5. Shea Stadium

Maybe the only DIY space in New York with a balcony area, Shea Stadium is another one of NYC’s most highly respected and sought after performance spaces. The venue was started by the band the So So Glos and also doubles a s a recording studio in addition to hosting big name indie acts at night. The venue can be accessed by a narrow flight of stairs behind a non-descript entrance on 20 Meadow St. They also record every show and the Live @ Shea Stadium series has amassed an archive of over 1000 recordings.