Where is New York's Best Live Bar?
July 24 2023
New York City and music are a match made in heaven. From jazz to hip hop, classic to contemporary, the city has long been a musical hub, no matter what genre you’re into. If you love music and you’re visiting the Big Apple, you cannot miss an evening of live music – and there’s nowhere better than a good bar.
But which bar is best?
Obviously, the best bar for you will depend on your music taste – but if you’re someone who into a bit of everything, here are our favorite spots in the city to enjoy a night of live music with great drinks.
The Bowery Ballroom
In the heart of the Lower East Side, The Bowery Ballroom is world-famous for some of the best live music in Manhattan. The ballroom opened in 1998 and has been a favorite with both locals and visitors ever since. Boasting incredible and intimate acoustics, the iconic ballroom has hosted Harry Styles, Kanye West, Patti Smith, Lady Gaga, and Lou Reed in previous years – and even on a quiet night will offer an unforgettable music experience.
Blue Note Jazz Club
If you’ve ever seen the film The Terminal with Tom Hanks, you’ll know that jazz is the heartbeat of New York. Whether you love jazz or not, there is no experience quite like listening to it live in New York – when in Rome, as they say. The Blue Note Jazz Club is one of the most famous in the city, first opening over 40 years ago in 1981. If you’re hoping to experience the “old” or “true” New York – look no further.
Arlene's Grocery
Love rock or indie music? Arlene’s Grocery – located on the Lower East Side – is a must-visit. Once a bodega, the venue first opened as one of the Lower East Side’s first live music venues in 1995, and it’s been popular ever since. Open seven days a week, punk and hard rock live music is often performed inside – and while the music might not be for everyone, the experience is totally worth it.
Are you visiting New York this summer? The Hotel Beacon offers both hotel rooms and apartment-style suites in the heart of the Upper West Side and within walking distance of some of the city’s most popular attractions.
