11 GREAT LIVE MUSIC SPOTS IN KC

Kansas City is well known for several things like our BBQ, our love for our sports teams, our hundreds of fountains, our city pride, among others. However, perhaps one of the things that make KC standout, is our music scene. Simply great.

Home to many local talented artists and musicians ranging from hip hop and electronic all the way to jazz and blues, here is a list of 11 great spots in town to catch some live music while enjoying a lovely cocktail or having a yummy bite to eat.

1. Green Lady Lounge (1809 Grand Blvd)

Enjoy a sazerac or an old fashioned in this iconic jazz club that offers live music every night amid a retro vibe, Scarlett walls and lights and a marble bar. Whether you find a spot upstairs or downstairs, there are two stages to choose from.

2. The Phoenix (302 W 8th St)

You can’t go wrong with this warm brick-walled former-speakeasy space in downtown KC, which features live jazz, blues, souls, folk and R&B plus American fare. Their food menu is outstanding. I’m still convinced that this place has the best chicken tenders and the best old-fashioned in Kansas City.

3. The Majestic (931 Broadway Blvd)

A Kansas City staple over the last century, this fancy and vibrant steakhouse is a classic for both tourists and locals. Featuring outstanding KC Strip steaks and cocktails, The Majestic has nightly jazz performances downstairs.

4. Uptown Lounge (3400 Main St)

This newer spot in midtown Kansas City is great. Located on the corner of Main and 34th, you’ll walk into an elegant yet relaxed bar with great cocktails, wine and beer while enjoying piano performances and jazz-centric jams. Sometimes there is Karaoke too!

5. BB’s Lawnside BBQ (1205 E 85th St)

Some of Kansas City’s best barbecue is made at this old and historic hole-in-the-wall kind of place. You will either sit at the bar or eat at a communal picnic table at this no-frills roadhouse joint with outstanding live blues. Anthony Bourdain loved it here!

6. Lonnie’s Reno Club (1111 Grand Blvd)

Located inside the Ambassador Hotel in downtown KC, this supper club offers upscale steaks and cocktails, along with live jazz music and tap dancing. Named after the KC legend, Lonnie McFadden, you can come see him perform and simply sit back and enjoy!

7. Nighthawk (1228 Baltimore Ave)

This dark, sensual and old-school places is vibes. It is located in the basement at the luxurious Hotel Kansas City in downtown KC. Live music almost every night, open late, outstanding cocktails and even a pool table. Features both local and national artists ranging from EDM and rock all the way to great drag shows.

8. Levee Bar & Grill (16 W 43rd St)

This veteran venue is located in a historic neighborhood in midtown KC features live music on the main floor and a sports bar upstairs. Perfect for a night out with your friends, the Levee is all about fun.

9. Mike Kelly’s Westsider (1515 Westport Rd)

Right on Westport Road, the Westsider is a neighborhood sports pub known for its live music and comfort-food menu, which includes lots of beef. Come hang out and listen to local rock, alternative and indie bands in a relaxed and casual setting.

10. Black Dolphin (1813 Grand Blvd)

This cozy, dark and mysterious jazz joint features live music as well as a full bar with cocktails and other drinks. Located right next to the Green Lady Lounge, Black Dolphin is all about enjoying the old-timey tunes. Perfect for a date or to take the family!

11. The Blue Room (1600 E 18th St)

Oh, the history this place holds. This performance venue is within the American Jazz Museum in the iconic 18th & Vine District features weekly open jam sessions and incredible performances that make you feel like you’re in a movie. You can make an entire day out of it by visiting the Negro Leagues and Jazz museums and eating at Arthur Bryant’s.