When you think of live music in Las Vegas, do you think of high-ticket prices, outrageous cover charges, or pricey drink minimums? Vegas insiders know it is possible to catch free, live music all over the city. Here are some of the best places to relax and enjoy some great music without breaking the bank.
Fremont Street Experience – Downtown Las Vegas
The Fremont Street Experience is one that every Vegas visitor should have at least once. Every night, the outdoor pedestrian mall transforms into a giant street festival. Some of the city’s best bands take to one of the three stages to perform every night of the week, no tickets required. A spectacular light show plays overhead every hour, on the hour, starting at 7:00 pm. So, grab a drink from a nearby casino, bar, or beverage court and join the party!
Carnaval Court- Harrah’s
Carnaval Court maybe the best place to hear live music outdoors on the Strip. Bands take the stage throughout the afternoon and evening. Flair bartenders, a few gaming tables, and a crowded dance floor add to the party atmosphere. Don’t miss the Whip-Its, the best 80’s cover band in Las Vegas, playing your requests most weekend afternoons.
Mizuya Lounge – Mandalay Bay
Mizuya is Japanese for “house of water,” and the tranquil setting is an unusual place to find another of Vegas’ favorite bands. The classic rock cover band, Phoenix, plays to a full house here most Friday and Saturday nights. Come early to claim a table near the dance floor and take advantage of the extensive sushi and sake menu before the band takes the stage.
Nine Fine Irishmen – New York, New York
Looking for an authentic Irish pub experience in Las Vegas? Then look no further than the Nine Fine Irishmen bar inside New York, New York. The bar was literally built in Ireland, disassembled, and then rebuilt on the casino property. Catch a set by a traditional Irish folk group or a more modern Celtic rock band while relaxing with one of the Irish beers or whiskeys Irishmen has on tap. Come early for a seat on the top level overlooking the stage or jostle for a seat at the bar. It’s standing room only for late arrivals.
Harrah’s Piano Bar
A list of the best live music in Las Vegas would not be complete without including an Elvis tribute show. Big Elvis at Harrah’s is both the longest running and the best.
Pete Vallee, otherwise known as Big Elvis, performs 9 shows a week. He performs all the hits, takes requests, and throws in a little audience participation each Monday, Wednesday, and Friday afternoon. The Big Elvis tribute show is a Las Vegas institution and the perfect anecdote to another afternoon at the Blackjack table.
Redneck Riviera – near Bally’s
One of the newest entries to the live music scene is the Redneck Riviera in the Grand Bazaar Shops in front of Bally’s. Owned by John Rich of Big and Rich, this bar specializes in live country music. Come for a cold beer and check out the unique restrooms, featuring beer keg urinals and tire sinks. Grab a seat in the tailgate area or dance under a glittering saddle. If you enjoy country music, this is the place for you.
Baccarat Bar – Bellagio
If you are looking for a more sophisticated evening of live music, the Baccarat Bar in the Bellagio features live jazz and high-end cocktails. Perfectly situated to give patrons a view of the casino floor and high roller gaming tables, this elegant lounge is the perfect place for a preshow or before dinner cocktail.
While in Las Vegas, you have endless entertainment options. But every occasionally, it’s nice to unwind and enjoy some live music without worrying about blowing your budget.
Looking for an affordable place to enjoy the city that truly never sleeps? Check out the reservation specials at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino.