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Immerse Yourself in North Carolina's Vibrant Music Venues

The audience stands with raised hands beneath glowing yellow stage lights.

People dancing under bright yellow lights.

Music adds to the culture of a state. North Carolina’s rich and diverse musical culture is one of the very best. If you’re stopping in and looking to catch a show, or you’re a local ready to experience a new band, North Carolina has the thing for you. Here are the best music venues in North Carolina to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds.

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The Pour House Music Hall, Raleigh, NC

For nearly two decades, the Pour House has provided the Triangle area with the broadest range of local beer of any North Carolina music venues, and has booked an arguably equally diverse range of local, national, and international acts.

Motorco Music Hall, Durham, NC

While considering Motorco a music hall isn’t inaccurate, it’s much more than that. The events space consists of the Showroom where most performances, parties, meetings, and even weddings happen, and of Parts & Labor, the venue’s garage bar and patio restaurant.

Neighborhood Theatre, Charlotte, NC

The movie-theater-turned-music-venue in Charlotte’s historic arts district has remained a landmark of entertainment for more than 70 years. Neighborhood Theatre hosts national and international acts in a space that holds nearly a thousand concert-goers.

Kings, Raleigh, NC

After being forced from its original location to be replaced by a parking deck, Kings reestablished itself as a focal point of creativity for its visitors. It’s nestled above Neptune’s Parlour, a venue and bar, and next to Garland, a restaurant inspired by Pan-Asian street food.

The Orange Peel, Asheville, NC

The Orange Peel, sometimes called The Orange Peel Social Aid & Pleasure Club, uses its state-of-the-art technical equipment to attract national acts as well as to serve as an outlet for introducing new performers.

The Pinhook, Durham, NC

The Pinhook is a vital space for North Carolina’s live music, dance parties, and collaborative artistic events.  The venue tirelessly works to provide its community with a safe space for music, drinks, and most importantly: self-expression. And they even welcome visitors to bring their dogs.

Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary, NC

Designed by architect William Rawn Associates of Boston, Koka Booth Amphitheatre resides beside Symphony Lake among 14 acres of hardwoods and pines. The outdoor venue can host up to 7,000 visitors per show on the lawn and the crescent-shaped deck.

Cat’s Cradle, Carrboro, NC

More than 40 years of live music under its belt including performances by Nirvana and Iggy Pop among other legends, Cat’s Cradle is undoubtedly a reason that thousands visit Carrboro each year.

Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts, Raleigh, NC

Although its name may be a mouthful, Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts four venues for symphonies, plays, musicals, guest speakers, and live music will surely leave visitors with a lot to talk about.

Key Insights at a Glance

  • The Pour House Music Hall: Longtime local favorite offering a wide range of craft beer and an eclectic mix of local and touring acts.
  • Motorco Music Hall: Multi-use space with a music showroom and on-site bar and restaurant; hosts everything from concerts to community events.
  • Neighborhood Theatre: This historic former movie theater has been turned into a music venue in the arts district, hosting national and international performers.
  • Kings: Creative music venue above Neptune's Parlour, offering indie shows and community events in a relaxed, artsy setting.
  • The Orange Peel: It is a popular venue known for its excellent sound and lighting> It attracts both prominent national acts and up-and-coming artists.
  • The Pinhook: Inclusive, community-focused venue for music, dance parties, and artistic expression—with a dog-friendly policy.
  • Koka Booth Amphitheatre: Scenic outdoor venue by Symphony Lake, with a capacity of 7,000 and surrounded by lush forest.
  • Cat's Cradle: Iconic venue with a 40+ year legacy, known for legendary performances by artists like Nirvana and Iggy Pop.
  • Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts: Versatile complex with four venues hosting live music, symphonies, theater, and cultural events in downtown Raleigh.

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