Las Vegas is known for its dazzling entertainment, world-class casinos, and vibrant nightlife. But beyond the big-budget productions and famous headliners, there’s an exciting grassroots scene for aspiring performers. Whether you’re a comedian testing out new material, a musician looking to share your talent, or a poet eager to express yourself, there are plenty of places to take the stage.
From classic dive bars to upscale lounges, the city offers a variety of settings for performers of all experience levels. Below, we’ll explore some of the best venues hosting open mic nights, the types of performances they cater to, and what you need to know before stepping up to the mic.
The Best Bars and Lounges for Open Mic Performances
Las Vegas has no shortage of bars and lounges offering a welcoming stage for performers. These venues create an intimate atmosphere where both locals and tourists can enjoy live entertainment. Whether you’re a musician, comedian, or poet, these spots provide the perfect opportunity to showcase your talent and gain experience in front of a live audience.
The Sand Dollar Lounge
A beloved staple in the Las Vegas music scene, The Sand Dollar Lounge is one of the best places for live performances. Known for its blues-heavy lineup and fantastic cocktails, this venue hosts regular open mic nights, giving aspiring musicians a platform to shine. With a professional sound system and a supportive audience, it’s an excellent spot for both newcomers and seasoned performers.
- Type of performances: Live music, occasional comedy
- Location: 3355 Spring Mountain Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89102
- Vibe: Classic Vegas lounge with a retro blues and rock atmosphere
- Open mic schedule: Most Sundays and occasional special events
What to Expect:
- A supportive crowd that appreciates live music
- Great acoustics for solo artists and bands
- Professional sound equipment provided
- An opportunity to meet other musicians in the scene
The Griffin
A cozy hideaway in the heart of Fremont Street, The Griffin is known for its intimate setting and fantastic acoustics. It’s a popular spot for singer-songwriters and acoustic musicians looking for a warm, welcoming audience. The venue’s rustic decor and signature fireplace add to the charm, making it a memorable place to perform.
- Type of performances: Acoustic music, singer-songwriters
- Location: 511 Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101
- Vibe: Cozy, dimly lit bar with a warm ambiance
- Open mic schedule: Usually on Wednesday nights
What to Expect:
- A laid-back audience open to various styles of music
- Small stage with intimate acoustics
- Friendly bartenders and strong drinks
- Perfect for emerging musicians looking for exposure
Dino’s Lounge
A true Las Vegas institution, Dino’s Lounge is a dive bar with a long history of supporting local talent. Whether you’re a comedian, musician, or poet, you’ll find a receptive audience eager to enjoy raw, unfiltered performances. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal place for beginners looking to gain confidence on stage.
- Type of performances: Comedy, music, spoken word
- Location: 1516 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89104
- Vibe: A dive bar with a rich history and a welcoming atmosphere
- Open mic schedule: Thursdays, plus special karaoke nights
What to Expect:
- A diverse mix of comedians, musicians, and poets
- A casual and fun-loving crowd
- Affordable drinks and an old-school Vegas feel
- Great for beginners looking to get comfortable performing live
Backstage Bar & Billiards
Known as “Triple B” by locals, Backstage Bar & Billiards is a popular downtown venue for live music and performance art. With its rock-and-roll vibe, spacious stage, and top-notch sound system, this bar regularly hosts open mic nights for musicians and bands. It’s an excellent place to gain exposure and connect with the Las Vegas music community.
- Type of performances: Live music, bands, occasional spoken word
- Location: 601 Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101
- Vibe: A rock-inspired music venue with an underground feel
- Open mic schedule: Weekly open mic nights for musicians
What to Expect:
- A high-energy atmosphere with passionate music fans
- Professional stage and sound system
- Opportunities to network with local musicians
- A lively downtown location with plenty of foot traffic
Hennessey’s Tavern
A staple of the Fremont Street Experience, Hennessey’s Tavern offers a cozy Irish pub setting with a dedicated space for live entertainment. Their open mic nights welcome a mix of acoustic musicians, singer-songwriters, and comedians looking to perform in front of a fun-loving crowd. The venue’s friendly atmosphere makes it a great spot for both beginners and experienced performers.
