Contrary to popular belief, catching a live music performance in Las Vegas that isn’t by an Elvis impersonator or at a commercial stadium is possible. You can find these hidden gems in the small cracks of The Strip where each venue or bar will help you let your hair down, grab a drink and enjoy a show.
From local bars with live entertainment and karaoke events to small venues and open-mic nights, these are the top five spots to enjoy live music in Las Vegas.
Cork and Thorn
With a laidback, sultry vibe, Cork and Thorn in Las Vegas’ Art District is an indulgent wine bar with an extensive wine list to sip on while catching live performances from world-class artists from various yet consistent genres like R&B, jazz, Neo soul and blues. The wine spot also offers open-mic nights and themed events that you can keep up to date with online. To learn more about Cork and Thorn, visit corkandthorn.com/home.
Artifice
Known for being the longest-running standing bar and lounge in Las Vegas, Artifice is a locally-owned go-to spot if you find yourself in the Arts District. The bar has a show for every music enthusiast, from house music and soul tunes to goth and karaoke nights. The full lineup can be found on its website, though weekly themed nights are consistently running. In addition to catching a show or watching your friend belt a few tunes, Artifice houses a full bar with light bites. To learn more about Artifice, visit artificebarlv.com.
Star Lounge Las Vegas
The only piano cocktail lounge of its kind in Las Vegas, the Star Lounge Las Vegas offers its guests a chic yet sophisticated atmosphere to catch the live works of trained pianists while enjoying an elevated libation. The lounge is open for late-night sips and hangouts from Wednesday to Sunday after 5 p.m. To learn more about the Star Lounge Las Vegas, visit starloungelv.com.
Count’s Vamp’d Rock Bar & Grill
Be ready to eat, drink and rock at Count’s Vamp’d Rock Bar & Grill, one of the top spots to catch live music in Las Vegas. The spot is a local go-to for live rock music, including your favorite cover bands from the 80’s and 90’s, as well as local and touring musicians. The bar features a full menu and an intimate concert-style venue all in one, making for the ultimate rockin’ destination to let your hair down and have some fun. To learn more about Count’s Vamp’d Rock Bar & Grill, visit vampdvegas.com.
Backstage Bar & Billards
With a goal of keeping live music alive, Backstage Bar & Billiards is a venue and bar showcasing the latest alternative bands, both local and traveling. The live music venue in Las Vegas is an intimate spot with a casual atmosphere and handcrafted sips. Backstage hosts big names like Boy Harsher, the Melvins and more, with a new show to catch seemingly every night. In addition to late-night concerts, the bar offers stand-up comedy nights, specialty events and electronic performances. To learn more about Backstage Bar & Billiards, visit backstagebarlv.com.