OK, raise your hand if you like going to places where you can have a drink, let loose, and listen to live music. Now raise your other hand if you think you need to get a babysitter to do these things.
Now put both your hands down!
Who says you can’t take your kids to the saloon or tavern and listen to music while you put back a few cold ones? We certainly don’t! In fact, a prime mission of our blog is to show other parents how we travel with OUR kids, which means showing that it is totally possible to travel with kids while keeping your Saturday-night self.
I know this sounds crazy to some folks who may be wondering why anybody would want to do this?
Well for one, it is fun for the WHOLE family and having fun together will make you want to travel more often with your children. (Don’t believe me? Just look at the videos and photos of my kids below enjoying live music with us in some extraordinary places below.)
I actually think this is one of the main reasons some parents dislike the idea of traveling with kids – it’s because they don’t plan things that are fun for adults too!
Second, your kids will learn to enjoy these places as you do, which will help them become normal, fun, and well-adjusted adults. If you take the taboo away from these things, then I believe that children will be better equipped to treat these situations responsibly as they grow older. (Though, I still have a few years until this hypothesis gets truly tested. Haha!)
Anyhow, we’ve toured the country and sought out restaurants and taverns with live music in just about every city. That’s just how we roll. And if you want to roll that way too, here are some of our favorite kid-friendly places with live music all across America. (Yes, we’ve taken our kids to all these places. Often more than once if we could swing it!)
1. Rusty Spur Saloon
SCOTTSDALE, AZ
Rusty Spur Saloon – Old Town Scottsdale, Arizona
Just follow the music to the swinging doors of the Rusty Spur as it drifts down Main Street in Old Town Scottsdale. The Rusty Spur Saloon is the oldest bar in town, recently celebrating its 60th birthday. Housed in what was a former bank built in 1921, this lively saloon now uses the old vault to store liquid goods. The rustic Wild West décor, casual vibe and live music all day, every day, make the Rusty Spur a favorite hangout for locals, celebrities and (yes) families. Parents just keep note that all minors must be out of the Saloon by 6:00pm. We visited with kids on our trip to Scottsdale during lunchtime hours from 11:00 am to 4:00pm, and it was a great experience with a full menu of delicious food to keep the kid’s bellies full.
- Why we love it
Rusty Spur Saloon – Old Town Scottsdale, Arizona
Just follow the music to the swinging doors of the Rusty Spur as it drifts down Main Street in Old Town Scottsdale. The Rusty Spur Saloon is the oldest bar in town, recently celebrating its 60th birthday. Housed in what was a former bank built in 1921, this lively saloon now uses the old vault to store liquid goods. The rustic Wild West décor, casual vibe and live music all day, every day, make the Rusty Spur a favorite hangout for locals, celebrities and (yes) families. Parents just keep note that all minors must be out of the Saloon by 6:00pm. We visited with kids on our trip to Scottsdale during lunchtime hours from 11:00 am to 4:00pm, and it was a great experience with a full menu of delicious food to keep the kid’s bellies full.
- more resources
2. BB Kings Blues Club
MEMPHIS, TN
BB King’s Blues Club – Memphis, Tennessee
Located at the top of Beale Street sits the original BB King’s Blues Club. It a great place in Memphis to come eat, drink and dance the night away with your kids. Literally, you can dance the night away with your family as BB King’s does not have a minor cut-off time. Pretty amazing, huh!? BB King’s is open until Midnight on weekdays and 1:00am on Friday and Saturday. If you like to brunch, then you will LOVE the Sunday Blues Brunch when live music starts at 10:00am. Kids will enjoy the upbeat jams of amazing high-energy bands as they boogie on the dance floor. My advice is to check their calendar to try and catch The BB King’s Blues Club All-Star Band. But in truth, every group that has the privilege of playing at this historic club is probably awesome and worth checking out.
