San Antonio is known for its vibrant music scene, and there's no better way to experience it than through the city's numerous bars with live music.
Whether you're a fan of blues, country, jazz, or rock, there is a bar in San Antonio that will cater to your musical taste.
From intimate venues to large concert halls, San Antonio's live music scene offers something for everyone.
The bars feature both local and touring musicians, giving visitors a chance to discover new talent while also enjoying their favorite bands.
In addition to the music, the bars themselves are often unique and full of character, with a variety of atmospheres to choose from.
Some bars have a laid-back vibe, perfect for relaxing with friends and enjoying a drink while listening to music. Others are more energetic, with a lively crowd and dancing encouraged.
Whether you're a local or just visiting, checking out the live music scene in San Antonio is a must-do experience. With so many bars to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go.
That's why we've compiled a list of the best bars with live music in the city, so you can spend less time researching and more time enjoying the music.
1. Jazz, TX
Jazz, TX is a live music venue that offers refined Texan cuisine, craft cocktails, and draft beer.
The cozy and lively atmosphere is perfect for a classy date night. The talented performers, backed by Doc Watkins, provide energetic and fantastic shows.
The food selection is decent, but it comes at Pearl prices. The staff is top-notch and provides great service.
The venue is not very big, so it's recommended to buy tickets early to get a table. Jazz, TX is a great place to kick back and enjoy after a long day.
2. LUNA
LUNA is a cozy live music venue with a unique 1970s vibe. The venue is small, so arrive early to secure a spot.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is pleasant. The music is always great, with different genres on Friday and Saturday nights.
The drinks are a bit pricey but tasty. They have an outside lounge and food trucks in case you get hungry.
LUNA is perfect for a night out with live music, great service, and fun vibes.
3. The Bang Bang Bar
The Bang Bang Bar is a vintage-chic watering hole that's perfect for those who love live music and good drinks.
Its mishmash of old furniture creates a unique ambiance that's hard to find elsewhere.
The bar also boasts arcade games, a pool table, and a stage for live performances.
While the drinks are priced on the higher end, they're well worth it for their quality and creativity. The Bee Sting pizza and lemon drop shot are must-tries.
4. Sternewirth
Sternewirth is a unique bar with live music located in an old tank room with an industrial decor that adds to the charm of the place.
The bespoke Isaac Maxwell hand-hammered copper torchieres and chandeliers are worth mentioning.
The drink selection is plentiful and eclectic, with something for everyone, and the food menu is also worth trying.
The bar offers free live music on some weeknights, making it a perfect spot for a night out with friends or a romantic evening with a loved one.
5. Francis Bogside
Francis Bogside is a lively bar with live music that offers a great ambiance for those looking to relax with friends.
The bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable, and the drink selection is top-notch. The food menu has something for everyone, including gourmet pizzas, burgers, and daily specials.
The atmosphere is laid-back and easy, making it a perfect spot for a night out. The music is always good, and the crowd is lively, but not obnoxious.
If you're looking for a great night out with good food, drinks, and music, Francis Bogside is definitely worth checking out.
6. The Esquire Tavern
The Esquire Tavern is a historical bar with live music. The bar has a 1930s prohibition ending celebration vibe with a long wooden bar and tables available.
They serve good food and drinks, but the focus is on the bar. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the customer service is exceptional.
The drinks are unique and fun with a massive selection of spirits and local craft brews. The ambiance lighting creates a great backdrop for conversation.
The live music adds to the overall experience, making it a must-visit spot for any music lover.
7. Web House Cafe & Bar
Web House Cafe & Bar is a hidden gem for house music lovers. The bar has an excellent sound system that creates an immersive experience for patrons.
The food and drinks are well-made and reasonably priced, and the staff is friendly and attentive.
The atmosphere is relaxed and laid back, making it a great place to hang out and enjoy some local talent.
The bar also hosts events and meetups that are worth checking out. All in all, Web House Cafe & Bar is a must-visit for anyone who loves good music and good vibes.
8. Zombies Bar
Zombies Bar is the perfect spot for those who love horror and live music.
The bar has a unique and spooky atmosphere with severed body parts hanging from the ceiling. The acoustics are great and the bands that play here are always fun.
The bartenders are friendly and serve up great drinks, including specialty cocktails served in blood bags, syringes, and specimen cups.
The karaoke nights are a blast and the comedy nights are worth checking out. This divey and charming bar is perfect for anyone looking for something different.
