Best Live Music/Performance Venue: The Senate

Best Live Music/Performance Venue

The Senate

Box office: Tuesday–Thursday: 2 p.m.–6 p.m.

Hours vary Monday-Friday for events

0.6 miles from the Horseshoe, 4-minute drive, 11-minute walk

Prices vary, average $20

Faith Worrell

When you want to jump up and down and jam to the smaller bands, this local venue is the place to visit. Bands and music genres vary but with a group of friends, going to The Senate will always make for a fun evening.

The Senate, formally known as “Music Farm,” is only a short walk from the center of campus. If students choose to drive, there is limited parking at the venue, but there are street parking spots around the area.

The Senate offers a more personal music experience for the audience while giving the artist a spotlight in South Carolina’s capital. Performing artists tend to be more under the radar, but that’s perfect for students looking to find new music or discover new artists. Large concerts are enjoyable, but it’s easy to get lost in a sea of 8,000 or more people. At the Senate, you are one of 1,200, which allows you to have a more intimate experience with the crowd and the artist.

Given the environment and the venue size, attending a concert at the Senate comes with a milder hit to the wallet than a larger concert at Colonial Life Arena. All tickets are available on the Senate’s website along with their calendar of all their upcoming events. Ticket prices vary per artist but average around $20. Location, new artists, special events and affordable tickets make the Senate a perfect option for a night out with friends.

Faith Worrell / Garnet Media Group