Downtown Atlanta has a lot of cool things to get into, including nice restaurants to eat at. One thing you might not know about is that downtown Atlanta is a live music mecca.
Where’s the Live Music in Downtown Atlanta
In this article, we’ll show you where you can live live music acts in downtown Atlanta. Let’s get started. Also, don’t forget about our
Downtown Atlanta has a vibrant live music scene with venues catering to various genres and vibes. Here are some top spots where you can catch live performances, based on the latest information available:
The Tabernacle
152 Luckie St NW Atlanta Ga. 30303
A historic former church turned music venue, known for hosting big-name acts like Kendrick Lamar and Janelle Monae, as well as local artists. It offers standing room for up to 2,500 and reserved balcony seating. Expect genres from hip-hop to rock. Check their schedule for events like the “Legends of Rock” tribute on May 3, 2025. Nearby dining options include Waffle House and Ted’s Montana Grill.
in Atlanta
Enjoy a live music performance from talented jazz musicians and vocalists. With a mix of carefully chosen classics and spontaneous improvisation, this feel-good live music performance takes you on a journey to the roots of this revolutionary genre. Get your tickets now for We call it Jazz: A Journey to the Heart of New Orleans in Atlanta! Book now.
Red Phone Booth
17 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd, Atlanta, Ga. 30323
Here’s what one reviewer says about Red Phone Booth. “Very cool spot to chill and have drinks. Its a cigar spot with very good ventilation system. They played a wide variety of music and had a very diverse crowd. We had a great experience.”
The Masquerade
50 Lower Alabama St, Underground Atlanta, Ga. 30303
Located in Underground Atlanta, this venue has three stages—Heaven, Hell, and Purgatory—hosting nearly 700 shows annually. It’s a go-to for rock, metal, hip-hop, and alternative acts, with past performers like Foo Fighters and Radiohead. Its central location near Centennial Olympic Park makes it accessible.
Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint
200 Peachtree St, Atlanta, GA 30303
A nostalgic venue blending Southern soul food with live music, often featuring blues, jazz, and R&B. Its intimate setting and historic decor make it ideal for a relaxed night out.
Soul Nights and More
Come check out a Candlelight Concert, which offers a soothing atmosphere while the soulful hits of Prince, Maxwell, Marvin Gaye and more play live on strings. Get tickets.
The American Hotel
160 Ted Turner Dr NW Atlanta, GA. 30303
Known for occasional live jazz nights, the American Hotel is a great spot for smooth tunes and a classy atmosphere. Check their event listings for upcoming performances.
Rialto Center for the Arts
80 Forsyth St NW Atlanta, GA. 30303
A smaller, 833-seat venue in the Fairlie-Poplar district, perfect for jazz, world music, and intimate concerts. It’s a cultural hub with excellent acoustics.
Live Music Venues: What To Know Before You Go
Attending a live music event in downtown Atlanta can be an exciting experience, but being prepared will ensure you have a safe and enjoyable time. Here are key things to know before heading to a concert or music event in the area, tailored to the downtown Atlanta scene in 2025:
1. Check Venue-Specific Details
Venues and Policies: Popular downtown venues like The Tabernacle, The Masquerade, Rialto Center for the Arts, and Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint have unique policies. For example, The Tabernacle allows small bags but may prohibit large backpacks, while The Masquerade has strict rules on re-entry. Always check the venue’s website for bag policies, prohibited items (e.g., weapons, outside food/drinks), and ID requirements (some events are 21+).
Seating and Capacity: Venues like The Tabernacle offer both standing room (up to 2,500) and reserved balcony seating, while Rialto is more intimate with 833 seats. Know whether the event is general admission (standing) or seated to plan your arrival time for a good spot.
Arrival Time: Doors typically open 1-2 hours before the show. Arrive early for general admission shows to secure a good view, especially at smaller venues like The Masquerade’s Heaven, Hell, or Purgatory stages.
2. Ticketing and Entry
Buy Tickets Early: Atlanta’s music scene is vibrant, with over 1,100 events listed for 2025 on platforms like Songkick. Popular shows at venues like The Tabernacle or The Masquerade can sell out quickly. Use trusted platforms like Ticketmaster, Bandsintown, or SeatGeek to purchase tickets and avoid scalpers.
Digital Tickets: Many venues now use mobile tickets. Download your ticket to your phone via the venue’s preferred app (e.g., Ticketmaster) and ensure your phone is charged. Some venues, like The Masquerade, may also accept physica
3. Transportation and Parking
Public Transit: MARTA is a convenient option for downtown Atlanta. Stations like Five Points, Peachtree Center, or Civic Center are within walking distance of venues like The Tabernacle and Rialto. A round-trip fare is about $5. Check MARTA schedules, as service may end around midnight.
Parking: Downtown parking can be expensive ($10-$30) and limited during events. Venues like The Tabernacle recommend nearby decks (e.g., AmericasMart or Centennial Olympic Park lots). Pre-book parking through apps like SpotHero to save time. Avoid street parking unless you’re familiar with restrictions to prevent towing.
Final Word
For the latest information, check out our Atlanta Live Music Weekend Guide to see who’s performing where.
Downtown Atlanta is busy, especially near Mercedes-Benz Stadium or State Farm Arena during overlapping events. Plan for traffic delays, particularly on weekends or during festivals like Shaky Knees (September 19-21, 2025, at Piedmont Park).
If you want to check out some other cool spots in the area, here are the best restaurants in Buckhead. Or you might like to read our Buckhead Steak Guide to find all the best eateries offering mouth-watering prime cuts.
