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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of New York

Live music and historical sites

The weight of history adds a layer of depth to any performance. It is the feeling of being surrounded by stories of the past while the music of the present fills the air.

Based on 850 Opinions
+847
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Updated May 2026
01
Bill's Place image 1
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Jazz club

Small venue with intimate speakeasy vibe and cozy seating creates close-up jazz experiences. World-class musicians deliver powerful performances amplified by the loud drums in the compact space. BYOB policy encourages bringing personal drinks, enhancing the relaxed, authentic atmosphere.

Offers live jazz in an intimate setting with a $30 cover charge. The venue focuses on creating a close, engaging music experience.

An intimate spot steeped in Harlem's musical culture and Black history, it offers engaging storytelling about the area's past. The history of 133rd street as a speakeasy capital during prohibition comes alive through vivid oral accounts.

People are saying

"The jazz musicians here are amazingly talented and connect with the audience."

"It's an intimate, magical spot for a date night."

"You'll hear incredible live jazz from musicians who are as good as it gets."

Good to know

1

You need to reserve tickets beforehand online.

2

The cost is $30 per head and it is BYO (Bring Your Own).

3

You need to arrive half an hour early to get good seats.

02
Charlotteโ€™s Speakeasy image 1

Hidden behind a bookshelf in an ice cream parlor, the bar recreates a 1920s speakeasy with a secret entrance and vintage style. Live bands play authentic Chicago Blues and classic covers, creating a lively and loud atmosphere. Specialty cocktails like bourbon-based drinks complement the cozy, classy vibe.

A live band plays a mix of covers from Chuck Berry to Otis Redding, creating a jazzy atmosphere. The vibe feels like stepping back to the Prohibition era with specialty drinks enhancing the experience.

An actual 1920-33 speakeasy with a rich historical background. The owner offers tours showing deep care for its past and unique charming atmosphere.

People are saying

"The live music at this Speakeasy is outrageously good."

"It's like stepping back in time to the Prohibition era with its historical sites."

"I loved the jazzy atmosphere and live music here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dinner, especially on weekends when live music starts at 7pm.

2

To enter, you need the password from their website.

3

The venue is small and can get overcrowded, so plan accordingly.

03
Birdland Jazz Club image 1

Jazz club offers intimate tables and perfect acoustics with unobstructed stage views from every seat. The atmosphere stays elegant and lively, filled with live jazz performances by skilled musicians. Accessibility includes an elevator for wheelchair users, enhancing the inclusive vibe.

Live jazz fills the room with classic New York vibes and energetic performances. Dinner pairs well with the intimate atmosphere and top-tier musicianship.

An intimate setting rich in jazz history and nostalgia wraps visitors in warmth. The club stands as a world famous landmark in the jazz scene with a deep, incredible history.

People are saying

"I highly recommend this place for the great jazz music."

"The live music here is outstanding and the musicians are incredible."

"It feels like stepping into a piece of jazz history here."

Good to know

1

Tickets sell out fast on weekends, so it's important to order them early.

2

You must have a reservation before you go, especially on weekend nights.

3

There is a minimum spend of $20 per person at Birdland.

04
Great Jones Distilling Co image 1

Copper and brass distillers dominate the stylish interior filled with warm smokey fragrance and loud music. A speakeasy basement hosts private events with magic shows and live music, while the second-floor bar offers a welcoming atmosphere with attentive staff. Wall art featuring a light-up map of NYC speakeasies and a Basquiat installation add unique character to the space.

Live jazz music plays on a separate floor with cocktails and food complimentary. A speakeasy downstairs hosts magic shows and live music on weekends, creating a lively atmosphere.

Tours focus on 18th century farming, Prohibition, and distillery history. Guides share detailed stories about the distillation process and the company's past.

People are saying

"I learned so much about whiskey from our knowledgeable guide."

"The guides at these historical sites are so knowledgeable and friendly."

"The live jazz music here creates such a nice atmosphere."

Good to know

1

The distillery tour is first come, first served without prior notice.

2

Reservations are recommended for the 'Bourbon & Bites' tour.

