The 12 Best Concert Venues in Nebraska For 2024

Looking for concerts in Nebraska? We've laid out the hottest live music venues in Nebraska so you know where to go to listen to your favorite artists.

1. Bourbon Theatre - Lincoln, NE

Live-music venue in a renovated 1930s movie theater, with multiple bars mixing craft cocktails.

Address: 1415 O St, Lincoln, NE 68508, United States (Directions)

Bourbon Theatre Reviews:

• Probably the best sound system in Lincoln. Unfortunately, not bike friendly. They do not have a bag check and refuse to let you enter with a backpack, even if you let them check it. Not sure what a person on a bike is supposed to do with their gear. Let one of the homeless people who live around there steal it?
• Most intimate venue I've ever seen Ganja White Night in and I wasn't ready for how awesome this place was. Out of town from Fargo ND, will definitely be returning here for more shows.
• Incredible place for a more intimate experience. You can get closer to the stage than a overly large venue, so the show is always great. They get a large variety of artists which caters to everyone! Source

Bourbon Theatre Concert Tickets

2. Slowdown - Omaha, NE

Slowdown is an entertainment venue located in the NoDo neighborhood of Omaha, Nebraska. A combination of a live music venue, shops, restaurants, and apartments, the venue was developed by Saddle Creek Records as a direct competitor to the Sokol Auditorium in Little Bohemia. Slowdown is said to be "unlike anything in Omaha - or the Midwest" because of its comprehensive, mixed-use design. The venue is named after the influential 1990s-era group Slowdown Virginia, who had a strong influence on the "Omaha Sound".

Address: 729 N 14th St, Omaha, NE 68102, United States (Directions)
Phone: +1 402-345-7569

Slowdown Reviews:

• Awesome music venue for concerts. We came and watched Moon Hooch, and it was an incredible night of music and fun. I recommend attending a concert here. The restrooms were very clean. The staff was excellent.
• My wife and I saw Big Head Todd & The Monsters and the sound quality was outstanding. The venue is big enough to hold a lot of people but still gives you the intimate setting to feel as if the band is just speaking to you. Great Venue. We will return...
• Went to the NYE party and it was incredible. Got the VIP tickets and had such a great night. Music is always amazing! Huge location. Plenty of vibing options. Whether you want to go out on the dance floor, mingle back by the tables and chairs, chill up top, kick it on the sides, or when weather permitting visit outside in the beer garden there’s a place for you at slowdown! Source

Slowdown Concert Tickets

3. The Waiting Room - NE - Papillion, NE

Roomy, industrial space with a lineup of local & touring bands, plus craft beer on tap & cocktails.

Address: 6212 Maple St, Omaha, NE 68104, United States (Directions)
Phone: +1 402-884-5353

The Waiting Room Reviews:

• Cool little venue. Drinks are cheap and well mixed. The wait staff was friendly and quick. We saw a sold out Kay Flay show and the staff did a great job hosting. Good acoustics and an elevated stage. I would recommend this venue to anybody with a night off.
• Great place to see a show! Cool people, chill vibe, reasonable prices on drinks. Coming from out of town I felt very comfortable and welcomed here.
• Amazing venue. Saw K. Flay for the second time here and it was an amazing show. Except for the train wreck of an opening act DJ and a couple of drunk morons, it was one of the best nights of the year. Amazing sounds, good drinks and great artists. Source

The Waiting Room Concert Tickets

4. Pinnacle Bank Arena - Lincoln, NE

Pinnacle Bank Arena is a 15,500-seat indoor arena in the West Haymarket District of Lincoln, Nebraska. It was completed in 2013 and replaced the Bob Devaney Sports Center as the home of the University of Nebraska's men's and women's basketball teams. Wikipedia

Address: 400 Pinnacle Arena Dr, Lincoln, NE 68508, United States (Directions)

Pinnacle Bank Arena Reviews:

• Wonderful facility that can host anything from a rock concert to a sporting events. Staff is courteous and helpful, everything is clean and reasonable comfortable. Some drawbacks are parking and concession prices but where isn’t that an issue?
• Best place to see a show! Cleanest most well organized venue I've ever been, and I've been to over 100 arenas and amphitheaters across North America.
• Went here for a concert just the other day, and many in the past. I was there to see Korn and Breaking Benjamin and I loved that, but don't think I didn't notice the staff hard at work keeping the place up and running. And for a concert of that size and how wild the fans get, they're doing a good job of keeping things running. I hope that cleanup wasn't too hard after the music was done, haha. They're doing their best and I appreciate their hard work. Source

Pinnacle Bank Arena Concert Tickets

5. CHI Health Center Omaha - Omaha, NE

CHI Health Center Omaha is an arena and convention center in the central United States, located in the North Downtown neighborhood of Omaha, Nebraska. Wikipedia

Address: 455 N 10th St, Omaha, NE 68102, United States (Directions)
Capacity: 17,560
Phone: +1 402-341-1500

CHI Health Center Omaha Reviews:

