Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in San Diego

Live music and performing arts

You want to experience live music and performing arts in a venue that respects the craft.

Based on 739 Opinions
+736
User
User
User
Updated June 2026
01
Adams Avenue Theater image 1
Adams Avenue Theater image 2
Adams Avenue Theater image 3
View all

Historical theater offers an intimate setting with phenomenal acoustics and beautiful decor. Atmosphere feels romantic and engaging, hosting skilled performers and live music that ranges from neo-soul to string quartets by candlelight. Seating is small and close, creating a cozy but sometimes cramped experience.

Shows feature excellent live music with strong performances. The venue offers a memorable live show atmosphere.

An intimate venue with a beautifully renovated historic setting hosts music, comedy, and other events. Performances include string quartets by candlelight and ensembles, creating a moving musical experience.

People are saying

"I had a really fun time at the shows here."

"It's such an intimate venue for performing arts."

"The live music here is impressive, exceeding all expectations."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited to street parking, which can be challenging during events.

2

Plan for at least 45 minutes to find parking before the show starts.

3

Seats are assigned upon arrival, so arrive early to secure your spot.

02
McGuffie's Live image 1

Small venue with live local bands and a long bar offers a relaxed, festive vibe and friendly crowd. Open, airy space includes pool table and room to dance, with sound quality enhanced by recent renovations.

Recently renovated venue offers great local live music with a nice sound system. Live bands perform regularly, creating a fun atmosphere where dancing happens.

Quiet nights allow for extra performance time on stage. Bands have opportunities to play multiple sets when the crowd is light.

People are saying

"I found it to be a fun place with great live music."

"The bar staff here is so friendly and chill."

"I love performing original music at this open mic night."

Good to know

1

The bar charges $10 cover for live music events.

2

Outside food is allowed, but no food is served on-site.

3

Karaoke nights feature only a couple of singers at a time.

03
Brick By Brick image 1
Live music venue

Small concert venue with a single stage and bar in the middle creates an intimate setting where bands perform close to the audience. Loud, energetic shows focus on punk and metal music, supported by a lively crowd and strong acoustics. Outdoor area and seating near the bar offer spaces to relax away from the intense sound.

Small size creates an intimate atmosphere for live shows. The venue consistently delivers excellent sound quality and a great vibe for music fans.

Shows feature live bands with a strong focus on rock and punk acts. The venue suits both playing and watching performances.

People are saying

"This bar is a fun spot for punk and metal live shows."

"I thought it was a great place for live music."

"You'll catch some incredible live music and performing arts here."

Good to know

1

There is a $15 minimum on drinks during events.

2

Parking is limited, but street parking is available nearby.

3

No water bottles are allowed inside the venue.

04
The Shout! House image 1
Live music venue

Live music venue with dueling pianos and high-energy entertainment creates a loud, festive atmosphere. Space includes a large bar area with seating and room to stand, attracting lively crowds. Performances blend music and comedy, making it a unique spot for fun and engagement.

Live music features requests and comedy alongside performances. The atmosphere is lively and fun with beer and entertainment enhancing the experience.

Musicians show versatile talent by playing any requested song across various instruments. Performances mix musical skill with humor, creating an engaging and dynamic experience.

People are saying

"The performers are so talented and create a really fun atmosphere."

"The live music here is fantastic and gets the crowd involved."

"The musicians here are so talented and engaging."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger parties to secure a table.

2

There is a cover charge to enter the venue, so plan accordingly.

3

Happy hour offers $3 off starters, making it a great time to visit.

05
The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park image 1

Outdoor music venue offers 360-degree views of water and cityscape with excellent sound quality. Atmosphere feels open and lively, especially during general admission shows without assigned seating. Comfortable seating and stunning sunsets create a memorable live music experience.

Outdoor concerts offer breathtaking views of the water and city lights. The venue delivers great sound quality and a memorable live music experience.

An outdoor theater with a visually stunning setting hosts concerts, musicals, and symphony performances. The venue offers a state of the art experience for live music and theater events.

People are saying

"Watching the Symphony here felt magical with ocean breezes and open skies."

"I loved the live music with the stunning bay and city views."

"The sound and lights for the performing arts here are amazing."

Good to know

1

They add a mandatory 22.5% service charge for each drink.

2

Parking through ParkWhiz is easy, but arrive early due to limited spaces.

3

There are multiple food options available for various dietary needs.

06
Winstons Beach Club image 1
Live music bar

Live music fills a classic venue with great acoustics and a spacious dance floor. The atmosphere stays laid-back and positive, attracting a friendly, diverse crowd who enjoy reggae, rap, and rock. Windows open to the street let music spill outside, creating an inviting vibe without feeling crowded.

Offers live music for over 30 years with a strong focus on dance-friendly performances. Provides a solid spot to both see and play music with unforgettable experiences.

The venue hosts musical performances alongside sports events. Friends often play there, creating a familiar and lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are so friendly and welcoming."

"I thought this was the best place for live music."

"The staff here are so friendly and accommodating."

Good to know

1

The cover charge is $10, payable in cash only.

2

Karaoke nights happen every Sunday with a two-drink minimum.

3

Every Monday night features a Grateful Dead cover band.

07
The Observatory North Park image 1

Intimate live music venue with excellent acoustics and fantastic stage views. Spacious layout includes comfortable seating and a VIP area separate from the crowd. Multiple bars throughout keep the energy flowing without long waits.

Live music sounds great and feels very up close and personal. The venue offers an excellent setting for enjoying shows.

Historic theater offers a cozy setting with a retro vibe. Shows have good sound quality and the space feels well-preserved and inviting.

People are saying

"Parking was easy to find across the street."

"It's an awesome venue to watch live music up close."

"The live music here is outstanding with great sound and lights."

Good to know

1

Parking is free but can be challenging during events.

2

The entrance is located at the back of the venue.

3

No re-entry is allowed once you enter the venue.

08
Prohibition Lounge image 1

Basement speakeasy with dim lighting and vintage dรฉcor creates an intimate atmosphere for enjoying live jazz music. Small space encourages close conversation and a relaxed vibe. Craft cocktails complement the authentic lounge experience.

Live music features jazzy bands that play quick, energetic sets. The atmosphere is cozy with a speakeasy vibe and red lighting enhancing the experience.

A live band plays Jazz on this day, creating a lively atmosphere. Performers sometimes get invited to join, adding an element of surprise to the shows.

People are saying

"The live music here has a great speakeasy vibe."

"The craft cocktails here are amazing and set the mood perfectly."

"I love the live music, especially the blues performers."

Good to know

1

There is a $10 cash-only cover charge for live music events.

2

Live music starts at 9pm every night.

3

Open mic night occurs on Thursdays with a $10 cover charge.

09
Til-Two Club image 1

Small bar with punk rock vibe and cozy, friendly atmosphere hosts live music and themed events like karaoke and trivia. Crowd fits the goth and punk scene, creating an authentic, old-school energy. DJs play German goth and industrial music, keeping the mood low-key but lively.

Cozy spot with local live music and fun shows. Offers a mix of live music events alongside other activities like karaoke and trivia.

People are saying

"It's a nice little dive bar with a welcoming atmosphere."

"You'll find fun live music and talented musicians here."

"The bartenders kept pace with the crowd."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 7 pm Tuesday through Sunday with $4 wells and $5 drafts.

2

There is a $10 cover charge for entry on event nights.

3

Parking is limited; consider using a Lyft or Uber to get there.

Discover more

San Diego, California

Area guide
Loading Map...