San Francisco Nightlife: Bars & Clubs

San Francisco is famous for its vibrant and super-cool club scene. Whether you're after a laid-back cocktail bar, some smooth jazz, or an all-night rave, San Francisco nightlife certainly has something for everyone to enjoy after dark.

Tasty cocktails

After a hard day exploring San Francisco's best bits, you'll be ready to kick back and relax with a drink or two. If you like exotic liqueurs and those little umbrellas in your drink then Union Square is one of the best neighbourhoods to grab a tasty cocktail.. It's home to Hawthorn, which boasts a superb craft cocktail menu, where you can enjoy freshly prepared drinks created by an expert mixologist.

Alternatively, if you're after something a little different, head over to Benjamin Cooper. Here you'll find plenty of tasty tipples served with a side of fresh oysters.

Enjoy a night out in a butterfly rainforest

Fancy a night at the museum? The California Academy Of Sciences is a fantastic place to visit on a Thursday evening. Enjoy a drink or two and fabulous music at one of the museum's themed evenings. Whether it's a '90s throwback night or a live music event, this venue offers some of the best San Francisco nightlife for you to enjoy

Exciting nightclubs

If you fancy exploring some of San Francisco's best nightclubs, head over to the SoMa neighbourhood and the legendary DNA Lounge. Here you'll find live bands and DJs playing everything from punk to pop.Alternatively, you can enjoy an evening at Audio Nightclub, where you and your friends can boogie until sunrise on the all-night dancefloor. Over at the ever-popular Oasis, you'll find an uber-cool mix of cabaret, live music, and some of the best DJs in the city.

Visit Alcatraz at night

Not many people can say they've visited the notorious Alcatraz prison after dark. It's brooding enough during the day, but as the sun goes down this place is even creepier in the evening. Take a night tour and be ready to hang onto the edge of your seat as you listen to the scary stories your tour guide has to tell you. Night tours to Alcatraz sell like hot cakes, so be sure to book your visit in advance to avoid any disappointment.

Amazing jazz

If you're a lover of classic jazz, Hayes Valley district is the place for you. Home to the SF Jazz Center, this impressive auditorium has enough space for an audience of up to 700 people. It strikes the perfect balance between a traditionally-themed concert hall and a contemporary jazz club. Over 300 performances take place over the year, so there's a good chance a show will be on during your visit to this amazing city. Try and bag yourself some tickets, you won't be disappointed.

San Francisco nightlife: the local hotspots

Over in the Mission neighbourhood, you'll find lots of ”dive bars' serving affordable drinks with a laid-back vibe. This part of the city is also home to Bender's Bar and Grille, where you'll find plenty of simple food and cheap drinks: so basically everything you need for a good night out. There's also a photo booth, which is perfect for capturing all the fun and laughs you have while you're exploring the very best San Francisco nightlife.

More Things To Do ideas

Find more Things To Do in San Francisco: Alcatraz Island | California Academy Of Sciences | Golden Gate Bridge | Legion Of Honor | Walt Disney Family Museum