Best Places for Live Music in Stockton, California

That’s right. Stockton’s nightlife scene is thriving, and offers an expansive list of live music alternatives to just “going out.” With plenty of cool venues and all the music genres to choose from, we assure you that you’ll find a beat that fits.

Here’s a list of Stockton, California’s best live music venues to help spice up those monotone evenings.

Bob Hope (Fox) Theatre

Located in downtown Stockton, this performance palace is a community landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. But it is much more than just your ordinary performance theatre. Built in 1930, the theatre drew 20,000 people to opening night, including many famous stars. In 2004, it enjoyed an expensive restoration, highlighting many of the beautiful interior details, including Italian marble mosaic flooring and several decorative murals. The ornate interior now includes more than 2,000 seats and makes for excellent acoustics.

Throughout the year, guests of the Bob Hope Theatre can explore several artistic genres—not just live music and dance, but also the visual arts. For a memorable and comfortable seated live musical performance, don’t miss live music at this incredibly beautiful staple of Stockton.

242 E Main St, Stockton, CA 95202; (209) 373-1400

Cast Iron Trading Company

Downtown Stockton’s Cast Iron Trading Co. offers live music Thursday, Friday, and/or Saturday evenings. With a rotating craft beer selection and wine, featuring local Stockton beers, nearby regional favorites, and other selections from around the state.

If you’re hungry, pub-inspired dishes include braised pulled pork sliders, mini grilled-four-cheese sliders, and the oh-so-delicious, tachos, among others.

114 N San Joaquin St, Stockton, CA 95202; (209) 227-8585

Valley Brewing Company

Not another microbrewery/family-friendly-style restaurant! Actually, it’s a sports bar and a jazz club, too. And if we’re being totally honest, Valley Brewing Company is all those things and more. If you’re the “beer drinker with a hankering for live music you can enjoy in flip-flops” type, head over to Valley Brewing Company on the Miracle Mile.

You’ll find all the ingredients for a good time: sports on big TVs, an amazing selection of California craft beer, a breezy patio, and delicious food. But what really sets this place apart from other brewhouses is the Take 5 Jazz Club, hosting an eclectic mix of musical performances from local artists you won’t want to miss. From piano soloists to horn ensembles, there’s a great range of talent to choose from throughout the week. Admission is $5-15 at the door and may vary by season.

157 W Adams St, Stockton, CA 95204; (209) 464-2739

Whirlow’s Tossed and Grilled

Wednesday nights are meant for live music when you head to Whirlow’s Tossed and Grilled over on the Miracle Mile shopping district. This casual, quick-service restaurant specializes in smoked ribs, pork, and grilled chicken, as well as chargrilled tri-tip and roasted turkey. Trust us, you definitely won’t leave hungry and you may get a few tunes stuck in your head.

Thursday nights from 5:30 to 8:30, guests get to enjoy their favorite barbecued meats while listening to the sounds of the House Band featuring Mike Whirlow. Specializing in Rock, R&B, and Jazz, this is a perfect way to close out your work day. Check Whirlow’s full list of upcoming musical talent.

1926 Pacific Ave, Stockton, CA 95204; (209) 466-2823

Windmill Cove Resort & Marina

Who doesn't like chillin' on the Delta with plenty of room, delicious food, and great music once and a while?! Windmill Cove is that exact setting on Vulcan Island west of I-5. The area itself offers a full Marina with multiple amenities including a fuel dock, free wireless internet, RV park with full hook-ups, restrooms, showers, berthing, cabins, and tent camping. Then, you throw in the Windmill Bar & Grill, which specializes in serving up feel-good food, drinks, and beer to the masses.

Plus, Windmill Cove Bar & Grill is home to live music, food specials, and special events like a summer concert series that always brings out the crowd. Follow their Facebook for updates on upcoming events.

7600 Windmill Cove Road, Stockton, California 95206; (209) 948-6995

Live Entertainment at FED

In the heart of downtown, FED not only provides delicious American cuisine but also sets the mood on Friday and Saturday nights with a live DJ from 9 pm to 1:30 am. Let loose after a crazy work week with amazing food, plenty of beverage options, and popular music to dance the night away.

Keep an eye on their Instagram for future live acts and special events coming in the near future.

116 N. Hunter St., Stockton, California 95202; (209) 817-6623

Live Music at Kings Card Club

Kings Card Club is more than just a card room. This spot also serves up some great food and fun live music to dance the night away. Dress in your best attire and kick back to the live tunes echoing throughout the building. A perfect spot for you and your crew or just that special someone. Click here to keep tabs on the next live performance!

BONUS: The Faye Spanos Concert Hall is home to numerous performances hosted by the Conservatory of Music at the University of the Pacific. Producing over 130 events a year, Faye Spanos Concert Hall has presented the University Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Ensembles, University Bands, and Choirs. Whether it is live music or epic theatrical performances, this venue provides an unforgettable experience.

3601 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, California 95211; (209) 946-2415

These live music venues are some of the best in Stockton, California. But there are plenty more where these came from. Check out the Stockton Nightlife page for the latest buzz around town. Whatever your mood or music, Stockton’s got the beat any night of the week.

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