The city of Ames is home to a wide and vibrant music scene, with many artists and festivals coming through town at any given time of year. Interested in catching a show sometime? Here’s where to go if you love live shows: 

The Maintenance Shop

Located in the basement of the Memorial Union, the Maintenance Shop has been open since 1974, and has hosted acts like The Lumineers, twenty one pilots, Catfish and the Bottlemen and Aaron Carter. 

Today, the Maintenance Shop is the city of Ames’ longest continuously running nightclub according to the Student Union Board. Students can find details about artists coming to the M-Shop, dates, times and ticket prices on the Student Union Board website. 

Stephens Auditorium

Located in the Iowa State Center, near Hilton Coliseum, the Scheman Building and Fisher Theater, Stephens Auditorium has been known to host some larger names in the venue.

In the past, Stephens has welcomed artists like John Mellencamp and Bob Dylan to Ames, but Stephens isn’t solely a music venue. The Performing Arts Series brings several musicals to Stephens during the year, and students can buy packages or individual tickets if they wish to see those shows. 

Information on Stephens and this year’s lineup of artists and shows can be found on the Iowa State Center’s website. 

DG’s Taphouse

The home of “live music and craft beer,” DG’s Taphouse is one of the bars on Main Street that doubles as a music venue. Hailed for their high sound quality, DG’s hosts musical acts, poetry slams and events like “Drink n’ Draw,” a night for artists and community members to come together, make art and enjoy a beer at the bar.

More information on shows at DG’s can be found on their website. 

London Underground

Also located on Main Street in downtown Ames, London Underground is a British-style pub that also hosts local and touring acts, as well as other events in their space. 

To learn more, visit London Underground’s website.