The 8 Best Concert Venues in Alaska

Alaska may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of live music, but the state has a thriving music scene and some incredible concert venues. From large arenas to intimate breweries, Alaska has something for everyone. Whether you're a local or just visiting, be sure to check out these top concert venues for an unforgettable musical experience. From the Atwood Concert Hall in Anchorage to the Kenai Peninsula State Fairgrounds in Soldotna, we've rounded up the eight best concert venues in Alaska that are worth checking out. So, grab your friends and get ready to rock out in the Last Frontier!

#1 Atwood Concert Hall

The Venue

Located in the heart of Anchorage, Alaska, Atwood Concert Hall is a world-renowned concert venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in music, theater, and dance. The hall is part of the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts, which is a complex that includes three other theaters, a reception hall, and a restaurant.

The Space

Atwood Concert Hall is a state-of-the-art venue that boasts excellent acoustics, making it the perfect space for performances of all kinds. The hall has a seating capacity of 2,000, and every seat provides an unobstructed view of the stage. The stage itself is 90 feet wide and 55 feet deep, making it one of the largest stages in the country. The hall also has a state-of-the-art sound system and lighting equipment, which ensures that every performance is a memorable experience.

The Performances

Atwood Concert Hall has a rich history of hosting some of the world's most renowned performers. Over the years, the hall has welcomed the likes of Yo-Yo Ma, Itzhak Perlman, Sarah Chang, and many others. The hall is also the home of the Anchorage Symphony Orchestra, which performs a regular season of concerts from September to May. In addition to classical music, Atwood Concert Hall also hosts a wide range of other performances, including theater productions, dance performances, and popular music concerts. The hall has welcomed artists such as Tony Bennett, Diana Ross, and Harry Connick Jr., as well as Broadway productions like "Les Misérables" and "The Lion King."

The Experience

The experience of attending a performance at Atwood Concert Hall is nothing short of magical. The hall's excellent acoustics and state-of-the-art facilities ensure that every performance is a memorable one. The venue also offers a wide range of amenities, including a coat check, concessions, and a gift shop. The Alaska Center for the Performing Arts is also located in the heart of Anchorage, making it easy to explore the city before or after a performance. In conclusion, Atwood Concert Hall is a world-class venue that offers a unique and unforgettable experience for music, theater, and dance lovers. With its state-of-the-art facilities, excellent acoustics, and rich history of hosting renowned performers, it's no wonder that Atwood Concert Hall is considered one of the best concert halls in the country.

#2 Alaska Airlines Center

The Alaska Airlines Center is a state-of-the-art sports and entertainment venue located in Anchorage, Alaska. The center is owned and managed by the University of Alaska Anchorage and is the largest venue of its kind in the state.

Facilities

The center features a 5,000-seat arena, a 300-seat theater, and a 20,000-square-foot conference center. The arena is equipped with the latest sound and lighting technology, making it a popular venue for concerts and other live events. The theater is perfect for smaller performances, while the conference center is ideal for business meetings, conventions, and other events.

Concerts and Events

The Alaska Airlines Center has hosted a variety of concerts and events since its opening in 2014. Some of the biggest names in the music industry, such as Elton John, Bruno Mars, and Imagine Dragons, have performed at the center. In addition to concerts, the center has also hosted sporting events, such as basketball and hockey games, as well as other live events, such as comedy shows and dance performances.

Location and Accessibility

The Alaska Airlines Center is located on the University of Alaska Anchorage campus, which is easily accessible by car or public transportation. The center also offers ample parking for visitors. The venue is conveniently located near several hotels and restaurants, making it easy for visitors to find accommodations and dining options during their stay.

Conclusion

The Alaska Airlines Center is a premier venue for sports and entertainment in Alaska. With state-of-the-art facilities, top-notch sound and lighting technology, and a prime location, the center is a popular destination for concerts, sporting events, and other live performances. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to Alaska, the Alaska Airlines Center is a must-see destination for anyone who loves live entertainment.

#3 Kenai Peninsula State Fairgrounds

The Kenai Peninsula State Fairgrounds is situated in the heart of Alaska, in the city of Ninilchik. It is a place of great significance for the people of the Kenai Peninsula region, and it holds a special place in the hearts of music lovers, festival-goers, and artists alike. The fairgrounds have been the site of many memorable concerts, festivals, and events over the years, and its reputation as a top-notch venue has only continued to grow.

A History of the Fairgrounds

The Kenai Peninsula State Fairgrounds was established in 1948 as a place for the community to gather and celebrate the region's agricultural heritage. Over the years, it has grown into a multi-purpose event space that hosts a wide variety of events, including concerts, rodeos, and craft fairs. The fairgrounds are also home to the annual Kenai Peninsula State Fair, which draws thousands of visitors from across the state each year.

