DOWNTOWN. This music venue opens for concerts and hosts all types of acts, from comedy routines to a wide variety of musical styles. Concert goers regularly keep their eyes on this popular place to see who's gracing the stage next. One night it's a country music singer and the next a hip-hop group. State-of-the-art sound equipment and first-class audio visual systems ensure quality shows.

DEL MAR. An award-winning nightspot, Belly Up is a live music venue that's caught the eye of Rolling Stone magazine without becoming pretentious. It's also extremely popular, winning 'best of" votes time and again. Tasty eats are available from the next-door Wild Note Cafe, and happy hours provide great deals on drinks.

DOWNTOWN. If underground alternative rock's your thing, head to Casbah. It's the prime spot to hear up-and-coming bands perform before they're a who's who; think names like Smashing Pumpkins, Nirvana and Alanis Morissette. In addition to listening to great music, you can also relax with a game of pool or pinball or having a smoke on the outdoor smoking patio.

GASLAMP QUARTER. It's all about jazz and blues at this well-known San Diego music haunt. In-house bands and visiting favorites grace the stage to the delight of anticipatory fans. There are drinks to be had, but that's not what draws the crowd. Rather, it's the appeal of outstanding music and great vocals that keeps packing them in.

GASLAMP QUARTER. This venue focuses on the performances, yet also has fine wine selections and food. Guests love it for this very quality. There are jazz jams on Friday nights after midnight, and music and performance art shows other days of the week. Cash only for tickets at the door.