7. Bayou Music Center Formerly Verizon Wireless Theater, Bayou Music Center is still a force to be reckoned with, thanks largely to Live Nation's solid bookings. BMC makes our list primarily for the quality of its lineup, but the venue's setup is also worth mentioning for giving fans a great view of the stage no matter their vantage point. (To get the most bang for your buck, general-admission tickets are fine). The seating upstairs won't afford you the same atmosphere as downstairs, and BMC is large enough that, if you find yourself stuck behind a tall dude, you have plenty of other places to stand. 520 Texas (Bayou Place), 713-230-1600, www.bayoumusiccenter.com.
6. Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion When major acts come through town, the Pavilion is their best bet - besides perhaps Toyota Center - for reaching a prime number of fans. Or, if an artist sees fit, he/she/they can opt for covered seating only, as was the case during last year's Arcade Fire show and Florence + The Machine just two weeks ago. 2005 Lake Robbins Dr., The Woodlands, 281-363-3300, www.woodlandscenter.org.
5. The Continental Club Looking for some real, honest-to-God rock and roll? Acts like Beatles cover band Beetle, Nick Gaitan & the Umbrella Man and Little Joe Washington keep the Continental Club and its little brother two doors down, the Big Top, rockin' most every night. Affordable drinks and a relaxed atmosphere add the venue's charm, as do themed-party nights such as '80s Prom Night. There's plenty of seating out back for you to rest your feet, and occasional patio shows, but it's the main hall that keeps music lovers coming back again and again. 3700 Main, 713-529-9899, www.continentalclub.com/houston.html.
