25 San Antonio Venues Where You Can Catch a Free Live Concert
From bars and restaurants to just plain music venues, here's where you can take in some live music without paying a cover charge.
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The Bang Bang Bar
119 El Mio Dr, (210) 320-1187, thebangbangbartx.com
Not only does Bang Bang Bar have live bands, but they bring in bands that are absolutely badass. Most nights are free to jam out, though there are some shows that require a small cover charge, anywhere from $3 to $10. Don’t worry, the bar owners will advertise such updates.
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comalcountyrebels
The Rustic
17619 La Cantera Pkwy Ste 204, (210) 245-7500, therustic.com
It’s somewhat difficult to remember a time before The Rustic opened its doors in San Antonio. The country-themed bar, restaurant and music venue is regarded for its actually eclectic mix of bands and artists it brings to its stage. While some shows are ticketed, you can take in the live music for free most nights.
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skylinedronetx
The Mix
2423 N St Mary's St, (210) 735-1313, themixsa.com
While some bars on the St. Mary’s Strip require a cover charge when bands and artists take the stage, The Mix is not one of those bars. Whether you stop in for a few songs or stay for the entire set, the musicians can keep you entertained without you having to pay anything.
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iamjaimemonzon
Hangin Tree Saloon
18424 2nd St, (210) 651-5812, facebook.com
Don’t let the name of this watering hole scare you off. The folks are actually quite nice here, so nice that they offer live music for you to enjoy at no cost to you. And because this is a saloon, you can trust that there’s room for you dance and get lost in the music.
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chef_susie
The Cove
606 W Cypress St, (210) 227-2683, thecove.us
In addition to being a restaurant, laundromat and car wash, The Cove also offers a steady lineup of live music. With a make-shift stage on the patio, you can partake in some live music – whether you choose to dine in or just have a few drinks during the show. Perhaps best of all, there’s a playground and room to run around so the little ones will be entertained too.
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expatnewmexican
Charlie Brown's Neighborhood Bar & Grill
11888 Starcrest Dr Ste 101, (210) 496-7092, charlie-browns.com
Open until 2 a.m. on the daily, Charlie Brown’s is a dependable joint for food, booze and live entertainment. Offering karaoke nights, trivia games and a place to watch sports on the big screen, this neighborhood spot is also regarded for its live music offerings on Saturday nights. Consider drinks (or a food if you want dinner and a show) a no-brainer while taking in the music.
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Old Main Icehouse
110 N Main St, Cibolo, (210) 455-5275, oldmainicehouse.com/
Whether you live in the area or are looking for a watering hole with a small town feel not too gar from home, Old Main Icehouse may be what you need. With an outdoor stage and lots of tables on the patio for you to relax, this spot features live music every Friday and Saturday. Most shows are free to enjoy, though some will be ticketed (and you’ll know beforehand).
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oldmainicehouse
The Davenport Lounge
203 N Presa St, (210) 224-5635, davenportloungesa.com
Complete with an impressive cocktail list, this downtown lounge also offers up live music. The best part? The tunes are always free, so order up a drink and enjoy the full experience.
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robalfieriphoto
Sanchos Cantina & Cocina
628 Jackson St, (210) 320-1840, sanchosmx.com
Sloshy margaritas, delectable bar food, patio vibes and live music – what else cold Sanchos even provide? No matter your visit for reasoning, you’ll be able to enjoy the sounds of musicians pulling through here, and it won’t cost you a damn thing (besides your drink, of course).
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cbm_the_bandaholics
Pat O'Brien's
121 Alamo Plaza, (210) 220-1076, patobriens.com
A replica of the New Orleans institution, this downtown staple is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. If you find yourself downtown during the week, venture inside to enjoy a couple of hurricanes while you listen to some live music. The tunes are only free during the week though, since there’s a cover charge on Fridays and Saturdays.
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jvarley1969