• I’ve been here many times, most recently to see Post Malone❤️ I’ve also been blessed to see Garth Brooks here. Awesome awesome venue! For a facility of this size and the magnitude of stars and shows, everything goes smoothly and the staff are always very upbeat and pleasant. Can’t wait to go back!
• Worked here as an usher and attended many events here with family and friends. Last time was to experience the Equestrian Jumping trials. Great seats and the competition was thrilling. Friendly staff guiding you to seats and giving directions to food venues with types of food you are desiring. Lots of parking available in the area if you want to walk and plenty across the street.
• It's a very beautiful facility if you can get into it. February 21st they scheduled two events both large public attractions Plus a Creighton baseball game across the street. Observe First Responders difficulties in trying to navigate that much traffic both foot an automobile in one spot. Source

CHI Health Center Omaha Concert Tickets

6. Baxter Arena - Omaha, NE

Baxter Arena is the sports arena owned and operated by the University of Nebraska Omaha located in Omaha, Nebraska. Completed in 2015, Baxter Arena serves as the home of several of the university's sports teams, known as the Omaha Mavericks. Wikipedia

Address: 2425 S 67th St, Omaha, NE 68182, United States (Directions)
Capacity: 7,898
Phone: +1 402-554-6200

Baxter Arena Reviews:

• Great arena in the Omaha area used for the college hockey team and other events. Their new practice Arena can be viewed from inside and this Arena has great parking and easy access. Inside there's great food selections and the energy is always high during events
• Great hockey arena with good viewing from all seats. Plenty of concessions and good sized restrooms to keep lines moving in between periods. Fun place!
• Baxter Arena is a very nice place! It's very clean, and easy to find your way around it. I went there to donate my blood to the American Red Cross. It's an annual tradition for me to do this. Baxter Arena is Awesome! Source

Baxter Arena Concert Tickets

7. Pinewood Bowl Theater - Lincoln, NE

Surrounded by the natural beauty of evergreens, the venue offers a night under the stars like no other. Pinewood Bowl serves a local population of 285,000 and can accommodate up to 5,500 people.

Address: 3201 S Coddington Ave, Lincoln, NE 68522, United States (Directions)
Phone: +1 402-413-1565

Pinewood Bowl Theater Reviews:

• What a lovel place to have a concert. I went on a beautiful night and had a great time. The seating wasn't exactly comfortable, but what do you expect outdoors? It was at night so the sky was just lovely. Truly the second best outdoor theater I've personally been too (second to Red Rock in Colorado... can't beat that one).
• There is no other venue like Pinewood Bowl. The scenery at the park provides a perfect backdrop for an evening of music. The staff and management are all courteous, quick, and knowledgeable, and they know what it takes to run an event smoothly. Parking is cheap and relatively easy, traffic moves in and out of the park as quickly as can be expected. The atmosphere in the show is like nothing you will ever experience anywhere else- intimate, yet big enough to bring a great energy to each show. Even smaller crowds feel like a sell out at a bigger venue. The sound is always excellent out here!
• It's what I imagine Stir Cove in council bluffs aspires to be, I love the fact that it's an outdoor venue but they also still provide seating and assigned seats like at an actual concert. We went to Weird Al and the performance was great, we didn't think things through completely about it being an outdoor event and so we didn't bring any bug spray, but the second we got into the venue we saw an entire station dedicated to free bug spray for people to use which I thought was fantastic! Source

Pinewood Bowl Theater Concert Tickets

8. Orpheum Theatre - Omaha, NE

The Orpheum Theater is located at 409 South 16th Street in downtown Omaha, Nebraska. The Orpheum hosts programs best served by a more theatrical setting, including the Omaha Performing Arts Broadway Season, presented with Broadway Across America, and Opera Omaha's season. Wikipedia

Address: 409 S 16th St, Omaha, NE 68102, United States (Directions)
Capacity: 2,600
Phone: +1 402-661-8501

Orpheum Theatre Reviews:

• Best place ever man! It has the best acoustics, and the best seats you can get! Been going there for a while now, and it is the best place to go! Very nice staff, and very friendly there. It has a great vibe. Very proper too, it's nice!
• The Orpheum Theatre is an gem in the heart of Omaha. I could spend hours here just admiring the architecture. I highly recommend heading downtown early to grab dinner and drinks before the show. There are a number of great restaurants and bars within a few blocks of the theatre. Between downtown and the nearby Blackstone District you never have to go to the same place twice.
• Beautiful venue. Great place to see a play, concert, etc. Need to advertise their happy hour better (runs til 7). Missing the boat there I think. Also need to add value to their "super subscriber" package to make it worth the money. Overall great experience. Source

Orpheum Theatre Concert Tickets

9. Lied Center for Performing Arts - Lincoln, NE

The Lied Center for Performing Arts is a performing arts facility located in Lincoln, Nebraska, United States that opened in 1990. Part of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, it is used for events such as orchestra, theatre, and speakers. Wikipedia

Address: 301 N 12th St, Lincoln, NE 68508, United States (Directions)
Phone: +1 402-472-4747

Lied Center for Performing Arts Reviews:

