Where to See Live Music in Asheville

Live music and summertime go together like mashed potatoes and gravy. Here in Asheville, the music scene is founded in traditional mountain sound and decades of classic rhythm. There are plenty of music venues in town, from ticketed concert halls to free shows at wineries and breweries. Our Asheville insiders have compiled their list of the best places in Asheville to hear live music. Next time you’re in town, consult this list and get ready for an awesome musical experience!

Battery Park Book Exchange

Battery Park Book Exchange is 50% used bookstore, 50% champagne bar, and 100% awesome music venue. Although it doesn’t have the classic concert setup, our local experts argue that the bookstore environment of Battery Park provides a superior listening experience. Enjoy live jazz music every weekend as you sip on your favorite bubbly and soak in the beautiful weather on their dog-friendly patio.

Isis Asheville

Located in bohemian chic West Asheville, Isis Music Hall provides a tasty dinner and live music from Thursday to Sunday each week. With a main stage, patio and lounge, there is no shortage of music at Isis! Locals love that the experience at Isis always feels like a fun, built-in date night. See their calendar for the latest information on upcoming concerts.

5 Walnut Wine Bar

5 Walnut Wine Bar is easily one of the most popular places to see live music in Asheville. The beautifully decorated space pays homage to local craftsmen and artists. Enjoy a variety of tasty bar snacks, charcuterie boards and, of course, incredible wine. Our local guides recommend arriving early before a big show to secure a spot.

The Applewood Manor is a bed & breakfast in the Montford Area Historic District of Asheville close to downtown. Sink under the covers of your premium bed, and enjoy a truly relaxing rest each night. Explore their guest experiences today!

The Crow & Quill

We might get in trouble for telling you about it, but The Crow & Quill was one of the best spots to see live music pre-pandemic. This secret speakeasy is an all-time favorite for locals, and word on the street is that they’ll be back in business with live music soon! This private club is so hush-hush, you’ll have to ask your innkeeper how to find it!

Salvage Station

Salvage Station has been voted one of the best places to enjoy live music in Asheville. The venue hosts both indoor and outdoor shows in a spacious venue on the river. Their on-site restaurant, Root Down Kitchen, keeps the tasty food and drinks flowing as patrons enjoy the show. Their stages are equipped with awesome lighting and effects for the ultimate concert experience.

Beaufort House Inn is the ultimate accommodation for a romantic getaway in Asheville. Their historic home offers an air of both elegance and warmth. Pick the perfect package for your trip today.

Breweries and Pubs

Highland Brewing Co. hosts concerts and other events on their stage at The Meadow. Check out their calendar to see what events are coming up. They often have incredibly tasty food trucks as well! Another great bar turned concert venue is Jack of the Wood, Asheville’s Celtic pub. With a great sound system and stage, Jack of the Wood hosts weekly Bluegrass Jam performances on Thursdays and Bluegrass Brunch on Sunday afternoons. Scour their calendar to plan out your next visit!

Local Festivals

Festivals are a great place to see live music outside. LEAF Festival is an annual event at Lake Eden that celebrates art, culture and community. French Broad River Festival in Hot Springs, NC is another awesome place to see live music. Moreover, Montford Music & Arts Festival offers a full day of diverse music, great food trucks and noteworthy art vendors.

Cedar Crest Inn is the closest bed & breakfast to the Biltmore Estate. With a wide selection of uniquely decorated rooms, you’ll find the perfect place to stay at Cedar Crest. Check out their Romance Packages before your stay!

Unexpected Venues

Turn your trip into a three-day weekend with these two vibrant options. On select Thursdays, the Asheville Art Museum stays open until 9 pm with musicians playing in the lobby. Stroll the gallery with the soothing sound of music in the background. You can even have a casual dinner at their cafe, Perspectives, on the rooftop with mountain views. On the other hand, drive just south of town to the NC Arboretum for Arbor Evenings. Musicians fill the garden with stunning sounds, and the concerts are included with regular admission.

Another great way to experience authentic Asheville music is to stroll around downtown and listen to the buskers on every other corner. If you visit any of these great places, tag us in your photo on Instagram! Want additional insider tips about your upcoming Asheville getaway? Learn more about what to do in Asheville by staying at an independent inn. Your innkeeper will gladly offer tips about the group getaway ideas, best waterfall hikes, and so much more. Let the Asheville Bed & Breakfast Association help you find the best inn, B&B, or boutique hotel for your next getaway.