If you’re looking for bars with live music in Columbus that deliver more than just watered-down drinks and a dusty jukebox, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re chasing chill acoustic vibes, high-energy punk shows, or local Columbus bands that just might be the next big thing, this city knows how to soundtrack a night out.
This guide is your one-stop shop for the best spots where you can grab a drink and catch some tunes — no arena tickets or sticky stadium floors required.
And just to be clear: we’re skipping traditional Columbus music venues like KEMBA Live! and Newport Music Hall in favor of bars that double as live music gems.
These are the dive bars, breweries, honky tonks, and low-key lounges where the mic is hot and the vibes are immaculate.
Natalie’s Grandview
📍 945 King Ave, Columbus, OH 43212
If you like your cocktail with a side of soul, Natalie’s is a must. Natalie’s is a laid-back supper club vibe and an ever-rotating schedule of killer live music acts — many of them local Columbus bands. Their pizza is incredible, and both stages are unique in their own right. Great sound, great food, great music. Need we say more?
Find upcoming shows here.
Rambling House
📍 310 E Hudson St, Columbus, OH 43202
A true hidden gem, this unassuming spot off of Hudson Ave near Clintonville specializes in Americana, bluegrass, and roots music. They also make their own sodas, so even the designated driver gets something cool. A go-to for live music Saturday nights that don’t feel too rowdy but still deliver on fun, they often have an early show and a late show to choose from.
EDIT OCT 2025: The Rambling House permanently closed as of October 2025. This venue was absolutely unbelievable, and we are going to miss it like hell. Long live the Rambling House.
Rumba Café
📍 2507 Summit St, Columbus, OH 43202
One of the most iconic bars with live music in Columbus, Rumba is the kind of place where you could see a mellow folk act one night and a mosh pit break out the next. It’s small, intimate, and a favorite haunt for both touring acts and local musicians. Their live band schedule is packed, so there’s rarely a dull night.
Find upcoming shows here.
Ace of Cups
📍 2619 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202
Located just off campus, this punky little bar books everything from garage rock to experimental hip-hop and neo soul. The drinks are strong, the crowd is cool, and the music is always loud. Bonus points for the cozy patio and the proximity to Ray Ray’s Hog Pit and Jetpack’s Burgers.
Find upcoming shows here.
India Oak Grill
📍 590 Oakland Park Ave, Columbus, OH 43214
You might not expect live music from a bar best known for their Italian subs and dive-y sports bar energy, but surprise! India Oak brings in local cover bands and solo acts for casual nights with a mix of tunes and Tito’s on Friday and Saturday nights.
Find upcoming shows here.
Bristol Republic
📍 Currently relocating to Bridge Park in Dublin | Opening Fall 2025
If your idea of a great night involves whiskey and country music, Bristol Republic has your name on it. They host live music every weekend with a heavy emphasis on Nashville-style acts and line dancing vibes. Perfect for a bachelorette party or just leaning into your cowboy hat era. Also, the BBQ here is a fantastic ode to the south.
Find upcoming shows here.
Park Street Tavern
📍 501 Park St, Columbus, OH 43215
This Arena District staple offers free live music almost every night, with a mix of country, jazz, funk, and cover bands. It’s a great stop before or after a Blue Jackets game, and one of the most reliable places for live music in Columbus Ohio. Catch their jazz nights every Tuesday to see some of the best cats in town cook up some heat.
Find upcoming shows here.
Woodlands Tavern
📍 1200 W 3rd Ave, Columbus, OH 43212
It’s almost unfair how good the lineup is at Woodlands for a bar. From jam bands to alt-country to reggae nights, this Grandview spot is always buzzing. Plus, their food is truly next level. Grab a beer on the patio and let the night roll.
Find upcoming shows here.
Fenders
📍 8333 Market Exchange Dr, Westerville, OH 43081
This Westerville pub is a magnet for local Columbus bands who want to play loud and late. It’s the kind of spot where the regulars will tell you a hundred stories about all the shows they’ve seen, and then stay for one more set.
Find upcoming shows here.
Byrne’s Pub
📍 1248 W. 3rd Ave, Columbus, OH 43212
Live Irish and bluegrass music? Yes, please. Byrne’s is a favorite for St. Paddy’s season and beyond, with traditional Celtic bands and bluegrass acts on tap most weekends. Bonus: It’s super cozy and perfect for a pint and a singalong. Grab a pizza from Granddad’s next door to elevate your night from good to fan-freakin-tastic.
Find upcoming shows here.
Dick’s Den
📍 2417 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202
A true old-school Columbus institution, Dick’s Den is all about jazz and jamming. This cash-only bar has been keeping things cool for decades with nightly live music, a solid whiskey list, and a no-frills, all-feels atmosphere. Check out their bluegrass jam on Tuesday nights for a nice way to break up your work week.
Find upcoming shows here.
Understory
📍 2571 Neil Ave, Columbus, OH 43202
This beautiful bar tucked inside a historic building in Old North doubles as a cocktail lounge and live music venue, often hosting jazz, soul, and singer-songwriter performances on their patio. It’s one of the city’s most scenic places to catch a set, which you can catch every Wednesday from 5-8 PM.
Find upcoming shows here.
Rehab Tavern
📍 456 W Town St, Columbus, Ohio 43215
This Franklinton favorite is a dive bar with an edge and hosts gritty rock shows and DJ nights on the Second Fridays of every month (during Franklinton Fridays). It’s got personality, cheap drinks, and a surprisingly fun live band schedule for such a low-key spot.
Find upcoming shows here.
Standard Live
📍 1112 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201
An offshoot of the Standard Hall concept, this new addition to the Short North leans hard into the live music vibe. Expect danceable beats, pop covers, and an energetic crowd that’s here to party.
Find upcoming shows here.
Cafe Bourbon Street
📍 2216 Summit St, Columbus, OH 43201
Edgy, gritty, and full of character, Cafe Bourbon Street has hosted local Columbus bands and touring acts since forever. There’s always something happening at Cafe Bourbon Street, from punk shows to karaoke to the best late-night stories you’ll never tell your parents.
Find upcoming shows here.
Dirty Dungarees
📍 2584 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202
Probably the last place you’d expect to find live music, this laundromat (yes, a laundromat) hosts energetic punk and rock shows on the regular in the adjoining bar space. Things here are very DIY, grab-a-PBR-and-go-crazy type of vibe. But trust us, a night you venture into Dirty Dungarees is not going to be a night you’ll soon forget, no matter how many beers you shotgun.
Find upcoming shows here.
Final Notes
Whether you’re searching for live music in Columbus Ohio this weekend or planning ahead for your next bar crawl, these spots deliver drinks, atmosphere, and the kind of live music that makes your night unforgettable. Save this guide, rally your friends, and go see what Central Ohio’s bar scene is really all about — just don’t forget to tip the band.
Find more fun places to eat & drink in Columbus here.