I doubt many would be surprised to learn that there is always something exciting to do and hear in The City of Sin. Because international sensations such as Cirque Du Soleil and Celine Dion are probably already on your radar, we’ve decided to give you a glimpse into the Vegas less often heard. Here’s a list of our favorite hidden gems for amazing live and local music. We hope both the melodies of the artists and the reprieve of tourist throngs will both be music to your ears.
Stunning Views and Live Jazz – Mandarin Bar, 9pm-1am Friday & Saturday
3752 Las Vegas Boulevard South, Las Vegas, NV 89158
Located on the 23rd floor of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Mandarin Bar is a hotspot for locals. This classy, upscale venue has no pedestrian entrance, so getting in is half the fun. Once inside, all of your senses will be delighted. On Friday and Saturday nights, you will love listening to classy live music by rotating artists. You’ll definitely have something to look at while you listen, as the three walls of floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Las Vegas strip are show-stopping. You might want to cancel that late-night dinner reservation because between the music and views, combined with the signature cocktails from the mixologists behind the bar – you’ll want to stay all night.
www.mandarinoriental.com/lasvegas/fine-dining/mandarin-bar
Swingin’ Sundays – Ron DeCar’s Event Center – Sundays 5pm-8pm
1201 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas NV 89104
Ron DeCar’s Event Center hosts performances that showcase what Vegas used to be. With their tagline, Vintage Vegas, this live music venue does not disappoint. Swingin’ Sundays is an open mic night held exclusively for professional vocalists. Bringing back old Vegas charm, these singers are Rhythm & Blues, Soul, and Jazz connoisseurs. As if that wasn’t enough, all this live entertainment is a steal. Standing room tickets are only $15, and for only $35 per person, a VIP Golden Circle Plated ticket will guarantee you a spot in the first three rows, and includes a gourmet, plated dinner.
Listen to the Piano Man – Don’t Tell Mama – Nightly 8pm-3am
517 Fremont Street #110, Las Vegas, NV 89101
Voted “Best Piano Bar of Vegas” in 2014, there is nothing average about Don’t Tell Mama. This venue is the place where jazzy dueling pianos meet eclectic karaoke. Who could ask for anything more? Patrons feel like stars as they belt out their favorite Broadway Show tunes alongside a talented live pianist. To add a twist, the wait staff is also incredibly gifted vocalists and will periodically break from serving delicious cocktails to entertain you with their talent. Although there is no cover, there is a 1-drink minimum. This place is a must see – and listen – for any music lover craving something different to do in Vegas.
www.donttellmama.com
Get Artsy – The Artifice – Open Every Day
1025 First Street, #A Las Vegas, NV 89101
Situated in Vegas’ trendy Arts District, this hip bar and venue hosts local artists with eclectic musical tastes. For example, on Saturday, March 19th, The Artifice is hosting both Scarlet – an 80’s Death Metal tribute show – and an entirely different performance – Nerdlesque Burlesque, a live ensemble of burlesque style music and dance with a self-proclaimed “nerdy flair”. The Artifice is not only a music venue, as it celebrates all types of art forms. Come check out Dr. Sketchy’s – a fun and boozy live drawing class with chances to win wacky prizes. With so much diversity, you’ll find something interesting for all the art lovers in your life to see and hear at The Artifice.
www.artificebar.com