Where to See Live Music in Manhattan
Looking for a lively way to spend a night out in New York City? No matter what day of the week or time of year, there’s always live music pouring out of a venue in Manhattan.
Midtown Manhattan is home to some of the greatest live music venues in the city, and both visitors and locals flock here to enjoy everything from classic jazz to rock covers, to discover up-and-coming songwriters, and to experience international acts from around the globe.
No matter what musical stylings you’re listening to, these are six of our favorite jazz clubs, lounges, and live music venues in Manhattan.
Birdland Jazz Club
The jazz club that originally opened in 1949 with Charlie Parker — the club’s eponymous musician — has had many lives and iterations around Manhattan. Now on 44th Street, this jazz club remains one of the city’s indelible destinations for jazz. There’s a $10 per person food or drink minimum, in addition to the ticket price.
The Cutting Room
Famous for being one of the early venues to feature such global acts as Lady Gaga, Sting and David Bowie, travelers can come to The Cutting Room, now on 32nd Street, to hear an unexpected mix of sounds. Upcoming shows include A Grateful Dead tribute, a pop rock performance with a metal edge, and an indie singer-songwriter. Tickets typically start at $10 and go up from there, depending on the show, and a full menu is available.
Charlie Palmer at The Knick
Head to the lounge at Charlie Palmer at The Knick to hear the sultry sounds of live jazz every Tuesday through Thursday evening from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Grab a signature cocktail, like the rum-based Moonlight with blueberry-basil syrup, lemon juice, and bitters, and enjoy an evening of soulful music, including Latin jazz and blues.
Jazz Standard
Venture down to 27th Street to hear duos trios, quartets, quintets and big bands. No matter how many people are on stage, or whether they’re playing orchestral jazz or Latin fusion, you can count on hearing masterful music — and eating exceptional southern fare — during a night out at Jazz Standard. When in doubt, order anything from the pit.
The Flatiron Room
Want to hear live music while still enjoying lively conversations with your traveler partners? The bandstand at The Flatiron Room hosts live jazz and blues performances, among others, but your tasting flight whisky takes center stage.
The Iridium
Rock, jazz and blues are mainstays at The Iridium, which has a performance (or two) almost every night of the week, but visitors will discover an increasingly diverse lineup of artists and acts including folk, pop and world music, among other genres. Upcoming performances include additional shows of the Strawberry Fields brunch: Live covers of timeless hits from The Beatles along with a prix fixe brunch menu including an “I Am the Egg Man” burger with a sunny side egg and a “Mr. Kite” Belgian waffle with fresh fruit.
DISCOVER MORE OF NEW YORK CITY
After your run, there’s so much more to explore in New York City. Check out our NYC Travel Guide for recommendations on where to eat and what to do here in New York.
