The Best Music Venues in Louisville

Country Heritage Winery - Nashville

★★★★☆ 4.3 (51) • $$

"At the end/beginning of the little main street "strip" in Nashville, Indiana.$6 to sample 7 wines (or 8....if you are the two ladies at the end of the bar 'splitting' a sampling....Can I *also* get 8 samples instead of 7?!)I am a sweet wine lover, so I stuck to that side of the menu. Everything was pretty tasty! There was one guy working the tasting bar when we first walked in and started. And he was easily juggling the numerous tasting groups at various stages of their tasting (take notes, Broad Run!!) Things got easier for him when another worker came in and took over half the room.They were friendly and bubbly, giving us some information about each wine as we moved along.They have a little garden/outdoor area where you can enjoy a full glass of wine.I left with 2 bottles of wine, which I did not expect to go with, but the two peach wines were really good! I would certainly be willing to stop in again, should I find myself in the area."

Moon Dance Amphitheater

★★★★★ 4.5 (6)

"Talk about a good time! You can't beat free live music on Thursday evenings at the Moondance Amphitheater! We saw Hammertowne, and it was an outstanding performance. Though there's no charge, you can support the bands by purchasing their merchandise while you're there. It's a great venue with plenty of parking and lots of space on the green for your lawn chairs and blankets. The area is terraced ensuring that every seat is a good one. Bonus: nice bathroom facilities, no port-a-potties!You can bring your own food or order from a rotating selection of food trucks, as well as libations. So much fun and I can't wait to return!t"

The Jefferson Venue

★★★★★ 4.5 (2)

"What used to be the Rocky's by the river is now a pretty decent music venue. I came here with some friends to see a 90's country cover band. Since this is a relatively new venue, there were some kinks. Going in, we didn't have tickets so we went to the counter to purchase. There really wasn't any direction at the door so we kind of just wandered in. We found where we could purchase tickets for the show but with the lack of direction - we could have just walked in without paying. There are multiple restrooms and they were extremely clean, even later in the night. There is a raised section with some seating. Plenty of dance space. There is also a bar with both cocktails and draft beer (mostly Upland Brewing offerings). Prices weren't bad and the line moved pretty quickly. The venue holds a pretty decent amount of people and I look forward to seeing more shows there. Not going to lie, I already have tickets to see O-Town ($20 tickets - I was NOT going to pass this up!)"

Tin Roof

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (83) • $

"We were looking for a place to watch game Saturday night, My son says this is best place in town to see UK game. Love the street tacos.Only real drawback, They ran out if several brands of beers.... Hard to believe"

Grandview Tavern

★★★☆☆ 3 (135) • $$

"I remember it being better 3 or 4 years ago, maybe the dinner menu. Flight delayed at CVG airport, stopped in for a quick drink & bite. Nice bar ambience & outdoor seating. Red pepper soup was good! Fish & Chips were alright. It was served on toast, which I thought was weird. Usually a Fish & Chips Sandwich comes on a hoagie or something bigger for the two pieces. A bit over fried. Bartender was nice & quick."

The Whirling Tiger

★★★★★ 4.5 (31) • $$

"A lot of my friends come here a lot, but it was my first time here!They do check IDs when you walk in. There was a concert going on that night that had a cover fee, but we were all there to hang out.It's a fun space! A decent amount of seating, but most of us were standing or dancing. The lights gave such a nice vibe and eventually there was a DJ playing music. Not sure how prices are for the drinks since friends bought me mine. But I'm basic and got a vodka soda, which isn't a pricy drink anyway.Parking around here is parallel but we found a spot easily just a block behind the building. Love it here!"

Headliners Music Hall

★★★★☆ 3.8 (85) • $$

"It's been years! I came back to Headliners for the Dolly Disco and to celebrate the Louisville Pride Foundation and its food pantry. Parking was organized by the venue and a charge of $5. IDs were checked for each person, plus we were wanded and bags checked, even small ones.Service was fantastic, from those that checked us in to the bar. Opening a tab was easy and I never waited more than a minute to order a drink. Music was DJ'ed for this event and filled the venue. The bathroom doors felt the bass for some songs. BTW, bathroom was in great condition.Limited seating so be prepared to stand during the evening. Upstairs and main floor to view shows. I don't remember Headliners feeling like more than an older industrial building but last night it felt upgraded and had more of a personality with wall artwork and lighting. Would recommend this spot as a good venue!"

