Are you a music lover who’s always on the hunt for new live music bars to visit in Philadelphia? Or maybe you’re someone who’s new to the city and looking for the best spots to catch a live performance? Whatever your situation, one thing is for sure: Philly is overflowing with live music venues that cater to all kinds of tastes and interests. In this article, we’re going to explore some of the most popular live music bars in Philadelphia, so you can rock out to your favorite tunes and discover some new artists along the way.
By reading this article, you can expect to discover a wide range of live music bars in Philadelphia, each with its own unique atmosphere, music genres, and performances. Whether you’re into jazz, blues, rock, or hip-hop, you’re sure to find a bar that suits your musical tastes. We’ll also provide an overview of each bar, including their history, location, and reviews from local patrons, so you can make an informed decision on where to go for your next night out.
If you’re tired of scouring the web for the best live music bars in Philadelphia, look no further! Our article is the solution you’ve been searching for. Our team has done the research and collected data on the top live music bars in the city, all in one convenient place. By following our recommendations, you can be confident that you’ll have an unforgettable night filled with great music, good vibes, and lasting memories. So buckle up, and get ready to explore the vibrant music scene of Philadelphia!
The Best Live Music Bars in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is home to a vibrant music culture and history. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, check out some of the best live music bars in the city. These topnotch live music venues offer a wide range of performances, from rock to jazz, blues, and more.
1. City Winery Philadelphia
City Winery Philadelphia is a premiere live music venue located in the heart of the city. It is primarily a winery and restaurant but also features a concert hall, event space, and wine bar. The venue is perfect for anyone who loves good music, wine, and amazing food. Here are some details about this top live music bar:
- Location: 990 Filbert St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States
- Capacity: 300
- Music Genre: Jazz, Blues, Rock, World Music, Country, Folk
The live music space at City Winery Philadelphia is intimate and cozy, making it easy to enjoy great performances up close. The venue has hosted topnotch artists, including Rosanne Cash, Southside Johnny, and the Asbury Jukes, and Marc Broussard. The venue also features regular happy hour performances with local artists, making it easy for you to discover new talent.
| PROS | CONS | COMPARISON |
|---|---|---|
| -Intimate venue -Great performances -Amazing food |
-Limited seating capacity -Limited parking space |
City Winery Philadelphia vs. The Ardmore Music Hall -City Winery has a smaller capacity, but more intimate performances -Ardmore Music Hall has a larger capacity, but less intimate performances |
If you’re feeling hungry, the winery serves delicious Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. They also have an extensive wine list featuring local and international wine options. You can enjoy dinner and drinks while listening to some of the best live performances in the city.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a unique live music and wine experience, City Winery Philadelphia is the perfect choice. This venue creates an intimate and cozy atmosphere that makes it easy for you to enjoy great performances. With amazing food and wine, City Winery Philadelphia is a must-visit for any music lover in the city.
The Best Live Music Venues in Philadelphia: Where to Enjoy a Night of Entertainment
Philadelphia has always been a city for music lovers. From jazz and soul to rock and roll and indie, the City of Brotherly Love is home to a wide range of live music venues where you can experience talented musicians from both the local and international music scenes. Here are some of the best spots to check out in the city.
The Fillmore Philadelphia
The Fillmore Philadelphia is one of the most popular music venues in Philly, located in the trendy Fishtown neighborhood. The venue has a capacity of 2,500 people and hosts a variety of music events, from rock and pop to hip hop and EDM. The Fillmore has a unique industrial setting, with a spacious main venue and a smaller club within the venue for more intimate shows.
Some interesting facts about The Fillmore Philadelphia include:
- The Fillmore Philadelphia is one of three Fillmore music venues in the country, along with The Fillmore in San Francisco and The Fillmore in New Orleans. All three venues are owned by Live Nation.
- The venue was opened in 2015 on the site of the former Ajax Metal Company.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Spacious venue with a capacity of 2,500 people | Can be difficult to get tickets for popular shows |
| Variety of music performances, including concerts and festivals | Can get crowded and feel uncomfortable during sold-out shows |
| Unique industrial setting with a bar and restaurant onsite | Prices for food and drinks can be quite high |
The Trocadero Theatre
Located in the Chinatown neighborhood of Philly, The Trocadero Theatre is a historic venue that has been entertaining music lovers since it first opened its doors in 1870. The venue has a large dance floor and balcony seating, with a maximum capacity of 1,200 people. From punk to metal and alternative rock, The Trocadero hosts a wide variety of music genres, as well as comedy shows and movie screenings.