- Why we love it
BB King’s Blues Club – Memphis, Tennessee
Located at the top of Beale Street sits the original BB King’s Blues Club. It a great place in Memphis to come eat, drink and dance the night away with your kids. Literally, you can dance the night away with your family as BB King’s does not have a minor cut-off time. Pretty amazing, huh!? BB King’s is open until Midnight on weekdays and 1:00am on Friday and Saturday. If you like to brunch, then you will LOVE the Sunday Blues Brunch when live music starts at 10:00am. Kids will enjoy the upbeat jams of amazing high-energy bands as they boogie on the dance floor. My advice is to check their calendar to try and catch The BB King’s Blues Club All-Star Band. But in truth, every group that has the privilege of playing at this historic club is probably awesome and worth checking out.
- more resources
3. Big Nose Kate's Saloon
TOMBSTONE, AZ
Big Nose Kate’s Saloon – Tombstone, Arizona
Step through the swinging doors of Big Nose Kate’s in Tombstone and step back in time to the Wild West. Originally the Grand Hotel, built in the 1880’s, this saloon is named after the former owner and lover of the infamous Doc Holliday. Yes, you read that right! If you’ve seen the movie Tombstone, you know exactly who I am talking about. If not, go watch it – like right now. Anyhow, this lady of night has a very colorful history that mirrors the amazing old western mining town she inhabited. You can learn all about it in our post on visiting Tombstone with kids. A spirited hangout with live music every day of the week, Big Nose Kate’s is so much fun that even the spirits don’t want to leave the party just yet. Kids will love the colorful old west décor, photo ops, and toe-tapping to live music.
- Why we love it
Big Nose Kate’s Saloon – Tombstone, Arizona
Step through the swinging doors of Big Nose Kate’s in Tombstone and step back in time to the Wild West. Originally the Grand Hotel, built in the 1880’s, this saloon is named after the former owner and lover of the infamous Doc Holliday. Yes, you read that right! If you’ve seen the movie Tombstone, you know exactly who I am talking about. If not, go watch it – like right now. Anyhow, this lady of night has a very colorful history that mirrors the amazing old western mining town she inhabited. You can learn all about it in our post on visiting Tombstone with kids. A spirited hangout with live music every day of the week, Big Nose Kate’s is so much fun that even the spirits don’t want to leave the party just yet. Kids will love the colorful old west décor, photo ops, and toe-tapping to live music.
- more resources
4. Wildhorse Saloon
NASHVILLE, TN
Wildhorse Saloon – Nashville, Tennessee
Looking to for a place to go honky tonk with your kids? Then settle in for some live music, line dancing and good time at the Wildhorse Saloon. Located in Music City’s downtown district this family-friendly restaurant and music venue is great spot to get your country on. Many famous country stars have graced the Wildhorse stage and it is such a fun experience for those visiting Nashville with their family. Don’t know how to line dance? No problem, because they have complimentary line dancing instruction daily. The kids will love the big horses that hang from the ceiling, the live music and dancing. Hours are always different depending on events, so be sure to check the calendar before you visit.
- Why we love it
Wildhorse Saloon – Nashville, Tennessee
Looking to for a place to go honky tonk with your kids? Then settle in for some live music, line dancing and good time at the Wildhorse Saloon. Located in Music City’s downtown district this family-friendly restaurant and music venue is great spot to get your country on. Many famous country stars have graced the Wildhorse stage and it is such a fun experience for those visiting Nashville with their family. Don’t know how to line dance? No problem, because they have complimentary line dancing instruction daily. The kids will love the big horses that hang from the ceiling, the live music and dancing. Hours are always different depending on events, so be sure to check the calendar before you visit.
- more resources
5. Pack's Tavern
ASHEVILLE, NC
Pack’s Tavern – Asheville, North Carolina
This locally owned and operated restaurant and bar is located in the heart downtown Asheville’s Pack Square Park. Although live music is not hard to find in Asheville, the family-friendly vibe of Pack’s Tavern is a must. Originally built in 1907, the tavern is located in what was once the lumber supply company, Hayes & Hopson, making it one of the oldest buildings in Asheville. It was even said to be a hub for illegal liquor distribution during the Prohibition. Paying tribute to this historical building and its many lives, the owners were honored with the Griffin Award for their post-Prohibition restoration efforts. Live music happens every Friday and Saturday nights and kids will love listening to the music while dancing the night away.
