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If you’re in the market for a good old-fashioned jazz night, the Hudson Valley is the place to be, with live music all around the area.
The Hudson Valley is home to a thriving art community with some of the best live music New York has to offer. With a deep history of classic jazz music, there’s no better place to experience jazz, whether it’s new talent or one of the greats. Check out these entertaining jazz clubs and restaurants in the Valley for an evening of swing and syncopation.
Beanrunner Cafe
Peekskill
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This joint is a little slice of heaven for art and music lovers in the Hudson Valley. Every Saturday is Jazz Night, featuring acts like Harlem Blues and Jazz Band. The venue offers a vegetarian-friendly menu with full service during all performances, including wine, beer, and an espresso bar. Though the music scene here is alive in the evenings, swing by in the morning to grab brunch and check out the in-house art gallery.
The Falcon
Marlboro
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Opened by the legendary art and music producer Tony Falco, this spot is known as one of the Hudson Valley’s premier venues for live music. With no tickets or cover fees required, The Falcon has a mission to share incredible musical performances that everyone can enjoy. The Falcon puts on music from an array of different genres, but the jazz here is unparalleled. The menu includes classic pub fare and an impressive list of beer, wine, and cocktails. Take a trip downstairs to look at the Avalon Archive’s massive collection of vintage rock and roll memorabilia.
Oh, and the breathtaking view of the Marlboro Falls just outside doesn’t hurt, either.
Jazz Forum Club
Tarrytown
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This jazz club is loved by locals for its intimate setting that lets patrons get up close and personal with world-renowned jazz musicians. Performers have described the atmosphere as “playing in Mark’s [the owner’s] living room,” and often stick around to chat and take pictures with fans between sets. The club presents jazz headliners every Friday and Saturday night, and even offers monthly “jam sessions” where visitors can play alongside and learn from professional musicians. Jazz Forum also has a separate lounge and pool room where patrons can enjoy food and drinks while they wait for the show to start.
Lydia’s Cafe
Stone Ridge
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A charming, cozy eatery, Lydia’s Cafe never disappoints. After the eponymous Lydia Haynes sold the restaurant to her daughter and son-in-law, Lydia’s transformed into a hotspot for live music. Open on Fridays and Saturdays, Lydia’s offers a menu of delicious bites and homemade baked goods. On Saturdays, guests can enjoy music from various genres, but special attention is paid to its stellar jazz bands.
Maureen’s Jazz Cellar
Nyack
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Named in honor of jazz vocalist Maureen Budway, Maureen’s is all about the music. The venue prides itself on being an intimate “listening room,” where people can come from all over to appreciate the arts. Maureen’s hosts celebrated jazz musicians every weekend, as well as holding open mic nights every Tuesday, giving Hudson Valleyites a taste of NYC jazz. The menu offers classic bar fare, including an extensive list of cold beers and wines. Check out Maureen’s as it kicks off Nyack’s Jazz Week in July.
Quinn’s
Beacon
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Quinn’s sets itself apart with its unique menu of authentic Japanese comfort food and sake, along with its eclectic lineup of live music. The venue promises customers “Every Monday, no excuses, there will be jazz!” Quinn’s is the perfect combination of cozy and cool, bringing both classic jazz and hip indie music to Beacon’s Main Street.
Reserva Wine Bar
Beacon
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This newcomer on the scene holds its own against Beacon’s prolific jazz venues. Open since December 2021, Reserva boasts an extensive wine list and a menu full of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free bites. Every weekend, Reserva hosts jazz acts that fill the gorgeous venue with soulful music. Stop in to sip on a glass of wine (or two!) and settle in for a night of classy entertainment.
Senate Garage
Kingston
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Originally a parking garage built in the 1920s, Senate Garage is a massive space with perfect acoustics for live jazz. This venue is a modernized piece of history, with exposed brick walls and soaring chandeliers, making it a sophisticated spot to enjoy meals and music. Though Senate Garage is often reserved for weddings and private events, it’s known to host public concerts and events for the community to enjoy. Coming up, the venue is set to host performances for Jazzstock in July and August.
Towne Crier Cafe
Beacon
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Opened in 1972, Towne Crier Cafe has remained a pillar for music in the Hudson Valley over its many years and evolutions. Now a fine dining location in Beacon, the venue has a mainstage featuring A-list talent, as well as a secondary stage that hosts local Hudson Valley performers. Every weekend, artists light up the stages while guests delight in its menu of salads, seafood, and other delicious morsels. Thursdays are reserved for open mic nights on the Salon Stage, keeping with the location’s close ties to the community.
Traghaven Whiskey Pub
Tivoli
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This authentic Irish pub is home to the largest selection of whiskey in the U.S., as well as being the site of some incredible live music. Traghaven has its own farm, supplying the restaurant with local, grass-fed beef for the famous burgers. On Thursday and Friday nights, jazz music fills the pub from the bar to the illuminated patio. For a more lively outing, head over on the second or fourth Friday of the month to experience a Hootenanny for music, dancing, and fun.
Related: The Hottest Summer Concerts to Catch in the Hudson Valley
