One of the things that makes New York City special is its connection to the music scene. Manhattan is home to some of the most historic live music venues in the world (mostly on the Lower East Side). Here are our 5 favorites:
The Bowery Ballroom is a music venue on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. The space was converted from retail to music venue in 1997. It holds a capacity of 550 people. The venue can be spotted in the movies Coyote Ugly and Nick and Nora’s Infinite Playlist.
Ticket Prices: $15 – $40
Upcoming Shows: Matt Pond PA, Ben Kweller, Katie Kerzig… See All Upcoming Shows
6 Delancey St. New York, NY 10002
The Beacon Theatre is a historic theater on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. The venue is controlled by Madison Square Garden and seats 2,894 people. The theater was built in 1929 and is host to more well-known acts than some of the Lower East Side venues.
Ticket Prices: $50 – $400
Upcoming Shows: Coldplay, Eddie Izzard, Smokey Robinson… See All Upcoming Shows
2124 Broadway, New York, NY 10023
Rockwood Music Hall is one of a group of low-end venues on the Bowery small, lesser facilities, cheap drinks, etc. The coffee house’ vibe & space naturally lends itself to singer/songwriters, but most likely ones you’ve never heard of.
Ticket Prices: No Charge – $20
Upcoming Shows: Now vs Now, Busy Living, Bootstraps… See All Upcoming Shows
196 Allen St, New York, NY 1000
Cake Shop offers a variety of baked goods, coffee, and tea, and hosts live musical, theatrical, and literary events in their venue that is situated below the cafe. The business also houses an extensive record collection of various genres, including new wave, indie, and soul, which are for sale.
Ticket Prices: No Charge – $20
Upcoming Shows: Boom Said Thunder, Something Fierce, Skeleton Dealer… See All Upcoming Shows
152 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002
The structure, now known as Mercury Lounge, housed the servants to the Astor mansion, connected to it by an underground labyrinth of tunnels. Garfein’s Restaurant occupied the space in the early part of the 20th century, and from 1933 to 1993 the storefront housed a seller of tombstones. In 1993 it was converted into a music venue. It has a capacity of 250 people. The Strokes got their start in the Mercury Room.
Ticket Prices: $10 – $20
Upcoming Shows: Asgeir, Royal Blood, Rival Sons… See All Upcoming Shows
217 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002