- Type of performances: Acoustic music, comedy, occasional spoken word
- Location: 425 Fremont St #110, Las Vegas, NV 89101
- Vibe: A lively Irish pub with a casual and welcoming atmosphere
- Open mic schedule: Regular open mic nights, usually midweek
What to Expect:
- A mix of locals and tourists in the audience
- A supportive environment for musicians and comedians
- Strong drinks and great pub food
- A chance to perform in a high-traffic area on Fremont Street
Coffee Shops and Casual Spaces With Open Mic Nights
For a more relaxed environment, coffee shops and smaller venues provide a great stage for emerging artists. These settings offer a quieter, more intimate experience, allowing performers to truly connect with their audience. Whether you’re a poet, storyteller, or acoustic musician, these venues provide the perfect backdrop for artistic expression.
The Writer’s Block
A hidden gem in downtown Las Vegas, The Writer’s Block is more than just a bookstore—it’s a hub for creative minds. Hosting regular poetry and storytelling nights, this venue is perfect for writers looking to share their work in a supportive space. The intimate setting encourages meaningful interactions between performers and audience members.
- Type of performances: Poetry, spoken word, storytelling
- Location: 519 S 6th St #100, Las Vegas, NV 89101
- Vibe: A charming bookstore with a literary and creative atmosphere
- Open mic schedule: Monthly poetry and storytelling nights
What to Expect:
- A welcoming community of writers and poets
- Encouragement for new and experienced performers alike
- A chance to network with local authors and creatives
- A unique literary setting that inspires artistic expression
Madhouse Coffee
Madhouse Coffee is a quirky and artistic café that provides a laid-back space for performers of all kinds. Whether you’re a singer-songwriter, poet, or comedian, the venue’s occasional open mic nights offer a relaxed and friendly environment. The artsy decor and quality coffee make it a favorite among creatives.
- Type of performances: Acoustic music, poetry, comedy
- Location: 8470 W Desert Inn Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89117
- Vibe: A funky, art-filled coffee shop with a laid-back atmosphere
- Open mic schedule: Varied—usually monthly events
What to Expect:
- A friendly and supportive audience
- Good acoustics for solo musicians and spoken word artists
- A diverse range of performances, from heartfelt ballads to stand-up comedy
- Great coffee and snacks to enjoy during the show
Sambalatte
A favorite among coffee lovers and creatives, Sambalatte provides a sophisticated yet relaxed setting for open mic performances. Known for its artisan coffee and inviting ambiance, this café occasionally hosts poetry readings, acoustic performances, and storytelling nights. It’s a fantastic spot for those looking for a quieter, more intimate stage.
- Type of performances: Poetry, storytelling, acoustic music
- Location: Multiple locations, with a main venue in Boca Park
- Vibe: Upscale coffee shop with a peaceful and artistic atmosphere
- Open mic schedule: Occasional live performance nights
What to Expect:
- A respectful audience that values creativity and expression
- Excellent acoustics for acoustic music and spoken word
- High-quality coffee and pastries to enjoy during performances
- A relaxed setting perfect for intimate performances
ReBAR
Blending a vintage shop with a bar, ReBAR is one of the most unique performance spaces in Las Vegas. Located in the Arts District, this venue frequently hosts live music, spoken word nights, and comedy open mics. The eclectic decor and laid-back crowd make it a great spot for creative individuals looking to share their work.
- Type of performances: Live music, comedy, spoken word
- Location: 1225 S Main St, Las Vegas, NV 89104
- Vibe: A quirky, artsy bar with a vintage shop inside
- Open mic schedule: Regular live events, including open mic nights
What to Expect:
- A diverse mix of performers and audience members
- A casual and artistic setting with vintage decor
- Craft cocktails and a rotating beer selection
- A great opportunity to meet fellow creatives in the Arts District
Comedy Open Mic Nights in Las Vegas
If you’re looking to test your comedic skills, Las Vegas has a growing stand-up comedy scene with open mic nights where you can work on your material and build confidence on stage. Whether you’re a first-time comedian or a seasoned performer refining new jokes, these venues provide a great opportunity to engage with a live audience.
LA Comedy Club at The STRAT
For those serious about breaking into the comedy scene, LA Comedy Club at The STRAT offers one of the best open mic nights in Las Vegas. This venue attracts both up-and-coming comedians and professionals looking to fine-tune their material. Performing here can be a stepping stone to bigger opportunities in the comedy world.
- Type of performances: Stand-up comedy
- Location: 2000 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89104
- Vibe: A professional comedy club with an intimate setup
- Open mic schedule: Varies, typically early weekdays
What to Expect:
- A chance to perform at a respected comedy venue
- Industry professionals sometimes scouting for talent
- A mix of seasoned comedians and newcomers
- A lively and engaged audience
Wiseguys Comedy Club
Wiseguys is the go-to spot for comedians in Las Vegas, offering a stage where both beginners and experienced comics can perform. Known for its professional setup and high-quality shows, this club provides an excellent environment for anyone looking to develop their comedic chops.
