Rooftop concerts can’t help but elevate the moment— they’re great at delivering serious views, fresh air, and the feeling that everything is just right … and you’ve got the soundtrack to prove it. Here are some memorable rooftop concert venues from around the globe that have inspired our Sofar daydreams.
1. Oslo, Norway
When the weather is fine, there’s nothing like looking out across the brilliant tangle of city and water and letting the music wash over you. In winter, everyone hunkers down inside for live music, so when the midnight sun comes a knockin’, rooftop concerts let you embrace that endless evening light. And if you haven’t caught a Sofar show in Oslo, put it on your list.
Sofar Oslo, photo by Anine Desire
2. Chicago, IL
Chicago was home to the world’s first skyscraper, so it should be no surprise that this is a city that embraces vertical living. In Chicago, rooftop concerts are like the love child of the city’s famously great music scene and its love of tall buildings. While rooftop concerts are for sure seasonal here, in the warmer months, there’s maybe no better place to spend an evening than on a roof discovering new bands.
Sofar Chicago, photo by Monica Gallagher
3. Seoul, South Korea
For being a major metropolis, Seoul offers a surprising amount of natural beauty when you gaze out on it from the lofty perch of a rooftop concert venue. Whether those backstage views are of the Hangang River or one of the city’s mountain or forest parks, you’ll get an only-in-Seoul view with the mix of gleaming modern buildings and pops of nature. Center stage, though, will be the city’s fan-driven music scene, which leans in heavily on independent music.
Sofar Seoul, photo by Sofar Team
4. Houston, TX
Hot nights in the city feel cool at mellow rooftop concert spots in Houston. A little glam but never stuffy, the live music scene in Houston embraces all the personalities of the city. You’re going to find some cool local acts for sure, but Houston is enough of an arts magnet (and close enough to Austin to be on the band circuit) to attract musicians from all over the place too. Because really, what better way to welcome the sunset than on a rooftop awash in music?
Sofar Houston, photo by Jeff Paxton
5. Sacramento, CA
On the one hand, Sacramento is the buttoned-up capital of California. On the other, it’s a cool and casual city devoted to creative food, craft brewing, murals, and music. Rooftop concerts are the perfect way to embrace the fun side of Sac, and a chance to hang with friendly locals who are equally excited about the music and sharing their city. It’s also a year-round outdoor live music city, because while it gets a little chilly in the depths of winter, it’s never so cold that you can’t kick back and enjoy the al fresco music.
Sofar Sacramento, photo by Michael Andrews
Words by Christine Sarkis
