Best Spots in New York City for Live Music

Nightlife in New York City is an adventure… Unless you’ve no idea where to go, in which case the “adventure” can become a tedious and frustrating experience. Fear not, the Manhattan at Times Square is here to help.

We’ve talked before about the 5 Bars in Midtown for Budget Travelers, all located within walking distance of the Manhattan at Times Square. If you’re after an evening of jazz and blues, check out 5 Jazz Spots in NYC to Feel Mellow.  However, those craving massive concerts, bars with live music, classical music or historic venues, should check out these venues.

Madison Square Garden

This massive venue hosts the best artists in the world year round. If you want a spectacular show with large crowds, great lighting and vibrant energy, check the MSG calendar of events to see your favorite stars.
Location: 4 Pennsylvania Plaza at 7th Avenue, between 31st and 33rd Streets, New York, NY 10001
How to get there: Take the subway, Line 1 (red), at 50th St. to 34th St. Penn Station.

Carnegie Hall

Carnegie Hall’s grandeur comes not only from its stunning architecture or rich history, but also from the musicians and artists who’ve performed on its stage since its inauguration in 1891. Any show at Carnegie Hall will be a moment to be remembered.
Location: 881 7th Avenue, between 56th and 57th Streets, New York, NY 10019
How to get there: Exit the Manhattan at Times Square and walk four blocks along 7th Avenue.

The Beacon Theatre

Attending a concert at Beacon Theatre means that you’ll get some of the best acoustics in New York City, but you’ll also take a journey back to the 1920s—the theatre was reopened in 2009 after extensive restoration. Today, you’ll find comedy, music, family shows, and much more.
Location: 2124 Broadway, between 74th and 75th Streets, New York, NY 10023
How to get there: Take the subway, Line 1 (red), at 50th St. to 72nd St.
 

Town Hall

Maybe you’ve heard of it, maybe you haven’t, but Town Hall is a historic landmark that serves as a concert hall seating over 1,000 people. Its events range from comedy shows, monologues, music, political shows and performing arts.
Location: 123 43rd St., between Broadway and 6th Avenue, New York, NY, 10036
How to get there: Exit the Manhattan at Times Square and walk for 10 mins along 7th Avenue, turning left at 43rd St.

City Winery

When you can make your own wine, have a sit-down meal, grab a few drinks and listen to music in an intimate concert hall, you know you’ve found a unique spot. Presenting musicians of various genres, such as as blues, modern folk, rock and pop, City Winery’s event calendar is sure to have something for you.
Location: 155 Varick Street, between Vandam and Spring Streets, New York, NY 10013
How to get there: Take the subway, Line 1 (red), at 50th St. to Houston St.