Best Concert Venues in Salt Lake

Red Butte Outdoor Concert Series

Along the beautiful East Bench of the Wasatch Mountain Range in the Salt Lake Valley lies the serene Red Butte Gardens. Within the gardens lies the Red Butte Amphitheater where from May to September annually, they host a quickly growing concert series. These concerts have featured artists such as, Sheryl Crow, HAIM, and Kacey Musgraves. Red Butte began as a small concert series with less known artist, and a smaller stage. After gaining popularity within the community and in the artist sector due to its unique vendor and ability for attendees to bring food, drink, and lawn chairs, the series began to dramatically grow. Since then the series has maintained popularity and become a staple for concert goers in the Salt Lake Valley and surrounding areas.

Something fun to do before a Red Butte Concert would be going to Salt Lake’s local gem, Lucky 13 to grab a burger, fries and beer. Considering their lines are usually out the door, ordering to-go is the best of both worlds when enjoying good food, music and company.

Twilight Concert Series

In the heart of Salt Lake City, as the sun begins to set during the summertime, you can find the infamous 6-week Twilight Concert Series. Twilight Concert Series in Salt Lake City, is known for showcasing diverse upcoming, local and nationally known artists inclusive of all backgrounds. The eclectic concert series began in the summer of 1988 under the name Brown Bag Twilight Series, and has since brought artists such as; St. Vincent, Wu-Tang Clan, Diplo, Solange, Empire of the Sun, The Head and the Heart, Beck, and so many more over the past 30 years. The series has grown so much in 30 years and now you can expect to find up to 10,000+ people in attendance, along with many local food trucks and breweries serving up what they do best before you catch the show. 

In 2012 the series started charging for admission at $10/ticket. The 2019 edition has been relocated back to its old stomping grounds, the Gallivan Center. The Salt Lake City Arts Council is the one who puts on the anticipated summertime favorite every year by partnering with promoters Thursday nights throughout the summer. There are still 3 shows left for the summer, so be sure to check one of the shows with a group of friends, or meet a new group of friends at one of Salt Lake City’s nostalgic summertime events. You can find tickets here for $10 or at the door for $15. 

The Complex

The Complex in Salt Lake City is one of the greatest concert venues in the valley. The Complex is a headquarter for live music in Salt Lake City along with various entertainment acts. Within the walls of The Complex, there are 4 separate venues that make up the 42,000 square foot building. As The Complex has grown, it has continually stayed true to its roots in providing first-class experiences to those that come to each show. The Complex in Salt Lake City focuses providing live music, mostly in the electronic and metal genres, as well as entertainment from both national and international artists that are touring through multiple states and countries.

Seated events are very rare at The Complex, the venue provides a very fun and lively environment for shows in Salt Lake. Compared to other concert and entertainment venues in the valley like Usana Amphitheatre, The Complex would be considered small compared to other venues in the Salt Lake Valley. Many love the venue due to the fact that it provides an intimate setting between the performer and the audience. Some of the previous artists that The Complex has hosted include Gryffin, Flume, The Head and The Heart, and James Bay. Many fans of The Complex are looking forward to upcoming artists such as Vampire Weekend, Japanese House, and The Band Perry. 

The Depot

Opening its doors in 2006, The Depot has been a staple venue for concerts in Salt Lake, catering to all tastes of music. The Depot, also known as the Salt Lake City Union Pacific Depot, has a long history, dating back to 1908-1909; the thriving era of the American railroad means of travel. The Depot has a rich history, of once housing an emergency hospital, lunch room, baggage rooms, and offices for the original railroads that ran in the 1920’s. The four-floored venue now hosts artists ranging from Carly Rae Jepsen, The Struts, to Oh Wonder and Andy Grammer. With 1,200 person capacity, The Depot gives the audience the opportunity to connect with artists on an intimate level. The Depot is located in a magnificent spot if you’re staying in SLC as it is right in the center of town and is a walkable distance from most of the hotels or AIRbnbs. Salt Lake City is a great place to visit whether on a romantic weekend or for a family trip, containing many historical sites just in the city itself. Be sure to checkout upcoming shows and start planning your visit!