Blue Note Jazz Club
The Blue Note Jazz Club is much more than just a music venue in the heart of Greenwich Village: it’s the temple of jazz in New York, where the city’s musical legacy resonates every night. Known worldwide for its intimate atmosphere, the legendary quality of its artists, and its iconic blue neon sign, this place represents the vibrant soul of New York jazz. 🎷
Located at 131 West 3rd Street, the Blue Note is a must-visit stop for any music lover visiting the city—and for those seeking an authentic New York night out. Whether for a late-night set or a Sunday brunch, its unique atmosphere makes it an unforgettable experience that combines musical history, exceptional talent, and pure Village bohemian life.
Why Visit the Blue Note Jazz Club?
Visiting the Blue Note means connecting directly with the living history of jazz. It’s a legendary New York venue that offers an intimacy and musical quality hard to find anywhere else in the world. Here, jazz legends and rising stars share a small stage, creating a magical connection with the audience. ✨
Its cultural importance is undeniable: it has hosted memorable performances by giants like Dizzy Gillespie, Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, and many others. Furthermore, its location in Greenwich Village places it in a neighborhood rich with artistic and cultural history, ideal for exploring before or after the show.
The Blue Note is also a symbol of perseverance and excellence in jazz. Despite changes in the music industry, it remains a global benchmark, attracting the best musicians and a loyal audience from all over the planet. If you want to feel the true essence of jazz in an authentic setting, this is the place.
How to Get to the Blue Note Jazz Club by Subway?
Main Stations
The main station providing the closest access to the Blue Note Jazz Club is West 4th Street–Washington Square Station (W 4 St–Wash Sq), located just a few steps from the club. This station is a major transportation hub in lower Manhattan, connecting several key subway lines. 🚇
Subway Lines That Take You Near the Blue Note
The Blue Note is excellently connected by the New York City subway, with several lines stopping at the W 4 St–Wash Sq station. The lines that take you directly to this station are:
- A, C, E (8th Avenue blue lines)
- B, D, F, M (6th Avenue orange lines)
How to Get to the Blue Note From:
Central Park / Columbus Circle
If you are near Central Park or Columbus Circle, simply take the A, B, C, or D lines southbound (Downtown) and get off at W 4 St–Wash Sq. The journey is quick and direct.
Lower Manhattan (Wall Street / World Trade Center)
From Wall Street or the World Trade Center, you can take the A or C line northbound (Uptown) to W 4 St–Wash Sq. You can also take the E line from World Trade Center.
Brooklyn (DUMBO / Williamsburg)
From DUMBO, you can take the F line (Manhattan-bound) or the A or C line (from High St) to W 4 St–Wash Sq. From Williamsburg, you can take the L line to Union Square and transfer to the F or M line (Downtown-bound) to W 4 St–Wash Sq, or take the M directly if you are near Marcy Ave.
Queens (Long Island City / Flushing)
If you are coming from Long Island City or Flushing, you can take the E, F, or M line (depending on your starting point) directly to W 4 St–Wash Sq. The 7 line takes you to Times Square or Grand Central, where you can easily transfer to the B, D, F, or M lines.
Harlem
From the north, in Harlem, you can take the A, B, C, or D lines southbound (Downtown) directly to W 4 St–Wash Sq.
Airports (JFK / LaGuardia / Newark)
From JFK Airport, take the AirTrain to Howard Beach (A line) or Jamaica (E line). Both lines take you to W 4 St–Wash Sq. From LaGuardia, take a bus (like the Q70-SBS) to Jackson Hts–Roosevelt Ave and transfer to the E or F line. From Newark (EWR), take the AirTrain and NJ Transit to Penn Station, and from there take the A, C, or E lines Downtown to W 4 St–Wash Sq.
What to Do at the Blue Note Jazz Club?
The Blue Note is one of the most prestigious jazz clubs in the world, not only for its history but also for the experience it offers. It provides a unique opportunity to see world-class musicians up close in an intimate setting steeped in history. Every corner breathes music and authenticity. 🎶
Enjoy Live Music 🎶
The main attraction of the Blue Note is undoubtedly its musical programming. You can enjoy two sets each night (usually at 8 PM and 10:30 PM) featuring jazz legends, established masters, and emerging talents. The proximity to the stage creates an unparalleled auditory and visual experience.
