Discover Live Music Hot Spots

If you’re looking for a great spot to listen to live music, look no further than Charlottesville. With several venues within a short drive, there is something for every musical palate in our fair city. From up-and-coming acts to nationally touring headliners, the list of live music venues in Charlottesville is almost impossible to resist. Here’s a list of our favorite live music spots around town. 

Southern Café and Music 

Located on the Historic Downtown Mall this hangout sports a rotating cast of local comedy and music talent, including funk, soul, and blues. Southern Café even hosts an open mike night where you can really unwind and party with friends.

The Jefferson 

Housed in an historic old theater on the Downtown Mall, this music venue offers a concert-like experience with great lighting, balconies with seating and a floor for dancing. Whether you are looking to dance the night away or settle in and just enjoy the music, The Jefferson allows you to have the experience you want.

Whiskey Jar 

This charming spot resides at the end of the Historic Downtown Mall. The Whiskey Jar is a restaurant as well as a great spot for music. Here you can relish in a small and more intimate setting while enjoying one of the many delicious cocktails or foodstuffs offered. On warm nights an entire wall of the restaurant can be opened allowing guests to sit outside or enjoy the night air from their seats inside.

The Bebedero

A Latin inspired restaurant, Bebedero offers a delicious menu, cocktails and music. Typically, you will find one or two musicians strumming the Acoustic guitar with the romantic and inspiring tones of Brazilian rhythms, Cuban Son and Spanish Flamenco. This is the perfect setting to enjoy with a small group of friends or a romantic night out.

The Front Porch 

The Front Porch is a unique music venue that began its legacy on an actual porch. This spot located on the outskirts of the Downtown Mall on Water Street,  has been enchanting visitors since 2015, and it’s easy to see why. Music from every genre is appreciated here. At its core is the idea of community which is expressed through its outreach program and jam night attracting musicians from all over Virginia.

Potters Craft Cider

Just minutes outside of Charlottesville city limits lies this quant cidery. Surrounded by woodland and housed within an old, refurbished stone church, Potters Craft Cider is a top-notch venue for enjoying music. Music over the weekends is often accompanied by a food truck or you can bring your own picnic. There is plenty of seating and parking.  

Summary 

The best place to catch live music in Charlottesville is at a variety of locations around town. Whether you’re looking for a place to unwind with friends or a place to catch a concert, there’s a great option for you. From traditional to contemporary, folk to blues, country to rock n’ roll, there are plenty of musical styles to choose from. And don’t worry if you’re on the fence about going to a certain show. Many of our local live music venues offer free or discounted tickets to certain acts each month, so you can decide for yourself which bands you want to support.