San Diego, California - Bars & Nightlife

All Travel Guides

Bars & Nightlife

San Diego, California

Provided by: f11photo/Shutterstock.com

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

North America United States San Diego, California Bars & Nightlife

Overview

Bars & Nightlife The guide was updated: 2024-10-13

San Diego offers a diverse nightlife scene that caters to a wide range of tastes, with plenty of trendy hangouts just waiting to be explored. From renowned jazz clubs to jet-set bars, there is something for everyone here. In the summer months, the city truly comes alive as outdoor concerts, theater performances, and movie screenings take center stage. And with San Diego being one of America's best microbrewery destinations, why not sample some of the finest local beers while you're at it?

The Tipsy Crow

The Tipsy Crow

Located in the heart of the historic Gaslamp Quarter, The Tipsy Crow occupies one of Downtown’s oldest buildings, dating back to 1874. This tri-level venue offers a unique experience on each floor. The basement is a lively dance space with a DJ spinning the latest tracks, while the main level boasts a full bar, pool tables, and old-school board games. For a more exclusive vibe, the top floor serves as the VIP lounge. The Tipsy Crow is a favorite for its signature drinks, pub fare, live music, comedy, and vibrant atmosphere.

Sidecar Bar

Sidecar Bar

If you're looking for an unpretentious bar with good drinks, nice vibes, and old-school arcade games then look no further and drop by Sidecar Bar. It features 14 rotating taps from local and national breweries, weekly live music, and a daily selection of food trucks.

Aero Club Bar

Aero Club Bar

For over 75 years, this classic San Diego bar has been a favorite watering hole for pilots, police officers, and long-haul drivers. Today, the historic bar continues to draw a diverse crowd who come to enjoy its impressive selection of whiskies. Along with the drinks, patrons can indulge in a bit of fun with classic pinball machines and a pool table, keeping the venue's old-school charm alive.

Noble Experiment

Noble Experiment

Unique drinks made to the customer's taste. This intimate and secret speakeasy promises to give you a drinking experience like no other. Situated in the Gaslamp Quarter, Noble Experiment is tucked behind a secret door near the door to the kitchen at The Neighborhood. Don't know exactly what to order? Just tell the bartender what kind of drinks you like or what mood you are in, and let them surprise you.

The Tower Bar

The Tower Bar

A San Diego landmark since its establishment in 1932, the Tower Bar is home to the largest selection of genuine Absinthe, which is prepared following the traditional French method using an Absinthe water fountain. Additionally, this dive bar offers an impressive variety of beers, hosts live musical performances and has a jukebox for patrons to enjoy.

Goodbar

Goodbar

Located in the heart of the Point Loma community, Goodbar is a popular local dive bar known for its relaxed, convivial atmosphere. With a wide variety of craft beers on tap, creative cocktails, and comfort food like burgers and sandwiches, it's a great spot to unwind. Regular events such as trivia, karaoke, and live music draw in crowds looking for a fun night out.

False Idol

False Idol

A hidden Hawaiian gem in San Diego, False Idol is an intimate tiki bar that invites you to savor one of their signature cocktails in a Hawaiian-themed cave adorned with skulls.

House of Blues

House of Blues

Located in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, House of Blues has become one of the premier spots for live music in San Diego. This iconic venue embraces its Southern roots with a box of Delta Mississippi mud placed under the stage, symbolizing the spirit of the South beneath every performance. Known for hosting an eclectic lineup of rock, blues, and other genres, House of Blues also offers a Southern-inspired menu featuring comfort food dishes.

Casbah

Casbah

Rocking out San Diego's nightlife is the legendary Casbah, a small club with a big reputation for supporting the best up-and-coming local and national bands. Visit its website to see what's on while you're in town.

Waterfront Bar & Grill

Waterfront Bar & Grill

In the heart of Little Italy, you'll find San Diego's oldest tavern, Waterfront Bar & Grill. Usually packed, this city's landmark continues to attract many locals and visitors with its delicious bar food, great selection of local beers, and friendly staff.

Onyx Room

Onyx Room

Leading the San Diego nightlife scene, Onyx Room is a stylish underground nightclub featuring three distinct dance floors, each playing a different genre, ranging from hip-hop to house and Latin beats. With eclectic DJ sets, sleek décor, and a vibrant atmosphere, Onyx Room provides an unforgettable nightlife experience for those looking to dance the night away in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.

Craft & Commerce

Craft & Commerce

This San Diego gastropub is as loved for its delicious food as it is for its unique ambiance, which has been described as being "an elegant sports bar but without the sports" or "an old library" due to all the books that adorn the walls of this pub. The menu features seasonal eats and craft cocktails.

Altitude Sky Lounge

Altitude Sky Lounge

Perched 22 stories above the city skyline, Altitude Sky Lounge offers breathtaking panoramic views of San Diego, including beautiful vistas of the bay, Petco Park, and the Coronado Bridge. This award-winning rooftop bar is known for its stylish ambiance, featuring an extensive selection of craft cocktails, beer, and wine. With bottle service, live DJ sets, and a menu of delicious appetizers and burgers, it’s a must-visit spot for travelers looking for a sophisticated yet lively atmosphere.

SD TapRoom

SD TapRoom

TapRoom is a haven for beer enthusiasts, offering around 50 craft beers on tap along with an impressive bottle selection. Whether you're a fan of local brews or international selections, TapRoom has something for every palate. The spacious, open interior is perfect for groups, and with numerous TVs scattered throughout, it’s a prime spot to catch your favorite sports games. To complement the extensive beer menu, they also serve up a hearty selection of pub favorites, including burgers, wings, and more.

Pecs Bar

Pecs Bar

Pecs is a casual gay-friendly bar located in North Park, with drinks at fair prices, pool tables, large-screen TVs, and a full-service outdoor patio.

The Shout! House

The Shout! House

This classic rock bar is a great place to catch live music in not-so-common packages: dueling pianos, sing-along songs, and other forms of audience participation are guaranteed to give you a memorable night out.

Gaslamp Tavern

Gaslamp Tavern

Gaslamp Tavern is a laid-back sports bar in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, known for its friendly atmosphere and great happy hour deals. This local favorite offers tasty pub fare, including its famous chicken wings, which are a must-try. With multiple big-screen TVs, pool tables, and a relaxed vibe, it's the perfect spot to watch sports, enjoy casual bites, and unwind with friends.

Next section

Next Section