10 Michigan Music Venues That Are Thriving
Halestorm performing at Pine Knob in Clarkston, Michigan – Story by Anne Erickson
Live music is back and better than ever. Here are some of the most popular music venues in Michigan this year
The Michigan summer concert season is officially here, and for the first time since 2019, things seem to be back to normal. Concerts have returned in full swing, and concert venues are already open for the 2022 season.
One major change this year is the return of Pine Knob Music Theatre in Clarkston. For the past 20 years, the venue has been known as DTE Energy music Theatre, which never really had the same ring. Read on for 10 Michigan music venues that are thriving this summer, including Pine Knob.
Pine Knob Music Theatre, Clarkston
Pine Knob Music Theatre is the biggest and most established outdoor amphitheater venue in Michigan. Whenever a big tour comes through the state in the summer, the venue is a favorite destination. The venue is regularly ranked among the top amphitheaters in the world and was ranked No. 1 in the world in Pollstar’s 2019 Year-End Rankings. This season will bring Josh Groban, Steely Dan, Jack Johnson, The Doobie Brothers, Train, Incubus and more.
Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre at Freedom Hill, Sterling Heights
Another Detroit-area outdoor amphitheater that gets lots of action in the summer is the Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre at Freedom Hill. The venue is basically a smaller version of Pine Knob. As with Pine Knob, Freedom Hill gets big names, with this season offering ZZ Top, Halestorm, The Pretty Reckless, Third Eye Blind and more.
Van Andel Arena, Grand Rapids
Over on the west side of the state, the Van Andel Arena is a major draw for touring acts that roll through Grand Rapids. The roughly 10,000-seat venue has a packed 2022 season, with Pitbull, Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, Slipknot and more.
Meijer Gardens, Grand Rapids
The annual Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens is one of the biggest outdoor venues on the west side of the state. Concerts run from June through September and feature national touring artists, as well as the Grand Rapids Symphony, surrounded by incredible views of gardens and sculptures. Upcoming shows include Lyle Lovett and his Large Band, Norah Jones, Rick Springfield with the Grand Rapids Symphony, Buddy Guy and more.
The Intersection, Grand Rapids
The Intersection is one of Grand Rapids’ busiest indoor music venues, boasting a main room, as well as two smaller venues: The Stache and Elevation. The venue The Intersection was founded in 1972, so 2022 will mark its 50th anniversary. Upcoming events include Icon for Hire, As I Lay Dying, Spiritbox, 10 Years, The Devil Wears Prada and more.
The Avenue Cafe, Lansing
If you’re looking for a quaint music venue in the heart of Michigan, look no further than The Avenue Cafe. The downtown Lansing venue offers a bevy of smaller shows, featuring both local acts and touring talent. It’s also one of the only regular music venues left in the Lansing area.
Meadow Brook Amphitheatre, Rochester Hills
The Meadow Brook Amphitheatre is located on the campus of Oakland University and offers a pristine outdoor summer concert experience. It’s similar to Pine Knob and Freedom Hill, but a bit smaller, with a capacity of around 7,700. Upcoming gigs include Flogging Molly, My Morning Jacket, Puscifer, Norah Jones, The Cult and more.
Little Caesars Arena, Detroit
Little Caesars Arena is one of the newest venues in Detroit, hosting entertainment as well as games for Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Pistons and several other sports. Even in the summer months, the indoor venue has plenty of acts roll though, always the biggest names. This season offers Justin Bieber, New Kids on the Block, Machine Gun Kelly, Roger Waters and more.
The Machine Shop, Flint
The Machine Shop is known for bringing a bevy of hard rock and metal talent to Michigan- often tours that don’t hit any other Michigan venue on their run. This summer’s lineup is no exception, bringing the heavy sounds of Saliva, Soil, Saving Abel and more.
Comerica Park, Detroit
Detroit’s Comerica Park is home to the Detroit Tigers, but the venue also hosts some of the biggest entertainment acts around. The 2022 summer schedule features Motley Crue with Def Leppard, Billy Joel, Elton John, Red Hot Chili Peppers and more.
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