Some interesting facts about The Trocadero Theatre include:
- The Trocadero Theatre is the oldest continually operated theater in the United States.
- The venue has played host to legends such as Elvis Presley, David Bowie, and the Rolling Stones.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Rich history and architecture, with a vintage feel | Can have limited visibility from balcony seating |
| Large dance floor and intimate setting for concerts | Sound quality can be inconsistent at times |
| Variety of music genres and other entertainment options | Venue can get hot and crowded during sold-out shows |
The Electric Factory
The Electric Factory is another iconic music venue in Philly, located in the Northern Liberties neighborhood. The venue has a maximum capacity of 3,000 people and has hosted acts such as Prince, Nirvana, and Pearl Jam. The Electric Factory is known for its outdoor courtyard and often hosts outdoor concerts during the summer months.
Some interesting facts about The Electric Factory include:
- The venue was originally built in 1903 to manufacture the electric trains that ran throughout the city.
- The Electric Factory was one of the first music venues in the country to install a moving light system for concerts.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Large venue with indoor and outdoor space for concerts | Can be difficult to navigate during sold-out shows |
| Historic building with a unique atmosphere | Can have inconsistent sound quality at times |
| Wide range of music genres and popular performers | Limited seating options for some shows |
No matter what your music tastes are, Philly has a live music venue that caters to your interests. These venues not only offer a great evening’s entertainment, but are also an excellent way to support the local music scene and enjoy the many talented artists that call Philadelphia home.
3. Best Bars for Genre-specific Live Music in Philly
When it comes to live music, Philadelphia has something for every genre-lover out there. Whether you’re in the mood for jazz, blues, rock, or soul, there’s a live music bar in Philly that caters to your taste. In this section, we’ll take a look at some of the best bars in Philly for genre-specific live music.
Jazz bars in Philly
Philadelphia has a rich jazz history, and the city is home to some terrific jazz bars that host live music performances every night. Here are some of the best jazz bars in Philly:
- Chris’ Jazz Cafe: Located in Center City, Chris’ Jazz Cafe is a popular spot among jazz lovers in Philly. The bar hosts live jazz music performances every night, featuring both local and international musicians. Chris’ Jazz Cafe also serves up delicious cocktails and a menu of snacks and light bites.
- South Jazz Kitchen: As the name suggests, South Jazz Kitchen is a jazz bar and restaurant in South Philly. The bar hosts live jazz performances six nights a week, and the restaurant serves up Southern-inspired cuisine with a modern twist.
- Time Restaurant, Whiskey Bar & Taproom: Located in Midtown Village, Time Restaurant, Whiskey Bar & Taproom is a multi-level bar and restaurant that hosts live jazz performances every Wednesday through Sunday. The bar features an extensive whiskey list, craft beers, and cocktails, and the restaurant serves up delicious contemporary American cuisine.
Blues bars in Philly
If you’re a fan of the blues, Philly has some top-notch blues bars where you can enjoy live music performances while sipping on drinks. Here are some of the best blues bars in Philly:
- The Twisted Tail: Located in Society Hill, The Twisted Tail is a popular blues bar that hosts live blues music performances every night. The bar also serves up delicious Southern food, including BBQ ribs, fried chicken, and gumbo.
- The Legendary Dobbs: The Legendary Dobbs has been a fixture in Philly’s music scene since the 1970s, and the bar still hosts live music performances every night. The bar is known for its blues and rock lineup, as well as its affordable drinks.
- Warmdaddy’s: Warmdaddy’s is a soul food restaurant and blues bar that hosts live music performances every night. The bar features an eclectic mix of blues, jazz, and R&B musicians, and the restaurant serves up Southern-inspired cuisine with a modern twist.
Rock bars in Philly
Philly has a thriving rock music scene, and the city is home to some legendary rock clubs and bars. Here are some of the best rock bars in Philly:
- Kung Fu Necktie: Named after a line in a Beastie Boys song, Kung Fu Necktie is a popular rock club that hosts live music performances multiple nights a week. The bar features an eclectic lineup of rock, punk, and indie bands, and the crowd is known for being energetic and fun-loving.
- Ortlieb’s: Ortlieb’s has been a fixture in Philly’s music scene since the 1970s, and the bar still hosts live music performances multiple nights a week. The bar is known for its rock and indie lineup, as well as its extensive beer list and laid-back vibe.
