Despite its name, Bottom of the Hill tops all the lists when it comes to affordable live gigs and a no-nonsense atmosphere. Blasting with Hard Rock, Alternative, Hip Hop, Soul, you-name-it acts, and serving drinks that pack a punch, this is a venue that has A LOT to offer. Heck, even Marilyn Manson and The Black Keys have rocked this joint! Expect to throw down around $15 for a ticket (cash only!), and, depending on your savings, enjoy your one beer or bottled water.

Live music, comedy, magic, prose, everything goes at The Lost Church. The funky little place promises a fun, friendly and relaxed night out in a unique setting, while their cash-only bar can hook you up with local beer and wine. Admission is usually set at $10, so you won’t go thirsty during the show.

Last but not least: your lucky stars might be perfectly aligned and there might be a festival in town. And if there’s anything better than a music festival, it’s a FREE music festival! The Golden City provides several each year, most notably the Stern Grove Festival in the summer and Hardly Strictly Bluegrass every first weekend of October.