T. T. the Bear's Place

With so many excellent options — Great Scott, the Lizard Lounge, Middlesex — identifying the city’s best live-music venue isn’t easy. But T. T.’s tops our list thanks to the variety of acts (local pop stars the Pills and farther-reaching talent like Canadian crooner Ron Sexsmith) and the superior amenities (two bars, pool tables, and plenty of room by the stage). Plus, great acoustics mean you can actually hear the music, making it the ideal spot to discover your new favorite band.