Uncover the Hidden Gems of Mississippi's Music Venues

Concert crowd under dramatic blue lighting.
There's just something about Mississippi that means great music. After all, Robert Johnson, B.B. King, Elvis, Faith Hill, and Jimmy Buffett have all called Mississippi home. That makes our state a great place to check out live music, and we have a ton of venues featuring everything from small blues shows to rock stars in sold-out arenas. Here are our favorites.
Ground Zero Blues Club, Clarksdale, MS
According to Ground Zero's website, Clarksdale has long been considered "ground zero" for blues music. This blues club was created by Bill Luckett, Howard Stovall, and (yes THE) Morgan Freeman to continue the blues tradition in the area. You can catch live music from local and national blues acts every week from Wednesday through Saturday.
Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center, Biloxi, MS
The indoor arena at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum can seat upwards of 10,000 guests, and the venue can accommodate up to 15,000 for a festival set-up. Some of the biggest names in pop, rock, country, and rap have played here, and people come from all around for annual local events like the Crawfish Music Festival, which features carnival rides, live music, and of course lots of crawfish!
Juke Joint, Ocean Springs, MS
This awesome venue is located in a house that's over 100 years old, with a huge back patio where live music is played on the weekends. The Juke Joint is known for staying open late and having killer drink specials, so get ready to drink and dance well into the night!
Smoot's Grocery, Natchez, MS
Smoot's Grocery is a charming old juke joint that has been completely restored into a modern blues lounge. Locals love listening to live music in this cozy, intimate setting. With incredible service, the best blues music, and a great selection of craft, domestic, and imported beers, you might never leave!
Blue Canoe, Tupelo, MS
Tupelo is best known for being the home of Elvis, so you know you're going to find some good music here. The Blue Canoe prides itself on being a laid-back venue with live local music. In addition, they serve an amazing burger and offer over 100 beers, 35 of which are on tap daily.
Thalia Mara Hall, Jackson, MS
The Thalia Mara Hall is a cultural center in Jackson. According to its website, Thalia Mara functions as the Municipal Auditorium for the city of Jackson. The theater, which can seat over 2,000 guests, is used to host ballets, operas, symphonies, and much more.
The Lyric, Oxford, MS
The Lyric in Oxford is located in a building which was originally a livery stable owned by William Faulkner's family in the late 1800s. It operated as a theater from the 1920s until the 1970s, then was reopened as a theater in 2008. Since then, the venue has built a loyal following by bringing in awesome headliners and local acts.
Hal & Mal's, Jackson, MS
Hal & Mal's is a Jackson icon, offering both national and local acts to the area for years. Founded by brothers Hal & Malcolm White, the business is still family-owned and takes pride in staying true to the brothers' original vision. Come in and enjoy great food and live music, or host your own private event.
BankPlus Amphitheater at Snowden Grove, Southaven, MS
The Snowden Grove Amphitheater has been around for over 10 years, but they've hosted some of the biggest names in music—the venue boasts appearances by ZZ Top, the White Stripes, Willie Nelson, Dave Matthews Band, and many more. This beautiful outdoor theater seats about 7,000 (including the grassy elevated area). Take the family for a picnic and a show, or plan a date night to see your favorite artist!
Key Insights at a Glance
- Ground Zero Blues Club in Clarksdale is a must-visit for blues fans. Co-founded by Morgan Freeman, this iconic spot celebrates Mississippi's deep blues roots with live shows from Wednesday to Saturday in a down-home, authentic setting.
- Mississippi Coast Coliseum in Biloxi is the state's largest indoor arena, hosting major artists across genres. It's also home to the Crawfish Music Festival, combining big-name performances, rides, and southern flavor.
- The Juke Joint in Ocean Springs offers a lively, laid-back experience in a 100-year-old house with a huge back patio. Known for its late-night vibe and drink specials, it's a weekend favorite for dancing and live music.
- Smoot's Grocery in Natchez is a restored juke joint turned intimate blues lounge. With cozy vibes, great service, and a wide beer selection, it's a top pick for live local music in a relaxed setting.
- Blue Canoe in Tupelo combines casual dining, a massive beer list, and regular live music. Known for its burgers and chill atmosphere, it's a go-to for catching local acts in Elvis's hometown.
- Thalia Mara Hall in Jackson is a historic theater and cultural hub. It hosts ballets, symphonies, operas, and live music in an elegant space that seats over 2,000.
- The Lyric in Oxford has deep roots—originally a livery stable owned by Faulkner's family—and is now a top-tier venue for regional and national acts in a charming, historic setting.
- Hal & Mal’s in Jackson is a beloved family-run venue known for its food, music, and community blend. A local institution, it regularly hosts everything from touring bands to private events.
- BankPlus Amphitheater at Snowden Grove in Southaven is a scenic outdoor venue with seating for around 7,000. With acts like ZZ Top and Willie Nelson, it's perfect for date nights, family outings, and warm-weather concerts.