Lara Cohn 
Maxwell’s was the venue for live music in Hoboken since the 1970s and a launching pad for a diverse group of emerging artists like R.E.M., The Replacements, New Order, Pixies, Smashing Pumpkins, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Hole, and Nirvana. While it’s no longer active, Hoboken and Jersey City’s musical tradition continues with tons of entertainment options. There is always a bar, pub, restaurant, and even a coffee shop or two, featuring live music from up-and-coming groups, solo artists, cover bands, or local faves from pop, electric, and rock to jazz and acoustic. Read on to discover local spots where you can listen to live music in Hoboken + Jersey City, New Jersey.
Disclaimer: This is a growing list. If you know of any other businesses that host live music in Hoboken + Jersey City, please email [email protected].
Hoboken
Barbès | 1300 Park Avenue
Barbès in Hoboken boasts more than just French cuisine. This local restaurant hosts live music events on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights from 7PM-10PM.
Read More: Hoboken Bars With Theme Nights, Games, + More
Dino + Harry’s Steakhouse | 163 14th Street
This historic saloon-turned-steakhouse, known for its iconic decor, prime dry-aged steaks, and fresh seafood, features light jazz, elegant piano music, and more almost daily. See its events calendar for more.
Finnegan’s Pub | 734 Willow Avenue
Finnegan’s Pub hosts live music events each week. This takes place on select Thursdays and every Friday + Saturday from 7PM-9PM. Visitors should call the bar on Thursdays to see if there’s an event happening that night.
River Street Garage | 80 River Street #302
Self-proclaimed as “Hoboken’s only downtown live music venue,” as per its website, River Street Garage hosts a season-long concert series featuring live music from local cover bands. Those interested should visit the bar’s calendar for specific dates.
The Shepherd + the Knucklehead | 1313 Willow Avenue
The Shepherd + the Knucklehead hosts live music and DJs on select dates. While sipping on cold ones, visitors can jam out to their favorite songs. Events are typically posted via social media.
UH Hoboken | 306 Sinatra Drive
Union Hall boasts live music with a Manhattan skyline backdrop and a menu of small plates, cocktails, and more. This gastropub typically shares its live music events via Instagram.
Willie McBride’s | 616 Grand Street
Bands from all over the Tri-State perform at this Irish bar on select Friday and Saturday nights, so be sure to check out the website. As a bonus, call ahead at 201-681-7550 for a complimentary limousine ride and no cover charge at the venue.
Jersey City
The Archer | 176 Newark Avenue
The bar features live music every week on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Come early to catch the happy hour specials on drinks and light bites from 5PM-7PM.
Art House Productions | 345 Marin Boulevard
This visual and performing arts center always has some artistic event on its roster, whether it be a show, a play, or an art exhibit. Art House Productions also occasionally hosts live music events. See its website for upcoming events.
Battello | 502 Washington Boulevard
Batello, a sleek waterfront restaurant serving Italian + seafood specialities, hosts live music on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 6PM-9PM. Check the website for the latest info.
Brightside Tavern | 141 Brightside Street
The week starts off on the right note at the Brightside Tavern. Mondays feature a live jazz session from 7:30PM to 11PM. Keep up with the Tavern’s Instagram for the latest.
The Hutton | 225 Hutton Street
Along with sports on its many TVs, The Hutton, a local gastropub and wine bar wrapped into one, hosts local artists playing traditional Irish music every Sunday from 4PM-7PM.
Porta | 135 Newark Avenue
There is live music or a DJ every weekend at this Italian spot. Visitors should keep an eye on the event calendar to get the latest updates. Both the rooftop and the main floor have music, so there’s always something happening.
See More: A Guide to Live Music Spots in Montclair + Essex County
White Eagle Hall | 337 Newark Avenue
White Eagle Hall is Jersey City’s concert and performing arts venue, located in a restored and renovated historic theater. Guests should check out the calendar of an all-star line-up of upcoming shows.
