5 Best Places to Travel for Local Music
Local music scenes are often hidden gems, and travelers often miss out on them. To help you experience the best that local music has to offer, we’ve compiled a list of 5 great places to travel for local music. From watching live shows in dingy bars to dancing in the streets at festivals, these destinations offer a little something for everyone. So whether you’re a fan of rock, hip hop, or anything in between, be sure to check out these 5 must-visit places for local music lovers. Bon voyage!
Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville, Tennessee is called ‘Music City’ for good reason. Not only is it known as the birthplace of country music, but it also has a vibrant rock and indie culture too. With its unique blend of twangy guitars and tight harmonies, you can wander in the home of legendary songwriters and stumble across cool small clubs featuring cutting-edge bands. Records stores line Music Row where you can find original No Depression releases right next to modern independent albums – or shop on Broadway, where honky-tonks fill up with out-of-towners dancing to classic covers or homegrown sounds. Whether you’re looking for an old Nashville classic, something edgy and new, or just falling in love with the city’s musical spirit, Nashville should not be missed when planning your trip for local music!
Austin, Texas
With over 250 live music venues, Austin, Texas can aptly be described as the “live music capital of the world”. Music lovers should put Austin, Texas firmly on their must-visit list; a visit here can easily grow into a lifelong love affair with its vibrant musical culture. With honky-tonks serving up old country classics, blues and jazz bars inspiring an evening groove, and unforgettable performances by local artists at the bar around the corner, you’ll find something new to jam out to in every nook and cranny of this musical town. Come discover why Austin is called the Live Music Capital of the World!
New Orleans, Louisiana
There is no better place in the United States to experience the sweet sounds of jazz and blues than down in New Orleans. Without a doubt, Louisiana’s own city is a mecca for those wanting to get their fix of these iconic American musical genres. Music flows through every cobblestone street and alley downtown, whether its traditional jazz bands performing on street corners or world-famous music clubs like The Spotted Cat Music Club set high along the banks of the Mississippi River. While exploring this charming city that never sleeps, make sure to check out some of the historic landmarks too such as Preservation Hall where visitors can jam away with experienced local artists while learning a little bit of history at the same time.
Seattle, Washington
Seattle, Washington is a music-lover’s paradise. From the birthplace of grunge to hip-hop, Seattle has it all. The city’s vibrant music scene was put on the map by Kurt Cobain and Nirvana in the late 80s and 90s, but since then its musical landscape has expanded to include other genres such as indie rock, blues, jazz and even classical music. Whether you’re looking for a nightclub with a great live band or a cosy open mic night in one of Seattle’s many bars – there is something for everyone. With venues throughout the city from historic theatres to canal-side cafes, Seattle is undeniably an unforgettable destination for music lovers.
Brooklyn, New York
Brooklyn, New York should be at the top of every music lover’s list of places to visit. With its mix of Brooklyn Folk Revivalists, punk rockers, and experimental outfits transforming music around the world on any given night, there’s something for everyone in this eclectic and vibrant cultural center. And the city offers so much more than a night out at the local bar – some of the best independent record stores and venues like Baby’s All Right and Brooklyn Bowl provide unique shopping and listening experiences for those wanting to explore off-the-beaten path sounds. There are plenty of art galleries, live shows, and new musical frontiers to explore in Brooklyn, making it an unforgettable destination for lovers of all types of music. For a great music lesson experience in Brooklyn, New York, check out our friends at Brooklyn Music Factory.
There you have it – five of the best places in the United States to travel for local music. So get out there and start exploring! Who knows, you might just discover your new favorite band in one of these musical hot spots.