Magnolia Bar

★★★★☆ 3.7 (84) • $

"I'm a fan of dive bars, and Magnolia offers much of what you may want from a dive bar, including an old, lived-in feel with lots of things to see on the walls (and lots of interesting people to watch.) It also may have some things you don't like, such as a bartender who'd rather stare at his phone or watch TV than give you the time of day. (It was clear he knew and liked the regulars--some of whom sat down and got a drink without having to order--more than we tourists.) We visited shortly after it opened at 3 pm, and instead of music, we were treated the audio from a movie the bartender and a handful of regulars were watching. I'm a fan of The Fifth Element more than most, but that doesn't mean I want to talk over it while enjoying a beer with friends. On the whole, this is an interesting spot for a drink, but I hoped for a better dive bar experience than Mag Bar delivered."

girlsgirlsgirls Burritos

★★★★☆ 3.7 (181) • $$

"Awesome Friday night at girls! The Crunchwrap is my all-time fave and their new frozen margs ROCK. Like smoothie-margarita time! Service is always friendly and hopping! Love this place!Did a falafel quesadilla to go for my daughter and she won't stop raving about it!"

Belvedere Riverfront Plaza

★★★★★ 4.5 (17) • $

"Belvedere riverfront is a spacious park area used for relaxing and some minor outdoor events In Downtown Louisville on a up ramp above the expressway with a great view of the Ohio river front. The park as mentioned is very spacious with nice places to sit or lay out. It is a popular lunch. Real destination for the downtown workers and offers beautiful views of the city and the Ohio river. The area also has two really cool public art statues in George Rogers Clark and the statue of York. The George Roger Clark statue is feature prominently at the very end in the middle literally overlooking the river. It's is a noticeable landmark from the expressway as well. Overall very nice and relaxing place and great place to take on a different view of our city and the Ohio river."

Musical Arts Center

★★★★★ 4.7 (7) • $$

"We decided to buy tickets for an opera and see. what it was like. The building is handicapped accessible. I could access the building. They have a good sized area for wheelchairs, scooters and walkers. The balconies above are well thought out. You can hear and see well. The staff was great. the parking garage is right across the street. Try the facility out if you enjoy ballet and opera and want to support the students."

Mr G's Lounge

★★★★☆ 3.6 (27) • $$

"A blast from my past, it's been many many year's since visiting and let me say friendly as I remember and more. Tracy our server was awesome with drinks we ordered Korean smoked bbq wings so tender , flavorful with a Philly cheese steak hoagie and side of cheese fries covered with bacon crumbles. Eras introduced to Brain who made our meal. Kudos to him. He showed us the newest addition. Event center for comedy and music events. ( see Schedule). Great place to hang. 2 Full barClean facilities Plenty of lot parking. Karaoke on weekends in lounge."

Margaret Comstock Concert Hall

★★★★★ 4.5 (2) • $

"I thoroughly enjoy listening to music in this venue. I have only ever been here for a U of L concert or other local musical event (Louisville Brass Band). My brother invited me to his most recent brass band concert and I am glad I made it out. The sound is great here and the seats are comfortable. It's really a pretty Hall to be inside of while listening to the musical creations. Parking is great during out of school times/weekends."

Howl at the Moon Louisville

★★★★☆ 3.8 (130) • $$

"It's a cool place to go but you have to pay a cover to get in! Me and my husband went at 10:15 pm on and we each had a cover charge of $5 each! It's s cool place to go! Love the atmosphere! It was $25 for 5 bottle beer!The live entertainment was awesome and so was our waitress! This is such a fun place! I was up dancing with everyone! It was so much fun just make sure you have on your dancing shoes! I give it a 5 out of 5 for sure! My waitress gave me permission to post our picture from that night! She was awesome!"

Stevie Ray's Blues Bar

★★★★☆ 3.9 (84) • $$

"My husband and I visited Stevie Ray's with a large group of co-workers. Despite it being a busy Saturday night we didn't have any issue grabbing high top tables together. We did have to pay cover of $8 each. When we first arrived the dance floor was busy, with popular tunes being played from a radio playlist. Had that continued we would've stayed on the floor longer, but a band played sets as well. Good enough music but not ideal for dancing. Typical old school divey bar with plenty of beers and liquor to choose from, and of course a crowd doing periodic shots. It's been years since my last visit and it provided a good venue for us to continue conversations and wind down for the night."

