10 Local Live Music Venues In Jax
If you enjoy live music performances in Jacksonville, chances are you’ve attended an event at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena, the Florida Theatre or perhaps the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. Jacksonville is blessed to be home to a number of prestigious venues with the capacity to hold vast audiences and globally recognized artists. However, if you’re in the mood the catch a more intimate, localized show, here’s a list of smaller, no-frills, live music venues you might want to check out.
1. Brewster’s Megaplex
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Brewster’s Megaplex claims to be the only live entertainment complex in north east Florida, featuring 4 venues: The Pit, Lava, The Roc Bar and The Edge Concert Hall. The different capacities of each individual room allow Brewster’s to feature local and national acts of all sizes. From high school garage bands to globally recognized rappers, their mission is to fill the void of quality entertainment in Jacksonville while simultaneously providing a safe and memorable experience for music lovers of all kinds. While currently located on University Boulevard, Brewster’s promises to announce their new awesome location soon.
Venue Info:
845 University Blvd
Jacksonville, FL 32211
(904) 223-9850
www.brewstersmegaplex.com
2. Burro Bar
Image courtesy of https://www.downtownjacksonville.org/Libraries/Header_Titles_Images/DSC0345_6_7_8_9-2.sflb.ashx
The corner gem of downtown Jacksonville’s “The Elbow,” the Burro Bar is rapidly becoming Jacksonville’s premiere venue for underground and independent music. From the rotating selection of craft beer to the live music, the Burro Bar strives to spotlight all things local to Jacksonville. Their reasonable prices for tasty brews and the overall local bar experience makes it a great spot to go without costing you an arm and a leg. It’s a popular go-to spot for those in the downtown area, so expect a crowd on the weekends.
Venue Info:
100 E Adams St
Jacksonville, FL 32202
904-353-4686
3. Freebird Live
Image courtesy of www.991wqik.com
Located in the heart of Jax Beach, Freebird Live has been the home base of Jacksonville’s Lynyrd Skynyrd legacy for the past 15 years. The venue is two stories, complete with two full bars and an open-air, exterior wrap around balcony. Freebird Live has evolved into a nationally recognized premier live music venue, but hasn’t forgotten its hometown roots by continuing to cater to aspiring local artists. It’s general admission with standing room only, so try checking out a show from the unique upstairs railed balcony that overlooks the ground level stage. Welcoming to all ages unless otherwise noted.
Venue Info:
200 North 1st Street
Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
(904) 246-BIRD
www.freebirdlive.com
4. Friday Musicale
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For those with a classically trained ear, the Friday Musicale has much to offer. Established by Claudia L’Engle Adams in 1890, the Friday Musicale has supported the Jacksonville community through concerts, educational outreach and youth scholarships for the past 125 years. The beloved institution promotes instrumental and vocal training to students through its outstanding collection of music teachers, has been nationally recognized, and is an important part of Jacksonville’s music history. While it is a multipurpose venue, the Friday Musicale typically hosts concerts featuring classically trained artists. The best part? Friday Musicale concerts are free and open to the public unless otherwise advertised, which is generally once or twice a year at most.
Venue Info:
645 Oak Street
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 355-7584
www.fridaymusicale.com
5. Jack Rabbits
Image courtesy of https://i1.ytimg.com/vi/pmowar01q9M/maxresdefault.jpg
Jack Rabbits provides an intimate, albeit slightly grungy, environment to see a variety of local, and occasionally, national acts. The space is small, but that’s what allows you to get up close and personal to the band. With only a $10 cover fee, it’s a great place to check out local talent for a cheap price. The bar provides reasonably priced beer and wine, including some local brews on tap. Be sure to bring some quarters to play pool or select old school arcade games (like Pack Man!).
Venue Info:
1528 Hendricks Ave
Jacksonville, FL 32207
(904) 398-7496
https://jaxlive.com/events/room/jackrabbits/
6. Mavericks
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Adorn your cowboy hats and boots to attend a concert at this country western/cross-over/rock venue. Mavericks Rock N’ Honky Tonk is located upstairs at the Jacksonville Landing, and is a great spot to check out your favorite country artists in a unique setting. This rockin’ saloon caters to live music lovers with a quirky, western themed atmosphere. Free line dancing lessons are offered, or you can take a ride on their infamous mechanical bull if you dare. Equipped with a Dixie-sized dance floor, be ready for a boot scootin’ good time.
Venue Info:
2 Independent Drive
Jacksonville, FL 32202-5035
(904) 356-1110
www.mavericksatthelanding.com
7. Murray Hill Theater
Image courtesy of https://www.brittanycreates.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/refuge004.jpg
An alternative to regular bars and nightclubs, the Murray Hill Theater is a Christian rock venue that aims to provide a safe nightspot for people, particularly youths, to enjoy live entertainment. It is an alcohol-free, drug-free, smoke-free, all-ages nightclub that promotes positive messages through music and the arts. The mission of the Murray Hill Theater is to, “create a positive & accepting atmosphere for all and not just those who claim a Christian background.” Typically open on Fridays and Saturdays, and occasionally during the week.
