See 'em live

Just up a steep flight of stairs from its namesake Outland, the Ballroom is known for featuring some of the region's finest talent. And you can always find a some refreshing beverages. If you don't like your music canned, then go listen to some current and up-and-coming stars in person.

The Outland, the original Outland outpost, isn't among the swankier bars in the area, but it definitely has a great vibe. Top-flight musicians from all over the States can be heard here. Have a good demo? Send one their way. Maybe you'll wind up onstage.

Great bands and cold beer -- what more could you want?

Lindberg's has been in this spot with the same name longer than any other bar in town (having closed and reopened a couple times, to be fair). The natives know it for its live bands and friendly atmosphere. If you slave away on the weekends, hit Lindberg's on Wednesday or Thursday for drink specials and a chance to relax. Make your own history at this historic bar (The original antique bar alone is worth the visit).

Springfield's newest live music spot, which opened in November of 2009, features one of the area's best sound systems and hosts local and national touring acts. Full bar and unique lighting complement the sound.

Springfield's premiere blues club, Murphy's is ruled by Bob Martin, local host of blues radio and a downtown fixture for decades. Check the Web site -- www.drbobsbluesshow.com -- for current bookings. Open 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Mondays through Saturdays.

Downtown's prime pub, featuring 36 beers on tap and plenty of bottles, great food, live music, billiards and patio seating. It's what you expect a pub to be: large bar area, tall tables and chairs, pool tables, etc.

A one-of-a-kind Ozarks eatery and a local favorite, serving delicious classic dishes and in-house brewed beers; live entertainment and billiards as well. Sit in the dining room downstairs while you enjoy a great meal and watch as they brew their in-house beers. Get an up close look at the Brewery during tours Monday through Friday. If you try a brew and like it you can even grab a 6-pack or a keg for your next gathering! Live music and the bar scene upstairs includes a patio to enjoy the summer breeze. Just bring a few friends or schedule to hold your next banquet here as well.  

A casual place where you can grab a martini or a beer -- it's certainly somewhere to let off some steam on the dance floor. DJs spin the tunes and you bring the party. A variety of live bands and DJs make this place not your typical dance club.

Outdoor seating in a beer garden atmosphere makes this a place you have to see to believe. A menu of good eats with some of the best burgers around will keep you busy while you listen to the band on the weekends. The best kept secret of this place is Greek Night held every so often. No, not the college kind -- actual belly dancers and Greek cuisine.

One of Springfield's most poplular places has reopened, serving great food, drinks and live music. Have you ever shucked an oyster? They do it every day here. You can top off a meal with live music in The Big Room and patio outside. Cartoons regularly features a variety of local and regional blues and rock acts.

The Bearded Clam on Table Rock Lake features a wide menu selection, live music on weekends and cold drinks all the time.