It’s very easy to think sequined headdress showgirls and Elvis impersonators when one envisions Vegas entertainment. And nobody does that better. In truth, all of the best music entertainment passes through Sin City at some point, often debuting the biggest names in the music business. But what’s terrific about the Las Vegas music and arts scene is that the venues that house these superstars are often intimate, personal spaces where you’re able to feel a connection to the performances. Live shows of this kind are a “must do” and rarely disappoint. Here are some of the best concert halls and theaters in Las Vegas. – Marco Medrano

Planet Hollywood Theater for the Performing Arts

3667 Las Vegas Boulevard South
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 694-8200 (hotel operator)
(702) 932-1818 (V Theater Box Office)
www.planethollywoodresort.com

Although fewer events happen here, when they do, it’s spectacular. Elegant, refined seating and the old-world feel of ominous, luxe finishes and high ceilings, this is where music stars perform when they need some room to roam and their show is up in the air — literally. It is a great place for a special event or big night out. V Theater Box Office Hours (centralized): daily, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Pearl

The Palms Casino Resort
4321 West Flamingo Road
Las Vegas, NV 89103
(702) 942-7777
(702) 944-3200 (Box Office)
www.palms.com/pearl

Considered by many to have the best sound for a non-arena venue, The Pearl manages to remain intimate. Having the luxury of recently being built and boasting state-of-the-art sound engineering, this is one rock opera house you won’t want to miss. The Pearl is done as only the hip Maloof owners and The Palms know how. Check out its lineup and go. Hours: Monday, noon to 11 p.m.; Tuesday and Wednesday, noon to 7 p.m.; Thursday and Friday, noon to 9 p.m.; Saturday, noon to 10 p.m; Sunday, noon to 7 p.m.

The Joint

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
4455 Paradise Road
Las Vegas, NV 89169
(702) 693-5000
(702) 693-5222 (Box Office)
www.hardrockhotel.com

http://thejointlasvegas.com

Another intimate venue with one of the best viewing layouts ever, the aptly-named The Joint not only caters to some of today’s biggest rock stars, but also to genuine rock royalty from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s. Great sound, great time. Box office hours: daily, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (extended hours on show days).

The House Of Blues

3950 South Las Vegas Boulevard
Las Vegas, NV 89119
(702) 632-7600
www.houseofblues.com

Yet another superior venue for seeing your favorite entertainer up close and personal, The House of Blues has a vintage Vegas chandelier hanging several stories from the ceiling during every performance. This see-the-stage-from-anywhere small crowd is left to move freely on the ground or take a close bird’s-eye view from its pitched, open-air horseshoe balcony. So cozy, it feels like an elegantly dark lecture hall. Box office hours: Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Grand Events Center

Green Valley Ranch Resort, Spa & Casino (GVR)
2300 Paseo Verde Parkway
Henderson, NV 89052
(702) 617-7777 (Rewards Center, extension 7660)
www.greenvalleyranchresort.com

With a more traditional layout (seats 2,000), it still has the elegance of the GVR brand, recent construction and amazing sound systems. What better place to enjoy a grand outing when you don’t want to brave the Strip? The Grand Events Center has a great mix of well-known entertainment. Box office hours (via GVR Rewards Center): Sunday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to midnight; Friday and Saturday, 7 a.m. to 1 a.m.