This summer, we had the pleasure of working with intern Lacey Kirks, who will be a senior this year at Boston University. Lacey had the chance to learn an enormous amount about the meetings industry, as well as the city of Boston. This week she shares with us some of her favorite music venues in Boston.
Among the exciting attractions Boston has to offer is its world-class music venues! If your event is hosted in Boston, encourage your attendees to explore nearby entertainment. Whether you are looking to experience the wealth of talent that comes through the city, or simply need a venue for a private event, Boston has plenty of great entertainment spaces available near the BCEC and the Hynes.
Blue Hills Bank Pavilion
Located within one mile of the BCEC and less than three miles from the Hynes, the Blue Hills Bank Pavilion is a wonderful concert venue. Overlooking the South Boston waterfront, this space is open from May through September, making it the perfect spot for a summer concert. The 5,400-seat venue features intimate performances by current stars as well as favorites from decades past. The open-air structure of the pavilion provides a refreshing breeze, and the venue’s amphitheater shape creates a pleasant visual and auditory experience for guests. No matter where you sit, you should be able to see and hear well due to the unobstructed views!
There are 35 beverage and concessions areas available inside, but also a wide variety of dining options within walking distance. Additionally, this venue accommodates private events, which can be scheduled in the function tent. The capacity of this space is 500 for receptions. Whether the entertainment or the event space resonates with you, the Blue Hills Bank Pavilion is surely something you do not want to miss!
Hatch Shell
Situated on the Charles River Esplanade in the Back Bay area of Boston is the Hatch Shell. This outdoor concert venue is equidistant from both the BCEC and the Hynes, located only two miles from each. The Hatch Shell is known as Boston’s epicenter for large outdoor performances in open-air. So if you plan on going during the day, don’t forget your sunscreen!
Open from spring to fall, this venue features a wide variety of entertainment including classical, oldies, blues, jazz, and rock and roll performances. Most notably, this space is used annually on July 4th for the Boston Pops Orchestra performance. This is definitely one of the most affordable venues in the city, as the concerts are FREE! With no entry cost, the venue is huge — 10,000 capacity to be exact — to accommodate the large audiences that are drawn to the unique outdoor space. In this way, the Hatch Shell allows customers to enjoy quality musical performances for quite a bargain!
House of Blues
Nestled next to the legendary Fenway Park on Lansdowne Street is The House of Blues. This special concert hall is only three miles from the BCEC and less than a mile from the Hynes. The space can accommodate up to 2,500 guests and, in my experience, makes for a very reasonably-priced night out in the city.
Not only is the music scene a highlight of the venue, but the food is also very noteworthy! The in-house dining includes a restaurant and bar which primarily serves American-style classics in addition to a variety of other meal options. The House of Blues prides itself on great food and live music, and even has a World-famous Gospel brunch on Sundays! This venue can also be rented out for private events such as corporate events, private concerts, dinners/receptions, or even weddings! From amazing entertainment and event space to great food, the House of Blues truly has it all and provides memorable experiences right in the heart of the Fenway area!
Sports Venues: Fenway/TD Garden
In addition to being trademark sports venues in Boston, Fenway Park and TD Garden are great spots for musical entertainment. These widely famous sports sites host their fair share of concerts as well as corporate and social events. Fenway Park, located only three miles from the BCEC and less than a mile from the Hynes, is a great venue for musical entertainment. Home to the Boston Red Sox, this spot is the heart of the bustling Fenway area. Under the bright lights of the iconic ballpark, this outdoor venue makes for a fun night out on warm summer evenings. Some notable summer performers include Zac Brown Band and Billy Joel.
One of the perks of such a large venue is being able to accommodate so many guests for events. Fenway Park has space for gatherings between 20 and 20,000 people! Similarly, TD Garden, home to the Boston Bruins and Boston Celtics, is another huge Boston sports venue used for entertainment and events. Located less than three miles away from both the BCEC and the Hynes, this venue is a must-see for die-hard Boston sports fans! The arena seats 19,600 and additionally has executive suites and club seats available. It is also fully equipped with two private restaurants. In terms of event space, this venue can hold up to 19,580 in a reception-style function! If you need any more convincing to check out this venue, upcoming performers include Drake, Elton John, Phil Collins, and Justin Timberlake. With these notable sports venues being so uniquely Boston, attending a concert or event at either is a great way to see such famous Boston attractions while enjoying entertainment of your choice!
Symphony Hall
Built in 1900 for the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Hall is another notable spot for exceptional entertainment and event space. A U.S. National Historic Landmark, Symphony Hall is widely considered one of the finest concert halls in the world. The space was intended for the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and has since additionally become home to the Boston Pops Orchestra. The hall was built in a way that focuses on sound, with shallow balconies and walls sloping inward. Additional amenities include two lounges with bar service which serve drinks and snacks one hour before each performance.
The venue also welcomes private events, with options for entire hall or function space rental. The function space accommodates 380 guests for seated dinners, 500 for standing receptions, and 700 for a lecture-style arrangement. Events do not have to be concert-related to be hosted at Symphony Hall, making the space available to any and all interested in holding an event. Located only three miles from the BCEC and within one mile of the Hynes, this concert hall is symbolic of the artistic legacy of Boston.
The entertainment scene in Boston is very diverse and there really is something for everyone when it comes to the venues in the area and the performers who pass through. It truly does not matter which venues you visit, Boston’s venues provide memorable experiences and entertainment options. If you are looking for high-quality musical entertainment with or without private function space, come on down to Beantown!
Leave a lasting impression on your attendees by hosting your private event in a unique Boston space. From within the BCEC and Hynes or The Lawn On D, to a concert at Fenway Park, Boston’s many cultural venues are sure to add a spark to your event! Learn more about our Special Event Venues or explore our Interactive Map to help you find the off-site venues and restaurants best suited for your group.