Wichita is a great place to see up-and-coming country performers and big touring bands. Whether you’re looking for classic covers of the greats like Jonny Cash or more contemporary artists, these groups lay down those folky rhythms, and we like it that way. Discover our five best picks where boot-stompers can tip their hats and enjoy good ol’ country music in Wichita, Kansas.
Barleycorn’s
Outside historic Old Town resides a staple of Wichita’s live music scene. Bands from everywhere travel to the area to take the stage at nationally revered Barleycorn’s. There’s something about country music that makes you smile, and when it comes out of Barleycorn’s top-notch sound system, you can’t stop your feet from dancing.
Along with country music artists such as Nashville’s Keelan Donovan, Barleycorn’s offers open mic nights, bar trivia, and karaoke. Order your favorite daily drink special or join the tasting club and sample whiskey from around the globe.
Kirby’s Beer Store
When you’re on the lookout for that hometown hole-in-the-wall, consider Kirby’s. Your classic dive for 30 happening years is overflowing with character — entirely for friends in low places. A longtime mainstay of Wichita’s country music scene, you can catch acts almost every night on Kirby’s small stage and never pay a cover charge.
Discover why Kirby’s is all about the music, with acts like Tough Old Bird and old-time country-folk stylings. Stay around for poker night most Wednesdays. Head over to Kirby’s daily at 2 p.m. for the best chance at a seat in this micro concert hall.
Lucky’s Everyday
If there were dirt roads in Wichita, they’d lead to Lucky’s — the area’s ultimate watering hole. A stone’s throw away from the crowds in Old Town, this tucked-away hangout is hosting great regional music. Belly-up to Lucky’s bar for great conversation after work, or rack the cue and play some pool. Classic pinball machines and a Galaga arcade add vibe to this venue, and the huge covered patio is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the music.
Orpheum Theatre
Since 1923, Wichita’s Orpheum Theatre is the place to go for family-friendly concerts. This special hall holds a unique place in our hearts as America’s first atmospheric theatre, and the oldest one still standing. Excellent seating offers theatre-goers of all ages an outstanding view of the stage, and the Orpheum is an excellent choice for date night with its intimate setting.
Mort’s Martini and Cigar Bar
Leave your dog at home and drive your pickup to the original Wichita hotspot for country music: Mort’s. A medium-bodied Double Mort cigar in an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper pairs nicely with great live music, friendly service, and a terrific martini-bar vibe. Drop in on Mondays for half-priced drinks, and enjoy a warm summer evening sipping cocktails on the patio while you tap your toes to the tunes.
These five places to catch a country music show in Wichita are only the beginning. Put your good boots on and fancy up, there could be two-stepping tonight.
Photo by travis.nesbitt | Licensed under Public Domain Mark 1.0
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