Guide to a Night Out in Atlanta for Music Lovers

By Aubree Dumas

Published March 27, 2025
Last Updated March 28, 2025

Atlanta’s pulse beats to the rhythm of its diverse music scene, making it a haven for music lovers of all kinds. Whether you’re vibing to the soulful sounds of local and emerging artists, grooving to expertly curated DJ sets or catching your favorite headliner at a world-class venue, the city delivers nonstop energy. This itinerary takes you on a full musical journey — from dinner with a vibe to a show-stopping main stage act and after-hours spots that keep the night alive. 

Dine and Vibe

For those who love a good meal with an even better soundtrack, these spots offer the perfect balance of delicious dining and immersive music. Whether it’s a live jazz trio, a DJ spinning soulful grooves or an intimate acoustic set, you’ll savor both the flavors and the vibes.

APT 4B

What better way to enjoy a delicious meal than in a space that doubles as a vinyl bar and modern Caribbean restaurant? APT 4B blends the art of good music, great food and even better company, adding a taste of Atlanta’s music scene and culture in every bite.

Where: 2293 Peachtree Rd

Palo Santo

Elevate your dinner plans with dinner in a sultry and intimate setting while enjoying Mexican-inspired bites. The dim lighting and earthy decor at Palo Santo make for a cozy experience to prepare you to head up to the rooftop to enjoy an electric music-filled energy shift. From curated music selections from live DJs to the views of West Midtown from above, this trendy space is the perfect location for music lovers to dance and enjoy a cocktail after a delicious dinner. 

Where: 955 West Marietta St NW

The James Room 

From live music night on Tuesdays, Slow Jams on Wednesdays and Off the Record on Sundays, The James Rooms curates the perfect atmosphere to enjoy musical favorites in an intimate setting. 

Where: 661 Auburn Ave NE

City Winery

Blending culinary artistry with live music, this fully operating winery offers an intimate setting where flavors and sound collide. A go-to spot for cultured foodies and music lovers alike, City Winery attracts a sophisticated crowd seeking up-close experiences with both rising stars and renowned artists. Whether you’re sipping on a rich red or savoring a gourmet bite, every visit promises a perfect harmony of taste and tune.

Where:  650 North Avenue NE

The Main Show

These spots are where the music takes center stage. From legendary venues hosting chart-topping artists to intimate spots showcasing rising talent, these places are all about the sound. Whether you’re into rock, R&B, hip-hop or house, this is where the night comes alive.

Stereo ATL

Feeling the old-school vibe? Let the cozy Stereo ATL play your favorite tunes while you sip coffee during the day or cocktails at night. On Saturdays, enjoy Crates & Coffee, where you can start your morning listening to tunes while browsing vinyl-filled crates for new records to add to your collection. This hi-fi listening bar is the ultimate vibe at night, Wednesday through Saturday, with different DJs boasting their collections while guests connect, drink and listen.

Where: 900 DeKalb Ave NE

Eclipse di Luna

A vibrant fusion of Latin flavors and live music, Eclipse di Luna is where dinner meets the dance floor. Known for its electrifying energy, this tapas favorite keeps the rhythm alive with nightly live performances, from sultry salsa to soulful jazz. The crowd is a dynamic mix of foodies, music lovers and those who simply can’t resist moving to the beat. With handcrafted cocktails, shareable bites and an atmosphere that buzzes with life, every night here feels like a celebration.

Where: 764 Miami Cir NE

The EARL

At The EARL, music isn’t just part of the experience — it is the experience. This East Atlanta staple is a haven for indie rock lovers, where gritty charm meets a killer sound system. While the kitchen serves up solid bar bites, the real main course is the lineup of cutting-edge bands and underground legends. The intimate space means every show feels raw and personal, making it the perfect spot for those who crave music that hits deep and loud.

Where: 488 Flat Shoals Ave SE

Poetry on Peter Street

Every Monday, Atlanta’s creatives gather to listen to emerging spoken word talent in intimate venues around the city. Creatives are encouraged to take the mic and share their work while the local band sets the vibe as they perform. Intermingling poetry and music, Poetry on Peter Street is the ultimate scene for music lovers who enjoy a live band playing popular sounds as a backdrop to the poets of the A. Check out Instagram (@poetryonpeter) to keep up with which venue they’ll be at each week.

Where: multiple locations

Northside Tavern

A true Atlanta favorite, Northside Tavern is where the soul of live music comes alive seven nights a week. From gritty blues to foot-stomping country, rock and beyond, this no-frills dive bar keeps the music raw, real and right in your face. With electric energy and an inclusive crowd, the musicians — whether local legends or traveling acts — always bring their A-game. With its dimly lit, old-school charm and a commitment to live performances, Northside Tavern is a must.

Where: 1058 Howell Mill Rd NW

The After Party

When the main event ends, but the energy is still high, these late-night destinations keep the music going. Whether it’s a lively dance floor or an all-night DJ set, these spots are where true music lovers close out the night in style.

El Malo 

Known for being a go-to spot where the community follows their favorite DJs, El Malo has become a paradise for music lovers who enjoy a moody yet retro vibe. Sip on craft cocktails as you move to the sound of different music, including Latin, Afro-beats and house music. The espresso martini is a popular drink and will keep you energized for late-night dancing. You can visit El Malo Wednesday through Saturday from 6 p.m. until 2 a.m. and on Sundays from 6 p.m. until 12 a.m.

Where: 777 Memorial Dr SE

Rock Steady ATL

Known for its sound system, Rock Steady ATL makes it easy to make a new friend or two while dancing to the DJ’s curated playlist in the intimate space. Whether you came to enjoy delicious Caribbean fare downstairs or head up to the lounge to grab a cocktail and let the night create itself, there is always a good time to be had at Rock Steady, open from 5 p.m. until 2 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday and open until 12 a.m. on Sunday.

Where: 907 Marietta St NW

Tongue and Groove

As a staple in Atlanta’s nightlife scene, this upscale club is hard to leave what with its multiple rooms playing different sounds including hip-hop, R&B, house and EDM. Tongue and Groove is the perfect place to keep the energy alive after a concert with bottle service options and a packed dance floor for all the after-party vibes. You can experience the fun Wednesday through Saturday from 9 p.m. until 2:30 a.m.

Where: 565 Main St NE

Kat’s Cafe

Looking for more of a chill experience for your late-night shenanigans? This lounge provides the perfect setting to enjoy live music and performances from local and emerging artists. From spoken word and smooth jazz to talented musicians playing an array of instruments, you’re in for a musically inclined night. This lounge is open from Thursday to Saturday from 6 p.m. until 1 a.m. and Tuesday from 6 p.m. until 12 a.m. 

Where: 970 Piedmont Ave NE

Looking for more ways to enjoy music in Atlanta? Check out The Best Places for Live Music in Atlanta or plan to check out your favorite artist at one of these popular Concert Venues in Atlanta.

Aubree is a content creator with a passion for all things food and travel. You can find her around Atlanta tasting some of the most iconic bites or burning it all off on the dance floor.