If you are a live music enthusiast like me, then you probably know that feeling that comes with enjoying an amazing live music performance.
But what you may not know is that Sydney has some of the most thrilling live music spots that will blow your mind.
This is one of those things in life you don’t know you are missing until you experience it.
So, let us look at places where to find live music in Sydney Australia.
I am not talking about your usual boring live music venues, I am referring to some of the best live music pubs, cocktail bars, taverns, and hotels. You will find a venue fit for music lovers of all genres including, but not limited to jazz aficionados, indie rockers, or live music enthusiasts looking to discover new talents.
Sydney has something for everyone.
Get ready for a good vibe experience when you visit the best 25+ spots that we will share with you today in this article.
Keep this guide as your go-to guide for any time you want to immerse yourself in the best live music Sydney offers.
I am very sure that at the end of this list, you will have a bunch of spots to add to your bucket list of places where you can find live music tonight, and other nights to come.
Why Sydney’s Live Music Scene Rocks
It is not a secret that Sydney Australia is a place with a very notable music culture in addition to its food, fashion, and art scenes.
It doesn’t matter if you are in the suburbs of Newtown and Marrickville or at the waterfront venues near Circular Quay. No matter where you are you will definitely be influenced by the aura of the music culture in every corner.
These live music venues offer you the opportunity to discover amazing live music bands, talent, and voices. It is also a great place to socialize and improve relationships between tourists and the people in the community.
We already know that good music brings people together, it doesn’t matter where you are from, tourist or local, you definitely have a music genre that gladdens your heart.
I can assure you that when you visit these venues they will open you up to both the music you love and the one you didn’t know you were missing.
In our list here, you will find plenty of options and genres.
Now let’s dive in and get you something that will suit your live music taste.
Top Venues for Live Music in Sydney
The Lansdowne Hotel
The Lansdowne is an iconic destination in Sydney, known for live music genres like rock and indie, So if this is something you love, then feel free to check out The Lansdowne Hotel.
It’s okay to have a high expectation as you prepare to visit on your way to Lansdowne.
They are known for creating a music night that leaves an unforgettable feeling.
You should expect a raw and unpolished vibe type of music.
They are known for hosting legendary acts and putting up amazing performances night after night making them a must-see.
I won’t be surprised if someone tells me they fell in love with rock and indie after a visit to Chippendale’s Lansdowne.
If you enjoy electric performances and stripped-back acoustic sound then this place will definitely fulfill your fantasy no doubt.
Credit: Sydney.com
Frankie’s Pizza
If you are a fan of gritty rock metal fan, then I promise you will love to visit Frankie’s Pizza. Gritty rock metal has never sounded so cool compared to what you get at Frankie’s.
It could be because of their cool sound system or the rock music enthusiasts always ready to turn up.
This is a place where you will surely enjoy live rock bands every single night. You also get to enjoy their delicious pizza while at it.
If you are an extrovert who loves meeting new people, then going to Frankie’s is a good idea, as it is an opportunity to socialize with new locals and tourists.
Their pizza is also quite good, the place has quite a review.
To get the best experience of the night, try to go there on a weekday. The less traffic in the environment will make it easier for you to relax easy and even have an easier time getting the bartenders to attend to you.
This is truly one of the nicest live music bars Sydney has supplied so far.
Credit: Timeout
Lazybones Lounge
If you love smooth jazz music that will suit your mood and funky beats that balance your mood. Latin rhythms have never sounded better than it does at Lazy Bones.
You have to be at Lazybones Lounge to get this experience firsthand. No matter how I try to explain it here, you will never get the full vibe.
If you are close to Marrickville, then you should totally check this place out.
Do not be surprised if you find yourself overly relaxed like a lazy bone in this unique cozy space.
This is definitely one of Sydney’s top spots for live music, no doubt.
So find time to visit Lazybones and experience a perfect mix of music genres and amazing cocktails.
Due to the rush in that place, you may have to reserve a spot to be able to be seated in a good position that gives you a great view of the environment, while you enjoy a live music performance.
