Locals on the First and Historic Coasts have a secret – over the last decade, it’s become the spot for musical artists wanting an intimate performing space. From smaller local artists to big-name performers, the area from Jacksonville to St. Augustine has become a destination for concert-goers wanting more than a traditional stadium show. So while you’ll still need to travel to Tampa for Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, you’ll find the charming and historic venues of Northeast Florida offer an atmosphere all their own.

Florida Theater

Easily the oldest of the four venues, the Florida Theatre evokes the days of dressing for an evening performance. This historic venue opened in 1927, was added to the National Historic Register of Historic Places in 1983 and still maintains the original Art Deco vibe. The Florida Theatre hosts a wide variety of artists and performers, with something for all ages. Theater pieces like Madagascar, musical greats like Tom Jones and Clint Black, comedians the likes of Jim Gaffigan, specialty shows featuring Alton Brown and Cary Elwes, musical competitions, love recordings of popular podcasts and non-profit programs that offer free summer shows for children – there is literally something for everyone.

St. Augustine Amphitheatre

Lovingly referred to as The Amp by locals, the St. Augustine Amphitheatre may be as unique as they come. Nestled in the crook of one of Florida’s top state parks, Anastasia State Park, and situated on a barrier island, The Amp is an open-air venue, surrounded by the beach, historic oaks and wide swathes of palm hammocks. It offers one-of-a-kind experiences – where else can you enjoy sunrise yoga on the beach, led by Michael Franti, in the morning and enjoy his show in the evening? The Amp also offers two complimentary performing spaces – The Backyard Stage, a general-admission-only space for up-close-and-personal performances, and The Front Porch, a deck for community gatherings and acoustic performances during their Farmers and Night Markets.

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