There’s a lot to love about San Antonio’s music scene, where you can find some of the best live shows from local cover bands to national touring musicians at bars and hangout spots dotted around town. Here’s where the locals go to get their live music fix.
The sound is impeccable at Fitzgerald’s Bar & Live Music Venue, where you can enjoy shows from their outdoor patio and watch the live music on stage. They bring in both local and national musicians to perform, and the ideal time to go is on Friday or Saturday when the atmosphere is lively, the music loud, and the drinks keep on coming. They also offer open mic nights for the artist in you.
Pat O’Brien’s brings a bit of New Orleans charm to The Riverwalk in San Antonio. They’re best known for their Hurricane Specialty Drink, cajun eats, and dual pianos. On any given weekend you can walk down the Riverwalk past Pat O’Brien’s and hear the pianos luring you into another world. This is a great place to take out-of-towners or simply an excellent end to a night downtown.
At La Hacienda de Los Barrios you’ll get Tex-Mex, an outdoor patio, margaritas, and live music making all the difference. Visit during the fall so you can enjoy the outside seating, and order the puffy tacos paired with any of their margaritas – but only after you’ve eaten far too many chips with salsa of course.
Sam’s Burger Joint is a casual place serving burgers and beer, but their live music is some of the best in the city. You can expect a lively but intimate evening listening to a an array of local and national bands, and if you’re looking to get some grub with your tunes, try their burgers and a side of fried pickles. Seating is first come, first serve with the option of reserving one of their seven booths ahead of time.
Featuring entertainers from both San Antonio and Austin, Rebar is a bar that feels more like a relaxed lounge inside. Located smack dab in the middle of the Alamo Heights neighborhood, the crowd is generally relaxed and down to earth here. There’s an outdoor patio bar and drinks are priced just right.
Upon approaching Luna it may seem like there’s not much going on – you may even hesitate to walk inside – but as soon as you step through its doors you’re met with smiling faces, a great looking bar, dancing, and live music. They’re known for their vintage feel and unbeatable vibes. You’ll see musicians performing Soul, Blues, Jazz, Salsa, and more. Arrive ready to dance the night away in your very own 1960s jazz club.
You might just find your next favorite local band at 502 Bar, as they’re always hosting quality bands that are mostly from San Antonio. Kick back with a Bloody Mary and enjoy the great atmosphere at this dive bar or showcase your own talent on Sundays for open mic night.
Indulge in Mexican cocktails and live music at Sanchos Cantina & Cocina. There’s plenty of outside room to relax either on their rooftop terrace or backyard patio, and they host everything from cover bands to promising new indie acts. The feel for the place is rustic with a friendly atmosphere. You’ll find a variety of different people and open mic night on Tuesdays.
