Music Venues

Photo credit: Ashly Othic, courtesy of Santa Barbara Bowl

From historic stages and open-air amphitheaters to intimate clubs and neighborhood bars, Santa Barbara’s music venues deliver incredible performances in unforgettable settings. Whether you’re catching a local act downtown or a major tour stop under the stars, Santa Barbara concert venues set the stage for live music all year long.

Historic Theaters & Performing Arts Spaces

Historic theaters showcase Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and carefully restored interiors. Original stages, ornate ceilings and warm acoustics create a beautiful setting for orchestral concerts, ballet, opera and touring musicals. Many of these venues are also steps from restaurants, galleries and hotels, making it easy to pair a performance with an evening out. Explore more theaters and performing arts.

Outdoor Stages & Open-Air Events

Santa Barbara’s mild coastal climate creates the perfect atmosphere for outdoor concerts. Parks, gardens and plazas near the waterfront host performances against city, ocean and mountain backdrops. Spread out a blanket, set up a low chair or find a spot near the stage to take in the music surrounded by stunning scenery. View upcoming music events.

Clubs, Bars & Small Music Venues

In downtown Santa Barbara and along the waterfront, bars, lounges and small clubs keep live music thriving at a local level. Built-in stages host everything from acoustic sets to full band performances, with standing areas and small tables close to the action. Many venues also serve regional wine and craft beer, perfect for sipping local beverages while jamming out to Santa Barbara’s bands and artists. Discover Santa Barbara’s nightlife scene.

Live Music in Santa Barbara


Santa Barbara Bowl

Nestled in the foothills of Santa Barbara, The Santa Barbara Bowl was built in 1936 and has served as one of Santa Barbara’s most iconic outdoor music venues since. The outdoor concert venue seats up to 4,562, so you’re guaranteed a…


The Red Piano

The Red Piano is Santa Barbara’s premier destination for live music, vibrant socializing, and handcrafted cocktails. Our intimate and energetic venue features nightly performances from talented pianists and bands, creating the perfect…


Nomad Tango

Nomad Tango is a non-profit founded to promote Tango music, dance and social gatherings (milongas) as a way to expand well-being and a sense of belonging. We believe that tango needs to be understood as an art form, and take its place among ballet,…


Granada Theatre

A local landmark for more than a century, The Granada Theatre is the central coast’s premier performing arts venue. Located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, the theater is home to the Santa Barbara Center for the Performing Arts…


Santa Barbara Symphony

The Santa Barbara Symphony delivers artistic excellence, outstanding music education stewardship and programming, and community collaboration - all through symphonic music. Under the artistic leadership of Maestro Nir Kabaretti as Music &…


Lobero Theatre

The Lobero Theatre has been the heart and rhythm of Santa Barbara for the last 150 years. Originally founded as Jose Lobero’s Opera House in 1873, the Lobero is the oldest continuously operating theatre in California and the fourth oldest…


Chumash Casino

Chumash Casino offers exciting gaming, fine dining, a full spa and live entertainment. The moment you walk through our doors, you feel the difference. From our gracious hospitality to our warm, welcoming environment filled with lush amenities,…


Additional Experiences