- Johnny Brenda’s: Located in Fishtown, Johnny Brenda’s is a popular music venue that hosts live music performances multiple nights a week. The bar features an eclectic lineup of rock, indie, and folk musicians, and the restaurant serves up delicious pub fare with a twist.
| Bar Name | Genre | Location | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chris’ Jazz Cafe | Jazz | Center City | Daily live jazz music, cocktails, snacks & light bites |
| South Jazz Kitchen | Jazz | South Philly | Nightly live jazz music, Southern-inspired cuisine |
| Time Restaurant, Whiskey Bar & Taproom | Jazz | Midtown Village | Live jazz music (Wed-Sun), extensive whiskey list, craft beers, contemporary American cuisine |
| The Twisted Tail | Blues | Society Hill | Nightly live blues music, Southern-inspired cuisine |
| The Legendary Dobbs | Blues/Rock | South Philly | Nightly live music, affordable drinks |
| Warmdaddy’s | Blues/Jazz/R&B | South Philly | Nightly live music, Southern-inspired cuisine |
| Kung Fu Necktie | Rock/Punk/Indie | Fishtown | Nightly live music, energetic crowds |
| Ortlieb’s | Rock/Indie | Northern Liberties | Nightly live music, extensive beer list, laid-back vibe |
| Johnny Brenda’s | Rock/Indie/Folk | Fishtown | Nightly live music, pub fare with a twist |
In conclusion, whether you’re in the mood for jazz, blues, or rock, Philly’s live music bars have got you covered. From intimate jazz clubs to legendary rock venues, you’re sure to find a bar that caters to your musical tastes. So grab a drink, sit back, and enjoy some of the best live music that Philly has to offer.
The Best Live Music Bars in Philadelphia
Live music bars in Philadelphia have a long-standing history of providing excellent entertainment, cozy atmosphere, and delicious drinks. From intimate jazz sessions and indie shows to rock and metal concerts, the city has something for every taste. Here we present the top four live music bars, based on their popularity, ambiance, and frequency of shows.
Fergie’s Pub
Fergie’s Pub, located at 1214 Sansom St in Center City, is a cozy pub that has become a hub for live music in Philadelphia. The bar’s wooden interior, adorned with Irish knick-knacks, gives a laid-back feel. Their calendar is packed with live shows featuring local talent, from acoustic acts to small bands. Fergie’s gets a lively crowd on weekends and makes for a great place to end the day after exploring Philly’s famous landmarks.
- The pub has been serving drinks and live music for over 25 years.
- It has been awarded the Best Irish Pub by Philly Hotlist for several years in a row.
- Fergie’s hosts live jazz brunch every Sunday from 11 am to 2 pm.
| Pros | Cons | Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Cozy ambiance | May get crowded on weekends | Similar to other Irish pubs in Philly |
| Live music almost every night | No food menu besides bar snacks | Bigger selection of drinks than many other Irish pubs |
| Excellent location near historic sites in the city center | No dedicated dance floor | Less costly than many other live music bars in the city |
Johnny Brenda’s
Johnny Brenda’s, situated at 1201 Frankford Ave in Fishtown, is a top-rated live music bar that attracts music lovers from all over the city. It is a historical landmark, built-in 1910, that boasts a state-of-the-art sound system, an eclectic menu, and craft beer on tap. Johnny Brenda’s has hosted several national acts and continues to draw buzzworthy talent. It’s a must-visit spot for visitors looking for a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.
- Johnny Brenda’s was renovated in 2003 and quickly made a name for itself with its music and food.
- The venue has over 15 beers on tap, many of them from local breweries.
- They serve food made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
| Pros | Cons | Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| High-quality sound system and lighting | Crowded and loud during shows | Bigger and more professional than many other live music bars |
| Eclectic menu with vegan and vegetarian options | May have long lines for shows | Offers a more diverse range of beers than many other music bars in Philly |
| Regularly hosts national touring acts | No outside food or drinks allowed | More expensive than some other bars but still offer affordable shows |
Ortlieb’s
Ortlieb’s, located at 847 N 3rd St in Northern Liberties, is a historic jazz club turned rock venue that stays true to its musical roots. The bar, re-opened in 2016 after a period of closure, features a large stage and a spacious dance floor. Ortlieb’s hosts live shows from local and national acts, with genres ranging from punk to jazz fusion. For those interested in checking out the music history of Philly, this venue makes a great destination.
- The venue was famous in the 70s and 80s for its jazz performances, which attracted many famous musicians of the time.
- Ortlieb’s was reopened with the help of the ex-drummer of The Roots, Questlove.
