Columbia Nightlife Guide: Complete Guide
Experience the best bars, clubs, live music venues, and entertainment after dark. Discover the best nightlife experiences in Columbia.
Welcome to the ultimate nightlife guide for Columbia! Experience the best bars, clubs, live music venues, and entertainment after dark. This comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best nightlife experiences that Columbia has to offer, from popular hotspots to hidden local favorites. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you'll find insider tips, detailed recommendations, and everything you need to make the most of your nightlife adventure in Columbia. Our carefully curated selection ensures you won't miss any of the must-see spots while also discovering unique experiences that most tourists overlook.
Key Takeaways
- Columbia offers over 60 exceptional nightlife experiences
- Best time to visit varies by activity - check individual listings for optimal timing
- Many experiences require advance booking, especially during peak season
- Local guides and experts provide invaluable insights and access
- Prices range from budget-friendly to premium, with options for every preference
Top Bars & Cocktail Lounges
Craft cocktail bars, rooftop lounges, and unique drinking establishments with great atmospheres.
Prohibition
Highly rated Restaurant in Columbia with 4.2 stars from 233 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1556 Main St Suite 100, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Urban Tiki
Highly rated Bar in Columbia with 4.9 stars from 27 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1621 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Tin Roof
Highly rated Bar in Columbia with 4.3 stars from 976 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1022 Senate St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Art Bar
Highly rated Bar in Columbia with 4.4 stars from 1066 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1211 Park St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Bourbon
Highly rated Restaurant in Columbia with 4.6 stars from 2076 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1214 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Transmission Arcade
Highly rated Bar in Columbia with 4.7 stars from 593 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1712 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Sky Bistro Lounge
Highly rated American in Columbia with 4.4 stars from 289 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1120 Washington St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic American cuisine
Savage Craft Ale Works
Highly rated Bar in Columbia with 4.5 stars from 708 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 430 Center St, West Columbia, SC 29169, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Publick House
Highly rated Bar in Columbia with 4.4 stars from 509 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 2307 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Touchdowns
Highly rated Restaurant in Columbia with 4.9 stars from 70 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 715 Harden St, Columbia, SC 29205, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Welcoming atmosphere
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Bang Back Pinball Lounge
Highly rated Restaurant in Columbia with 4.7 stars from 355 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 741 Saluda Ave, Columbia, SC 29205, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
The Hoot
Highly rated Bar in Columbia with 4.7 stars from 196 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 2910 Rosewood Dr Ste 1, Columbia, SC 29205, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Nightclubs & Dance Venues
Popular nightclubs, dance clubs, and venues featuring top DJs and live performances.
Downtown Beach Bar and Grill
Highly rated Restaurant in Columbia with 4 stars from 449 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 918 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
The Woody on Main
Highly rated Restaurant in Columbia with 4.4 stars from 352 reviews.
📍 1649 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
Skyline Club
Highly rated Bar in Columbia with 4.2 stars from 29 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 100 Lee St, West Columbia, SC 29170, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Truth of Columbia
Highly rated American in Columbia with 4.4 stars from 119 reviews.
📍 1215 St Andrews Rd, Columbia, SC 29210, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic American cuisine
Art Bar
Highly rated Bar in Columbia with 4.4 stars from 1066 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1211 Park St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Platinum West Columbia
Highly rated International in Columbia with 4.7 stars from 389 reviews.
📍 1995 Old Dunbar Rd, West Columbia, SC 29172, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Tin Roof
Highly rated Bar in Columbia with 4.3 stars from 976 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1022 Senate St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Lava Love Lounge
Highly rated International in Columbia with 3 stars from 6 reviews.
📍 2768 Decker Blvd, Columbia, SC 29206, USA
- 🌃Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🌃Welcoming atmosphere
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
PT's 1109
Highly rated Bar in Columbia with 4.3 stars from 109 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1109 Assembly St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Friends Club
Highly rated Bar in Columbia with 4.3 stars from 43 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 2768 Decker Blvd Suites E-F, Columbia, SC 29206, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Live Music Venues
Concert halls, jazz clubs, and venues showcasing local and international musical talent.
The Senate
Highly rated International in Columbia with 4.5 stars from 1007 reviews.
📍 1022 Senate St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
The Collective Encore
Highly rated International in Columbia with 4.7 stars from 213 reviews.
📍 10221 Wincopin Cir, Columbia, MD 21044, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Tin Roof
Highly rated Bar in Columbia with 4.3 stars from 976 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1022 Senate St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
New Brookland Tavern
Highly rated International in Columbia with 4.4 stars from 520 reviews.
📍 632 Harden St, Columbia, SC 29205, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
The Mulehouse
Highly rated International in Columbia with 4.8 stars from 290 reviews.
📍 812 S High St, Columbia, TN 38401, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Chayz Lounge
Highly rated Restaurant in Columbia with 4.8 stars from 843 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 607 Meeting St, West Columbia, SC 29169, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
The Joint @ 1710 Main
Highly rated Restaurant in Columbia with 4.5 stars from 425 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1710 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Columbia Lakefront Stage
Highly rated International in Columbia with 4.6 stars from 614 reviews.
