Louisville is a city that is famous for its bourbon, but it has much more to offer. One of the best things to do in Louisville is to visit its bars with live music.
These bars are scattered throughout the city, and they offer a wide range of music genres, from jazz to rock to country.
The bars with live music in Louisville are an excellent place to unwind after a long day. They provide a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy good music, drinks, and company.
Some of these bars have been around for decades and have become institutions in the city, while others are relatively new and are quickly gaining popularity.
Whether you are a local or a visitor, you will find something to suit your taste in Louisville's bars with live music. Some bars feature up-and-coming local bands, while others host national acts.
You can also find bars with live music that cater to different age groups, so whether you are in your 20s or your 60s, you will find a place to enjoy good music.
In this blog post, I will review some of the best bars with live music in Louisville. I will highlight what makes each of these bars unique, the type of music you can expect to hear, and the overall atmosphere of the bar.
So, if you are a music lover looking for a great night out in Louisville, keep reading.
1. Stevie Ray's Blues Bar
Stevie Ray's Blues Bar is a lively spot for live music enthusiasts.
With six nights of music featuring jazz and blues, the venue offers a bustling atmosphere and a full bar.
The friendly wait staff is exceptional and adds to the chill vibe and energy of the place.
The female saxophone player is a joy to watch, and the music pours out with soulful passion. Stevie Ray's Blues Bar is definitely worth visiting for a night out.
2. Kaiju
Kaiju is a funky bar that offers Japanese pub grub, cocktails, and craft beers. With live music and pool tables, Kaiju is the perfect spot for a night out with friends.
The bar has a cool atmosphere and friendly staff. They also have a gaming corner with Xbox, Nintendo, and PlayStation.
Kaiju has a small concert area, making it a great spot to catch local artists. The bar also holds events like stand-up, movie nights, game nights, and trivia.
The sushi is delicious and reasonably priced. Kaiju is a must-visit spot for those looking for a unique bar experience.
3. The Mellwood Tavern
The Mellwood Tavern is a historic spot for live music, American pub grub, and cocktails. Open since 1885, this old-school joint offers a cozy atmosphere and a large outdoor area where people can gather and drink.
On Sunday nights, there's live music, and on other nights, it's a great place to chill out with friends.
The bartenders are cool, and the staff is amazing. The bar also serves good bar food and has a nice selection of beer.
If you're looking for a neighborhood spot with a great vibe, The Mellwood Tavern is definitely worth checking out.
4. Merle's Whiskey Kitchen
Merle's Whiskey Kitchen is a popular bar with live music in downtown Louisville.
The atmosphere is cool and lively, making it a great spot for a casual night out. The food is delicious, with a good selection of bar food and Southern fare.
The service is quick and friendly, and the bartenders are knowledgeable about the impressive selection of bourbon. The live music is a highlight, with great bands playing regularly.
If you're looking for a fun night out with good food, drinks, and music, Merle's Whiskey Kitchen is definitely worth checking out.
5. NoraeBar
NoraeBar is a must-visit karaoke bar with live music. The bar has private karaoke rooms that are perfect for intimate sessions.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, and they have a great selection of drinks available at decent prices.
The music catalog is impressive, and the sound system is top-notch, making for a great karaoke experience.
The ambiance is inviting, and the bar has a great vibe. NoraeBar is definitely worth checking out if you're in the mood for some karaoke fun.
6. High Horse
High Horse is a local bar with a cool vintage vibe. The staff is friendly and the service is great. The bar area is usually packed with a fun crowd, but the real gem is the separate area in the back where live music plays.
The space is large and there's plenty of room for dancing. The atmosphere is energetic and there's a dope dance floor.
The bar serves a variety of drinks and the food looks good. The building is laid out like three different bars and there's a spacious smoking area.
If you're looking for a relaxed gathering place with old-school accents and live music, High Horse is definitely worth checking out.
7. Patrick O'Shea's
Patrick O'Shea's is a lively Irish pub with a cozy setting and rustic decor.
The bar offers an extensive beer selection and expertly made drinks at reasonable prices. The basement is the place to be for live music and a friendly vibe.
The menu features delicious pub fare, including short ribs that are tender enough to be cut with a fork.
The staff is welcoming and attentive, making it a great spot for a night out with friends or a low-key date.
8. Seidenfaden's
Seidenfaden's is a hipster bar with a lively atmosphere and great live music.
The bar has a good selection of craft beers, as well as other drinks, and offers fair pricing with daily deals. The bar staff is friendly and hospitable, making for a great night out.
The diverse crowd is always up for a party and the DJs spin legit records all night long.
If you're looking for a fun night out with a cool vibe, Seidenfaden's is definitely worth checking out.
9. Howl at the Moon Louisville
Howl at the Moon Louisville is a vibrant bar that features regular live music shows. This popular bar chain is known for its high-energy atmosphere and novelty bucket drinks.
The talented musicians are able to sing and play any song requested, making for a fun and interactive experience.
With a wide range of drinks available at fair prices, it's a great spot to kick back and enjoy the night with friends.
The casual to cocktail dress code and dancing option make it a versatile venue for any occasion. Reserving a table is recommended for the best experience.