A Premier Concert Venue

One of the reasons the Kenai Peninsula State Fairgrounds is so beloved by music fans is its top-notch concert facilities. The venue features a spacious outdoor amphitheater that can seat up to 7,000 people, as well as a more intimate indoor arena that can accommodate up to 1,500. The sound and lighting systems are state-of-the-art, ensuring that every concert is a memorable experience for both the artists and the audience.

Memorable Performances

Over the years, the Kenai Peninsula State Fairgrounds has hosted some of the biggest names in music. Everyone from Willie Nelson to Miranda Lambert has taken the stage at the fairgrounds, and each concert has been a unique and unforgettable experience. But it's not just the big names that make the fairgrounds special – it's also the local talent that gets a chance to shine. The venue hosts regular open mic nights and showcases for up-and-coming artists, giving them a chance to share their music with a wider audience.

The Kenai Peninsula State Fairgrounds is more than just a concert venue – it's a place where the community comes together to celebrate the things that make Alaska great. Whether you're a music fan, a festival-goer, or just looking for a fun day out with the family, the fairgrounds has something for everyone.

#4 Alaska State Fair Borealis Theatre

Alaska is a state with a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant music scene. One of the best places to experience this scene in action is the Alaska State Fair Borealis Theatre. The theatre is located in Palmer, Alaska, and is a popular destination for music lovers from all over the state.

A Perfect Venue for Outdoor Performances

The Alaska State Fair Borealis Theatre is an outdoor venue with a seating capacity of 5,000. The theatre is located in the middle of a beautiful park and surrounded by lush greenery. The theatre is designed in such a way that the audience can enjoy the music and the scenery at the same time. The stage is large enough to accommodate big bands and orchestras, and the sound system is top-notch, ensuring that the music is heard loud and clear.

A Diverse Range of Performances

The Alaska State Fair Borealis Theatre hosts a diverse range of performances throughout the year. The theatre is known for its summer concert series, which features popular musicians from all over the country. The theatre is also a popular venue for local musicians and bands, who perform regularly at the theatre. The theatre hosts a variety of musical genres, including country, rock, pop, and classical music. The theatre also hosts dance performances, comedy shows, and theatrical productions.

A Great Place to Spend an Evening

The Alaska State Fair Borealis Theatre is not just a great place to enjoy music and performances; it is also a great place to spend an evening with family and friends. The theatre is surrounded by beautiful gardens and walking trails, which are perfect for a pre-show stroll. The theatre also has a variety of food vendors, selling everything from hot dogs to gourmet meals. The theatre has ample parking and provides shuttle service to and from the parking lot.

In conclusion, the Alaska State Fair Borealis Theatre is a great venue for music lovers in Alaska. The theatre's beautiful location, top-notch sound system, and diverse range of performances make it a must-visit destination for anyone who loves music and the outdoors.

#5 Carlson Sports Arena

Carlson Sports Arena is a magnificent concert venue located in Fairbanks, Alaska. This venue has been a staple in the Alaskan music scene for years, and it is known for hosting some of the most iconic concerts in the region. With its state-of-the-art facilities and exceptional acoustics, Carlson Sports Arena is the perfect place for music lovers to enjoy their favorite artists.

Facilities

The Carlson Sports Arena is a top-notch facility that offers a variety of amenities to concert-goers. The venue has a seating capacity of 7,000, making it one of the largest indoor arenas in Alaska. The seating arrangement is designed in a way that ensures everyone has a clear view of the stage. In addition, the arena has excellent lighting and sound systems that create an immersive experience for the audience. There are also concession stands where attendees can grab a bite to eat or drink during intermissions.

History

Carlson Sports Arena has a rich history that dates back to the early 1960s. The venue was originally built as a hockey rink and hosted several sports events before transitioning into a concert venue in the 1980s. Since then, the arena has hosted some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Elton John, Metallica, and Pink Floyd, among others.

Events

Carlson Sports Arena hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, including concerts, sports events, and trade shows. The venue is particularly popular during the winter months, when it hosts several winter sports events like ice hockey and figure skating competitions. However, it is the concerts that draw the biggest crowds to the arena. Some of the upcoming concerts at the Carlson Sports Arena include performances by Maroon 5, Taylor Swift, and Justin Bieber, among others.

In conclusion, Carlson Sports Arena is an exceptional concert venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in the music industry. With its world-class facilities and exceptional acoustics, it is the perfect place to enjoy live music in Alaska.