See what it’s like there:
- Why we love it
Pack’s Tavern – Asheville, North Carolina
This locally owned and operated restaurant and bar is located in the heart downtown Asheville’s Pack Square Park. Although live music is not hard to find in Asheville, the family-friendly vibe of Pack’s Tavern is a must. Originally built in 1907, the tavern is located in what was once the lumber supply company, Hayes & Hopson, making it one of the oldest buildings in Asheville. It was even said to be a hub for illegal liquor distribution during the Prohibition. Paying tribute to this historical building and its many lives, the owners were honored with the Griffin Award for their post-Prohibition restoration efforts. Live music happens every Friday and Saturday nights and kids will love listening to the music while dancing the night away.
- more resources
See what it’s like there:
6. BB Kings Blues Club
NASHVILLE, TN
BB King’s Blues Club – Nashville, Tennessee
In Nashville a good honky-tonk is never far from reach and at BB King’s in Nashville, your family is sure to find a rocking good time. Located in downtown right on 2nd Ave, this BB King’s isn’t just about the blues. In fact, there is wide mix of classic soul and rock and roll. All the tables have great views of the stage and dance floor perfect for constant entertainment and keeping an eye on your kiddos if they would rather dance on the dance floor instead of sitting at the table. Here is some great news for parents who want to party the night away with their kids; there is no time restriction for minors!
- Why we love it
BB King’s Blues Club – Nashville, Tennessee
In Nashville a good honky-tonk is never far from reach and at BB King’s in Nashville, your family is sure to find a rocking good time. Located in downtown right on 2nd Ave, this BB King’s isn’t just about the blues. In fact, there is wide mix of classic soul and rock and roll. All the tables have great views of the stage and dance floor perfect for constant entertainment and keeping an eye on your kiddos if they would rather dance on the dance floor instead of sitting at the table. Here is some great news for parents who want to party the night away with their kids; there is no time restriction for minors!
- more resources
7. Las Casuelas Terraza
PALM SPRINGS, CA
Las Casuelas Terraza – Palm Springs, California
The desert playground to the stars, Palm Springs is hot and Las Casuelas Terraza is where the party’s at. Located in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, Las Casuelas has delicious Mexican cuisine and a rocking patio with live music every day. Once a historic 1920’s casita, the Delgado family opened Las Casuelas in 1958 and continues to serve four generations of family recipes to this day. The patio or Palapa patio, complete with an outdoor bar, dance floor and bandstand is where to sit if you want to dance and party with your kids. Kids will love the yummy food and dancing under the desert stars.
- Why we love it
Las Casuelas Terraza – Palm Springs, California
The desert playground to the stars, Palm Springs is hot and Las Casuelas Terraza is where the party’s at. Located in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, Las Casuelas has delicious Mexican cuisine and a rocking patio with live music every day. Once a historic 1920’s casita, the Delgado family opened Las Casuelas in 1958 and continues to serve four generations of family recipes to this day. The patio or Palapa patio, complete with an outdoor bar, dance floor and bandstand is where to sit if you want to dance and party with your kids. Kids will love the yummy food and dancing under the desert stars.
- more resources
8. The Market Cafe
NEW ORLEANS, LA
The Market Cafe – New Orleans, Louisiana
Located on Decatur and St. Pete Streets, Market Café is second oldest building in the French Market dating back to the early 1800’s. Family owned and operated, Market Café is a great spot to enjoy the fresh air and views of French Quarter, chow down on Cajun/Creole cuisine and boogie to the beats of the 5-piece New Orleans jazz combo. Rain or shine, this is a great place to take the family for some afternoon fun in New Orleans.
See what it’s like there:
- Why we love it
The Market Cafe – New Orleans, Louisiana
Located on Decatur and St. Pete Streets, Market Café is second oldest building in the French Market dating back to the early 1800’s. Family owned and operated, Market Café is a great spot to enjoy the fresh air and views of French Quarter, chow down on Cajun/Creole cuisine and boogie to the beats of the 5-piece New Orleans jazz combo. Rain or shine, this is a great place to take the family for some afternoon fun in New Orleans.
