A Night Out in Albany: Best Bars and Live Music Spots

Looking for a fun night out in Albany? You’re in luck! Albany’s nightlife is buzzing with a mix of bars, pubs, and live music spots. Whether you’re into sipping cocktails, enjoying a craft beer, or catching a live band, Albany has something for everyone. From cozy pubs to lively music venues, let’s explore the best places to visit for an unforgettable evening in Albany!

Key Takeaways

• Albany’s nightlife offers a variety of bars, pubs, and live music venues to suit everyone’s tastes.
• The Hollow Bar + Kitchen is a popular spot for food, drinks, and live music events.
• McGeary’s Irish Pub provides a cozy atmosphere with classic pub food and live performances.
• Excelsior Pub features a wide selection of New York State craft beers, spirits, and wines.
• The Palace Theatre is a prime venue for catching major live music performances and events.

The Hollow Bar + Kitchen

The Hollow Bar + Kitchen, established in 2013, is a popular spot in downtown Albany. This place is known for its spacious rooftop bar that offers breathtaking views of the city. The ambiance is a mix of elegant and industrial decor, with dim lighting that creates cozy vibes.

Key Details

• Rating: 4.4/5 (1257 reviews on Google)
• Address: 79 N Pearl St, Albany, NY 12207, United States
• Hours: 4 to 10 PM
• Popular Menu Items: HBC Burger, Lobster Mac & Cheese, Ahi Tuna Taco, Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Chicken and Waffles
• Customer Service: Professional, attentive, and warm hospitality
• Music: Upbeat, eclectic mix of classic and modern hits
• Security Measures: Well-lit parking, security personnel, metal detectors

The Hollow Bar + Kitchen is a family-friendly environment with outdoor seating available, making it a great spot for everyone.

McGeary’s Irish Pub

McGeary’s Irish Pub is a gem in Albany’s nightlife. Located at 4 Clinton Square, this pub boasts a rich history and traditional Irish decor. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, making it a perfect spot to unwind.

Popular Menu Items

• Shepherd’s Pie
• Fish and Chips
• Bangers and Mash
• Reuben Sandwich
• Corned Beef and Cabbage

Music and Entertainment

Enjoy live Irish music on weekends, adding to the authentic experience. On weekdays, the playlist is eclectic, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Customer Service

The staff at McGeary’s are known for being friendly and attentive, ensuring you have a great time.

Security Measures

For your safety, there are security personnel on busy nights and a well-lit parking lot.

Target Audience

McGeary’s attracts young adults, working professionals, and locals looking for a good time.

Excelsior Pub

If you’re looking for a place with a vintage and cozy vibe, Excelsior Pub is the spot for you. Located at 54 Philip St, Albany, NY, this pub offers a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for a night out.

Extensive Beer Selection

Excelsior Pub is known for its wide variety of New York State craft beers, spirits, and wines. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just looking to try something new, you’ll find something to enjoy here.

Popular Menu Items

The menu features delicious options like the Excelsior Burger, Pub Wings, Fish and Chips, Shepherd’s Pie, and Mac and Cheese. There’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Friendly Staff

The staff at Excelsior Pub are known for being friendly and attentive, making sure you have a great experience from start to finish.

Music

Enjoy an eclectic mix of classic rock and indie tunes while you relax and unwind. The music adds to the lively and fun atmosphere of the pub.

Security Measures

For your peace of mind, the pub has well-lit parking and security cameras to ensure a safe environment for all patrons.

Excelsior Pub is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy great food, drinks, and music in a welcoming and lively setting.

The Palace Theatre

The Palace Theatre is a gem in Albany’s entertainment scene. With its Austrian Baroque design, it offers a nostalgic and beautiful atmosphere. This classic look doesn’t limit the variety of acts you can see here. From symphonies to rock concerts, there’s always something exciting happening.

• Symphonies: Enjoy the rich sounds of orchestras.
• Rock Concerts: Feel the energy of live bands.
• Comedy Shows: Laugh the night away with top comedians.

Whether you’re a fan of classical music or modern rock, the Palace Theatre has something for everyone. The theater was packed, and the seats were filled with eager fans, making every event a memorable experience.

The City Beer Hall

The City Beer Hall, located at 42 Howard St, Albany, NY 12207, is a popular destination for beer enthusiasts. This spacious venue offers an extensive beer selection, communal seating, and an outdoor patio. The ambiance is vintage, lively, and perfect for a night out with friends.

Popular Menu Items

• City Wings
• Soft Pretzels
• City Burger
• Brats
• Beer Cheese Soup

Customer Service

The staff here are friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable, ensuring you have a great experience.

