There are tons of concert and show venues in the city of Pittsburgh and each has its own element that makes it special. But, whenever it comes to deciding which venue is the best, the beauty and design of a space may influence how your experience plays out. All of the venues below have pushed the boundaries of what a traditional venue offers: they’re old churches or historical landmarks or even just cool places to hangout. After all, the entertainment may be the main act, but the atmosphere around you helps make it memorable.
Most Beautiful Pittsburgh Concert Venues
Mr. Smalls Theatre
An old church made into a concert venue with high arching ceilings and stained glass windows? Consider us there! Mr. Smalls Theatre in Millvale actually has two separate concert areas (the Funhouse and the Theatre) as well as a cafe with food and beverage options. While the Funhouse has more of an underground, basement vibe to it, the Theatre space includes a large open dance floor and seating around the upper balcony. No matter what concert or show you’re seeing at this venue, the atmosphere is sure to add another layer to your unforgettable time.
Benedum Center
Built in 1928 as a movie palace, the Benedum Center is one of the historical and cultural landmarks of the city, presenting Broadway shows, local productions, and so much more. Over 90 original crystal chandeliers, torchieres and sconces adorn the ceilings and walls of the theater. As you head to your seat, you’ll pass marble walls, large mirrors, and plenty of red velvet. Plus, the main chandelier that lights up the theater’s ceiling is something you just have to see in person for its pure beauty.
Preserving Underground
This New Kensington venue is worth the drive just to explore the building. Preserving Underground is not only another church turned concert venue but also a record shop and a DIY event space. It’s great to be able to browse through tons of vintage and new vinyls from all your favorite artists before admiring the stained glass arches of the main stage. Just be sure to also stop by their merch room where you can purchase old concert and band merchandise that the store has been collecting for years. You never know what you might discover at this three-in-one venue.
Carnegie Music Hall
Inside the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh in Oakland you’ll find a wide open theater with rounded rings of seats, providing a perfect view for all. The stunning marble arch above the stage contains careful gold etchings and the seats provide comfort with a velvet covering, putting you back into the golden age of theater. The hall came about in 1895 and its architecture is still mostly the same and for good reason. Here you’ll usually view concerts from local symphonic artists and interesting speaker sessions.
Greer Cabaret Theater
This is THE late-night entertainment venue to make your night out feel like an exclusive experience. This cabaret-like, intimate space in the Cultural District features neon lights along the walls and ceiling. Elegantly outlining the architectural and acoustical elects of the space, they focus your eye on the nearly rectangular stage. In addition to banquettes along the walls, the floor also holds small tables with close seating and a small lamp on each. Needless to say this is the spot you come to when you want to sit back, relax, and enjoy a cocktail while watching unique entertainment. It all feels somehow modern but also antique at the same time.
PNC Park
While you’re probably used to seeing the Pirates play baseball at this river-side venue, their outdoor concerts are just as much of a special experience. Imagine looking over a large, laser-lit stage that sits in front of the beautiful Pittsburgh skyline with acoustics that make just about any seat a winner. Not to mention that this outdoor venue allows you a chance to see fireworks, pyrotechnics, and other visual accompaniments that you wouldn’t get to experience indoors.
Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo Courtesy of Mr. Smalls Theatre
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