5 Of The Hottest Alternative Music Venues In New York City

This one’s for all the anti-mainstream music lovers out there. Whether you’re looking for new artists, are into jazz or funk, or you know all the best musicians out there and are looking to see them play, these five locales are always bustling with the coolest new music.

1. 169 Bar

Whether you’re into funk, soul, or jazz, this iconic bar has got it all. The place has been around for over 50 years and in addition to their bar menu with oysters, they’ve also got a pool table. Come for the music and stay for the vibes.

Address: 169 East Broadway

Hours: 12 pm-4 am every day

More info: their website.

2. Pete’s Candy Store

Pete’s Candy Store opened in Williamsburg in 1999 as a live music venue. They book tons of bands, usually unsigned or unknown but if you get lucky, you might get a chance to see Norah Jones as she’s played frequent shows there and continues to return for unannounced gigs.

Address: 709 Lorimer Street, Williamsburg

Hours: Sunday 3 pm- 2 am, Monday-Wednesday 5 pm- 2 am, Thursday 5 pm- 2 am, Friday-Saturday 4 pm-4 am

More info: their website.

3. Union Hall

This is the best balance of a bar and a live music venue in the city. At 5,000 square feet, the space holds not only a bar and restaurant but also a two story library, two indoor bocce courts, fireplaces and of course, the downstairs space for music and comedy shows.

Address: 702 Union Street, Brooklyn

Hours: weekdays: 4 pm-4 am, weekends: 1 pm-4 am

More info: their website.

4. Arts Brookfield

Arts Brookfield hosts concerts in many different places throughout the city. We’re considering it on this list because of the enormous amount of events they put on. Since Brookfield has many properties across the city, you’ll have to check their website to see when and where their next music event will be. But no matter where they are, they’re always free!

Address: Bleecker Street, 5 Manhattan West, One New York Plaza, etc.

More info: their website.

5. Rockwood Music Hall

Address: 196 Allen Street

More info: their website.

Featured image: cbs.com