10. META
META is a funky speakeasy bar with live music that offers a cool and charming atmosphere. The bar has a beautiful mock Tudor front and vintage decor inside.
META serves an amazing range of drinks and cocktails, some of which are their own concoctions.
The staff is super lovely and the musical talent is awesome, especially if you find Paul the English DJ.
This centrally located bar offers artisan drinks, beer, sake, and house sodas in an upscale speakeasy setting. META is a must-go place for those who love good music and creative cocktails.
11. Blind Squirrel – Louisville
Blind Squirrel – Louisville is a popular bar with live music. The atmosphere is vibrant and casual, and the staff is friendly and attentive.
The food is typical American fare with a twist that makes it stand out. The Truffle Burger is a must-try, and the Twister Fries are highly recommended.
The beer selection is excellent, and the prices are reasonable. The outdoor patio and upstairs porch provide ample space for big groups, and the mini-volleyball arena/amphitheater adds to the fun.
The live music is a highlight, and the venue is perfect for networking events or family dinners.
12. 21st in Germantown and Barrel Room at 21st
Looking for a lively night out with great music and drinks on offer, then look no further than 21st. This bar with live music is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
With a fantastic selection of bourbon and a cozy atmosphere, it's the perfect place to unwind and enjoy some live music.
The venue also hosts comedy shows, karaoke nights, and other events throughout the week.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat or a drink with friends. So, if you're in the mood for some great live music and a fun night out, head over to 21st.
13. Virtue Bar and Lounge
If you're looking for a spot to enjoy live music while sipping on drinks, Virtue Bar and Lounge is the place to be.
The atmosphere is positive and the staff is friendly, creating a comfortable environment for patrons. The food is delicious and the bartenders are quick to serve up tasty drinks.
The lounge hosts various events throughout the week, including open mic nights and game nights, so there's always something fun going on.
The music is a mix of hip hop, rap, and R&B, making for a great night out with friends. Check it out if you're in the area!
14. Air Devils Inn
Air Devils Inn is a true dive bar with a heavy local music scene.
The teeny stage is good enough to listen to music on, and the drinks are great.
There's no food, but patrons are welcome to bring their own. The staff is friendly and the regulars are welcoming.
It's a Louisville staple that's worth checking out for the live music and community vibe.
15. Copper & Kings Rooftop Bar
Copper & Kings Rooftop Bar is a trendy hotspot in the heart of the city. With a massive outdoor deck and a gorgeous view of the skyline, it's the perfect place to meet up with friends for a drink.
The bar features an impressive selection of cocktails, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
The live music adds to the lively atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a fun night out.
Whether you're a local or just passing through, Copper & Kings Rooftop Bar is not to be missed.
16. Highlands Tap Room
Highlands Tap Room is a lively bar with live music and karaoke.
It has two separate buildings, one with a traditional bar and the other with a house party vibe. The outdoor patio and deck offer plenty of seating.
There is no cover fee and the prices for drinks are competitive. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about their selection of drinks.
The food is decent, but not great. It's a fun spot to stop and enjoy a drink with friends or to catch some live music.
17. Molly Malone's Irish Pub & Restaurant
Molly Malone's Irish Pub & Restaurant is a lively spot that offers a great selection of beer, delicious food, and live music.
The pub has a cozy atmosphere with a mix of Irish and American decor. The menu has plenty of options for vegans and carnivores alike.
The service is friendly and attentive, and the staff is knowledgeable about the drinks and food. The outdoor patio is a great place to relax and enjoy the weather.
The live music adds to the overall experience and creates a fun and festive vibe. Molly Malone's is a must-visit for anyone looking for a great time with friends or family.
18. Magnolia Bar
Looking for a dive bar with good music and cheap drinks in town, Magnolia Bar is the place to go.
The live music ranges from local hardcore to eclectic, and the beer selection is impressive. The bartenders are friendly, and the service is fast.
Although it may not be the fanciest place in town, the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming. The back patio with fire tables is a perfect spot to hang out with friends or meet new people.
If you're looking for a quintessential dive bar experience, Magnolia Bar is worth checking out.
19. Jockey Silks Bourbon Bar
Jockey Silks Bourbon Bar is a must-visit for live music lovers. This bar offers a cozy ambiance, friendly staff, and an extensive selection of bourbons and whiskeys.
The decor is dark and mysterious, making it a hidden gem in the city. The menu has a southern twist, with hush puppies and fried green tomatoes being some of the favorites.
The bar is perfect for a laid-back night out with friends or a romantic evening with a loved one. The live music adds to the overall atmosphere, making it a unique experience.
Whether you're a bourbon enthusiast or just looking for a good time, Jockey Silks Bourbon Bar is definitely worth checking out.
20. PBR Louisville
PBR Louisville is a Western-themed bar with an open-garage door concept that brings the outdoors inside.
The highlight of the bar is the mechanical bull, which is free to ride. The DJ plays a mix of country, hip hop, and alt rock, and the dance floor is always packed.
The staff is friendly and attentive, and the drinks are reasonably priced.
The bar is a great place to have a fun night out with friends, and the mechanical bull adds an element of excitement to the experience.
