A Guide to the Best Jazz and Blues Clubs in St. Louis

There's no denying that many of the most talented musicians found a home in St. Louis. With a heavy focus on guitar and piano, St. Louis blues has a unique sound that is unlike anything that can be heard in other cities. In St Louis, no matter what day it is, you can always find some live music. Plan the perfect evening in the city with our pick of the best jazz and blues clubs in St. Louis. 

Jazz St. Louis

This non-profit organization hosts regular jazz performances in an intimate listening room. Jazz St. Louis has guest performers six nights a week, so you can experience the very best of live music as well as benefit from the venue’s friendly service. They aim to showcase a diverse selection of performers to not only highlight but also preserve the multicultural heritage of jazz music. The venue is fitted with cabaret seating, so there are no bad seats in the house, and you can explore a varied food menu that ranges from burgers and blackened salmon to veggie pizza.

Broadway Oyster Bar

Not only does the Broadway Oyster Bar host live performances every day of the week, but they also serve a selection of delicious food for you to enjoy. In fact, their shrimp and oyster specialties helped them win the title of “Most Popular Seafood Restaurant in Missouri”.

Check out their website and browse the calendar to choose your preferred band; there are a variety of different jazz performers and musical talents to discover. Please note that cover charges may vary.

BB’s Jazz, Blues, and Soups

BB's Jazz, Blues, and Soups is a relaxed venue where musicians can gather to share their love of jazz and blues. A cover charge starts at around $10, but BB’s hosts a mixture of national and local performers. You can expect to see acts like Love Jones,"The Band," and the St. Louis Social Club. And there’s is no need to go hungry as the club serves up southern-inspired cuisine, along with a selection of homemade soups.

Old Rock House

Old Rock House, a 7,000-square-foot venue, is the ideal spot for those who prefer to be part of a larger crowd with a buzzing atmosphere. If you would rather try a more relaxed, toned-down event, the Old Rock House also offers a Listening Series that is more intimate and focuses on acoustic sounds. Each Listening Series has a cabaret-style seating arrangement, with seats no more than 15 paces away from the stage.  Hungry? The kitchen serves up an impressive range of snacks.

Hammerstone’s

Hammerstone's is a St. Louis jazz and blues institution. With live music seven nights a week and a selection of afternoon performances (adding up to a total of 12 weekly live shows), this venue always has plenty going on. If you happen to be visiting St. Louis around the time of Mardi Gras and Spring Celebrations, this club could be the perfect place for you to get involved in the celebrations.

1860’s Saloon and Hard-Shell Café

At the 1860’s Saloon and Hard-Shell Café, you can enjoy live jazz and blues performances seven nights a week, as well as Saturday and Sunday matinee shows.  You’re also guaranteed to enjoy the many other amenities offered at this St. Louis gem, including a full food menu featuring their famous crab cakes, an outdoor patio, and a selection of classic games such as pool, darts, and foosball.

Highway 61 Roadhouse

The Highway 61 Roadhouse and Kitchen has live bands every Friday and Saturday. Stop by on a Tuesday for trivia night or visit on Wednesday if open mic is more your scene. You can also enjoy discounted drinks at happy hour, Tuesday through to Friday. The menu is based on Cajun and Creole cuisine and is now available to order online.  

Evangeline’s Bistro

Found in St. Louis, Evangeline’s Bistro offers a tasty Cajun-inspired menu and nightly live music performances. Choose from their extensive menu options, enjoy some classic beverages, and sit back and enjoy the journey that live blues music takes you on. Visit on a Sunday to attend their “Hot Swing Brunch” hosted by local jazz ensembles and perfect for those exploring the wonders of jazz music for the first time. For bargain blues lovers, this bistro offers great happy hour food and drink deals.

Gulf Shores Restaurant & Grill

About a 15 minute drive from St. Louis, Gulf Shores Restaurant & Grill is another unforgettable choice with the perfect pairing of Cajun food and blues music. Enjoy the homemade flavors featured on the restaurant’s menu and catch one of the various live shows offered, such as Live Blues Music Entertainment with Pennsylvania Slim.

St. Louis is home to some of the best live jazz and blues music that America has to offer. Wherever you decide to spend your evenings in this vivacious city, you're sure to have an experience you won't forget.

Can’t get enough of live music? Check out our other live music guides to cities like Austin and Vancouver for more inspiration to help you plan your next adventure.

Hertz encourages you to be responsible. Don’t Drink and Drive. To read about all of Hertz’s Safety Tips, click here. To check out Hertz Rental Terms, click here.