Milwaukee is a city that knows how to have a good time. From its thriving music scene to its historic breweries, there's always something to do or see.
But for those looking for a night out with live music, the city has plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for jazz, rock, or something in between, Milwaukee's bar scene has you covered.
One of the best things about Milwaukee's bars with live music is the variety. Some bars offer intimate settings with acoustic performances, while others feature large stages and high-energy shows.
And with many different neighborhoods to explore, you're sure to find a spot that suits your tastes.
But it's not just the music that makes these bars stand out. Many of them also offer great food and drink options, making them perfect for a night out with friends or a date.
And with the city's friendly atmosphere, you're sure to make new friends while enjoying the music.
So if you're looking for a night out with great live music, Milwaukee is the place to be.
From classic rock to indie, jazz to blues, the city's bars have something for everyone. So grab a drink, sit back, and let the music take you away.
1. The Estate
The Estate is a cozy bar with live music that offers a unique atmosphere to its patrons.
With a talented staff of bartenders and an interesting selection of drinks, this bar is a great spot to unwind and enjoy some live entertainment. The music is top-notch and sounds great in the intimate space.
While seating can be limited, the small stage ensures that everyone in the bar has a great view of the performers.
Whether it's jazz, blues, funk, or something else, The Estate is sure to have something for everyone. Don't miss out on this hidden gem of a bar with live music.
2. Old German Beer Hall
Old German Beer Hall is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic German beer hall experience.
With a great selection of German beers and delicious food, it's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with live music adding to the fun. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring a great time for all.
Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a night out with friends, Old German Beer Hall is the place to be.
3. Art Bar
Art Bar is a lively spot for those seeking a night out with live music. The bar is filled with local art, which adds to the unique atmosphere.
They offer a variety of drinks, including mystery beers, and a good selection of pizza. Customers can also enjoy playing pool and electronic darts.
The outdoor seating area is a great place to relax and enjoy a drink.
While the live music can be loud at times, there is a quieter spot next door for those who prefer a more low-key atmosphere. Art Bar is a great option for a fun night out with friends.
4. Paddy's Pub
Paddy's Pub is a lively Irish pub that offers great live music and a cozy atmosphere.
The bar has a respectable drink selection and the patio feels like an oasis of sorts, quiet and secluded. The inside is warm and inviting, with plenty of seating for groups.
The jam sessions on Thursday evenings are always a great experience. The bar has a lot of history and heritage, and the decor is ornate and eclectic.
The owners are friendly and courteous, and the service is prompt. Paddy's Pub is a great place to have a few pints and forget that you're in the middle of a big city.
5. Cactus Club
Cactus Club is a great bar with live music. The venue has a cool atmosphere and friendly staff.
The sound quality is good, but it's a small venue so don't expect to catch every word of every song.
They have a variety of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, and a surprisingly strong beer menu.
The outdoor seating and stage background add to the venue's strong aesthetic. It's a great place to catch local and national indie acts.
6. The Highbury Pub
The Highbury Pub is a lively spot for those looking to enjoy live music and good drinks.
The bar offers a great beer selection and a festive atmosphere that is perfect for soccer fans. The bartenders are friendly and attentive, ensuring that patrons are always happy.
While the space may be small, the energy is big, making it a fun and exciting place to be.
Whether you're looking to catch a game or just enjoy some live music, The Highbury Pub is a great option.
7. Angelo's Piano Lounge
If you're looking for a cozy bar with great live music, Angelo's Piano Lounge is a must-visit.
The local talent performing here is impressive, especially the piano player who can play classic hits that will have you singing along.
The atmosphere is low-key and perfect for unwinding after a long day or enjoying on a weekend.
The bartenders are great, and the drink specials are a plus. The only downside is that the place fills up quickly, so make sure to arrive early to grab a seat.
8. Twisted Path Distillery
Twisted Path Distillery is a unique bar that's perfect for those who love live music and craft cocktails.
The owner is a true liquor geek who takes pride in his creations, and it shows in the quality of the drinks.
The tour is interesting and informative, and the staff is always friendly and knowledgeable. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it a great place to relax and enjoy some live music.
Whether you're a local or just passing through, Twisted Path Distillery is definitely worth a visit.
9. Company Brewing
Company Brewing is a live music bar that offers a great selection of house-brewed beers and cocktails. With a woodsy-chic atmosphere, this industrial brewpub is a must-visit spot for beer lovers.
The bartenders are friendly and attentive, ensuring that customers always have a full glass of their preferred brew.
The food menu is diverse, offering American-style nibbles that complement the beer selection. The bar also hosts live music performances, making it a great place to sit back, relax, and enjoy the sounds of local musicians.
Whether you're looking for a night out with friends or a casual date spot, Company Brewing is definitely worth checking out.
