Columbus Music Scene Part 1

Columbus is a great place to live for music lovers of all types! The thriving local music scene is beloved by residents and well supported by the city. Local venues are plentiful and host musicians from huge, international acts to small, local bands and singer-songwriters. There are several music festivals throughout the year, including many free festivals and outdoor music series. Independent radio stations, record shops and music collectives can also be found here in Central Ohio. 

The following is not an exhaustive list, but the ones I am most familiar with. Consider checking web sites like Columbus Underground or Experience Columbus for lists of upcoming events! 

Smaller and more intimate venues: 

Ace of Cups 

Rumba Cafe’ 

The Big Room Bar 

The Basement 

Woodland’s Tavern 

A&R MusicBar 

Skully’s Music Diner 

 

Moderate sized venues: 

Newport Music Hall 

The Bluestone 

Express Live/Express Live Outdoors 

Legend Valley  

Columbus Association for the Performing Arts (multiple venues)  

 

Arenas: 

Nationwide Arena   

The Schottenstein Center 

 

Festivals: 

Community Festival (Comfest) 

Wonderbus 

Sonic Temple 

Duck Creek Log Jam 

 

Music Series 

Free Outdoor Concerts 

 

Record shop recs 

Magnolia Thunderpussy Records 

Used Kids Records 

Rich St. Records  (Pop-up only, follow on Instagram for hours)    

 

Radio recs 

CD 92.9 

WCBE 90.5 (local NPR)  

 

 

By Matt Flanigan, Assistant Clinical Professor of General Internal Medicine 

 

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