SECO 2026 Fun & Food Tour: Blind Willie’s

An authentic Atlanta blues institution since 1986, Blind Willie’s serves up nightly doses of live blues, jazz, and roots music in Virginia-Highland’s most legendary music venue. Named after Atlanta blues pioneer Blind Willie McTell, this intimate club features its iconic guitar-wielding neon alligator sign and has earned national recognition as one of America’s best blues clubs. Six nights a week, the dimly-lit room comes alive with performances from world-class touring acts and the house band, The Shadows, who’ve backed countless musicians over nearly 10,000 nights of live music.

The atmosphere is pure speakeasy—close-set chairs, wooden floors, brick walls, and Mardi Gras beads hanging over the bar create an authentic New Orleans vibe in the heart of Atlanta. The bourbon flight is a crowd favorite, and the limited bar menu features satisfying Southern staples like Cajun catfish, BBQ pork sandwiches, chicken Willie strips, red beans & rice, and house-made jambalaya. The small, intimate space fills quickly, so arrive early to snag a table near the stage. With reasonable drink prices and some of Atlanta’s finest blues musicians, this is where you go to feel the healing power of the blues.

Distance from Georgia World Congress Center: Approximately 3.5 miles

Transportation: Take MARTA to Midtown Station, then catch the #36 bus toward Virginia Avenue or rideshare (15-20 minute drive)

Hours: Wednesday-Thursday 7:00 PM-12:00 AM, Friday-Saturday 7:00 PM-2:00 AM, Sunday 5:00-10:00 PM (Closed Monday-Tuesday)

What to Order: Cajun wings, red beans & rice, jambalaya, bourbon flight

Good to Know: Cash cover charge at the door, street parking (free after 10 PM), 21+, intimate venue fills quickly

More Info: (404) 873-2583 | blindwilliesblues.com

📍 828 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306

📸 @blindwilliesblues