Credit: Tripadvisor
Mary’s Underground
The underground is located close to Circular Quay. They offer quite a unique type of sultry jazz and soulful performances, for all you jazz lovers.
They have a speakeasy-style setting, quite relaxing too for anyone looking for where to enjoy live music in Sydney tonight.
Picture yourself enjoying a sophisticated night with friends, loved ones, or your fellow jazz and soul movie lovers.
Being at that place is also an opportunity for you to get a test of their signature cocktail as well.
The underground is quite an experience.
It is a perfect place to go out and share drinks with people close to you, and it is also a good spot to socialize and meet new people.
Credit: Timeout
The Bank Hotel
This is a special one for my indie and rock lovers. I can tell you that not a lot of places will give you the same type of indie sound as good as what you get in The Bank Hotel.
If you are anywhere close to Newtown or you are going to take a trip to that place in the near future, you should check out The Bank.
It’s a good place to meet new indie and rock talent, it takes a certain type of experience to make you a fan of a particular genre.
But I am sure that if you ever get to experience indie rock at The Bank you will probably fall in love with it, That is If you are not already a fan.
They have a beer garden and an upstairs venue, if you are like me and love the experience of live music music display in an upstairs chill zone.
It is safe to say that The Bank has some of the best live performances in the city.
Here is a fun fact, they also give out free gigs, if you pay attention to their calendar.
The Bank prides itself as a place where anyone can easily discover new cutting-edge indie and rock bands, no doubt.
Credit: The Bank Hotel
The Vanguard
This is the hot spot for amazing blends of jazz, blues, and rock, all in a cozy sweet atmosphere.
The Vanguard is in Newtown and they are your typical classic jazz venue.
They play a spicy blues music twist that allows them to mix blues and rock in perfect harmony and transition.
The Vanguard is one of the few places that has been able to achieve this blend almost too perfectly.
Picture having a close-up view of your favorite band performing live right in front of you. This is the experience that The Vanguard offers.
You need to check it out and see for yourself.
A fun fact about The Vanguard is that they offer a dining experience along with a live music showcase.
Credit: Sydney
Coogee Bay Hotel
The Coogee Bay is an awesome music beach offering amazing live music performances, displaying rock and some suiting acoustic.
But that’s not even the best part, you will be pleased to know that Coogee has an amazing ocean view.
So, imagine enjoying a music performance with a stunning ocean view, while playing rock and acoustic live music.
It gives you the vibe of enjoying live music by the beach.
And, along with the breathtaking rock acoustic, you also enjoy the beachside scene.
The best period that gives the most magical experience in Coogee is when you get there during sunset time.
The sunset just adds a different aura to the already unique atmosphere Coogee Bay Hotel offers.
Credit: Daily Telegraph
The Soda Factory
For a soul music performance venue, Soda Factory is quite an amazing place that always has nights of retro music, soul, funk, pop, dancing, and crowd excitement.
It’s always fun at The Soda Factory, and If you are in Surry Hills, you should check out this soul and funk music venue,
It will be a memorable night, filled with great tunes, and live music performance, perfect for pop enthusiasts.
There is always a lively crowd in Soda, so if you find yourself needing a bit of noisy entertainment, then this is a place you should go.
For a fun, retro vibe, check out The Soda Factory known for themed nights and lively music, this venue is perfect for a night of dancing and great tunes.
Credit: the soda factory
The Grounds of Alexandria
Do you like enjoying acoustic and folk music vibe? Well if you do, then The Grounds of Alexandria is a good bet for you.
Acoustic music lovers will definitely find this live music venue quite exciting.
Folk music also has a place in The Grounds of Alexandria. The setting here is that of a lush garden.
This garden experience helps improve comfortability while at The Ground.
Live music is not the only thing they offer, they are also a go-to for delicious food and a fun place to socialize with the community.
The best time to be at The Ground and get a full experience will be during their weekend markets.
Credit: Concrete Playground
The Gasoline Pony
If you are like me and enjoy chilly and cozy live music spots that absolutely rock when it comes to country live music, then you should totally check out Gasoline Pony.
