There’s no denying it: it’s been a tough few years for live performances. But now, stage shows of all kinds are back and better than ever. And since there’s nothing quite like the thrill of seeing your favorite artists recreate the soundtrack of your life in person and right in front of you, we thought we’d take a look at the metro’s most notable places to catch a show. So, without further adieu, here are our picks for the best St. Petersburg live music venues.
The Toasted Monkey
When you picture a classic Florida beach hangout, you probably envision The Toasted Monkey. This place truly has it all — cold drinks, great food and good times. They also maintain a robust live music schedule, with an eclectic mix of troubadour singer/songwriters, upbeat rock acts, cover and tribute bands, and renowned DJs spinning EDM, techno club and dance hits. There’s truly something for everyone.
678 75th Ave, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706
Floridian Social Club
Formerly known as State Theatre, the Floridian Social Club is located with a beautiful Beaux-Arts building; one that’s getting ready to celebrate 75 years of amazing shows. First opened as a bank in 1924, The venue was converted to a performance space in 1950, which it’s been ever since. The stage has welcomed such notable acts as Chick Corea, Warren Zevon, They Might Be Giants, Sum 41, Garbage, Tori Amos, and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. Check out their upcoming show schedule to see who’s onstage next!
687 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Jannus Live
Jannus Live is one of those landmark venues that could only really exist in Florida. This iconic open-air music stop has been welcoming artists and audiences to the city’s Downtown Historic District since 1984. At first beginning as a showcase for local punk and reggae artists, Jannus really came into its own in 1987 after a particularly notable set by the soon-to-be-legendary Red Hot Chili Peppers. So if you want to catch your favorite acts in this raucous-yet-intimate setting (or even discover a new fave), then keep your eye on their schedule — Jannus Live enforces a capacity of 2,000. So when it sells out, it sells out.
200 First Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Palladium Theatre
As a venue, The Palladium isn’t content with being easy to pin down. First built as a church in 1925, the Palladium soon began welcoming touring musicians into its acoustically stunning space, and the rest is history. Today, the theatre operates a pair of spaces within its hallowed halls — the cavernous Hough Hall, and the cozier Side Door Cabaret. In addition to being a hub for jazz, R&B and soul music, the Palladium also hosts regular classical performances, as well as dance, plays, film and other standout shows.
253 Fifth Ave. N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Bar@548
Any city worth its salt has a locals’ haunt space where those in the know go to sample craft cocktails, ice-cold drafts, and check out some well-kept-secret local artists. Here in St. Pete, Bar@548 is that space. In addition to daily specials, you can expect to find nationally-known DJs, a wide variety of offbeat events (like drag shows, bingo, and karaoke) and lots of incredible local art all over the walls. Like a piece? Chances are far better than fair it’s for sale! So head out, drink up, and supportsome local artists.
548 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
The Bends
St. Pete’s newest live music club may also be its loudest. A classic so-hip-it-hurts dive bar with cheap drinks and even cheaper shabby-chic décor, The Bends is committed to bringing the city’s best punk, hardcore, alt-rock, EDM, techno and industrial music to the ears of the faithful. Despite the bar’s gritty roots, they’re building a fantastic reputation for friendly service and a welcoming community vibe. So go find your new local crew.
919 1st Ave, N, St. Petersburg, FL 33705
Salty’s Tiki Bar and Beach Lounge
When running down the area’s best live music spots, we’d be remiss not to mention our own classic beachfront tiki bar! The recently expanded Salty’s is located on the beach at Island Grand, and features daily live entertainment in a breezy, sun-soaked atmosphere just steps from the water. You can grab a Daiquiri, Margarita, Mai Tai, Piña Colada or whatever you’re craving, and then head out to our comfy beach furniture on the shore to listen to your heart’s content. What could be better?
5500 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, FL 33706
RumFish Grill Bar
You’ll discover what’s undeniably one of the greatest beach bars in the world at RumFish Beach Resort. Here, the beer is cold. The food is delicious. Your bartender can curate you flights of signature rum. And of course, live entertainment can be enjoyed both indoors and out, with a lively mix of local musicians filling your ears with beach-friendly tunes as you sip, savor and sample. And lest we forget to mention it, the huge aquarium behind the bar is so impressive, it was featured on an episode of Discovery Channel’s “Tanked”!
6000 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, FL 33706
Sing a Song of Letting Go at TradeWinds
There’s nothing like grooving to some rocking rhythms to really make a good getaway truly great. Sound like music to your ears? Drop by our Special Offers page to take a look at our current travel packages and book your stay today!
