Local Guide: Best Bars with Live Music in Queens

Experience the Vibrant Live Music Scene in Queens

Author

Adriano Blog
May 06, 2024

Queens boasts a lively and diverse live music scene, with bars offering everything from jazz and blues to rock and indie performances. 

My wife Fernanda and I recently explored some of the best bars with live music in Queens, and here's our comprehensive guide to the top spots you must visit for a night filled with great tunes and good vibes.

Getting to Queens

Location: Queens, NY
Hours: Varies by bar
Website: nycgo.com

Queens is easily accessible by public transportation, including the subway, buses, and taxis. Many live music bars are located in vibrant neighborhoods, making them easy to reach.

Top Bars with Live Music

Terraza 7

Location: 40-19 Gleane St, Elmhurst, NY 11373
Hours: 4:00 PM - 3:00 AM (Mon-Sun)
Phone: +1 718-803-9602
Website: terraza7.com

Terraza 7 is a unique bar offering a rich blend of Latin American music, from salsa and merengue to jazz and blues 🎷. We enjoyed the lively atmosphere and the talented musicians who performed. The intimate setting and eclectic decor made it a memorable experience.

Insider Tip: Visit during their jam sessions for a chance to see impromptu performances by local artists. The rooftop terrace is also a great spot to enjoy your drinks.

The LetLove Inn

Location: 27-20 23rd Ave, Astoria, NY 11105
Hours: 4:00 PM - 2:00 AM (Mon-Sun)
Phone: +1 718-777-5683
Website: theletloveinn.com

The LetLove Inn is a cozy bar known for its live jazz performances and classic cocktails 🍸. We loved the relaxed vibe and the excellent live music. The vintage-inspired decor and friendly service made it a perfect spot for a date night.

Insider Tip: Check their schedule for special themed nights. Their craft cocktails are a must-try.

LIC Bar

Location: 45-58 Vernon Blvd, Long Island City, NY 11101
Hours: 4:00 PM - 2:00 AM (Mon-Sun)
Phone: +1 718-786-5400
Website: licbar.com

LIC Bar offers a mix of live music genres, from rock and indie to blues and folk 🎸. We enjoyed the outdoor garden and the lively performances. The spacious venue and laid-back atmosphere made it a favorite spot for enjoying live music.

Insider Tip: Their outdoor stage is great during the summer. Arrive early to grab a good spot, especially on weekends.

Sunnyside Social Club

Location: 43-15 Queens Blvd, Sunnyside, NY 11104
Hours: 5:00 PM - 2:00 AM (Mon-Sun)
Phone: +1 718-786-7869
Website: sunnysidesocialclub.com

Sunnyside Social Club features a variety of live music acts, from local bands to touring artists 🎤. We loved the eclectic music lineup and the vibrant crowd. The cozy, intimate setting made it a great place to discover new music.

Insider Tip: Their happy hour offers great deals on drinks. Follow their social media for updates on upcoming performances.

Shillelagh Tavern

Location: 47-22 30th Ave, Astoria, NY 11103
Hours: 3:00 PM - 4:00 AM (Mon-Sun)
Phone: +1 718-204-3448
Website: shillelaghtavern.com

Shillelagh Tavern is an Irish pub known for its live rock and punk music performances 🎸. We enjoyed the energetic atmosphere and the passionate performances. The casual, pub-style setting made it a fun spot for a night out with friends.

Insider Tip: Their open mic nights are a great opportunity to see local talent. Their selection of Irish beers and whiskeys is impressive.

Practical Tips

Getting There: Use the subway, buses, or taxis to reach these top bars with live music. Many are located in popular neighborhoods, making them easy to find.

What to Bring: A love for live music, a taste for craft cocktails, and a camera to capture the performances 📸.

Best Time to Visit: Evenings are the best time for live music. Arrive early for good seats and to avoid the crowds.

Exploring More of Queens

While enjoying the vibrant live music scene, take the opportunity to explore more of Queens. Here are some nearby attractions and activities:

Best Italian Restaurants in Arthur Avenue: Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in the Bronx. Check out our Arthur Avenue Guide for more details.

Breweries and Wineries on Staten Island: Explore the best local brews and wines. Our Staten Island Guide has all the information you need.

Top Steakhouses in Manhattan: Indulge in the finest steaks the city has to offer. See our Steakhouse Guide for tips.

Best Sushi Restaurants in Manhattan: Discover the top sushi spots in the city. Our Sushi Guide will help you find the best sushi.

Best Italian Restaurants in Brooklyn: Explore the best Italian cuisine in Brooklyn. Our Italian Restaurant Guide has all the information you need.

Tips for Enjoying Live Music Bars in Queens

For those visiting live music bars in Queens, here are some essential tips to enhance your experience:

Check Schedules: Many bars have specific nights for live music. Check their schedules in advance to catch your favorite acts.

Arrive Early: Popular spots can get crowded quickly. Arriving early ensures you get a good seat and can settle in before the music starts.

Interact with Musicians: Don’t be shy about chatting with the musicians during breaks. They often appreciate the interaction and may have interesting stories to share.

Support Local Acts: Many bars feature local artists. Supporting them helps keep the live music scene vibrant and diverse.

Final Thoughts

Queens' live music bars offer a rich and diverse array of performances, combining local talent with a variety of musical genres. From the Latin rhythms at Terraza 7 to the jazz vibes at The LetLove Inn, each bar provides a unique and enjoyable experience. Our live music bar tour was a rhythmic adventure, showcasing the best of Queens' vibrant nightlife.

Tips for Exploring New York City

While you’re in New York City, consider visiting these other top attractions:

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