Galaxie

★★★★☆ 4.3 (191) • $$

"The tacos have my whole heart!!!No seriously, after trying their Thanksgiving taco I have been raving about it to my husband. It got to the point where he told me to either stop talking about it or take him to get one. So we went and got one. Another taco of theirs I really like is the chipotle chicken one. I am a little ashamed to admit, but I've been here many times recently and I've gotten the Thanksgiving taco three of those times , there is just some thing about the zest in their cranberry sauce that really pulls it together. All that to say- I'm excited to come back and try even more of the taco combinations!This is a great place to stop in NuLu for a drink and snack, or you can make a meal out of the menu items. Around the holidays the bar turns into "miracle on market" and becomes a Christmas lovers dream. They usually post who is DJ'ing on their socials. The staff has always been kind and welcoming, food and drinks come out relatively quick even when the place is packed!Overall: check them out even if it's not the holidays, the fun tacos will hook your attention!"

Brick Alley

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (14) • $

"Short but sweet experience here! Lots of locals, clearly having a great time, contributed to a a great vibe. Great space for live music, game day - you name it! I enjoyed the Poison Apple Cider, which was your choice of whiskey with apple cider, and perfectly proportioned. Yum! Might have enjoyed better warm but it was a great flavor. My boyfriend ordered a pour of the Michter's U.S. #1 Toasted Barrel, and really enjoyed it. Our only qualm here was the very sweet bartender - who wasn't overwhelmed at all - had a hard time locating the bourbon because she claimed to be "blind as a bat," which then hindered us from wanting to order anything else, lest we feel like a hindrance to her. Great little hole in the wall!"

Gerstle's Place

★★★☆☆ 3.2 (80) • $

"This is a fun bar that my friend visited over the weekend. I have always been wanting to go here. When we got to the main door, it was a five dollar cover charge which we didn't carry cash so I was like well can't go there, but he said around the back There's another entrance that is free to get into just can't come into the main club. So we went to the back had a couple drinks and watched a guy performing Tom Petty songs and different classic rock songs. It was an overall fun time that we really enjoyed."

Old Forester's Paristown Hall

★★★★☆ 3.9 (32)

"Paristown Hall is a pretty cool place. It's bigger than Headliners and the Mercury Ballroom, but smaller than the Louisville Palace. They're currently getting some decent names to come perform there in their opening season (Wu-Tang, Judah & the Lion, etc.). Not bad, honestly.The location is pretty cool. East Broadway has historically been neglected. Smoketown-Jackson and Paristown Pointe have had almost no investment in decades. So Paristown Hall is very welcome. And they've done an incredible job with this space. They've even repaved the roads around here and planted some trees. Just a complete overhaul. Well done to Brown-Forman.It's a big, open space. A couple tables with some stools. I think they can get rid of the tables. Just kind of in the way.Bartenders need to be more mindful about how much they serve. The concert we went to, there was a guy that had WAAAYYYYY too much to drink. It wasn't a good situation at all.No matter where you are in the hall, you will be able to see. No issues here. They've don't a great job with this space.Control the temperature in the building and watch how much you serve your patrons, and you might find yourselves getting 5*."

Pirate's Cove Tropical Bar & Grill

★★☆☆☆ 2.4 (161) • $$

"Three stars for the location in the Marina, decent service, live music, and who doesn't feel like they are on vacation drinking in a tiki hut? Food? meh. Stick to what the staff eats and you'll be fine."

Bluebird Nightclub

★★★★☆ 3.5 (80) • $

"Smaller venue, great performers = great experience. Friends and I saw Shane Smith & The Saints here and they rocked.. I expected so many more people at the show, especially with their recent mention on YellowStone, but to our surprise it was a lite show. No complaints here as it made the experience that much better. The band absolutely crushed. The venue is solid and has seen some amazing bangs come through it. Plenty of alcohol behind the different bars and prices were reasonable overall. The venue was clean for the use it gets and staff friendly. Look forward to catching another show there in the future"

Arnolds Bar & Grill

★★★★☆ 4 (386) • $$

"A step into Cincy history always a good time. Service and food very good. Crowded sometimes but in a fun way."

