CAPITOL HILL. This Capitol Hill bar and lounge draws a diverse crowd of arty professionals, students, and rockers, both straight and gay ­ you're as likely to see tattoos and piercings as you are polo shirts and ball caps. The eclectic decor highlights local art, including large-scale metal pieces and a blown-glass flame sculpture that shares space behind the bar with the resident live python (in a tank...usually). Music leans towards alternative, punk, heavy metal, rock, and indie, with the occasional poetry slam thrown in for good measure. A great scene if you're into goth, grunge, or even just good old rock.

ISSAQUAH. The site of frequent jazz performances, Bake's is the place for candlelit ambience and great music. During the summer, enjoy outdoor concerts, often featuring delicious barbecue. Walls are adorned with numerous black-and-white photos of famous jazz musicians.

CAPITOL HILL. This trendy nightspot features a dizzying array of live music and DJ-led dance parties each week. True to its name, the bar sports a Far East motif that includes black-and-white action photos of Bruce Lee, a smiling bronze Buddha overlooking the bar, and pagoda-style accents adorning the ceiling. Side note: Keep your eyes peeled for Chop Suey's ingenious event posters hanging around town ­ they're something of a local legend. Hours vary every week depending on who's playing. Doors usually open around 8pm Tuesday though Sunday, but call ahead.

BALLARD. An authentic Irish pub in the Ballard area, Conor Byrne offers patrons a cozy setting in which to enjoy a pint of stout and a bit of live music, be it traditional Irish, jazz, folk, or bluegrass. While elegant chandeliers softly light the beautiful mahogany bar, the pub's exposed brick walls are adorned with various pieces of local artwork and several pieces of Irish-related memorabilia.

BELLTOWN. This established venue opened in the early '90s and tapped into the soon-to-explode Seattle grunge scene. Today, its popularity continues, and it's still one of the best places to listen to live music. The Croc regularly features emerging bands and is also frequented by Seattle's musicians and by big-name groups when they're in town. The place features a music room, café, and lounge and, along with the music, also offers spoken word in performances. On nights when a band is scheduled, expect to pay a cover charge ($5-15 depending on the performer) after about 7:30pm.