It has a quirky name,
I know,
but they have got good music I assure you, and they also have great comments from their customers.
Plus you really never know until you go see for yourself.
Americana vibe type of live music has never sounded so cool anywhere else.
Do you remember that heartfelt storytelling type of country music that just keeps you listening in a flow while enjoying a sip of your favorite drink?
That is what you get in Marrickville’s Intimate live music performance.
They also have unique drinks, and talented bartenders that will craft amazing cocktail combinations to give you a unique experience.
Credit: Tripadvisor
Camelot Lounge
If you are tired of the average boring jazz music and would like something fresh and unique every time.
Well, you should try seeing the gypsy and jazz live music performance art displayed in Camelot Lounge.
This showcase of raw gypsy jazz vibe will take you around the world with thrilling beats and a global rhythm.
But you might want to book a ticket ahead, as tickets often sell out pretty quickly at Camelot Lounge.
Well, that tells you just how good this place is. You should try visiting Marrickville, I think you will like the unique live music experience.
Credit: Live Music Near Me
The Bridge Hotel
The Bridge Hotel in Rozelle is quite another one of Sydney’s finest historic venues, especially for those looking for where to find live music in Sydney.
Although they are known for their great taste in rock and blues live music performances, they also have a legacy that has lasted longer than most other venues in this list.
This tells you that they are definitely doing something right.
There are so many great music spots in Sidney, but this is “one of the best venues for rock live music Sydney provides”.
They also have an outdoor seating area where you can have a more relaxing vibe and enjoy an even better music experience.
Credit: The Bridge Hotel
The Bearded Tit
The Bearded Tit in Redfern is another great venue for live music experience.
They combine funk and indie music, but the exciting twist is the creative atmosphere that they provide.
It is an all-inclusive atmosphere, so keep an open mind for surprises.
Quite a quirky venue, I know, but it is perfect for having a fun night.
You should check their venue for their art and music fusion night.
Credit: Concrete Playground
The Unicorn Hotel
The Unicorn Hotel in Paddington is a cool rock and acoustic live music performance venue.
They have this charming environment and they offer great meals to go with it.
If you love rock music, The Unicorn Hotel has got you covered.
Credit: Sydney City Guide
The Rose Hotel
To all my folk music lovers, here is a venue that has amazing folk music live music performances in Sydney.
The Rose Hotel in Chippendale displays a great vibe of acoustic and folk music in its welcoming beer garden.
A great place to find new talents and bands, and they also have quite a relaxing environment.
But I think the exciting thing about this place is that they have a great collection of the top new talents Chippendale can produce, and maybe more talents compared to any other spots with the type of live music Sydney Australia produces.
Credit: Concrete Playground
The Vic on the Park
Here is another Marrickville wonder, especially for Rock music.
The Vic on the Park features nice rock and indie performances on its outdoor stage.
They have exciting energetic performances and during the weekends you get access to their food truck to go with your live music experience.
Credit: The Music Network
The Cricketers Arms Hotel
If you love indie and punk energy type of music, then you should definitely check out The Cricketers Arms Hotel in Surry Hills.
One of Sydney’s finest live music venues showcasing nice indie punk to its no-nonsense music-loving fans.
They also give out surprising gigs, which you can find if you follow them on social media.
Credit: TimeOut
The Hideaway Bar
If you are looking for a nice intimate space to enjoy acoustic jazz live music, then The Hideaway Bar will work for you quite well.
Enmore can pride itself on having one of the finest acoustic jazz live music spots in Sydney.
Quite relaxing, and a perfect place to enjoy soulful tunes as you drift into joy and live music pleasure.
This is another cool bar in my list of live music bars Sydney gives us.
Credit: Wall Of Sound
Public House Petersham
This is a great spot for group gatherings and an indie rock music vibe.
The Public House Petersham has a culture that combines indie and rock music with a spacious beer garden experience.
And their food is quite amazing.
If you are looking for a cool spot to share with friends, then this is just what you need.
Credit: Sydney.com
The Bald Faced Stag
The Bald Faced Stag is a great venue known for live music performances featuring metal and rock.
