Worcester Rock City: Top Local Music Spots

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Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Meghan Ottolini, GoLocalWorcester Contributor

Whether you want to bust out moves like Jagger on a Friday night or sip coffee and listen to acoustic crooners on a Sunday evening, Worcester’s live music spots have something for everyone. Explore some of our favorite picks, just don’t forget to tip the band!

Funky Spots

Swing by Ralph’s Diner (21+) on Fridays and Saturdays for live local bands, or weeknights for poetry slams and karaoke. This funky burger joint and bar serves a range of beers, from Narragansett to Mike’s Hard Lemonade. Catch a performance in the upstairs concert room, and enjoy the food menu until 12:30 am. 148 Grove Street, Worcester MA

If you’re in the mood for something a little more old-school, Beatnik’s (21+) stays true to its name with checkerboard floors and the “On the Road” Martini. Catch performers inspired by the 50s and 60s while enjoying Goat Cheese Fondue and Beatnik’s Sangria. 433 Park Avenue, Worcester, MA

Rock n’ Roll Historic Halls

The Rolling Stones cemented The Lucky Dog Music Hall (21+) in Worcester history when they played a surprise show in 1981. The band had been on complete hiatus for three years when they graced the venue with a two-hour set, unofficially kicking off their Tattoo You promotional world tour. Today, the Lucky Dog has live local bands and rock music six days a week and a fully-stocked bar. 89 Green Street, Worcester, MA

Pleasant Street’s Tammany Hall has hosted such bands as The Cars, J. Geils Band, and Marcy Playground. Check out tribute acts, local bands, and folk and bluegrass groups, five days a week. All events are 18+, unless otherwise specified. 43 Pleasant Street, Worcester, MA

Acoustic Sessions

 Enjoy the full bar and microbrewery at Jak’s Pub (21+) while you listen to original songwriters during Acoustic Open Mic Sundays, 6-9pm. Most acts have no cover charge, but voluntary donations benefit the Worcester Animal Rescue League. 536 Main Street, Worcester, MA

Grab a cup of joe and listen to acoustic performances at Acoustic Java, Main Street’s new coffee house and cafe. Acoustic acts perform Noon-4pm Fridays, and enjoy a full vegetarian menu alongside salads, subs, and paninis. 932 Main Street, Worcester, MA

All Ages

Head over to Palladium to catch local bands and big headliners alike. Dropkick Murphys, Jay-Z, Kanye West, and Bob Dylan have all performed at this all-ages venue. But don’t worry, they still have a full bar for the 21+ crowd. 261 Main Street, Worcester, MA

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