- more resources
See what it’s like there:
9. Fraunces Tavern
NEW YORK, NY
Fraunces Tavern – New York, New York
Located at the southern point of Manhattan, this tavern has been in operation since 1762 making it the oldest standing structure in New York City. Can you even believe it! It even held the Departments of Foreign Affairs and was the National Treasury offices from 1785 to 1788. Seriously, the founding fathers of the United States dined here! There is even a museum with 9 galleries. So it is kind of a big deal. At Fraunces Tavern you not only get to bask in history, you get to have fun in a family-friendly and unpretentious atmosphere. Every Saturday and Sunday there is live music throughout the day. Everything from traditional Irish music to American Rock to Jazz is played at the tavern. The tavern is located near the Staten Island Ferry dock, so it is perfect to visit before or after a quick trip on the ferry to see the statue of liberty.
See what it’s like there:
- Why we love it
Fraunces Tavern – New York, New York
Located at the southern point of Manhattan, this tavern has been in operation since 1762 making it the oldest standing structure in New York City. Can you even believe it! It even held the Departments of Foreign Affairs and was the National Treasury offices from 1785 to 1788. Seriously, the founding fathers of the United States dined here! There is even a museum with 9 galleries. So it is kind of a big deal. At Fraunces Tavern you not only get to bask in history, you get to have fun in a family-friendly and unpretentious atmosphere. Every Saturday and Sunday there is live music throughout the day. Everything from traditional Irish music to American Rock to Jazz is played at the tavern. The tavern is located near the Staten Island Ferry dock, so it is perfect to visit before or after a quick trip on the ferry to see the statue of liberty.
- more resources
See what it’s like there:
10. Ri Ra Irish Pub
LAS VEGAS, NV
Ri Ra Irish Pub – Las Vegas, Nevada
There is nothing like a good Irish pub and at Ri Ra, located in the Mandalay Bay shoppes, there is everything you need to have a smashing Ri Ra (good time). First off, they have the best food I have ever eaten at an Irish pub. It is all seriously delicious and fresh. Second, the atmosphere is cozy and intriguing with unique décor in several different rooms, and various little nooks to sit and relax. Finally, the live entertainment is lively and happening every night. Pop by any night of the week and you are likely to catch a jolly performance by the Black Donnelly’s. All these things put together give you and your family the Irish escape you didn’t know you were dreaming about. You know what they say: “When in Vegas (go to an Irish pub)!” Ha.
- Why we love it
Ri Ra Irish Pub – Las Vegas, Nevada
There is nothing like a good Irish pub and at Ri Ra, located in the Mandalay Bay shoppes, there is everything you need to have a smashing Ri Ra (good time). First off, they have the best food I have ever eaten at an Irish pub. It is all seriously delicious and fresh. Second, the atmosphere is cozy and intriguing with unique décor in several different rooms, and various little nooks to sit and relax. Finally, the live entertainment is lively and happening every night. Pop by any night of the week and you are likely to catch a jolly performance by the Black Donnelly’s. All these things put together give you and your family the Irish escape you didn’t know you were dreaming about. You know what they say: “When in Vegas (go to an Irish pub)!” Ha.
- more resources
11. Fiesta de Reyes
OLD TOWN SAN DIEGO, CA
Casa de Reyes – Old Town San Diego, California
Located in the heart of Old Town San Diego within the Fiesta De Reyes area is a delicious Mexican restaurant that is festive and perfect for a fun family experience. The whole restaurant is an open air patio with views of the Fiesta De Reyes stage which has exciting live Mexican entertainment every day and night, complete with a dance floor. There is no time restriction for minors, so families can stay and play as long as the restaurant is open. At night the soft glow of the fire pits adds to the exciting outdoor fiesta vibe. As SoCal locals, this is our all-time favorite weekend getaway, and we just LOVE the vibe in Old Town San Diego.