- Type of performances: Stand-up comedy
- Location: 1511 S Main St, Las Vegas, NV 89104
- Vibe: A premier comedy venue known for hosting top-tier comedians
- Open mic schedule: Regular weekly open mic nights
What to Expect:
- A welcoming space for aspiring comedians
- Opportunities to perform alongside experienced comics
- Constructive feedback and networking opportunities
- A great spot for comedy lovers to discover fresh talent
The Usual Place
A hidden gem in downtown Las Vegas, The Usual Place is a small yet vibrant venue known for its local music scene. With a reputation for supporting independent artists, this venue hosts open mic nights where musicians, poets, and comedians can perform in an intimate setting. Its laid-back, no-frills atmosphere makes it a comfortable space to test new material.
- Type of performances: Music, comedy, spoken word
- Location: 100 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89101
- Vibe: A low-key, artist-friendly venue with a DIY feel
- Open mic schedule: Weekly open mic nights
What to Expect:
- A close-knit community of local artists and performers
- A relaxed and welcoming vibe for all experience levels
- A great venue for trying out new material
- A casual setting with an indie music scene feel
The Dive Bar
For those who like their performances a little rough around the edges, The Dive Bar is the perfect spot. True to its name, this no-nonsense venue offers an unfiltered, anything-goes open mic night where comedians, musicians, and performers of all kinds can take the stage. With cheap drinks, a lively crowd, and a gritty atmosphere, it’s a great place to experiment and have fun.
- Type of performances: Comedy, live music, mixed performances
- Location: 4110 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89119
- Vibe: A raw and rowdy dive bar with an unfiltered vibe
- Open mic schedule: Weekly open mic nights
What to Expect:
- A no-judgment, anything-goes type of crowd
- An opportunity to perform in a laid-back setting
- Affordable drinks and a punk-rock atmosphere
- A fun spot for trying out bold or experimental material
How to Find the Right Open Mic Night for You
With so many open mic nights in Las Vegas, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is best suited for your talent and goals. Whether you’re an aspiring musician, a comedian working on new material, or a poet looking to share your work, choosing the right venue can make all the difference. The key is to consider the type of audience, the atmosphere, and the level of competition.
Consider Your Performance Style
Different venues cater to different types of performers. Choosing a venue that aligns with your style will improve your experience and reception.
- Musicians: Look for venues that offer high-quality sound equipment and a crowd that appreciates live music. The Sand Dollar Lounge and Backstage Bar & Billiards are great choices.
- Comedians: Comedy clubs like Wiseguys and LA Comedy Club provide a more structured comedy environment, while bars like Dino’s Lounge offer a more casual crowd.
- Poets & Storytellers: Coffee shops and bookstores, such as The Writer’s Block and Sambalatte, attract an audience that enjoys spoken word and storytelling.
- Mixed Performances: If you’re interested in a venue that welcomes a variety of acts, places like ReBAR and The Usual Place offer a mix of music, comedy, and poetry.
Think About the Venue Atmosphere
Each venue has its own vibe, and your experience will be different depending on the setting.
- Intimate & Quiet Spaces: Coffee shops and small bars, like Madhouse Coffee and The Writer’s Block, are ideal for soft acoustic music, poetry, and storytelling.
- Lively & Energetic Venues: Bars like Hennessey’s Tavern and The Dive Bar offer a rowdy atmosphere where crowd interaction is encouraged.
- Professional Settings: If you’re serious about your craft, comedy clubs like Wiseguys or music venues like Backstage Bar & Billiards provide a more polished environment.
Check the Audience Type
Understanding the kind of audience a venue attracts can help you tailor your performance for maximum impact.
- Tourist-heavy crowds: Places on Fremont Street, such as Hennessey’s Tavern, attract a rotating audience that may not be as familiar with local performers but is open to discovering new talent.
- Local creative communities: Venues in the Arts District, such as ReBAR, often have a loyal crowd of artists and musicians who are supportive of emerging talent.
- Comedy fans: If you want an audience that truly appreciates stand-up, stick to comedy clubs like LA Comedy Club or Wiseguys rather than general bar open mics.
Test Out a Few Venues
The best way to find the right open mic night is to attend a few as a spectator before signing up.
- Watch how the crowd reacts to different performers.
- Take note of the venue’s setup, sound quality, and stage presence.
