Rocco
Get ready to groove to the rhythm of Atlanta’s vibrant live music scene. In this article, we’re turning up the volume to reveal the city’s hottest live music bars that are guaranteed to make your heart sing and your feet dance. From intimate jazz joints with soulful melodies to energetic rock venues pulsating with electrifying performances, we’ve curated a list of the best live music bars in the Atlanta area to experience the magic of live music.
Blind Willie’s
828 North Highland Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30306
Phone: (404) 873-2583
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Blind Willie’s is an incredible spot for live blues acts. I consider it one of the best live music bars in Atlanta because of the authentic feel of this bar. The kitchen serves delicious Cajun food, and the selection of beers, some hard ciders, and wines feels varied. You’ll find Blind Willie’s in Atkins Park, on North Highland Avenue Northeast between Greenwood Avenue NE and Drewery Street NE. The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum isn’t far.
The EARL
488 Flat Shoals Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316
Phone: (404) 522-3950
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An evening at the EARL is always memorable. It’s one of the best bars in East Atlanta, and I highly recommend it if you’re wondering where to get a drink while discovering some local bands. The EARL is a popular spot for up-and-coming local acts, but you’ll also find comedy shows. It’s also a fun place for grabbing a quick bite to eat with a small selection of sandwiches and salads. The EARL is on Flat Shoals Avenue SE, two blocks north of the Brownwood Park Recreation Center.
The Star Community Bar
437 Moreland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Phone: (404) 390-3062
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Between live music events, bingo nights, dance parties, and drag shows, there is always something exciting going on at the Star Community Bar. If you’re looking for fun places to get drinks, you can’t go wrong. The bar also has some pop-up events during the weekends, when you’ll see food trucks and craft vendors. Head to the Little Five Points neighborhood to find this budget-friendly spot. It’s near the intersection of Moreland Avenue NE and Euclid Avenue NE, not far from Freedom Park.
Smith’s Olde Bar
1578 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30324
Phone: (404) 875-1522
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Smith’s Olde Bar has some of the best live acts in town. The schedule includes a wide range of music, from R&B to alt-rock, and I’ve always discovered many amazing bands thanks to this fun live music bar. There is a small selection of wings, salads, and other bar snacks, but most guests are here for the exceptional live music and the friendly atmosphere. Smith’s Olde Bar is in Piedmont Heights, on Piedmont Avenue NE, across from Smith Park.
Northside Tavern
1058 Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
Phone: (404) 874-8745
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I think the Northside Tavern is one of the best live music bars in Atlanta. It’s somewhat of a hidden gem and a great place to mingle with locals. I like the fact that the same local artists play on a weekly basis. There is a well-stocked bar, and the bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable. The Northside Tavern is near the intersection of Howell Mill Road and Brady Avenue NW. The King Plow Art Center and Terminal West and across the tracks.
The Eastern
800 Old Flat Shoals Rd SE, Atlanta, GA 30316
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The Eastern is one of the best live music bars in Atlanta, thanks to its rooftop stage. This bar has a modern feel, and the kitchen serves a mix of upscale bar fare and Asian-inspired dishes. Events include popular karaoke nights, but you can also catch live music acts ranging from local rock bands to world music artists. The Eastern is in the Reynoldstown area, between the Ralph David Abernathy Freeway and Memorial Drive SE. Cabbagetown Park is within walking distance.
Variety Playhouse
1099 Euclid Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Phone: (404) 524-7354
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Located on Euclid Avenue NE near the Bass Recreation Center, the Variety Playhouse is a popular spot for entertainment. The venue’s lineup always has some exciting acts scheduled, from DJs to stand-up comedians or bands from around the world. The Variety Playhouse has a bar that serves drinks and light snacks. The venue underwent a major renovation project in 2016 but has retained its retro charm and remains one of my favorite spots for catching a show in the ATL.