So if you are a rock and roll fan, then check out The Bald.
They have some exciting high-energy performances, although you may want to wear earplugs due to the loud sound.
Credit: Yelp
Yulli’s Brews
This is another folk acoustic live music performance venue in Sydney Australia.
This one, you should definitely check out if you are a folk music fan.
Yulli’s Brews in Alexandria is known for serving craft beer while you enjoy folk and acoustic music live shows.
They also have a vegan menu option, If you are a vegan and looking for where to find vegan food spots with live music showcases.
Credit: Yulli’s brews
The Old Fitzroy Hotel
If you love heartfelt story-telling acoustic folk live music showcases, then The Old Fitzroy is for you.
Just like the name calls for, they have a classic vibe setting and classic music to go with it.
But you might want to visit during a quiet time because it can get noisy otherwise.
Credit: Concrete Playground
Low 302
For you and all my jazz and soul acoustic music lovers. You have to check out Low 302.
They feature a great performance of jazz music in an intimate, dimly lit space.
And their signature cocktail is quite an interesting combination to go with the soul acoustic jazz vibe.
I am definitely sure that you will enjoy the vibe in this place.
The music here is real, and although they have been here for a long time, they still find a way to keep that acoustic music vibe going.
Credit: Surry Hills News
The Oxford Tavern
Here is another cool spot for people who love blues folk live music showcase.
The Oxford Tavern in Petersham is a hidden gem for blues and folk fans.
They have this cozy atmosphere that will give you a comfortable vibe while you enjoy all the great blues.
And here is a fun fact, you can check out their drink specials during live shows.
You may have a surprise.
So if you want to hang out or you are just looking for an evening activity with your friends, then this is definitely a place to see.
Credit: Concrete Playground
Restaurant Hubert
You know the nice feeling that comes with a nice chill live music setting that dims the light to bring you into the full experience.
That is what you get at The Restaurant Hubert in the CBD.
As a restaurant, their fine dining experience has a lot of positive reviews, and combining that with the sweet essence of jazz can be quite a thrill.
Enjoy an elegant ambiance with top-notch musical acts and performances.
Food and music can be really amazing when you are in the right place and setting.
Credit: Unknown
The Duke of Enmore
Although this is a community-first type of live music venue.
The Duke of Enmore is also renowned for showcasing some of the best indie and folk music acts during their performances.
This is a great place to discover brand-new and upcoming talents.
And because of the community vibe, locals and tourists can stay after the show and socialize or talk with the performing artists.
Credit: The Shout
What Makes These Venues Special?
The special thing about each of these venues is that they all carry a unique vibe.
And if you intend to switch up your must-taste, or have the best of what you are already in love with, WhyGo is giving you a list of cool places you can check out, as you can see above.
From the raw energy of punk, the soulful elegance of jazz, or the laid-back charm of acoustic performances, Sydney has quite an amazing list of places to check out for your amazing live music experience.
Why Sydney’s Live Music Scene is Worth Exploring
With the many music spots in Australia, it is true that the best of Sydney live music can be hard to find without a guide to help you navigate this beautiful city.
And it is also true that music has always offered a chance for bonding between friends and between strangers.
Amongst other beautiful benefits of Live Music.
Remember those moments when a song starts playing while you are out on the streets and you turn around only to see the next person also vibing to the same music you already love.
This is the same feeling you get when you enjoy Sydney’s live music acts.
Sydney already has venues that offer more than just entertainment, they offer an opportunity to create connection and meaningful relationships, and they also offer space for ideas to revamp your current relationships.
There are so many places you can find great live music in Sydney Australia, and the best places are listed here in this article. I recommend you start with this list.
Some of these venues offer cozy bars, fine dining, high and low-energy music performances, blues, amazing folk storytelling jazz acts, and many more.
In some places, you get to meet your favorite music artists, and in other places, you get to discover new and upcoming talents and bands.
So if you are looking for where to find live music in Sydney, then feel free to explore all live music locations listed in this article.
Experience these venues and give them a rating to let us know what if they are worthy of our mention.
