New York City may be known for endless amounts of concert halls, music bars and open mic spots. But hop across the Hudson River, and you’ll see that Jersey City, NJ, has plenty of places to catch live music. Whether you’re in the mood for a chill night in the back room of a bar or inside a packed concert hall, these Jersey City concert venues cater to a variety of musical tastes and vibes.
Built in 1910, White Eagle Hall was initially used for community events hosted by St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church, as well as a practice space for the St. Anthony’s Friars basketball team. After going through a major restoration, it reopened in April 2017 and serves as one of Jersey City’s concert venues. With an 800 standing-room capacity and 400 for seating, it also puts on theater shows, film screenings and family shows. White Eagle Hall also hosts weddings and other private events.
Journal Square is known for being a central transportation hub for those commuting to Newark, Hoboken and New York City. However The Landmark Loew’s Jersey Theatre has been proudly standing across the street since the 1920s. Although it’s used more as a space for live concerts, theater and other performing arts, The Loew’s still shows classic films throughout the year. It is also a popular wedding venue because of its lush and classic decor, which makes you feel like you’ve stepped back into another era each time you walk in.
WFMU, Jersey City’s longtime independent freeform radio station, turned its output up a notch when it opened Monty Hall in 2014. Located just below the WFMU’s headquarters, it has been a standard stop for many indie and rock bands, as well as a place for the DJs to give their favorite acts a platform to perform live. The venue also regularly hosts comedy shows and other special events throughout the month. Their website is regularly updated with new events.
Pet Shop has a little bit of everything. The Downtown Jersey City watering hole not only has a widely stocked bar, but also a fully vegetarian and vegan menu that will make your meat-free dreams come true. It also has a special menu for Taco Tuesdays. If you’re craving wine over beer, you’ll find PS Wine Bar downstairs with a great selection of natural wines. And to top it all off, Pet Shop also hosts a number concerts each week by the glowing neon birdcage.
Look for the brightly colored doors, and you’ve found the Fox & Crow Pub and Parlour. With more than 30 craft beers and a solid selection of gourmet burgers, this is a big local hotspot for anyone in the Heights area of Jersey City. Not only can you enjoy a nice pint or cocktail, the Fox & Crow’s Parlour also puts on weekly concerts showcasing local talent, as well as touring bands that bring in big crowds on the weekends.
A Texas-inspired restaurant, bar and nightclub in the heart of Jersey City, the South House is one of the most popular watering holes in the area. Its rustic, eclectic decor upstairs makes you feel right at home and the speakeasy-style of the downstairs bar and club gives you a one-of-a-kind nightclub experience. South House also hosts gigs showcasing local and up-and-coming talent.
This music-obsessed spot describes itself as, “a bar that promotes and hosts bands, DJs, and local theater acts.” Besides offering great live music, it’s got a funky, ’70s theme and fun, throwback cocktails. So expect a sonically-driven experience that will keep you dancing all night.
