best venues IN NY
Radio City Music Hall
1260 Avenue of the Americas New York, NY 10020
Radio City Music Hall, opened in 1932, is an iconic entertainment venue designed by Edward Durell Stone and Donald Deskey in the Art Deco style. Originally intended for stage shows, it quickly became a movie palace, hosting film premieres and performances. The hall features a grand four-tiered auditorium, once the world’s largest, adorned with murals, sculptures, and intricate decorative elements by renowned artists. Despite facing near bankruptcy in the 1970s, it was restored and designated a landmark. Today, it continues to captivate audiences with its blend of historical charm and modern amenities.
Blue Note Jazz Club
131 W. 3rd St New York, NY 10012
Since 1981, Blue Note has been a premier jazz club, founded by Danny Bensusan to honor deserving artists and provide an intimate setting for patrons. Legendary musicians like Sarah Vaughn and Dizzy Gillespie have graced its stage. Blue Note preserves jazz history while fostering innovation, featuring renowned artists such as Robert Glasper and Pat Metheny, alongside emerging talents in jazz, soul, hip-hop, R&B, and funk. The club has expanded globally, with venues in several major cities. Known for spontaneous performances by stars like Stevie Wonder, Blue Note offers a unique and dynamic jazz experience nightly.
Carnegie Hall
205 W 57th St, New York, NY 10019
Since its opening in 1891, Carnegie Hall has epitomized musical excellence, hosting the world’s finest artists across all genres, from Tchaikovsky and Mahler to Billie Holiday and The Beatles. Andrew Carnegie’s influence extended beyond industry to cultural and philanthropic realms, shaping America’s global standing. Carnegie Hall’s history is rich with performances by legendary musicians and is documented through a vast collection of programs, flyers, and photographs. The virtual exhibit on Andrew Carnegie’s life and legacy, originally displayed in the Rose Museum, offers a deeper understanding of his impact and the hall’s storied past.
Knitting Factory NYC
101 Avenue A - New York, NY
Since its inception in 1987, Knitting Factory Entertainment (KFE) has evolved from a single venue into a leader in the music and entertainment industry. The original venue, known for its eclectic performances and intimate atmosphere, set the stage for KFE’s expansion. Today, the company encompasses venue ownership and management, festivals, events, touring, artist management, and recorded music production and distribution. With operations spanning across the U.S., KFE is active in all markets, continually expanding its brand and audience. The venues continue to be celebrated for their unique ambiance and diverse programming, attracting music lovers nationwide.
Apollo Theater
253 W 125th St New York, NY 10027
The Apollo Theater, opened in 1914, is a historic venue renowned for its significant role in the emergence of jazz, swing, R&B, and soul. Designed by George Keister, the theater features a neoclassical style with intricate interior decorations. Initially a burlesque theater, it transitioned to a variety revue format in 1934, welcoming African-American performers. The Apollo has hosted legends like Ella Fitzgerald and James Brown. Despite facing closure in the 1970s, it was revitalized and now operates as a nonprofit, presenting concerts, theatrical performances, and educational programs, while preserving its rich cultural heritage.
Cafe Wha?
115 MacDougal St New York, NY 10012
Cafe Wha?, established in 1959 by Manny Roth, is a legendary music venue known for its intimate, cave-like atmosphere with black-painted walls and marble floors. Originally a horse stable, it became a hub for emerging talent, hosting icons like Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, and Bruce Springsteen. The venue’s eclectic performances and informal vibe have made it a staple in the music scene. Over the years, it has evolved while maintaining its historic charm, offering dynamic, high-energy shows that continue to attract music lovers and foster a vibrant community.
Village Vanguard
178 7th Ave S New York, NY 10014
The Village Vanguard, established in 1935 by Max Gordon, is a legendary jazz club known for its intimate, basement setting with green felt walls and a cozy atmosphere. Originally a venue for cabaret and poetry, it transitioned to jazz in 1957, hosting icons like John Coltrane and Miles Davis. The club’s unchanged decor and historic charm have made it a revered institution in the jazz world. Despite its age, the Vanguard continues to attract top musicians and jazz enthusiasts, maintaining its status as a cornerstone of the jazz community.
Birdland Jazz Club
315 W 44th St #5402, New York, NY 10036
Birdland Jazz Club, named after Charlie “Bird” Parker, opened in 1949 and quickly became a cornerstone of the jazz world. Known for its memorable double and triple bills, the club hosted legends like Count Basie, John Coltrane, and Dizzy Gillespie. Despite closing in 1965, Birdland was revived in 1986 and continues to thrive, offering top-tier jazz performances. The club is celebrated for its excellent acoustics, spacious setup, and an award-winning menu. Birdland remains a cultural landmark, attracting both jazz aficionados and celebrities, embodying the spirit and history of jazz through its vibrant atmosphere and stellar lineups.
Elsewhere
599 Johnson Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237
Elsewhere is a dynamic multi-room music venue, nightclub, and arts space that has been a hub for underground and unbound music since 2017. With three stories of dancefloors and stages, it offers a diverse range of sonic experiences. Known for its fierce independence, Elsewhere is dedicated to creative risk-taking and progressive programming. The venue features multiple performance spaces, excellent acoustics, and a vibrant atmosphere that attracts music lovers and artists alike. Its commitment to fostering community and supporting emerging talent makes it a beloved destination for those seeking unique and immersive musical experiences.