Have Dinner or a Drink 🍸
The Blue Note offers a full dinner menu with American influences and an international touch, as well as a good selection of cocktails, wines, and other beverages. It’s common to have dinner or drinks during the show, as there is usually a minimum spend per person. It’s part of the classic club experience.
Attend the Late-Night Sets
The 8 PM and 10:30 PM sets are the heart of the Blue Note’s offerings. It is essential to book tickets in advance, especially for well-known artists, as seating is limited. Each set lasts approximately 75-90 minutes, offering a concentrated dose of high-quality jazz.
Experience the Sunday Brunch 🎷
If you’re looking for a different experience, the Sunday Jazz Brunch is a fantastic option. It combines live music (usually featuring local talents or students from prestigious music schools) with a delicious brunch menu. It’s a more relaxed, daytime way to enjoy the club’s atmosphere.
Soak in the Historic Atmosphere
Simply being inside the Blue Note is an experience. Look at the photos of legends adorning the walls, feel the energy of the place where musical history has been made, and enjoy the closeness to the artists. It’s an ideal place to absorb the essence of New York jazz, though remember to be respectful and avoid distractions during performances.
Attractions Near the Blue Note Jazz Club
The Blue Note is located in the vibrant Greenwich Village, a neighborhood full of history, culture, and life. If you decide to explore the area before or after the show, you’ll find a wide variety of interesting places within walking distance. 🚶♀️🚶♂️
Washington Square Park
Just a few blocks north of the Blue Note, you’ll find the iconic Washington Square Park, famous for its triumphal arch, central fountain, and lively atmosphere. It’s a perfect place to stroll, watch street performers, chess players, and feel the bohemian pulse of the Village.
The Streets of Greenwich Village
Getting lost in the streets of the Village is an attraction in itself. Discover its historic brownstones, small independent boutiques, cozy cafes, and charming bookstores. Streets like Bleecker Street or MacDougal Street are full of musical and cultural history.
Comedy Cellar
Very close to the Blue Note, on MacDougal Street, is the legendary Comedy Cellar, one of the most famous comedy clubs in the world. It’s known for surprise performances by renowned comedians like Chris Rock or Amy Schumer. If you enjoy comedy, it’s an almost mandatory stop. 😂
Record Stores and Bookstores
Greenwich Village remains a haven for music and book lovers. Explore independent record stores to find rare vinyl or visit iconic bookstores like Three Lives & Company. Although The Strand is a bit further east, it’s also within walking distance. 📚🎶
Other Live Music Venues
The Village is a hotbed of live music. Besides the Blue Note, you’ll find other historic and smaller venues offering jazz, folk, rock, and blues. A nighttime stroll will reveal sounds emerging from different doorways.
IFC Center
For cinephiles, the IFC Center, located on Sixth Avenue, is a landmark cinema screening independent films, documentaries, and cult classics. It’s a perfect place to enjoy a movie outside the commercial circuit before or after your visit to the Blue Note. 🎬
Tips for Visiting the Blue Note Jazz Club
Although the Blue Note offers an incredible musical experience, there are a few things to keep in mind to make the most of your visit and enjoy this iconic jazz club smoothly. 🤔
Book in Advance 📅
It is highly recommended to buy tickets online in advance, especially if you want to see a popular artist or if you are visiting on a weekend. Tickets sell out quickly due to the club’s limited capacity. Don’t count on being able to buy tickets at the door.
Arrive Early
Doors usually open one hour before the show (e.g., at 6 PM for the 8 PM show). Arriving early allows you to secure a good seat (seats are usually assigned on a first-come, first-served basis within the purchased section) and order food or drinks comfortably before the music starts.
Understand the Seating and Minimum Spend Policy
The Blue Note has shared tables, so you will likely be seated with other attendees, which is part of the jazz club’s communal experience. Additionally, there is a minimum spend (on food or drinks) per person per set, which is added to the ticket price. Check the exact amount when booking. 💵
Dress Code and Etiquette
There is no strict dress code, but smart casual (stylish yet informal) attire is recommended. The most important thing is etiquette during the show: remain quiet while the musicians are playing, turn off or silence your phone, and respect the policies on photography and recording (usually not allowed). Be respectful of the artists and the rest of the audience. 👍