- Talk to performers and regulars to get a sense of the community.
By doing a little research and exploring different venues, you’ll find the perfect open mic night that suits your performance style and goals. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back atmosphere to test new material or a more structured stage to gain exposure, Las Vegas has a spot for you.
Making a Night of It: What to Do Before or After an Open Mic Night in Las Vegas
Open mic nights aren’t just about performing—they’re also a great excuse to explore Las Vegas! Whether you’re warming up before hitting the stage or celebrating a great performance, there are plenty of restaurants, attractions, and activities that tie into your open mic experience.
Dinner Before the Show: Where to Eat Near Open Mic Venues
A good meal before performing can help with nerves, and for audience members, it sets the tone for a fun night. Many open mic venues are close to great restaurants, making it easy to grab a bite before the event.
For Music Open Mic Nights
- Near The Sand Dollar Lounge: Golden Tiki – A quirky tiki bar serving tropical cocktails and Polynesian-inspired bites, perfect for setting a fun mood before performing.
- Near Backstage Bar & Billiards: Therapy – A trendy spot with shareable plates and craft cocktails, ideal for a casual dinner before a night of live music.
For Comedy Open Mic Nights
- Near Wiseguys Comedy Club: Esther’s Kitchen – A beloved Italian restaurant in the Arts District, great for fueling up before taking the stage.
- Near The Dive Bar: Cornish Pasty Co. – A casual eatery serving hearty pasties that’ll keep you full whether you’re performing or just watching the show.
For Coffee Shop Open Mic Nights
- Near The Writer’s Block: PublicUs – A stylish café serving artisan coffee and gourmet food, perfect for poets and storytellers who want to gather before the event.
- Near Madhouse Coffee: Pho Kim Long – A 24-hour Vietnamese spot known for its comforting pho and late-night crowd.
Best Places to Unwind After an Open Mic Night
Whether you nailed your performance or want to decompress after a nerve-wracking set, Las Vegas has plenty of late-night activities to keep the night going.
Live Music & Bars
- Frankie’s Tiki Room – A laid-back tiki bar with strong drinks and a retro vibe, great for celebrating a successful set.
- Downtown Cocktail Room – A stylish speakeasy-style bar near Fremont Street, offering craft cocktails in a relaxed setting.
Late-Night Attractions
- Omega Mart at AREA15 – A mind-bending immersive art experience, perfect for creative minds who want to keep the inspiration flowing.
- The Neon Museum – If you’re into Vegas history, a late-night tour of vintage neon signs is a unique way to end the night.
Gaming & Casinos
- The Cosmopolitan’s Chandelier Bar – A sophisticated spot to grab a drink while soaking in the vibrant energy of the Strip.
- Circa’s Stadium Swim – A rooftop pool experience where you can relax in style, open late for those who want to wind down after performing.
Turn Open Mic Night Into a Full Vegas Experience
For those making a special night out of an open mic event, consider pairing it with other fun Vegas activities.
- For Music Lovers: Visit The Punk Rock Museum before heading to a live music open mic.
- For Comedy Fans: Start with a professional comedy show at The Comedy Cellar at the Rio, then test your own jokes at an open mic afterward.
- For Writers & Poets: Browse indie books at The Writer’s Block before attending a poetry open mic night.
- For Adventurers: Take a nighttime ride on The High Roller observation wheel before heading to an Arts District open mic.
By blending open mic nights with dining, entertainment, and attractions, you can turn a simple performance into a full-fledged Vegas adventure. Whether you’re a local looking for a fun evening or a visitor adding something unique to your trip, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the experience.
Las Vegas Open Mic Nights: More Than Just a Performance
Open mic nights in Las Vegas are more than just an opportunity to get on stage—they’re a gateway to creativity, community, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a musician fine-tuning your craft, a comedian testing new material, or a poet looking to share your voice, the city offers a diverse range of venues to showcase your talent. From intimate coffee shops to lively bars and professional comedy clubs, there’s a stage for everyone.
But the experience doesn’t stop at the microphone. Pairing open mic nights with great food, exciting attractions, and post-show celebrations transforms a simple performance into a full Vegas adventure. Whether you start the night with a meal at a top-rated restaurant, explore the city’s late-night hotspots, or wind down at a unique lounge, open mic nights can be the centerpiece of an incredible night out.
So, whether you’re a performer looking for your next stage or a spectator eager to discover fresh talent, Las Vegas has a vibrant open mic scene waiting for you. Step up, take the mic, and make your mark on the Entertainment Capital of the World!