- The venue offers affordable shows and happy hour deals on drinks.
| Pros | Cons | Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| The venue has a rich musical history | Only accepts cash payments | The biggest dance floor and stage out of all the live music bars in this list |
| The venue offers shows featuring various genres | May have issues with sound during shows | Cheaper than many other live music bars in the city |
| Has an affordable drinks menu with happy hour deals | No food menu besides bar snacks | More historic than modern in terms of layout and style |
The Fire
The Fire, located at 412 W Girard Ave in Northern Liberties, is a versatile music venue that provides a platform for new and upcoming artists. The bar’s small stage has hosted several well-known artists in their early days, such as The Districts and The War on Drugs. The Fire features regular DJ nights, open mic sessions, and live music shows. It’s a favorite among both indie rock fans and hardcore punk enthusiasts.
- The bar’s owners, Adam and Van, bought it in 1998 and have been running it since then.
- The Fire has hosted shows for over 25,000 artists, both local and international.
- The venue aims to provide affordable entertainment with ticket prices below $10.
| Pros | Cons | Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| The bar is run by two Philadelphia musicians | The venue’s size can be limiting during more popular shows | Smaller but more intimate than most live music bars on this list |
| The venue offers extremely affordable shows | No food menu besides bar snacks | More actively involved in providing a platform for undiscovered artists |
| Has regular open mic nights and DJ sessions | The venue’s interior decor is quite basic | Dedicated to providing entertainment at affordable prices |
In conclusion, Philadelphia has a long and rich history of live music. From cozy pubs to historic venues, the city offers many options for enjoying live music while grabbing a beer or two. Whether you’re a fan of classic jazz, indie rock music, or punk rock, there is a music bar that will cater to your taste. Visit any one of these four bars to experience the best live music scene in the city.
5. Best Live Music Bars in Philly for Different Music Genres
Philadelphia is a city vibrant with music and culture, and there is no shortage of live music venues to explore. Philly’s live music scene offers a range of genres that cater to every musical taste and style.
5.1 Jazz and Blues Music Bars
For jazz and blues enthusiasts, Philly is the perfect destination to explore. Philly has an incredible selection of jazz bars that bring in some of the best jazz and blues artists in the country.
- The Twisted Tail
- Chris’ Jazz Cafe
- Paris Bistro & Jazz Cafe
- South Restaurant & Jazz Club
| Bar Name | Genre | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Twisted Tail | Jazz, Blues, and Southern cuisine | Great music, delicious food, and cozy atmosphere | Can be crowded and noisy during peak hours |
| Chris’ Jazz Cafe | Jazz | Intimate setting, excellent acoustics, and fantastic musicians | Reservations are recommended, and drinks can be a bit pricey |
| Paris Bistro & Jazz Cafe | Jazz and French cuisine | Elegant ambiance, fantastic musicians, and delicious food | Drinks can be expensive, and the bar can be a bit crowded during peak hours |
| South Restaurant & Jazz Club | Jazz and Southern cuisine | Excellent southern-style cuisine, fantastic musicians, and sophisticated ambiance | Can be pricey, and reservations are highly recommended |
If you’re into jazz and blues music, we highly recommend checking out these top live music bars that bring the city’s rich musical heritage to life. The Twisted Tail is a favored spot for locals and tourists alike, combining excellent live jazz and blues music with a menu full of southern-inspired plates. Chris’ Jazz Cafe, situated in the city’s central district, has been hosting world-renowned jazz performers for decades, offering guests an intimate and jazz-focused experience. Paris Bistro & Jazz Cafe is an elegant spot that serves up fantastic French cuisine and live jazz music in a romantic and sophisticated atmosphere. Lastly, South Restaurant & Jazz Club is worth visiting for its remarkable southern-style cuisine and big band jazz music.
5.2 Rock and Indie Music Bars
Rock and indie music fans will not feel left out in Philly’s live music scene. Home to many legendary rock clubs, Philly is the go-to spot for lovers of the genre.
- Johnny Brenda’s
- The Barbary
- Boot & Saddle
| Bar Name | Genre | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Johnny Brenda’s | Rock, Indie, and Locavore cuisine | Live music, great drinks, tasty local food, and a cool atmosphere | Can be crowded and loud during peak hours |
| The Barbary | Alternative, Punk Rock, and Electro | Great sound system, unique ambiance, and live performances | Can be a little rough around the edges in terms of safety |
| Boot & Saddle | Indie, Rock, and Country Western | Excellent music, great cocktails, and intimate atmosphere | Can be a bit pricey, and seating can be limited at times |
Johnny Brenda’s is the perfect rock venue to visit, featuring live music, locavore cuisine, and a buzzing atmosphere that draws crowds nightly. The Barbary is another famous spot for alternative and punk rock music lovers, featuring a unique ambiance and fantastic sound system. Lastly, Boot & Saddle is known for its cozy atmosphere and excellent live performances featuring indie, rock, and country western bands.
