NYC is filled with amazing concert venues. Of course, we love a show at MSG or marvel at the Webster Hall, but when it comes to the underground and more niche concerts, Queens and Brooklyn are the places to be.
The Knockdown Center represents the Queens music scene in a significant way, hosting a wide range of concerts at its spacious venue. While over in BK, The Brooklyn Monarch is holding it down with a variety of shows spanning three different spaces.
The Knockdown Center
Boasting as NYC’s largest independent music venue known for its WIRE Festival, and show series such as Outline, RUSH, and additional space, BASEMENT! The Knockdown Center building is over 100 years old and spans more than 50,000 square feet. Located on 52-19 Flushing Ave. in Maspeth (accessible by L Train or B38 bus to Starr St./Metropolitan Ave.)
The outdoor space called Ruins is open all summer long! It’s a courtyard transformed into a music venue. The space welcomes high-profile DJ and acts, and even hosts free parties on Sundays (that have since gone viral) called Tiki Disco!
The Brooklyn Monarch, The Meadows & The Wood Shop
Here’s a three-for-one venue with a ton of incredible shows available! The largest of the three spaces is The Brooklyn Monarch, with a capacity of 1,500 and 500 seats. It features both an indoor and outdoor stage for entertainment, a garden area, a bar, a kitchen, and a coat check service. From international artists, rappers, rock bands, and more, this venue is the hub of incredible talent, both established and emerging. Located on 23 Meadow St.
The Meadows, located next to The Brooklyn Monarch (at 17 Meadow Street) is a smaller sister venue that hosts a variety of gigs. It also features two stages (indoor and outdoor) with a backyard area and bar service!
Wedged between The Meadows and The Brooklyn Monarch is located at 21A Meadow Street. Follow the blue door leading you to the Monarch side room also known as the Wood Shop. This intimate space is meant for all genres and people complete with a bar and seating area!
To get to all three of these venues, you can take the L train to Grand St. then walk 8 minutes. Or get the Q54 to Grand St./Waterbury St. and walk 5 minutes.