Concerts in Tucson AZ:
Local Guide to Venues, Tickets, and Live Music

Wonderful concerts in Tucson AZ happen year-round, in this live‑music-loving city.

As a local resident family, we're not a direct ticket seller, but we can show you where to go and where to buy. And why! We know how people visiting Tucson, or residents...

  • Love outdoor concerts on desert nights
  • Prefer the Indie scene for lots of their music selections
  • Favor historic theaters for their true atmosphere and sound

We provide you venue guides, and show you the best way to get your tickets for any upcoming concert you may want to attend. We're your local music insider!

How to Find Current Concerts in Tucson - 
Without Getting Overwhelmed

Like any larger city, listings for concerts in Tucson AZ are continuously change. With artists coming to town all the time. You'll find there are among the most popular bands and solo singers, but also the more intimate places with local bands and fun events.

With us, as your independent, human guide for curated Tucson concerts and venues, you'll know the best way to plan for a show.

SEARCH OUR WEBSITE HERE

How to Choose a Concert Ticket Site in Tucson

Your have options for researching and getting Tucson concert tickets

  • They're sold through a mix of primary ticket sellers and resale platforms, depending on the venue and artist. 
  • For the best deal, and authenticity, begin with the venue’s official ticket provider. 
  • If you find a show you wanted to see is sold out, or you’re planning a last-minute trip, resale websites or apps can offer unexpected availability.
  • Are you a fan of local, indie, or niche music? Better options could be with artist-focused sites.
imitation concert ticket for a city's events

Venue Vibe Typical Crowd Sound Seating Access & Parking Neighborhood Feel Best For
Rialto Theatre Historic, energetic 20s–50s, music-focused Loud, punchy Mostly standing (GA) Downtown garages & street parking Lively downtown core Loud rock, indie, high-energy shows
Fox Tucson Theatre Elegant, classic Couples, theatergoers Excellent acoustics Fully seated Nearby garages; walkable Historic downtown Date nights, seated concerts
Linda Ronstadt Music Hall Formal, large-scale Broad age range Professional, balanced Fully seated On-site & event parking Convention district Major tours, orchestras, Broadway-style shows
Anselmo Valencia Tori Amphitheatre Open-air, desert vibe Mixed ages, casual Strong outdoor sound Reserved seats + lawn On-site parking; car recommended Desert-edge setting Outdoor concerts, summer shows
Diamond Center Large, event-focused Major-event crowds Arena-style Mostly seated Easy freeway access; ample parking Event district Large concerts, big productions
The Rock Raw, loud Younger, rock fans Very powerful Standing only Limited parking nearby Industrial, no-frills Hard rock, metal, punk shows
La Rosa Intimate, nightlife 21+, social crowd Club-quality Limited seating Street & garage parking Downtown nightlife area Latin music, dance nights

Tucson’s Major Concert Venues Compared

Because we like showing visitors how and where to find concerts in Tucson AZ, we'll let you in on the local flavor of each venue. Some you may have never heard of!

We'll evaluate what they offer, so you can choose the right show, venue, and seating. Because individual venues only promote themselves. So let's compare some of them so you'll be comfortable choosing a concert at that venue.

Rialto Theatre - Downtown

The Rialto has a long and varied downtown theater history since 1920 when it showed silent films. 

Depending on the concert, seating options can vary:

  • Reserved Seating in your chosen assigned seat.
  • General Admission Seating with seats unassigned.
  • General Admission balcony seats, with standing room on the floor.
  • General Admission for standing on the theater floor.
  • Accessible seating is available, but call them well in advance for arrangements.

They feature many indie & rock genres, but also tribute shows, comedy acts and more. Sometimes they have kids' shows. Our grandson had a good time going to see Chiodos and Big Ass Truck. He described them as "jazzy hardcore."

cars on a downtown Tucson street ride by the Rialto marquee.Parking is in walking distance to the Rialto, which is at 318 E. Congress St.

Where to Buy Rialto Tickets

Check Rialto Upcoming Shows, and then get you ticket purchases at Ticketmaster.

191 Toole

This small, esoteric venue is owned by the same people as the Rialto. They specialize in an intimate stage for emerging artists and indie acts. And yes, it's located at 191 E Toole Ave, downtown. 