- Why we love it
Casa de Reyes – Old Town San Diego, California
Located in the heart of Old Town San Diego within the Fiesta De Reyes area is a delicious Mexican restaurant that is festive and perfect for a fun family experience. The whole restaurant is an open air patio with views of the Fiesta De Reyes stage which has exciting live Mexican entertainment every day and night, complete with a dance floor. There is no time restriction for minors, so families can stay and play as long as the restaurant is open. At night the soft glow of the fire pits adds to the exciting outdoor fiesta vibe. As SoCal locals, this is our all-time favorite weekend getaway, and we just LOVE the vibe in Old Town San Diego.
- more resources
That’s a Wrap!
Well, there you have it. These are some of our all-time favorite kid-friendly places with live music that we’ve visited on our travels, but there are so many places we’ve never been that must also have some great live music venues that are family-friendly. Let me know in the comments what is your favorite place with live music for kids!?
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20 Comments
I’m so excited, because we are visiting Memphis and Nashville this spring. While we don’t have kids, I’m always happy to hear about live music venues to visit! I’d love to see BB King’s Blues Club All-Star Band – BB King was the first live show I ever saw in 1987! We visited Fraunce’s Tavern in New York in 2017, but during the week, so missed the music.
How fun! Sounds like you like to seek out live music too! Have so much fun in Memphis and Nashville!
I never thought live music and kids mixed. After reading your recs I thing it’s something we’ll have to try. Not sure how many venues we have in Canada though…
Oh yes, it is fun for everyone. It is great way for us adults to feel like we are doing what we would want to do even if we were traveling without the kids. Plus the kids have a blast and let mommy and daddy hangout.
I love the idea of visiting live music places with kids. Those memories will stay with them forever. I would love to visit the BB King’s Blues Club for some great music. I am sure the kids would love to do line dancing at the Wildhorse Saloon. We are sorry we missed Las Casuelas when we just visited Palm Springs. Good to find the Market Cafe in New Orleans on the list. So much great music in this city. Sure looks like you have a ton of fun with your kids.
We definitely have a lot of fun with our kids. Next time you head to Palm Springs try to get to Las Casuelas, it is my favorite spot.
New Orleans is on my list of places to visit, so Market Café sounds like a fun place I have to experience when there. I also like the sound of Fraunces Tavern in NYC, gotta love a building that’s been standing that long. Also, it’s really cool about the building’s history and famous guests that used to dine there and the museum sounds worthwhile visiting. Thanks for sharing!
Yeah when a place is historical like Fraunces Tavern, it just makes it that much more special.
There’s nothing better than sharing family time with some rocking tunes! I have family in Nashville, I’ll have to tell them about BB King’s Blues Club for some good food and even better music! Thanks for sharing!
Yes, I am always keeping my eye out for fun places to dance and listen to music with my kids. Pass on the info to your friends, they’ll love it!
Market Cafe’ in NOLA will play rain or shine indeed. We waited out a tornado alarm there. Had a great lunch with awesome live music and wet shoes!
Haha now that’s a how you do it!
I have been to Big Nose Kate’s and Fiesta Del Reyes before. Of the two, I would lean towards Fiesta Del Reyes. Old Town is so kid friendly already but that outdoor seating area there is just fantastic. You can plan a “grazing” meal of street tacos, desserts, and margaritas too. (maybe not for the kids). I also love how much the performers interact with the kids in the audience. They always seem to be bringing them up on stage and incorporating them into the act.
Yes I love Fiesta Del Reyes. We go all the time, because it is always a good time for the family.
Such great places on the lists for live music! I’ve been to Rusty Spur Saloon but that was years ago. I’m hoping to go to Nashville this year so I will make sure to make a visit.
Rusty Spur is still a good time. Have fun in Nashville.
That is a good list of places to visit with kids. Music soothes the mind, always good to expose children to music right from childhood.
Yes, I agree everyone’s attitude changes for the better around music.
We have some great child-friendly pubs near us here in London, and I agree it’s a great way to get your children used to hanging out in adult places. Your list is very useful. I like the sound of BB’s in Memphis – though I’m not sure my two would last through till 1am! 🙂
Great to know! I will have to contact you when we head to London!