Jazz was born in New Orleans, but it evolved and flourished in Harlem. Jazz clubs in Harlem are a fundamental part of jazz history, and you must visit some of them if you come to NYC.
Legendary artists like Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday, Dizzy Gillespie, and Miles Davis played in Harlem. Read on to discover the best places to enjoy jazz in New York City.
Jazz genres like swing, bebop, latin and cool jazz were born there, and the neighborhood once teemed with renowned jazz clubs. Now, after decades of decline, Harlem is once again a cultural destination, and terrific jazz venues have returned.
Bill’s Place
Bill’s Place (148 West 133rd Street) is an authentic brownstone “jazz joint” offering great music by master musicians. Bill Saxton, a saxophonist and Harlem legend, is the host.
He performs sets with his combo every Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. There is a cash cover and no alcohol on the premises. We suggest that you make a reservation via their website.
American Legion Post 398
Like the jazz clubs of Harlem’s golden era, this intimate venue has a warm community vibe. American Legion Post 398 (248 West 132nd Street) is a hidden gem of Harlem where you’ll find some of the best jazz musicians having fun.
The Sunday evening jam session begins at 7:30 p.m., and ends around midnight. Musicians are encouraged to sit in. Jazz is also played at the Wednesday Fish Fry and Thursday nights.
There is no cover charge or minimum (though one should support the venue by ordering something). Drink prices are quite reasonable and the kitchen serves up inexpensive soul food. Seating is very limited, so arrive early.
Minton’s Playhouse
Minton’s Playhouse (206 West 118th Street) was the birthplace of bebop, where jam sessions with Thelonious Monk, Charlie Parker, and Dizzy Gillespie fostered the new style of jazz.
Established in 1938 and re-opened in 2013 as an elegant restaurant/club (jackets are highly recommended) with music provided by a roster of jazz ensembles, and the Minton Players.
You can enjoy the music over dinner, the Sunday Jazz Brunch, or from the bar/lounge areas.
449 LA Scat
This unassuming storefront turned café (like many classic clubs of Harlem lore) presents jazz sets Thursdays through Sundays. Visiting 449 LA Scat (449 Lenox Ave.) is an opportunity to see (and listen to) all that is right with jazz.
There is a cover charge, which includes sangria. A limited menu of beverages and snacks are also available.
Ginny’s Supper Club
Ginny’s Supper Club is a swank, speakeasy-inspired club beneath celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson’s Red Rooster Harlem restaurant.
In addition to great food and cocktails, they offer shows by local and international jazz talent. Upstairs, at Red Rooster‘s bar, the music is free and terrific.
If you’re looking for more great dining options, before or after a performance, see our dining in Harlem guide to the best restaurants.
The National Jazz Museum
The National Jazz Museum in Harlem seeks to promote, preserve, and present jazz. Their Visitors Center offers exhibits, recordings, films, and weekly evening events that include curated talks, recordings and live music. Admission is free. Make sure to check the events for the days you will be visiting.
Insider’s Tip: Not only does Harlem have stellar jazz clubs, you can also listen to some of the best gospel your ears have ever heard. Check out our tips for where to hear gospel in Harlem.
Jazz Mobile
Jazz Mobile brings superb free Jazz to New Yorkers with performances in neighborhood streets and parks, as well as ticketed concerts in music venues.
They also offer workshops, master classes, lectures and programs for training jazz vocalists and musicians. Check their calendar for performances, locations and programs.
The Apollo Theater
If you like jazz, you must take a tour of the Apollo. It is considered the soul of American culture. This incredibly famous concert hall is known for much more than jazz.
From comedy to dance, to just about whatever you can imagine, The Apollo’s Amateur Nights are legendary. Of course, some of the world’s most famous jazz singers have stepped on this stage.
Iconic performers such as Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, and Duke Ellington have all played here. So, even if you don’t manage to listen to a jazz performance (make sure to check the calendar!), taking the backstage tour is definitely a wonderful way to learn about some of the jazz greats.
Update Notice: This post was updated on February 16, 2024.
If you’re looking for something to do during the day before going to these jazz clubs in Harlem, make sure to check out one of our fabulous NYC tours. From Broadway to Lady Liberty, our small group tours, led by local New Yorkers, show you the very best of New York City.