Check Their Upcoming Music Here> For exact details: 520-740-1000.

Fox Tucson Theatre

Another historic venue in downtown Tucson, at 17 W. Congress Street.

First opened on April 11, 1930. As new theaters opened further out around town, and malls opening throughout throughout the city, downtown deteriorated. From lack of clientele they finally had to close in 1974. After a massive restoration spurred by the non-profit Fox Tucson Theatre Foundation, it reopened on December 31, 2005.

The refurbishment and updates for downtown also make this a great place for concerts in Tucson AZ.

Definitely a place for nearly all genres. We've been here quite a few times, among which we've seen an Elton John tribute show, and Don Williams (RIP) among others. Plus they have comedy acts and screenings of classic Hollywood films.

Lounging area seating is available while you wait for the theatre doors to open. Next to the nearby snack bar with soft drinks, wine and craft beers.

front marque of a historic Tucson AZ theater at nighttimeToday's front entrance of the Fox Theatre.

SOME TIPS:

Accessible seats available (first come-first serve) with advance notice. Call them for details: 520-547-3040.

  • The farthest seats in the balcony are really "nosebleed" areas, quite steep stairways without many hand-holds. Wouldn't recommend this for those with an unsteady gate or poor eyesight.
  • The closest parking garages: Old Pueblo (on Congress) and La Placita (Stone & Jackson). More parking available throughout downtown.

Tucson Up Close is made possible by readers like you! If you purchase via a link here, we may earn a small commission. At no added cost to you. Thanks for your support! Learn more>

  • Have dinner at any of the amazing downtown eateries before the show.
  • Some of the Best Places to Stay in Tucson are in downtown. If you want to make a short few night stay or even a vacay in Tucson.

Where to Buy Fox Tickets

It's recommended to avoid brokers/ticketing agencies to purchase tickets. Because you'll lose flexibility for managing unanticipated problems.

Instead, purchase Fox Tickets When Choosing Your Event, from their box office.

Linda Ronstadt Music Hall

The major event venue is this Tucson music hall at the Tucson Convention Center. Named for famed singer Linda Ronstadt, who grew up in Tucson. A favorite "daughter."

Tucson Symphony Orchestra - sometimes with special accompaniments, well-known acts like Clint Black, and Jesse & Joy (the El Despecho Tour, for instance). We saw James Taylor here, a great show.

PARKING:

Three parking areas surround the hall. Two have garages: Lot A off Church Ave and Lot C off Granada. Lot B via Granada or Cushing St. Payment booths only accept major debit or credit cards. For easiest accessible parking, choose Lot C.

Where to Buy Linda Ronstadt Music Hall Tickets

This venue for concerts in Tucson AZ only guarantees ticket authenticity with purchases here:

Tips for Concerts in Tucson AZ - Best Experiences

Planning your Tucson concert experience starts with choosing the right seats.

For Reserved Venues like the Fox or Linda Ronstadt Music Hall, sitting center-orchestra or front mezzanine typically balances the best acoustics with your line of sight. While balcony seats offer overall panoramas of the stage, with lower ticket prices. You don't want to be seated under the balcony, though, as sound can be unpleasantly muted.

At General Admission Shows like 191 Toole or the Rialto, arriving early helps you get your preferred spot, whether close to the stage or in a comfortable standing area. Especially important if you're short like I am!

Tips for Best Acoustics. Sound quality matters. Sections from midway back from the stage to rear sections that aren't under balconies are top seating choices. You'll normally get richer sound as audio waves have a chance to fully blend before reaching your ears. Plus seats too close to speakers can be too loud and/or distort clarity.

If You Need Accessible handicap availability, most major Tucson venues like the Fox Tucson Theatre and Convention Center concert halls have wheelchair seating with companion spaces. If you're a little flexible within your needs, elevators make getting to your seating area easy. It's best to choose aisle seats when you buy tickets.

Lastly, Remember that primary tickets from official box offices are safest. More reliable and reasonably priced compared to high-fee resales. Always verify authenticity by not purchasing tickets by clicking links or ads in social media or unsolicited emails.

Purchasing Tips for Concerts in Tucson AZ Venues

You can purchase tickets from any upcoming concerts you may like to attend. If you’re new to Tucson, starting with these venues will be helpful. Search for the time you'll be in town, your ideal choice of days.

