St. Pete is a great place for live music, but this time of year our enjoyment can be tempered by the sweltering summer heat. Here, you will find a list of live music venues you can escape to in the summertime. Your love of music should be a pleasant experience, after all! You’ll have no need to suffer through the heat at these awesome venues that offer some or all indoor spaces.
Elixir of Life
Ruby’s Elixir is a top choice for local folks on the prowl for good tunes, and with good reason. Ruby’s has live music every day of the week, and is St. Pete’s longest running music venue. Acts range from jazz to rock, blues to funk, and there is never a cover charge. Grab a seat, a drink or two, and enjoy! Just keep in mind that this place can get pretty smoky.
If you’re looking for a bit more formality, check out the Palladium. Their summer lineup will feature plenty of top-notch jazz, as well as some blues, soul, and even a tribute to Woodstock on August 23rd. Tickets start as low as $15-$20, and you are guaranteed a seat.
Hideaway Cafe is another crowd favorite. You can really make a night of it here with dinner, drinks, and awesome, mostly-blues performers. Wednesdays and Saturdays are particularly good evenings to check ‘em out. Don’t miss Someday Honey whenever they play there for a beautiful blend of blues, country and soul in four-part harmony. Many Hideaway shows are free; check their website for details.
Get on Your Feet!
You’ve surely heard of Jannus Live. Their big, raucous shows can often be overheard from the street while traversing downtown. They host all sorts of acts that get you moving, with a diverse crowd and plenty of energy. WMNF will be celebrating their 50th anniversary there with a tribute to Led Zeppelin on July 27th. Jannus shows range from about $35 per person to absolutely free. Just keep in mind that a good portion of the venue is outdoors and there is standing-room only.
Smokin’ 19 is one to keep in mind if you’re in the mood for downhome tunes and some epic BBQ. This unpretentious spot features plenty of indoor space, free games of pool, and no cover charge. Check out Southern rock band, The Bearded Boys, on July 20th, and live music every Friday.
Be A Star!
Last, but certainly not least, is one of my personal favorites – SubCentral at The Iberian Rooster. This underground spot hosts an eclectic array of events and boasts incredibly delicious craft cocktails. Want to feel like a star? Hit one of their monthly live band karaoke nights, or settle in for some solid entertainment on the third Saturday of every month for “Art & Soul,” where hip hop, poetry, and bands come together for a beautiful evening. Events abound and range in price; check out their calendar for details.
Don’t let the summer blues take hold! Battle ‘em with live music at these fantastic local venues. Explore types of music you’ve not heard before. Who knows? You may find a new favorite, all while supporting St. Pete’s local businesses. Enjoy!