• Went to see the Blue Man Group. It was a very nice experience. All of the folks who were there to assist us were very helpful. There was a little mix up in the tickets ‍♀️ we were accommodated with what I thought were way better seats! All in all it was a fun event for all ages.
• We saw Post Modern Jukebox. It was a wonderful show. The acoustic of the Lied Center needs work. The other thing that needs work is the men's restroom. The room is too small. Too few toilets and too many urinals. When my shoulder is touching the guy next to myself that's too tight. There was a long line to use the toilets because of how you are packed in to use the urinals.
• I believe I can offer a unique perspective. Even though I have watched NUMEROUS shows at this facility, I have performed at this venue multiple times as well. The backstage dressing rooms are fantastic-- they are equipped with mirrors, sinks, restrooms, etc. There's even a green room! Regarding the stage, it is not huge, but certainly a good size, especially from the audience's perspective. From the audience's perspective, most of the productions are wonderful. Great sound quality, acoustics, lighting, effects, and talent! The ushers are kind and courteous. Source

Lied Center for Performing Arts Concert Tickets

10. Wild West Arena - North Platte, NE

The Wild West Arena in North Platte, Nebraska, is a venue known for hosting a variety of events, most notably the annual Nebraskaland Days. This event is a celebration of Nebraska's Western heritage and includes activities such as rodeos, concerts, and parades. The Wild West Arena is a key location for these festivities, providing a space that captures the spirit of the Old West. Its rodeo events are particularly popular, drawing competitors and spectators from various regions. This venue plays a significant role in maintaining and promoting the cultural and historical traditions of Nebraska, making it a pivotal point of interest in North Platte.

Address: 2400 N Buffalo Bill Ave, North Platte, NE 69101, United States (Directions)
Phone: +1 308-532-7939

Wild West Arena Reviews:

• Great place to go watch rodeos and concerts during the summer
• Great arena. Comfortable seating, great visibility, sound system is effective, concessions and restroom facilities are good.
• The hotel is comfortable and accessible. Melinda at the front desk is wonderful. She got me booked into a room at a very decent rate and had a smile and friendly greeting when I arrived. The people truly make this hotel a joy to stay at. Source

Wild West Arena Concert Tickets

11. Ralston Arena - Ralston, NE

The Ralston Arena, also called the Ralston Sports and Event Center, is an arena located in Ralston, Nebraska, a suburb of Omaha, Nebraska. It serves as the home of the Omaha Lancers of the United States Hockey League and the Omaha Beef of Champions Indoor Football. Wikipedia

Address: 7300 Q St, Omaha, NE 68127, United States (Directions)
Capacity: 4,356 - (End Stage Concert)
Phone: +1 402-934-9966

Ralston Arena Reviews:

• The space is modern and clean. The sound system isn't overwhelmingly loud. There are a number of good food and drink options as well. Catch a concert or a Lancers Hockey game there and you won't be disappointed.
• I absolutely love this place! My friend is matay, she's the running back for Omaha heart! I had so much fun! And she scored 3 touchdowns I think.
• In this year, I have gone to 5 concerts. All have been amazing experiences, 2 events I was in front and the rest have been backstage. Very spacious and I just always have a great time. Source

Ralston Arena Concert Tickets

12. Steelhouse - Omaha, NE

Steelhouse Omaha is a modern, versatile venue in Omaha, Nebraska, designed for a variety of events like concerts, performances, and conventions. It features advanced sound and lighting systems, catering to both small and large gatherings. This state-of-the-art facility enhances Omaha's cultural and entertainment offerings, serving as a hub for community engagement and live events.

Address: 1100 Dodge St, Omaha, NE 68102, United States
Phone: +1 402-345-0606

Steelhouse concert tickets

Based on the Google reviews, here are the pros and cons of the venue:

Pros:

1. Great Overall Atmosphere: Reviewers consistently praise the venue for its sleek, clean, and well-laid-out design, contributing to a visually and functionally appealing experience.
2. Sound Quality: Many reviewers highlight the excellent sound quality, especially for the music, enhancing the overall experience.
3. Convenient Amenities: The venue is appreciated for its multiple bars and easy access to restrooms, ensuring comfort and convenience.
4. Friendly Staff: Positive remarks about the friendly and helpful staff add to the welcoming atmosphere of the venue.
5. Good Visibility: Several reviews mention that the venue offers good visibility of the stage from various locations, ensuring a good viewing experience.
6. Efficient Security and Entry: The quick and efficient security checks and entry process are noted as positives, making the arrival experience smooth.
7. Location and Accessibility: The venue's location and easy parking access are also highlighted as advantageous.

Cons:

1. Audio Issues for Specific Performances: Some reviews mention problems with vocal audibility during certain performances, indicating inconsistency in sound management.
2. General Seating and Standing Area: A few reviewers point out that most tickets offer general seating, which means standing on the floor. This might be uncomfortable for some attendees.
3. Elevated Drink Prices: Although the quality of drinks is praised, some find the prices to be slightly higher than average.

Overall, the venue is highly regarded for its atmosphere, sound quality, and amenities, with a few minor issues related to specific performances and seating arrangements.