  • Ticketmaster – Primary ticket source for major Tucson venues and national tours; best for original pricing during presales and on-sale dates. See What's Going On>
  • SeatGeek – Price-comparison focused resale platform. Ideal for travelers looking for good value or flexible seating options. See What's Going On>
  • Vivid Seats – Resale marketplace with strong last-minute availability; useful during busy weekends and sold-out shows. See What's Going On>
  • StubHub – Large secondary market with wide genre coverage; helpful when tickets are hard to find elsewhere. See What's Going On>
  • Bandsintown – Artist-focused concert discovery tool; best for tracking tours and finding indie, local, and fan-driven shows. See What's Going On>
  • Songkick – Tour-tracking and discovery platform; popular for alternative, international, and niche music fans. See What's Going On>
  • Eventbrite – Commonly used for local, small-venue, and community concerts in Tucson. See What's Going On>

Other Places to Discover Live Music in Tucson

Around town you can find unique, local spots for concerts in Tucson AZ. Where live music lives year-round.

Chicago Bar, on 5954 E Speedway Blvd, 520-748-8169. Featuring blues, reggae, rock, and local bands most nights of the week with a loyal music-lover crowd. We enjoyed seeing the Butterfield Blues Band here. 

Beyond Bars: Tucson has other creative spaces to check out.

  • The Sea of Glass Center for the Arts presents a range of live music and performance art. More details: 866-282-2205. What's Coming Up?
  • Arizona Arts and the School of Music on The University of Arizona campus also sponsors concerts in Tucson AZ for blending academic and live music culture. Ensembles, guest artists, and community music series productions. Their venues are:
  1.  Crowder Hall Performing Arts Center - See Who's There> 
  2. Centennial Hall - Upcoming Concerts>
  3. Bear Down Music Festival, student-run, every spring. Details Here>

Concert Venues at Tucson Area Casinos

Two local tribal organizations have casinos with concert venues.

AVA Amphitheater, Casino of the Sun, by the Pascua Yaqui tribe.

  • An outdoor venue, located adjacent to the casino, west of the city at 5655 W Valencia Rd. Our son-in-law is a tribal member, and he lets us know when great acts are here. We loved the Cheech & Chong show, it was so funny!
  • Inside Casino of the Sun you can see acts at the Event Center, Tropico Lounge, Sunset Room or at the Oasis.
  • For details of upcoming acts, call 855-765-7829. 
  • Why not Stay Right There? Book It Now>

Diamond Center, at the Desert Diamond Casino, by the Tohono O’odham Nation.

  • An indoor venue with general standing areas and reserved seating.
  • They have many Artist Tribute Productions (some are free!), plus oldie and current artists of many genres. We saw Tracy Lawrence here, in some great seating.
  • For details of upcoming acts, call 520-294-7777 or 866-DDC-WINS.
  • Why not Stay Right There? Book It Now>

 More Tucson Small Clubs and Concert Venues

These venues for concerts in Tucson AZ are more intimate. 

  • The Rock is known for broad-ranging shows and lively fun. Location: 136 N Park Ave. 520-629-9211. See Their Up and Down Story>
  • Sky Bar Tucson is a fun, 4th Avenue community styled place to be, with their chill vibes. With a wide range of special drinks and even some late breakfast items. Many Specialty Nights worth getting to! 
  • Downtown, The Century Room inside Hotel Congress (311 E Congress St) is perfect for jazz lovers. Make it a Night with their yummy food and drinks.
  • Gaslight Theatre's Music Hall pairs dinner with live shows, billed as family friendly. See Why>
  • Monterey Court Cafe has live music from Tuesday-Sunday, evenings. Plus at Sunday brunch & midday Sunday Jam.
  • Surly Wench Pub, another 4th Avenue spot, regularly hosts fun nights, local musicians and up-and-coming talent. Plus a full bar-food menu. See Their Calendar>
Sign above the stage of an entertainment club