3

The Sunday Jazz Brunch features live music and requires a reservation.

05
Fraunces Tavern image 1
American restaurant

Oldest building in Manhattan hosts multiple bars and a restaurant within a spacious, beautifully decorated setting. Atmosphere blends historic charm with live jazz music, creating an engaging and lively vibe. Visitors explore a museum upstairs and enjoy a whiskey bar alongside diverse social spaces.

Live music happens in a few spots, including a piano bar upstairs and a bar with live jazz that gets people dancing. Special occasions feature afternoon live music that adds to the atmosphere.

Built in the 1800s, this site serves as a historic landmark and museum showcasing deep roots in American history. It offers a real-life history experience that stands out in the United States.

People are saying

"I loved dining inside American history at this historical site."

"They had a great beer selection with many special beers."

"The live music here creates a lively atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are needed to sit in the old tavern room.

2

The happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

3

Live jazz music is available during Saturday brunch.

06
The Old '76 House image 1
American restaurant

Historic tavern filled with American mementos and military paraphernalia creates a warm, cozy atmosphere rich with history. Live jazz music plays during dinner, adding to the unique vibe. Signature ales and classic American dishes complement the authentic setting.

Live jazz music by Judy Marie & Friends plays regularly, adding a warm atmosphere to the space.

The space holds rich American history where founding fathers once ate and talked. The atmosphere feels alive with stories, making it easy to imagine figures like George Washington nearby.

People are saying

"The live music here feels like stepping back into history."

"I loved the cozy atmosphere by the fireplace."

"The food and drinks here were fantastic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the brunch buffet on special occasions.

2

Jazz night happens every Wednesday, featuring local musicians.

3

Live music is scheduled on Mondays, enhancing the dining experience.

07
The Bitter End image 1
Live music venue

Historic live music venue with close seating and table service creates an intimate atmosphere. Spooky decor includes a giant spider near the stage, adding unique character. The venue hosts legendary artists and offers great sound quality during performances.

An intimate, rustic venue offers live music of all genres daily in a friendly environment. The space pairs well with a cocktail or cold beer, creating a great setting for authentic live shows.

An iconic landmark with over 60 years of history hosting legendary acts like Simon and Garfunkel. The intimate venue offers a rich musical heritage and a sense of being part of the city's historic music scene.

People are saying

"This historic music venue has hosted legends for decades."

"I thought the live music here was fantastic."

"I love the food served here; it's really good."

Good to know

1

Entry fee is $15, and a minimum purchase of 2 drinks is required.

2

Arrive early for the best seating, especially for popular shows.

3

The comedy show is every Friday at midnight, featuring top acts.

08
Village Vanguard image 1

Tiny jazz club seating around 70 people in a basement with intimate atmosphere and historic vibe. Music is exceptional live jazz, often featuring phenomenal house bands. Space feels tight and authentic, with low ceilings and close seating near a noisy bar.

Intimate setting with dim lights and a few tables creates a cozy vibe. Live jazz music delivers an excellent atmosphere and iconic performances.

Walls hold jazz history with photos of legends, creating a unique atmosphere. The venue stands as an iconic landmark where many stars have performed.

People are saying

"It's a small, intimate place perfect for experiencing jazz."

"This historic jazz venue has an intimate atmosphere."

"The live music here feels like stepping back in time."

Good to know

1

Make reservations and arrive early for the best seating.

2

No food is served; only drinks and snacks are available.

3

Photography and videography are strictly prohibited during performances.

09
Beacon Theatre image 1
Live music venue

Classic venue with beautiful architectural details and amazing acoustics creates an intimate atmosphere. Excellent views from every seat enhance the live music experience. Spectacular sound system supports a wide range of performances.

Excellent sound quality makes live music here stand out. The venue hosts dozens of shows with performances that sound as good as any live concert.

Stunning architecture and deep music history define this beautiful historical landmark. Visiting feels like stepping back into a rich past with incredible cultural significance.

People are saying

"I thought the theater's aesthetic was wonderful and it's beautifully restored."

"This historic theater's architecture is stunning and transports you back in time."

