3 Best Nightlife in Albany and Central New York, New York

Live jazz comes to the 40-seat 9 Maple Ave every Friday and Saturday evening. The centerpiece of the hand-built mahogany bar is a porcelain tap head thrown by potter Regis Brodie. The club claims to offer the largest selection of single-malt Scotches in New York State.

Recognized as the country's oldest folk-music venue, Caffè Lena opened in 1960 and hosted Bob Dylan and Arlo Guthrie early in their careers. The tradition continues at this upstairs coffeehouse, thanks to staff members as well as volunteers who together work the shows, a mix of well-known musicians and newcomers.

One of the best clubs for jazz and blues in the capital region is the Van Dyck, at the entrance to the Stockade District. Sip a martini at the first-floor antique bar before heading upstairs to the intimate, attic-like performance space.