Free, Cheap, and Family‑Friendly Concerts in Tucson

  • The city of Tucson sponsors various entertainment opportunities. Some are free, and some are priced very reasonably. See Their Offerings>
  • Regular free concerts in Tucson AZ are sponsored by Pima County. Music in the Courtyard is held outdoors, downtown on Wednesdays & Fridays, 11am-1pm. Adjacent historic courthouse, 115 N. Church Avenue.
Historic area with the courthouse of old in downtown Tucson AZFree concerts in the courtyard adjacent to the old courthouse.
  • The Courtyard at St. Philips Plaza has an outdoor stage, surrounded by wonderful restaurants. We love going here, having a pizza at Proof or the different types of Mexican meals at Reforma. All while enjoying music at this historic European-styled shopping plaza. Located at the corner of Campbell Ave and River Rd. The intermittent concerts are sponsored by the Union House - call them to see what's up: 520-329-8575.
  • Concerts in the Courtyard are held at the Municipal Complex At Marana Arizona, an adjacent small town suburb of Tucson. Happening monthly in Spring & Fall, on the 3rd Thursdays, 5-7pm. See The Latest Details>

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Planning a Tucson Concert Night - or Weekend!

Are you planning a trip to Tucson to see some live music? Here's our recommendations for organizing that.

Best Areas to Stay for Easy Concert Access

DOWNTOWN - A great place to be all-in for the action.

We recommend the Downtown Doubletree by Hilton, particularly good for access to the Linda Ronstadt Music Hall. There's also the Home 2 Suites by Hilton and The Unicorn Zebra (also close to the Fox).

A main street in downtown Tucson ArizonaEasily explore downtown Tucson when you stay locally.

But see these others near downtown venues:

  • NEAR THE RIALTO
  1. Choose your room at the AC Hotel
  2. Book Your Dates at El Amador Inn
  • NEAR THE FOX THEATRE
  1. Treat Yourself at this Tribute Portfolio Stay: Leo Kent Hotel

UNIVERSITY CONCERT AREA

OR FIND AN ACCOMODATION THAT SUITS YOU for your entire trip to Tucson Arizona.

Getting Around at Night

Large downtown venues don't have private parking, but Tucson's Downtown Parking Garages are handy. You can also park along the street where you'll find No Feeding Parking Meters Per Your Timing.

If you're Staying Somewhere in Tucson and need a ride to your concert venue, Uber and Lyft are both available here. City taxis like Yellow Cab charge $7 at pick-up, and $3/mile. During Surge Pricing hours for rideshares, taxis may be the better choice. Otherwise it will turn out about evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tucson Concerts

What are the best concert venues in Tucson?

Top concert venues in Tucson include Fox Tucson Theatre for touring acts, for major concerts the Linda Ronstadt Music Hall, AVA Amphitheater at Casino del Sol for outdoor shows. Try 191 Toole or Hotel Congress for smaller, local performances.

Each offers a different live music experience.

Are there free concerts in Tucson?

Yes, Tucson hosts Free Concerts Year-Round, but especially during cooler months.

Popular options include downtown festivals, Park Place Mall events, city-sponsored concerts in parks, and University of Arizona music performances. Many are open to the public at no cost.

When is concert season in Tucson?

Tucson’s main concert season runs from October through April, when cooler desert weather can attract touring artists for good turnout. Those times of the year are also perfect for outdoor events.

Summer still offers concerts, but schedules are lighter and mostly held indoors at venues with climate-controlled seating.

Are Tucson concert venues family‑friendly?

Many Tucson concert venues are family-friendly, especially outdoor amphitheaters, festivals, and university concerts. Age policies vary by venue, so always check event details.

The Fox Tucson Theatre, Centennial Hall, and daytime festival concerts are often suitable for all ages. Sometimes The Rialto produces shows specifically for kids.

Takeaways for Concerts in Tucson AZ

Venue listings change all the time, but our resources and strategies here don’t. We've provided you options and fund choices to enjoy a concert around our town.

When something special does pop up for the latest concert picks or venue updates, we curate the info for members of our Talkin' Tucson Discovery community. You can get in on that, too!

There are many ways to enjoy a concert in Tucson Arizona. We've helped you discover lots of opportunities.

REFERENCES
-- TicketHold at tickethold.com/schedule/the-linda-ronstadt-music-hall-at-tucson-convention-center/seating-chart/
-- Tucson Live at tucsonlive.net/seating-chart/
-- The Proper Kitchen at theproperkitchen.com/what-are-the-best-seats-when-going-to-a-concert/
-- Grokipedia at grokipedia.com/page/Concert_etiquette