"I found the live music here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Arrive an hour early to check in for the 8pm show.

2

Attendees need to be outside the theater by 4:30 for the pre-show meet and greet.

3

Expect long bathroom lines during intermissions.

10
The Campbell image 1

Historic bar with hand-painted ceilings and an iconic setting offers a dark, mysterious atmosphere suited for quiet evenings. Live jazz performances create a lively yet intimate vibe. Proximity to transit and a full-service bar add convenience to the experience.

Saturday nights feature live jazz that starts around 9, creating a lively atmosphere. The music blends well with the cocktail bar setting, making it a great spot for enjoying live performances.

Original woodwork and Egyptian art deco wallpaper create a rich historical atmosphere. Hand-carved bar, hand-painted 25-foot ceilings, and preserved decor highlight the location's deep historical significance.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are attentive and awesome."

"I loved the historic ambiance and stepping back in time."

"The live jazz music here creates the perfect mood."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to the small size and tendency to get crowded.

2

The bar tends to get especially crowded on Thursday nights.

3

Expect a 90-minute time limit for tables at the bar.

11
Tweed's Restaurant image 1

Historic architecture combines with leather seating and classic saloon decor to create a cozy, old-school vibe. Soft melodies from a live pianist enhance the quiet, charming atmosphere. The place offers an impressive bourbon selection that complements its mid-20th century ski cabin feel.

Live music creates a pleasant atmosphere with performances by artists like Kristin. It adds a nice touch for an enjoyable evening.

Rich historical notes and old-fashioned leather seating create a unique atmosphere. Walls display historical pictures, articles, and a mounted bison head, highlighting the deep history of the place.

People are saying

"I've never tasted a better steak; it was seriously amazing."

"It's a cozy place with a warm, ski lodge atmosphere."

"The live music here creates such a pleasant atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service, especially on weekends.

2

The kitchen closes at 8pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Parking is free in the public lot behind the restaurant.

12
Temple Court image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Venue showcases 19th century Manhattan architecture with an intimate, relaxed atmosphere enhanced by live jazz music during brunch. Seating can be close, creating a cozy but sometimes cramped feel. Signature cocktails like Coco's Old Fashioned add to the elegant, swanky vibe.

Live music adds a magical touch to the tranquil setting during Sunday brunch. It plays sometimes, enhancing the overall brunch experience.

Elegant architecture captures the essence of 19th-century Manhattan landmarks. Unique ambience reflects deep historical roots and distinctive design.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and the service is impeccable."

"The ambiance with live music is truly magical."

"You'll love the beautifully restored historical building and its architecture."

Good to know

1

Jazz brunch is available on Sundays from 12-3 PM.

2

During restaurant week, a 3-course dinner is offered for $60.

3

Expect a 45-minute wait for drinks on Saturday nights around 9 PM.

13
Arthur's Tavern image 1

Quaint, narrow bar with top-notch acoustics and a classic jazz atmosphere creates a cozy, intimate setting. Live jazz bands perform on a stage at the end of a long bar, filling the space with vibrant energy. The venue offers handcrafted cocktails that complement the lively yet comfortable vibe.

Live jazz, blues, and swing fill the room every evening with a small live band creating an intimate musical atmosphere. The venue offers excellent live music with a focus on blue soul sounds.

A true NYC landmark with a cozy space inspired by classic jazz history. Live performances showcase the venue's rich past and create an immersive historical music atmosphere.

People are saying

"The live jazz performances here were incredible."

"The live jazz here is incredible and they put on quite a show."

"I found this historic jazz club with live music every evening."

Good to know

1

The venue has a full calendar of jazz performances throughout the week.

2

There are two shows per evening at 6:30 PM and 9:30 PM.

3

Reservations are recommended because the venue fills up quickly.

14
The Morgan Library & Museum image 1

Italian Renaissance-style rooms and rare manuscripts create a rich, historical atmosphere. Ornate older sections contrast with modern glass elements, blending classic and contemporary architecture. Intimate spaces host live jazz and orchestra performances, adding a cinematic vibe to the experience.

