How to Find the Top Jazz Clubs in New York

Blowin' it hot or playin' it cool, many of New York's jazz clubs are the epicenter of legendary jazz performances. The Big Apple can lay claim to being the home of many jazz greats as well as the inspiration for some of the best performances ever recorded. New York easily takes center stage when it comes to live jazz performances. From jazz legends to rising stars, New York has them all. Here's how to find the best jazz clubs in the city.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Begin your search for the best jazz clubs in New York by reviewing the Gotham Jazz Web site (see below). This site features reviews of musicians performing in New York, jazz news, and lists live performances in many jazz clubs around the New York area.

2. Travel over to the NY.com Web site and check out the reviews of New York's jazz clubs. They will give you the inside scoop on more than the music being played by offering jazz lovers advice on such things as cover charges, food and best time to arrive. Take a good look at this site before heading out for a night on the town. The list is maintained by a bona-fide jazz aficionado.

3. Relish the experience of stepping into a legendary birthplace of some of the world's best jazz. When you walk into Birdland, you are truly entering into a house that jazz built. This jazz club has to be near the top of the all-time list for New York jazz clubs.

4. Savor the moment when you walk through the doors at the Blue Note, a New York jazz club legend. Located in Greenwich Village, the Blue Note offers performing artists a place to innovate and elaborate on America's music--jazz. The Blue Note features some of the best jazz musicians from around the world.

5. Enjoy the heritage of the Village Vanguard, a jazz club that has been open since 1935. Down in Greenwich Village, this is a fantastic venue to listen to some of the best jazz New York City has to offer. Check out their Web site for current news and pricing (see below).

Tips & Warnings

• If you are coming into New York for a visit, check to see who is playing in the area where you will be staying as well as the prices.
• Visit several New York jazz clubs in one evening and you will have the time of your life.