NYC's Best Small Music Venues
No visit to New York City is complete without taking in some live music at a little place that feels like your own after just one visit.
Everybody has heard about CBGB (RIP). The Knitting Factory has also become fairly well-known with a location in Los Angeles, as well as New York. But if you want to hear singer/songwriters in true New York fashion - and on the cheap! -look no further. Here are 10 small music venues that I like to call my own.
Your living room is probably bigger than this place, so if you are claustrophobic don't get there after 7 p.m. The crowd is respectful with a high music IQ. Bar staff is as good as you will find in New York. And owner Ken Rockwood is always working the lights. Perfect place to take a significant other. If you are going to visit one place on this list, make this one it!
FREE!
2 - Pete's Candy Store (above)
Only Rockwood is more intimate. The space is decorated, and shaped, like a train car. First of two Williamsburg haunts on the list, a misrepresentation of the neighborhood's thriving music scene.
FREE!
3 - Sidewalk Cafe
This is were New York's Antifolk music has its roots. If you are feeling adventurous, head over on a Monday night for the Antihoot (open mic night).
FREE!
4 - Cafe Vivadi
The definition of cozy, fireplace and all. The decor includes 8 x 10s of the great composers, including, you guessed it...
FREE!
5 - Union Hall
If you aren't digging the music downstairs, there is always the bocce ball courts upstairs.
Around $10
No seating and they turned away a friend of mine Saturday night because the show was sold out (didn't look that full to me!). However, the music is always great. One bad experience isn't going to sour my opinion, too much.
About $10
7 - Joe's Pub
The biggest small venue in the city becomes the No. 1 venue in the city when the Undisputed Heavyweights play here. Be sure to make a reservation any time you go though!
$15-$25 depending on the performer
The reflecting pool at the entrance can be hazardous, so watch out! Hipsters galore frequent Galapagos, so if you want the ultimate Williamsburg experience, don't miss it! Be sure to check the calender before you go because, remember "Art Space" can have various meanings.
FREE! (most of the time)
9 - Living Room
Another "large" venue. Get there early if you want a seat.
About $10
10 - Parkside Lounge
The only downside is that the crowd can be a little too social sometimes, making it tough to hear the performers.
FREE! (I'm pretty sure at least)
