When it opened in 1998, the Bowery Ballroom was the first major music venue to appear on the Lower East Side in generations. Now, this one-time vaudeville hall and former shoe store is perhaps the most beloved club in the city. The Ballroom's old-style theatrical stage is wide and open, rising above the floor, and an intimate wraparound balcony. The club is also outfitted with bars on all three levels, which allows you to duck down to the basement lounge if you need a break. It's home to mid-scale touring acts, with big-name indie rockers sharing the stage with living legends and the occasional well-known local band. The spacious main room officially has a 550-person capacity, but probably holds considerably more than that. Sight lines are good everywhere, and the superior sound system matches any in the city.