland House of Music, Portland, ME
Opened by the former manager of the Big Easy, the Portland House of Music has become a popular small venue that showcases local music acts. Paired with an extensive menu and fun happy hours, this music venue is a perfect place to check out Portland’s local talent.
Thompson’s Point, Portland, ME
Thompson’s Point is one of Portland’s newest music venues and it has made quite the splash by hosting some big names this past summer in the outdoor amphitheater. Just bring your chair, cooler, and take in an awesome show down by the Fore River.
Key Insights at a Glance
- Maine Savings Amphitheater in Bangor is the state's largest outdoor venue, drawing major touring acts like Dave Matthews Band and Jason Aldean each summer. Set along the Penobscot River, it's just a couple hours north of Portland.
- Stone Mountain Arts Center in Brownfield is set in a cozy, rustic barn in the western mountains. It features regional talent, fan favorites like Lyle Lovett and the Indigo Girls, hearty local food, and scenic views.
- State Theatre in Portland is a beautifully restored 1929 landmark that hosts popular national acts like the Pixies and Goo Goo Dolls. Its unique architecture adds to the concert experience.
- Camden Opera House dates back to 1894 and remains a charming, historic spot to catch everything from local orchestras to global musicians. It's a go-to venue for community shows and cultural performances.
- The Strand Theatre in Rockland, a 1923 gem on the National Register of Historic Places, offers a mix of indie films, concerts, and live performances in a vintage yet modernized setting.
- Mixers Nightclub & Lounge in Sabattus is a weekend destination for live music, themed parties, and dance-ready cover bands like The Ge3ks and Eds Meds.
- Cross Insurance Arena in Portland, formerly the Civic Center, has hosted major stars like Elton John and John Mayer. It's southern Maine's biggest arena and a key stop for large touring acts.
- Portland House of Music is a small but lively venue known for spotlighting local talent. It also has a solid drink menu and fun happy hours—a relaxed way to catch rising Maine artists.
- Thompson's Point is a newer, open-air venue in Portland that's become a summer favorite. With big-name concerts, scenic river views, and a bring-your-own-chair vibe, it's a casual but exciting place to hear live music.