Bluegrass Music Hall Of Fame & Museum

★★★★★ 4.5 (8) • $

"I had an enjoyable visit to the museum. I love Bluegrass and have been to Bill Monroe's museum. I have been wanting to check this out. They had a cool display on Jerry Garcia. Who knew he was so into bluegrass before the Grateful Dead days. The displays are professionally designed. Well worth checking out. There were people playing near the entrance of the displays. It was cool to hear live bluegrass. They also had Steve Martins banjo. How cool is that!"

Mojo's BoneYard Sports Bar & Grille

★★★★☆ 4.1 (19) • $

"Overview: nice small bar with friendly staff, good prices and yummy food and pool. Came here for sisters 30th birthday and it was really good. It was a fun, casual place with pool and a nice beer selection. We ate the jalapeño poppers which were really spicy but delicious. We also had the kitchen sink pizza which was amazing but not as spicy as I thought it would be. All in all a great place to hang with your friends. The jalapeño poppers didn't come out, so when we asked about them, she checked on them and apologized for the error. She was very nice and even took them off the bill without us asking."

The Bishop

★★★☆☆ 3.2 (37) • $

"After an evening here I saw that the concert stage was visible from the street with windows and I asked myself, "would I still have paid the cover and went in?" Would I ride a mechanical bull in the middle of Times Square if it meant being able to have a beer summit with President Obama?Yes, indeed. It didn't take seeing a band from Portland here to remind me of a well designed live music bar in Portland, the Doug Fir -- where the bar is separate from the stage hall creating a casual repreive from soon to be earringing. Wide ranging beer choices. Was there wine or liquor? Hmmm...well it doesn't matter because beer from $2 PBR to $4 Dogfish Head on tap is where we come together to cozy up and have spirited collegetown conversation.Seems their booking manager is on it when it comes to getting lowkey acts, where Indy usually never finds itself getting. I embraced the vicarious live concert camera feed on the bar screen but I could see someone deeming it too kitsch-y. Something to ponder!O, the profundity! I'd make a weeknight trip from Indy again for this venue, and they're on my concert radar searching.The sound mix was crisp. SRO and cozy. Get near he front or the sides if you don't Chatterboxes over the shoulder. The kind of venue where you're having a beer next to the headlining leadsinger.Bathrooms: no signs! Blue for Boys & Pink for Girls."

The Dive

★★★★★ 4.8 (12)

"I was greeted by a young lady as I entered the building. She complimented my sandals and welcomed us to "the dive" this was a good first impression. I later found out this was one of the owners, which absolutely spoke volumes about the business. Leticia introduced herself as a owner- absolutely bubbling about her business and everything she wanted to bring to the community upon its grand opening. She was curious to hear feedback and observations from my perspective as a patron; wanting to optimize and improve any small detail that may affect my experience. Letcia was genuinely reinforcing her passion for the success of her business here at the dive. The atmosphere is uplifting. Decor and lighting really bring about a positive vibe and the tender was more than accommodating. I got a piece of culture, meeting "two finger Timmy" and having the opportunity to engage with locals was like none other I've ever experienced. I was shown the transformation of the building, and can only say "wow" in regards to the amount of gentrification needed to get this place where it's at now. Prices were more than fair, literally CAN NOT beat $1 beers when compared to my usual bar tab in Louisville or Bowling green.. That being said I'll absolutely put this spot in my destination list for a fun night out on the town with not so long of a drive."

Kaiju

★★★★☆ 4.2 (64) • $

"This place is a great hidden neighborhood bar! They have a fantastic happy hour. Unexpected out of this world sushi, and variety of appetizers. It had been a while since I had stopped in, was amazed at the change. Lots of seating in back room, stage area. They also have seating out front with great views. The bar tender was friendly, and helped with our selection. Definitely have to re-visit, if you have not been here for a while."

TKs Pub

★★★☆☆ 2.7 (17) • $$

"Paid a $5 cover charge last weekend for a really crappy band and lame experience. Place was packed with an eclectic crowd jamming bad music that was way too loud and such a horrible rip off of good music. Pool tables are stained and filthy. Vodka and red bull I purchased for $6.50 was horrible and nothing but red bull. It's a shame it's so close to home for me. Won't be back here in the future."

