San Diego Series: Belly Up
The Belly Up Tavern is a local San Diego staple for great live music. From rock to country to rap to swing, check the calendar and you'll find it here. Its hole-in-the-wall exterior belies its impressive list of local and big-time artists over the years. Once inside, the BUT has a rustic/artsy vibe which keeps the experience ever-casual. And because of the intimate venue, the crowd is typically chill, music enthusiasts. In addition to the standing-room floor space in front of the stage, tiered seating is available as well as an open loft area to check out all the goings-on below. Two bars keep the drinks flowing. With so much cool music paraphernalia around the place, there's plenty to check out around you if you have to wait for a drink.
Locals' tips: Be sure to check out the calendar early. Tickets do sell out for some shows. Others you can just buy at the door. Loft seating does cost more but if you can splurge, it's worth it to have a place to chill out in between crowd-mixing stints on the floor. There is a parking lot but it's small and often full so come a little early in case you need to find street parking. Another option is to take the train. The Solana Beach train station is right across the street. Just check return schedules to make sure it runs as late as you need it to.
For calendar and events go to Belly Up.
Hey Locals! Where do you love to catch live music? Chime in below.