5.3 Hip-Hop and R&B Music Bars
Philadelphia is a city that has made an immense contribution to Hip-Hop and R&B music. It is no surprise that Philly has a vibrant live hip-hop and R&B music scene catering to admirers of the genre.
- Silk City
- Voltage Lounge
- Coda
| Bar Name | Genre | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silk City | Hip-Hop, R&B, and Diner Classics | Top-notch music, impressive food and drinks, outdoor seating, and hip ambiance | The bar can get crowded and busy |
| Voltage Lounge | Hip-Hop, R&B, and Electronic Dance Music | Great venue for dancers, solid music lineup, and reasonably priced drinks | Can be crowded, and the location isn’t the best |
| Coda | R&B, Hip-Hop, and Electronic Dance Music | Remarkable music venue, top-notch sound system, and a full-service bar | It’s a pricey location to hang out in |
Silk City is a standout joint that pays tribute to both the city’s past and present, with excellent food and drinks and a unique ambiance that captures the city’s hip-hop culture. Voltage Lounge is relatively new to the Philadelphia music scene, but it has quickly gained a reputation as one of the top spots for hip hop, R&B, and electronic dance music. Lastly, Coda is a celebration of the city’s music heritage, featuring an impressive sound system and a music program that celebrates R&B, hip-hop, and electronic dance music.
In conclusion, Philly’s live music scene is an exciting and diverse mix of genres and venues that cater to music lovers of all kinds. Whether you’re into jazz, blues or rock, indie, or hip hop, Philly has something for you. These live music bars are destinations that celebrate the city’s musical heritage, hosting top-notch performers in cool and casual atmospheres.
FAQs: Live Music Bars in Philadelphia
What are some popular live music bars in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia has a thriving live music scene, and there are plenty of bars to catch your favorite bands and musicians. Some popular options include World Cafe Live, Johnny Brenda’s, Boot & Saddle, MilkBoy, and Union Transfer.
Do live music bars in Philadelphia have age restrictions?
Yes, many live music bars in Philadelphia are 21+ due to serving alcohol. However, there are some all-ages venues such as the Philadelphia Folksong Society and Ardmore Music Hall, so be sure to check ahead of time.
What kind of music can I expect to hear at live music bars in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia’s live music scene is diverse, so you can expect to hear anything from indie rock to jazz to hip-hop. Many bars also have themed nights or feature tribute bands, so there’s something for everyone.
Can I reserve a table or seating at live music bars in Philadelphia?
It depends on the bar – some places may have table reservations available, while others are standing room only. It’s always a good idea to call ahead and check your options.
Do live music bars in Philadelphia have a dress code?
Most live music bars in Philadelphia have a casual dress code, but it’s always a good idea to check ahead of time if you’re unsure. Some places may have specific rules about footwear or clothing items.
What’s the best time to arrive at a live music bar in Philadelphia?
It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before the show starts to secure a good spot. Popular shows can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Can I bring my own instruments to play at live music bars in Philadelphia?
Generally speaking, no – live music bars in Philadelphia have their own performers scheduled and don’t allow guests to bring their own instruments. However, some open mic nights may be available where you can sign up to perform.
Are live music bars in Philadelphia wheelchair accessible?
Most bars in Philadelphia are required to be wheelchair accessible by law, so you should be able to attend live music shows regardless of your mobility. However, it’s always a good idea to check ahead of time if you have any specific concerns.
Do I need to bring my ID to live music bars in Philadelphia?
Yes, most live music bars in Philadelphia will ask for a valid ID to verify your age before allowing entry.
What’s the parking situation like at live music bars in Philadelphia?
Parking can be difficult to find in Philadelphia, especially on weekends. Some bars may have their own parking lots, while others may be located near public parking options. It’s always a good idea to plan ahead and arrive early to secure a spot.
Conclusion
Philadelphia is a city of music lovers, and live music bars are a popular way to experience the local talent. Whether you’re a fan of rock, jazz, or hip-hop, there’s something for everyone in the city’s thriving music scene. Remember to check age restrictions, dress code, and parking situations before heading out to your favorite bar. And if you’re looking for more things to do in Philadelphia, be sure to check out our other articles on local attractions and events. Thanks for reading and we’ll see you out on the dance floor!