Minglewood

★★★★☆ 4.2 (150) • $$

"The food, decor and service are stellar! I was born and raised in Lexington, but moved to Georgia after graduating undergrad where I have remained since. We didn't have anything as unique, inviting with such engaging service when I was growing up and going to school in Lex! This collage is from a trip in 2017 and I still think of this place often 7 years later. I only wish I could stop in at least once a week for a bite and the exceptional, kind and genuine people that work and tend to patronize this one of a kind place! Can't recommend enough - if you're considering just do it!"

Tin Roof

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (90) • $

"Where else would I be when in Lexington? The full UK bar experience is here. Catch this place on a Caturday or during March Madness, the environment is unreal. Great drink specials, tasty bites, badass bartenders and the best live music!"

Prodigy Vineyards & Winery

★★★★☆ 4.2 (73) • $$

"We stopped at this beautiful winery on our way out of town. It is set on breathtaking views of horse pastures. The inside is rustic, with a lot of souvenirs right at the front, that kind of separates the bar where you order/check out and some indoor tables. I think it would be better placed to a side, but maybe marketing works out better that way for them. The server was very nice. We ordered a flight with charcuterie. The flights are served in test tubes in a stand which was unique, although we still had a glass to pot into. I prefer having glasses where I don't have to pour other wines into an already used glass so I can get the right flavors without mixing wines, but it was just a fun stop, not an official wine tasting experience. The wines were surprisingly good, except one that we did not like at all, but that's how wine goes. They were semi-sweet, not as sweet as I expected for the region, and palatable. I prefer dry wines personally, and I ended up purchasing 4 to take home."

Hauck's Corner

★★★★☆ 3.9 (106) • $$

"Really great place to hang out! Not sure if the demographic was college students and older? I saw a mix of folks that looked to be millennials.You order drinks and food at the bar then pick up your food at the back room. They give you a buzzer. It's a large place! Tons of rooms to sit in with lots of tables, a few arcade games, swing sets, and TVs.My friend and I both got Coke and some burgers. I tried the signature which had American cheese, caramelizad onions, bacon, and an egg. My friend tried the American: pickles and mustard, hold the lettuce and tomato.It's 2 patties so it was very filling and large! Was it 6oz? Maybe 8oz of beef? Not sure. Seasoned well and juicy! Not all that messy actually, but I cut mine into fourths.It came with waffle fries. Each one was crispy to perfection and seasoned. So good!Staff was nice. Someone came around to ask if we wanted refills and clear our trash. They even asked if we wanted boxes. I didn't expect that for a bar.The vibe is kinda hipster even though subcultures technically don't exist anymore. Slightly grungy vibes. They were playing rock music in the background. Parking wasn't hard. I wasn't parked even a block away on Goss. Would love to come back just for drinks and apps!"

Kilroy's Sports Bar

★★★☆☆ 2.8 (60) • $

"Of all the drink and food specials that abound in this wonderful college town, Kilroys Sports' 321 Wednesday reigns supreme! $3 for a 3 Floyds Alpha King? Yes! $2 for double wells? Might regret that choice tomorrow! $1 for gourmet tacos that are are so damned tasty that I'd happily pay the regular menu price for them? Oh, hell yes!Two thumbs way up to Chef Andre for the killer tacos!And if you haven't done it already Kilroy, give Bartender Jack a big fat raise for his warm and welcoming service!!"

Hereafter

★★★★★ 5 (12)

"Who doesn't love a cozy, warm cocktail bar nestled in the basement of a deli? This spot brings lots of original charm and gives a vintage feel that almost transports you to another time. The low lighting helps give it a romantic feel and definitely helps us all look our absolute best. They often have some fun entertainment going on as well, so make sure you don't miss out on some live music or stand up comedy! The staff are friendly and know how to mix a solid cocktail! They also have plenty of wine, beer, and mocktail options if you're more inclined. Throw on your favorite fit and head down to Hereafter for a memorable night! Hey, you might even fall in love while you're there...or at least score a hot new crush!"

The Louisville Palace

★★★★★ 4.6 (172) • $$

"I've been to the Louisville Palace a numerous time in my life going up in Louisville. My latest adventure was we saw a comedian here on Friday with a buddy of mine. We had a great time. It was a great show. The atmosphere the palace is second to none. I really enjoy the designs And the field. The architecture is very nice and pleasing to the eye. Prices are always pretty good to this show. Bartenders are nice. I've never had food here, but I'm a big fan of a little Palace and it's always good to catch a show."