#6 Matanuska Brewing Company - Eagle River

Matanuska Brewing Company - Eagle River is one of the top concert venues in Alaska. Located in the heart of Eagle River, this brewery offers a unique experience for music lovers, beer enthusiasts, and foodies alike. With its cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and refreshing drinks, it's no wonder that this venue has become a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike.

The Venue

Matanuska Brewing Company - Eagle River is a multi-functional space that can accommodate a variety of events. The stage is located in the main dining area, which gives the audience an up-close and personal view of the performers. The venue's sound system is top-notch, making the music experience even more enjoyable. The lighting is also impressive, adding to the ambiance of the space.

The Food and Drink

One of the highlights of Matanuska Brewing Company - Eagle River is its food and drink offerings. The brewery offers a wide range of beers, including their signature Matanuska IPA and seasonal brews. The food menu is equally impressive, with a variety of dishes that cater to different tastes. From burgers and sandwiches to salads and seafood, there is something for everyone.

The Atmosphere

The atmosphere at Matanuska Brewing Company - Eagle River is warm and inviting. The staff is friendly and welcoming, making guests feel at home. The venue is cozy, with a rustic feel that adds to the charm of the space. The music, food, and drinks all come together to create a unique experience that is hard to find anywhere else.

If you're planning a night out in Alaska, Matanuska Brewing Company - Eagle River is a must-visit destination. With its top-notch music, delicious food, and refreshing drinks, it's the perfect spot for a fun and memorable evening.

#7 Alaska State Fair Grandstand

Located in Palmer, Alaska, the Alaska State Fair Grandstand is a premier concert venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in music. The grandstand has been a part of the Alaska State Fair since 1967 and has undergone significant renovations over the years to improve the experience for concert-goers.

Capacity and Amenities

The Alaska State Fair Grandstand has a capacity of over 11,000 people, making it one of the largest venues in Alaska. The grandstand features tiered seating, with a mix of covered and uncovered sections. The front of the stage has standing room only space for fans who prefer to be closer to the action. The venue also has concessions and restroom facilities located throughout the grandstand.

Concert Line-Up

The Alaska State Fair Grandstand has hosted a diverse range of artists over the years, from country stars like Luke Bryan and Miranda Lambert to rock legends like ZZ Top and Kiss. The venue has also been known to feature up-and-coming artists on the rise, giving fans the chance to see them before they hit it big. In addition to music, the grandstand has hosted comedy shows and other entertainment events.

Location and Accessibility

The Alaska State Fair Grandstand is located in Palmer, Alaska, a small town about an hour's drive from Anchorage. The venue is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. The grandstand is also accessible by public transportation, with shuttle buses running from Anchorage to the fairgrounds during the Alaska State Fair.

Overall, the Alaska State Fair Grandstand is a must-visit venue for music fans in Alaska. With its impressive line-up of artists and top-notch amenities, it's no wonder that the grandstand has become a favorite among concert-goers in the state.

#8 William A Egan Civic And Convention Center

The William A Egan Civic And Convention Center is one of the most popular concert venues in Alaska. Located in the heart of downtown Anchorage, this world-class facility is perfect for hosting concerts, conferences, trade shows, and other events. The venue is named after William A. Egan, the first governor of Alaska, who served from 1959 to 1966.

Facilities

The William A Egan Civic And Convention Center has a seating capacity of 5,000 and offers state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, making it one of the best concert venues in the state. The venue also features a large stage, dressing rooms, and a green room for performers. Additionally, the convention center has over 85,000 square feet of meeting space, including a ballroom, conference rooms, and exhibition halls.

Events

The William A Egan Civic And Convention Center hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, comedy shows, trade shows, and conferences. Some of the most popular events held at the venue include the Alaska Federation of Natives Annual Convention, Anchorage Comic Con, and the Alaska Native Heritage Center's Celebration of Native Culture.

Over the years, the venue has welcomed many famous artists and bands, including Elton John, Aerosmith, and Green Day. In addition to music concerts, the venue also hosts comedy shows featuring famous comedians such as Dave Chappelle and Jerry Seinfeld.

Location

The William A Egan Civic And Convention Center is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Anchorage, making it easily accessible for visitors. The venue is just a short walk away from the city's best hotels, restaurants, and attractions. The Anchorage International Airport is also just a short drive away, making it easy for visitors to get to and from the venue.

Overall, the William A Egan Civic And Convention Center is a world-class facility that offers state-of-the-art facilities and hosts some of the best events in Alaska. Whether you're a music fan or attending a conference, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience at this amazing venue.