Terminal West
887 West Marietta St NW STE C, Atlanta, GA 30318
Phone: (404) 876-5566
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From comedians to local rock bands or country singers, Terminal West offers a diverse lineup of events. This venue is inside the King Plow Arts Center in the Howell Station area, a historical factory that is now a studio with a music venue. The space feels unique and makes for some great photo ops. You’ll find the Stationside restaurant inside the King Plow Arts Center. The restaurant offers a craft beer along with a budget-friendly menu with items like tacos and sliders.
529 Bar
529 Flat Shoals Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316
Phone: (404) 228-6769
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529 Bar is the go-to place for alt-rock lovers. From bright pop to goth rock, the lineup always includes talented musicians, and it could be an opportunity to see the next chart-topping artist before they make it big. The bar has a relaxed atmosphere and offers a classic selection of drinks and snacks. Stand-up comedy shows on Saturday nights are a popular activity in East Atlanta. You’ll find 529 Bar in the East Atlanta Village, on the corner of Flat Shoals Avenue SE and Glenwood Avenue SE.
Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint
200 Peachtree St L05, Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: (470) 419-5853
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Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint is one of the best live music bars in Atlanta if you’re in the Downtown area. This spot offers a mix of traditional Southern fare and excellent live music acts, ranging from R&B to blues and jazz. You will enjoy the upscale feel of this venue as well as the gorgeous building it’s in. The specialty moonshine cocktail, beer selection, and wine list are ideal if you’re in the mood for a drink. Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint is in the Peachtree Center area near Walton Spring Park.
City Winery Atlanta
650 North Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Phone: (404) 946-3791
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Support the local winery scene at City Winery Atlanta. This business combines a traditional winery with an upscale restaurant and classy event venue. The events include stand-up comedy, rap concerts, drag shows, and much more. The exceptional wine selection alone makes visiting City Winery Atlanta worth it. I recommend trying one of the award-winning wines. City Winery Atlanta is inside the Ponce City Market in Old Fourth Ward. The building is directly across from the Historic Fourth Ward Park.
Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center
2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30339
Phone: (770) 916-2800
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The Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center is a popular event venue near the River Oaks Estates area. It hosts major acts on national tours, comedians, popular bands, and more. The classic theater setting is beautiful and makes for an unforgettable experience. The venue has a concession stand where you can get snacks, a few cocktail options, and some non-alcohol drinks. There are more dining options to explore in the Akers Mill Square Mall across from the venue.
Eclipse di Luna
764 Miami Cir NE, Atlanta, GA 30324
Phone: (404) 846-0449
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If you’re looking for fun places to go out, I recommend Eclipse di Luna. It’s a fun tapas bar that serves traditional Spanish small plates. The upscale feel of this place and its European-inspired decor are perfect for a date night! There is live Latin music every night, and you’ll even get a free salsa lesson if you stop by on a Thursday night. Eclipse di Luna is on Miami Circle NE, between the T. Harvey Mathis Parkway and the railroad tracks.
Buteco
1039 Grant St SE Suite C-10, Atlanta, GA 30315
Phone: (404) 963-2929
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Buteco is an award-winning cocktail bar in the Chosewood Park area. It’s one of the most fun places to go out in ATL with its selection of classic Brazilian street food and craft cocktails. The bar also has a house band that plays Samba tunes. The atmosphere feels welcoming, and I can’t think of a better way to spend an evening out with friends in the Big Peach. Buteco is on Grant Street SE, not far from the Southside Beltline Trail and DH Stanton Park.
Kat’s Café
970 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
Phone: (404) 347-2263
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Kat’s Cafe is a popular nightclub and lounge with stand-up comedy, open-mic jam sessions, live music from local bands, and more. The signature martinis are excellent, and the drink selection feels varied. The kitchen serves memorable gourmet pizzas, and the atmosphere is relaxed. It’s a great spot for discovering the ATL nightlife and meeting locals. This nightclub is near the intersection of Piedmont Avenue NE and 10th Street NE, within two blocks from Piedmont Park.
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