Cities where you can enjoy a vivid nightlife are brimming with entertainment options that sprang from the minds of locals. These unique late-night experiences beckon from rooftop bars and hipster clubs to well-concealed speakeasies and bracelet bars that offer unlimited refills.
In Los Angeles, you can dance the night away in trendy spots like Madrone Art Bar and Monroe SF or meet fellow music lovers at casual karaoke joints. You’ll also find plenty to explore for foodies, wine connoisseurs and more in this eclectic city.
Los Angeles
Whether you’re in search of a heaving dance floor or glitzy rooftop, there is an LA nightlife destination for you. The city’s pulsing venues attract celebrities and industry insiders alike.
In West Hollywood, hit up Troubadour or The Roxy Theatre to hear live music and dance to old favorites. The Abbey, a gay club, has been a favorite for decades.
No visit to Los Angeles would be complete without a stop at one of its famous speakeasy locales. Enter through an inconspicuous doorway to be greeted by a spirited bar modeled after a living room. Try the bar’s riffs on tiki classics or order a cocktail based on your own personal tastes.
San Francisco
The name San Francisco evokes images of cable cars and the Golden Gate Bridge; loaves of sourdough and fishmongers at Fisherman’s Wharf; Victorian houses and steep hills; and a rich tumultuous past full of Beatniks, hippies, jazz musicians, and immigrants. These iconic attractions are only a part of the story, though.
The city’s nightlife scene is also varied, from upscale clubs with plush seating and dim lighting to longstanding neighborhood watering holes that let you rub elbows with locals. A booming music venue and dance club scene rounds out the offerings.
Miami
Known for its glamorous South Beach district and affluent celebrity enclaves, Miami also boasts a vibrant nightlife scene. From the edgy music of clubs like Club Space (formerly Mansion) to the trendy vibe of bars and lounges such as Blackbird Ordinary and Komodo Lounge, there is something for everyone in Miami.
In the neighborhood of Brickell, visitors can enjoy sophisticated rooftop bars with a view. Alternatively, Little Havana offers authentic Cuban culture and cuisine, while the Design District has modern art and fashion boutiques. The city’s colossal bay is the perfect place to relax on a sunset cruise or sip a cocktail at one of its many terraces.
New Orleans
New Orleans is known for its boozy, party-heavy vibe. But there’s more to this cool melting pot than jazz, booze and Mardi Gras beads.
The Spotted Cat Music Club in the laidback Marigny neighborhood is a top destination for live music. This cash-only bar, named after a blacksmith who once worked in the building, also hosts DJs and other entertainment acts.
While Bourbon Street is a must-visit, several other streets offer jazz clubs, cheap eats and a string of bars where locals converge after hours. For something different, check out a guided tour like a vampire or voodoo experience. Or try Republic NOLA, a Warehouse District club that hosts a variety of musical acts.
London
From palatial art museums to edgy street art, London is an astounding destination that offers something for everyone. It’s also a top city for theater and music, offering everything from heavy-hitting productions like Les Miserables to intimate cabaret shows at The Cross.
Those looking for wild parties can visit South Bank, which houses a plethora of wine bars and cocktail lounges, as well as electro nightclubs that play until the early hours. Another great option is Heaven, a queer-centric club that’s been visited by stars such as Dua Lipa and Charli XCX.
Alternatively, shoppers can browse the market at Portobello Road and pick up their very own wizarding wand at Platform 9 3/4. Or, they can check out the quirky and artsy neighborhood of Shoreditch.
Chicago
Chicago’s storied past is rich with crime, and although the city has seen a recent drop in violent crime, anyone visiting should take precautions. Street smarts, situational awareness, and a balanced mix of caution and calm will help you stay safe.
If you’re looking to laugh, Chicago is home to a number of popular comedy shows. Second City, Laugh Factory, and Annoyance Theater are some of the top options.
Berlin is a flamboyant Lakeview dance bar that caters to a diverse crowd. Drag queens, exotic dancers, and fetish show performers regularly perform, while DJs spin everything from New Wave to progressive electronic music. Fun theme nights (like Madonna and Prince nights) are a regular feature.