Venue Info:
932 Edgewood Ave South
Jacksonville, FL 32205
(904) 388-3179
www.murrayhilltheatre.com
8. 1904 Music Hall
Image courtesy of https://crowdly-uploads-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/venue_photo/image/15/1904pic4.jpg
Built in 1904 (hence the name), this historic space boasts to be “the place to see great live music”. This multipurpose indoor/outdoor venue provides a pleasant ambience amidst over 100 years of Jacksonville’s downtown architecture. The venue is equipped to host a variety of events, and its first class sound system and lighting makes it a favorite space for local artists to perform. If you find yourself feeling clustered inside, step into the outdoor courtyard to relax and catch your breath. Beer and wine only.
Venue Info:
19 N. Ocean St.
Jacksonville, FL 32202
www.1904musichall.com
9. Shanty Town Pub
This tiny establishment is a popular dive bar and neighborhood hangout in the Springfield area. With local art adorning the walls, the cozy space makes it feel like you’re at an intimate house party, complete with a big back yard that’s perfect for relaxing and conversing with friends. It’s the ultimate spot to catch a variety of local, live music for a cheap price. Most shows are free, or cost around $3. They have a nice selection of beer and wine, and delicious snacks are available for purchase behind the bar.
Venue Info:
22 W 6th St
Jacksonville, FL 32206
(904) 798-8222
10. Underbelly’s
Image courtesy of https://www.esj.org/var/cdev_base/storage/images/media/images/masthead-images/underbelly-alumni-event/62397-1-eng-US/underbelly-alumni-event.jpg
Part of “The Elbow” in downtown Jacksonville, Underbelly’s is one of the most talked about live music venues in the city. Its quaint interior provides couches and benches for lounging, along with a stage and dance floor. Some may label it as a “hipster” hangout, but with its doors thrown wide open, it gives off a welcoming vibe to all types of people and musical tastes. The fresh décor transforms the warehouse-like area into a warm space for a plethora of local talent to perform, including comedy, hip-hop, indie, punk and jazz acts. Enjoy the full liquor bar and 30 plus beers on tap.
Venue Info:
113 East Bay Street
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 353-6067
www.underbellylive.com
Article by Emma Cole
Image courtesy of https://i1.ytimg.com/vi/JZPVitXRnRk/maxresdefault.jpg
Brewster’s Megaplex claims to be the only live entertainment complex in north east Florida, featuring 4 venues: The Pit, Lava, The Roc Bar and The Edge Concert Hall. The different capacities of each individual room allow Brewster’s to feature local and national acts of all sizes. From high school garage bands to globally recognized rappers, their mission is to fill the void of quality entertainment in Jacksonville while simultaneously providing a safe and memorable experience for music lovers of all kinds. While currently located on University Boulevard, Brewster’s promises to announce their new awesome location soon.
Venue Info:
845 University Blvd
Jacksonville, FL 32211
(904) 223-9850
www.brewstersmegaplex.com
2. Burro Bar
Image courtesy of https://www.downtownjacksonville.org/Libraries/Header_Titles_Images/DSC0345_6_7_8_9-2.sflb.ashx
The corner gem of downtown Jacksonville’s “The Elbow,” the Burro Bar is rapidly becoming Jacksonville’s premiere venue for underground and independent music. From the rotating selection of craft beer to the live music, the Burro Bar strives to spotlight all things local to Jacksonville. Their reasonable prices for tasty brews and the overall local bar experience makes it a great spot to go without costing you an arm and a leg. It’s a popular go-to spot for those in the downtown area, so expect a crowd on the weekends.
Venue Info:
100 E Adams St
Jacksonville, FL 32202
904-353-4686
3. Freebird Live
Image courtesy of www.991wqik.com
Located in the heart of Jax Beach, Freebird Live has been the home base of Jacksonville’s Lynyrd Skynyrd legacy for the past 15 years. The venue is two stories, complete with two full bars and an open-air, exterior wrap around balcony. Freebird Live has evolved into a nationally recognized premier live music venue, but hasn’t forgotten its hometown roots by continuing to cater to aspiring local artists. It’s general admission with standing room only, so try checking out a show from the unique upstairs railed balcony that overlooks the ground level stage. Welcoming to all ages unless otherwise noted.