Music

Enjoy live music on weekends and an eclectic playlist on weekdays.

Security Measures

The City Beer Hall takes safety seriously with security camera surveillance and ID checks.

Whether you’re a beer lover or just looking for a fun place to hang out, The City Beer Hall has something for everyone.

Lark Hall

Lark Hall is a gem in Albany’s vibrant nightlife scene. This venue is perfect for those who want to enjoy live music in an intimate setting. The acoustics here are top-notch, making every performance a memorable experience. The hall often features local bands, giving you a chance to discover Albany’s rich history through its music and culture.

The atmosphere at Lark Hall is both cozy and lively, making it a great spot for a night out with friends. The staff is friendly and always ready to help, ensuring you have a fantastic time. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Lark Hall is a must-visit spot for music lovers.

Lost & Found Bar & Kitchen

Located at 942 Broadway in Albany, NY, the Lost & Found Bar & Kitchen is a popular local spot that offers a unique and welcoming atmosphere. This bar and kitchen is known for its extensive craft beer selection and vibrant event schedule. The ambiance is vintage, cozy, and lively, making it a great place to hang out with friends.

Popular Menu Items

• Lost Burger
• Found Fries
• Drunken Noodles
• Fish and Chips
• Veggie Tacos

Hours

• 11 AM to 11 PM

Rating

• 4.6/5 (512 reviews)

Ambiance

• Vintage, cozy, and lively atmosphere

Customer Service

• Friendly, attentive, and efficient staff

Music

• Eclectic mix of classic and current hits

Security Measures

• Security cameras
• Well-lit parking lot
• Attentive staff

Target Audience

• Young adults
• Professionals
• Groups of friends

Parish Public House

If you love Louisiana-style food and live music, Parish Public House is the spot for you! Named after the parishes in Louisiana, this place offers a unique blend of good food, drinks, and music. You can enjoy a variety of music genres here, including rock, jazz, jam, hip-hop, bluegrass, and country. The atmosphere is always lively and welcoming, making it a great place to hang out with friends or meet new people.

The Madison Theatre

The Madison Theatre is a gem in Albany’s vibrant arts and culture scene. This historic venue offers a unique blend of movies and live performances, making it a versatile spot for entertainment. Whether you’re a film buff or a live music enthusiast, there’s something for everyone. The theater’s cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a favorite among locals.

The Madison Theatre also hosts special events and themed nights, adding an extra layer of fun to your night out. From classic film screenings to live music shows, you can always find something exciting happening here. Don’t miss out on their popular events that often feature local artists and performers, contributing to Albany’s vibrant arts and culture.

For a memorable night out, The Madison Theatre is a must-visit. Its unique charm and diverse offerings make it a standout in Albany’s entertainment scene.

The Low Beat

The Low Beat is a must-visit spot in Albany for anyone who loves live music. This venue is known for its intimate atmosphere and diverse lineup of local and touring bands. Whether you’re into rock, punk, or indie, you’ll find something to enjoy here.

The bar also offers a great selection of drinks, making it a perfect place to unwind and enjoy some tunes. If you’re looking to experience the best of Albany’s live music scene, The Low Beat should definitely be on your list.

For a night filled with good music and great vibes, The Low Beat is the place to be.

Conclusion

Albany’s nightlife has something for everyone. Whether you’re into cozy pubs, lively bars, or catching live music, the Capital Region won’t disappoint. From handcrafted cocktails to local craft beers, there’s always a new drink to try. And with a growing live music scene, you can enjoy performances from both well-known and up-and-coming artists. So, gather your friends, check out the latest events, and make the most of your night out in Albany. The fun is just getting started!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit The Hollow Bar + Kitchen?

The Hollow Bar + Kitchen is lively on weekends, especially during events. Check their schedule for live music nights.

Is McGeary’s Irish Pub family-friendly?

Yes, McGeary’s Irish Pub welcomes families, but it gets busier and louder in the evenings.

Does Excelsior Pub serve food?

Excelsior Pub offers a menu with various pub foods, including burgers and sandwiches.

Can I buy tickets at the door for shows at The Palace Theatre?

Yes, but it’s better to buy tickets online in advance to ensure availability.

What kind of music can I expect at The City Beer Hall?

The City Beer Hall hosts a variety of music genres, from acoustic sets to DJ nights.

Is there parking available at Lark Hall?

Limited street parking is available near Lark Hall, so consider arriving early.

Are pets allowed at Lost & Found Bar & Kitchen?

Pets are welcome on the patio at Lost & Found Bar & Kitchen.

What type of food does Parish Public House serve?

Parish Public House specializes in Southern cuisine, including dishes like jambalaya and gumbo.