Natural light fills the cafe space where live music plays regularly. Fridays feature a live band and sometimes a jazz quartet performs alongside art presentations.

A collection of historical manuscripts, prints, and art fills the space, showcasing different periods. The building itself offers a glimpse into library and librarian history with a beautifully designed, elegant setting.

People are saying

"The architecture of these historical sites is breathtaking."

"The library itself is gorgeous and really ornate."

"I heard live music on a Friday night."

Good to know

1

On Fridays after 5 PM, admission is free.

2

I would recommend booking free tickets on Friday nights.

3

It is better to visit during the free Fridays between 5-7 pm.

15
Webster Hall image 1
Live music venue

Historic ballroom offers intense bass and vibrant atmosphere with excellent acoustics. Crowds are tight and energetic, creating a close, immersive live music experience. Multiple floors feature different music genres, adding variety within one venue.

An iconic venue with stately glory offers a small, intimate setting for live bands. The sound systems deliver good quality, matching the energy of the crowd for memorable shows.

Constructed in 1886 by Charles Rentz, the building has a strong historic charm and stunning architecture. Its iconic ballroom adds to the classic feel of the venue.

People are saying

"It's a cool venue with a great vibe and crowd."

"It's a nice, intimate venue for concerts."

"The sound and lighting for live music here are incredible."

Good to know

1

Make sure to get there early to have a better view since there are no seats.

2

The venue allows fast pass holders to enter before VIP early entry ticket holders.

3

There is a designated ADA section for customers with mobility issues at the concert.

16
Smalls Jazz Club image 1

Basement venue with intimate setting and auditorium-style seating creates a close connection to the music. Live jazz performances feature world-class musicians in a space known for its great acoustics. The atmosphere is cozy and energetic, drawing a dedicated crowd focused on the music.

Live jazz fills the room every night, often going past midnight. The club offers an authentic New York City jazz experience with amazing performances in an intimate setting.

An intimate, no frills jazz club with history and swagger offers a deep dive into jazz culture. Reading about its mission and bold vision reveals its significance as a historical site.

People are saying

"It's a truly intimate jazz club, like being right on top of the musicians."

"I found the live jazz here to be amazing."

"It's a historic jazz venue with an intimate, authentic vibe."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required well in advance due to limited seating.

2

Arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a good seat.

3

Tickets are limited; buy them online to guarantee entry.

17
Bar Room at the Beekman image 1

Elegant cocktail bar blends historic and modern luxury with stunning architecture. Live jazz performances create a sophisticated, lively atmosphere that can get quite loud. Offers comfortable seating options beyond the bar and features a hidden club downstairs.

Live jazz plays during weekend brunches, creating a romantic and elegant atmosphere that enhances the dining experience.

Historic charm fills the space with strong old New York vibes. The beautiful decor shines under a historic atrium in the Beekman hotel.

People are saying

"The bar's ambiance is beautiful and civilized."

"The live jazz creates a fantastic atmosphere for brunch."

"The staff's attentive service made the historical sites experience memorable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

The hostess emphasizes a 90-minute time limit on tables upon seating.

3

Brunch costs around $50 per person without alcohol and tip.

18
The Metropolitan Museum of Art image 1

Grand architecture houses expansive art collections including an Egyptian temple and classical sculptures. Spacious galleries offer a calm, impressive atmosphere with accessible features like elevators and guided tours. Rooftop views provide a unique perspective of the city skyline.

Live music happens on Thursday and Friday nights. From Friday to Sunday, the place fills with a large crowd enjoying the performances.

A treasure chest of culture and history, this museum offers extensive collections that draw anyone interested in art and history. It stands as a must-see landmark for those exploring historical sites.

People are saying

"You can spend an entire day exploring this huge museum."

"It's a treasure with 5,000 years of history to see."

"I enjoyed the live music and drinks at the balcony hall."

Good to know

1

Buy tickets online to skip the long lines at the entrance.

2

Members get early entry on weekends, so consider joining for quicker access.

3

Virtual queues are required during busy weekends, with wait times around 100 minutes.

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