live music san francisco santana mural

San Francisco

Turn it Up to 11 at These San Francisco Live Music Spots

Maybe you’ll hear the next Carlos Santana at one of San Francisco’s live music hot spots. (Photo: Randy Duchaine / Alamy)

Whether it’s your first time visiting the City by the Bay or you’re a local, we have the scoop on great live music lurking throughout San Francisco. The city is no newbie to the music scene. In the 60s, classic rockers like Carlos Santana and Janis Joplin got their start here. Explore their old haunting grounds and unearth some new ones along the way. Bring your earplugs; it’s about to get loud.

live music san francisco atlas cafe
Atlas Café in the Mission District. (Photo: Courtesy Atlas Café)

When It’s Family Night

Bringing the kids along for the night? Go somewhere they’ll enjoy and where you can relax without worrying about shielding little ears from inappropriate content. Atlas Café is the answer. Found in the city’s Mission District, it’s got the retro cool factor you crave, but with reasonable prices.

You’ll get to enjoy delicious pizzas and sandwiches for under $10 a pop. The menu is kid-friendly, with options like grilled cheese or a pepperoni pizza.

However, the variety of music here is what really sets this venue apart. In any given week, you could hear anything from ragtime to oldies and even bluegrass.

live music san francisco burritt room
Union Square’s Burritt Room + Tavern (Photo: Courtesy Burritt Room + Tavern)

Date Night Romance

If you want to turn the heat up on your romance, look no further than Burritt Room + Tavern. Located near Union Square, this is a hidden gem on the music scene.

Come for a handcrafted cocktail, and we guarantee you’ll wind up staying for the atmosphere.

Walled-in booths make for intimate conversation spots, and you can enjoy jazz six nights a week, Monday through Saturday.

The music will have you wanting to wrap an arm around your significant other, but isn’t so loud or obtrusive that you are unable to talk over your drinks or dinner.

Take advantage of their online reservations if you visit on a weekend night to ensure you snag a table.

Chilling With Friends

In town for the weekend and looking for a scene with a chill, local vibe? Or maybe you live in San Francisco and are tired of doing the same old thing with your crew.

Either way, head to the Mission District and hit up Revolution Café for a nightly live music fix. You’ll never pay a cover, and are guaranteed to find delicious food and beverages. Their music calendar is robust and kept up to date.