Venue Info:
200 North 1st Street
Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
(904) 246-BIRD
www.freebirdlive.com
4. Friday Musicale
Image courtesy of https://ehub35.webhostinghub.com/~tedxja5/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/TEDx-photo.jpg
For those with a classically trained ear, the Friday Musicale has much to offer. Established by Claudia L’Engle Adams in 1890, the Friday Musicale has supported the Jacksonville community through concerts, educational outreach and youth scholarships for the past 125 years. The beloved institution promotes instrumental and vocal training to students through its outstanding collection of music teachers, has been nationally recognized, and is an important part of Jacksonville’s music history. While it is a multipurpose venue, the Friday Musicale typically hosts concerts featuring classically trained artists. The best part? Friday Musicale concerts are free and open to the public unless otherwise advertised, which is generally once or twice a year at most.
Venue Info:
645 Oak Street
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 355-7584
www.fridaymusicale.com
5. Jack Rabbits
Image courtesy of https://i1.ytimg.com/vi/pmowar01q9M/maxresdefault.jpg
Jack Rabbits provides an intimate, albeit slightly grungy, environment to see a variety of local, and occasionally, national acts. The space is small, but that’s what allows you to get up close and personal to the band. With only a $10 cover fee, it’s a great place to check out local talent for a cheap price. The bar provides reasonably priced beer and wine, including some local brews on tap. Be sure to bring some quarters to play pool or select old school arcade games (like Pack Man!).
Venue Info:
1528 Hendricks Ave
Jacksonville, FL 32207
(904) 398-7496
https://jaxlive.com/events/room/jackrabbits/
6. Mavericks
Image courtesy of https://d1ya1fm0bicxg1.cloudfront.net/14-08222012-50355dfa7f0b1.jpeg
Adorn your cowboy hats and boots to attend a concert at this country western/cross-over/rock venue. Mavericks Rock N’ Honky Tonk is located upstairs at the Jacksonville Landing, and is a great spot to check out your favorite country artists in a unique setting. This rockin’ saloon caters to live music lovers with a quirky, western themed atmosphere. Free line dancing lessons are offered, or you can take a ride on their infamous mechanical bull if you dare. Equipped with a Dixie-sized dance floor, be ready for a boot scootin’ good time.
Venue Info:
2 Independent Drive
Jacksonville, FL 32202-5035
(904) 356-1110
www.mavericksatthelanding.com
7. Murray Hill Theater
Image courtesy of https://www.brittanycreates.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/refuge004.jpg
An alternative to regular bars and nightclubs, the Murray Hill Theater is a Christian rock venue that aims to provide a safe nightspot for people, particularly youths, to enjoy live entertainment. It is an alcohol-free, drug-free, smoke-free, all-ages nightclub that promotes positive messages through music and the arts. The mission of the Murray Hill Theater is to, “create a positive & accepting atmosphere for all and not just those who claim a Christian background.” Typically open on Fridays and Saturdays, and occasionally during the week.
Venue Info:
932 Edgewood Ave South
Jacksonville, FL 32205
(904) 388-3179
www.murrayhilltheatre.com
8. 1904 Music Hall
Image courtesy of https://crowdly-uploads-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/venue_photo/image/15/1904pic4.jpg
Built in 1904 (hence the name), this historic space boasts to be “the place to see great live music”. This multipurpose indoor/outdoor venue provides a pleasant ambience amidst over 100 years of Jacksonville’s downtown architecture. The venue is equipped to host a variety of events, and its first class sound system and lighting makes it a favorite space for local artists to perform. If you find yourself feeling clustered inside, step into the outdoor courtyard to relax and catch your breath. Beer and wine only.
Venue Info:
19 N. Ocean St.
Jacksonville, FL 32202
www.1904musichall.com
9. Shanty Town Pub
This tiny establishment is a popular dive bar and neighborhood hangout in the Springfield area. With local art adorning the walls, the cozy space makes it feel like you’re at an intimate house party, complete with a big back yard that’s perfect for relaxing and conversing with friends. It’s the ultimate spot to catch a variety of local, live music for a cheap price. Most shows are free, or cost around $3. They have a nice selection of beer and wine, and delicious snacks are available for purchase behind the bar.
Venue Info:
22 W 6th St
Jacksonville, FL 32206
(904) 798-8222
10. Underbelly’s
Image courtesy of https://www.esj.org/var/cdev_base/storage/images/media/images/masthead-images/underbelly-alumni-event/62397-1-eng-US/underbelly-alumni-event.jpg
Part of “The Elbow” in downtown Jacksonville, Underbelly’s is one of the most talked about live music venues in the city. Its quaint interior provides couches and benches for lounging, along with a stage and dance floor. Some may label it as a “hipster” hangout, but with its doors thrown wide open, it gives off a welcoming vibe to all types of people and musical tastes. The fresh décor transforms the warehouse-like area into a warm space for a plethora of local talent to perform, including comedy, hip-hop, indie, punk and jazz acts. Enjoy the full liquor bar and 30 plus beers on tap.
Venue Info:
113 East Bay Street
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 353-6067
www.underbellylive.com
Article by Emma Cole