10. Linneman's Riverwest Inn
Linneman's Riverwest Inn is a cozy live music spot that draws crowds with its fantastic service and old-timey ambiance.
The bar offers an array of brews, making it a perfect place to unwind after a long day.
The live bands that perform here are top-notch and the open mic nights are the best in the area. It's no wonder why this Riverwest institution has become a favorite among locals.
If you're looking for an unfussy night out with great music, Linneman's Riverwest Inn is the place to be.
11. The Sofie
The Sofie is a trendy bar with live music that's perfect for a night out in the city. The chill atmosphere and classy lounge vibe make it a great spot to unwind and enjoy some excellent drinks.
The bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable, and the house drink specials are delicious.
The cocktails are interesting and tasty, with unique combinations that are sure to impress. The live music on Fridays is a must-see, and the seating is comfortable and clean.
If you're looking for a fun and relaxing night out, The Sofie is definitely worth checking out.
12. Mamies
Mamies is a lively bar with a vintage feel and fantastic decor. The atmosphere is cozy, and the friendly staff serves up cold beers, delicious burgers, and popcorn.
The bar is known for its live music, including blues on Tuesdays and Fridays. There are also daily specials and happy hours, making Mamies an affordable and fun place to hang out with friends.
With outdoor events in the summer, open jam sessions on Tuesdays, and a live blues band on Fridays, there is always something going on at Mamies.
The bar has been around for over 37 years, and the owner, Debbie, makes everyone feel like family. If you're looking for a classic Milwaukee bar with a great vibe, Mamies is the place to be.
13. Bremen Cafe
Bremen Cafe is a must-visit for live music lovers. With a relaxed atmosphere and hospitable staff, this grungy Riverwest bar offers free live music almost every night.
The pinball machines and slot machines add to the laid-back vibe. The karaoke room is a hit, thanks to its excellent acoustics.
The bar snacks and monthly art exhibits are an added bonus. The back room, decked out with stickers from bands of the past, is a unique touch.
The clientele is funky and friendly, and the drinks prices are fair. Although parking can be a challenge, Bremen Cafe is a valued spot for Riverwest bar-goers and those from outside the neighborhood.
14. Club Garibaldi
Club Garibaldi is a live music bar that offers a great atmosphere and excellent performances.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making sure that customers are well taken care of.
The bar has a sensibly-sized hall with a stage that is bigger than a drum riser, making it a great venue for local and touring rock acts.
The sound is great and the beer selection is very good. The wings are locally famous and highly recommended. Club Garibaldi is a great place to see a bar-sized event in town.
15. Red Rock Saloon
Red Rock Saloon is a lively bar with a great atmosphere for those who love country music.
They have occasional live bands, but the DJ and mechanical bull are the main attractions. The bar has three different areas to grab a drink.
The bartenders are friendly, and the deals are fantastic, especially on Sunday nights when they have "Sad Boy Sunday" with bingo and prizes.
The bull ride is a must-try, and the beer prices are reasonable. It's a great spot for a girls' night out or a fun evening with friends.
16. Nashville North
Nashville North is a live music bar that offers a great atmosphere and a wide selection of drinks and food. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the live music is always entertaining.
The bar has a cool vibe and is perfect for anyone who enjoys country music or just wants to have a good time.
The prices are reasonable, and the food is surprisingly good for a bar.
If you're looking for a fun night out with friends or just want to enjoy some live music, Nashville North is definitely worth checking out.
17. Bar 360
Bar 360 is a lively spot for music and drinks. The DJ knows how to get people moving on the dance floor, and the atmosphere is electric.
The bartenders are friendly and quick to serve, making sure everyone's drinks are topped up.
The prices are reasonable, especially for a casino bar, and they offer some great deals on happy hour drinks.
If you're looking for a fun night out with friends or a place to enjoy live music, Bar 360 is definitely worth a visit.
18. The Wicked Hop
The Wicked Hop is a lively bar with a great atmosphere and live music. The menu offers delicious pub food and a good selection of drinks, including their famous bloody marys.
The outdoor seating area is a great spot to enjoy a drink and a game of corn hole.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a great overall experience.
If you're looking for a fun night out with good food and music, The Wicked Hop is definitely worth checking out.
19. Harp Irish Pub
Harp Irish Pub is a lively spot with a great atmosphere that draws crowds for its live music events.
The outdoor deck overlooking the river is a popular spot to hang out and enjoy a cold beer during the summer months. The menu features classic pub fare like burgers and beer, which are reasonably priced.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, making for an enjoyable experience. However, the music inside can be quite loud, making it difficult to hold a conversation.
Despite this, the Harp Irish Pub is an excellent choice for a fun night out with friends.