9. The Lonesome Rose
The Lonesome Rose is a honky-tonk bar with a unique character that brings in all types of people. The live music is a definite plus, and the sound quality is fantastic.
The bar staff is friendly and efficient, and the drink prices are reasonable compared to other bars on St. Mary's strip.
The outdoor patio is a great spot to relax and enjoy the music, and the food truck serves up some delicious eats.
If you're looking for a good time with friends and great live music, The Lonesome Rose is definitely worth checking out.
10. 502 Bar
502 Bar is the perfect destination for live music lovers who want to enjoy craft beer and a great atmosphere.
This venue offers an excellent selection of craft beers on tap, and the bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable. The live music is always top-notch, with local bands playing everything from rock and roll to indie music.
The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, making it the perfect place to unwind with friends or meet new people.
Whether you're looking for a place to catch some live music or just want to enjoy a few drinks with friends, 502 Bar is the place to be.
11. Lowcountry
Lowcountry is a hidden gem for live music lovers. The bar is located in a repurposed house, giving it a speakeasy vibe.
The dimly lit interior and cozy outdoor patio provide a comfortable atmosphere to enjoy the music and drinks. The cocktail menu is inventive, using seasonal ingredients to create unique and delicious drinks.
The bar snacks are also worth trying. The friendly bartenders serve up great conversation along with great drinks.
If you're looking for a small, intimate venue to listen to live music and enjoy creative cocktails, Lowcountry is definitely worth checking out.
12. Main Street Bar
Main Street Bar is the perfect spot for a night out with live music.
The friendly bartenders serve up delicious drinks and the bar food hits the spot. The outdoor patio is a great place to relax and enjoy the music.
The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, making it the ideal neighborhood spot.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to catch some great indie bands or comedy stand-up. This is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a good time.
13. Picks Bar
Picks Bar is a lively venue that offers a great atmosphere for those looking for live music.
The bar features regular performances by talented bands and DJs, playing a variety of music genres. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the drinks and food are of good quality.
The venue is pet-friendly, and there is a spacious patio area for patrons to enjoy. The only downside is the limited parking, so it's best to arrive early.
Picks Bar is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fun night out with great live music in a trendy setting.
14. Bar 414
Bar 414 is a refined speakeasy with live music, located in a historic hotel. The atmosphere is cozy and dark, with comfortable seating and a vintage vibe.
The bartenders are skilled mixologists who take their craft seriously, serving up stiff drinks and local specialties.
The live music adds to the ambiance, creating a relaxed and enjoyable experience.
Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to enjoy a cocktail or a place to listen to some great jazz, Bar 414 is definitely worth checking out.
15. The Amp Room
The Amp Room is a rock bar with live music and a great atmosphere. The staff is friendly and attentive, making sure that everyone has a good time.
The venue has a large dance floor and plenty of seating, both indoors and outdoors.
The sound system is top-notch, and the DJs keep the crowd moving all night long. The bar offers a good selection of drinks, including craft cocktails and beer.
Whether you're looking for a night out with friends or a place to catch a live show, The Amp Room is definitely worth checking out.
16. Boxcar Bar
Boxcar Bar is a hipster bar with live music that offers a versatile selection of music. The bartenders are accommodating and the drinks are good.
The bar has a classy environment and a good-looking crowd. The DJ sets are mind-blowing and the prices are inexpensive.
The bar also has a photo booth and bar games. It's a great spot for a large party or a quick drink. The bar has a younger crowd and a chill vibe.
The drink selection and service are great. It's a casual hangout that serves unique cocktails and snacks.
17. Hi-Tones
Hi-Tones is a funky live-music bar with a vintage look that offers a range of acts, from rockabilly to punk to Latin fusion.
The indoor and outdoor bars have a great atmosphere and good drink specials. The bartenders are friendly and quick to take orders.
The live DJ plays great music, and the bands are fantastic. The outdoor seating is perfect for enjoying the cool weather.
The staff is polite and takes time to talk to customers. The bar is a local hot spot and a great place to dance on a Friday night.
18. Betty's Battalion
Betty's Battalion is a dive bar with live music, offering a chill and relaxed environment. The bar is a popular hangout spot for military personnel and locals alike.
The back patio is a magical oasis, and the bar staff is friendly and knowledgeable. The jukebox is great, and the drinks are reasonably priced.
Betty, the owner, has been serving drinks here since the 1980s, and she always provides the best live entertainment without a cover charge.
The bar mainly plays rock music on weekends, and vinyl night is a cool experience. Betty's Battalion is a hidden gem and a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a casual and fun night out.