📍 10275 Wincopin Cir, Columbia, MD 21044, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Late-Night Dining
Restaurants and eateries open late for post-party meals and midnight cravings.
Prohibition
Highly rated Restaurant in Columbia with 4.2 stars from 233 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1556 Main St Suite 100, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Smoked
Highly rated Seafood in Columbia with 4.4 stars from 1063 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.
📍 1643 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Seafood cuisine
The Hoot
Highly rated Bar in Columbia with 4.7 stars from 196 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 2910 Rosewood Dr Ste 1, Columbia, SC 29205, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
The Grand on Main
Highly rated American in Columbia with 4.2 stars from 2178 reviews.
📍 1621 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic American cuisine
Twin Peaks
Highly rated American in Columbia with 4.5 stars from 6878 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 600 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic American cuisine
Tin Roof
Highly rated Bar in Columbia with 4.3 stars from 976 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1022 Senate St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Champagne Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Columbia with 4.1 stars from 197 reviews.
📍 902 Gervais St c, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Midlands'
Highly rated American in Columbia with 4.4 stars from 63 reviews.
📍 1200 Hampton St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Authentic American cuisine
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Entertainment & Shows
Comedy clubs, theaters, and entertainment venues offering nighttime performances.
Colonial Life Arena
Experience unforgettable entertainment at this Columbia venue, offering shows and performances for all tastes.
- •Book tickets online in advance
- •Check show duration and intermissions
- •Arrive early to find parking
- •Review venue policies before attending
- •Check for package deals
Art Bar
Catch live music performances at this vibrant Columbia venue, featuring diverse artists and genres.
- •Check venue capacity and arrive early
- •Earplugs recommended for loud venues
- •Cash for drinks and merchandise
- •Check setlist times if multiple acts
- •Coat check often available
Koger Center for the Arts
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Columbia venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.
- •Book tickets in advance for popular shows
- •Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
- •Dress code varies - check venue requirements
- •Turn off mobile phones during performance
- •Check for student or group discounts
Township Auditorium
Experience unforgettable entertainment at this Columbia venue, offering shows and performances for all tastes.
- •Book tickets online in advance
- •Check show duration and intermissions
- •Arrive early to find parking
- •Review venue policies before attending
- •Check for package deals
Trustus Theatre
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Columbia venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.
- •Book tickets in advance for popular shows
- •Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
- •Dress code varies - check venue requirements
- •Turn off mobile phones during performance
- •Check for student or group discounts
Harbison Theatre at Midlands Technical College
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Columbia venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.
- •Book tickets in advance for popular shows
- •Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
- •Dress code varies - check venue requirements
- •Turn off mobile phones during performance
- •Check for student or group discounts
Nightlife Districts
Popular neighborhoods and areas known for vibrant nightlife and bar-hopping.
Tin Roof
Explore Columbia's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Prohibition
Explore Columbia's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Art Bar
Explore Columbia's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Transmission Arcade
Explore Columbia's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Bang Back Pinball Lounge
Explore Columbia's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Platinum West Columbia
Explore Columbia's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Essential Tips
- 🌃Check dress codes before heading out
- 🌃Arrive early to avoid long lines at popular venues
- 🌃Use ride-sharing apps for safe transportation
- 🌃Keep valuables secure and stay aware of surroundings
- 🌃Pace yourself and stay hydrated
- 🌃Research cover charges and drink prices
- 🌃Make reservations for popular venues
- 🌃Bring valid ID - many places are strict about checking
- 🌃Start early - some venues close earlier than expected
- 🌃Ask locals for current hotspots and hidden gems
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
The best time for nightlife experiences in Columbia varies by activity and season. Generally, spring and fall offer ideal conditions with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is peak season with the most options but also the highest prices and largest crowds. Winter can offer unique experiences and better deals, though some activities may be limited.
Average Price
Prices for nightlife experiences in Columbia range widely depending on the activity and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium and exclusive options can range from $200-500+. Many activities offer group discounts and package deals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Columbia offers many excellent nightlife experiences, each with its own unique character. The best choice depends on your preferences, budget, and schedule, but our guide highlights the top-rated options that consistently deliver exceptional experiences.
Timing varies by activity, but generally spring and fall offer ideal conditions. Summer is peak season with the most options but larger crowds. Check individual listings for specific timing recommendations and seasonal considerations.
For popular experiences, especially during peak season, advance booking is highly recommended. Some activities have limited capacity and sell out quickly. Booking ahead also often provides better rates and ensures availability.
Requirements vary by activity, but generally bring comfortable clothing, appropriate footwear, sun protection, water, and any specific gear mentioned in activity descriptions. Check individual listings for detailed requirements.
Many nightlife experiences in Columbia cater to all skill levels, from beginners to experts. Check individual listings for difficulty levels and requirements. Many operators offer instruction and guidance for newcomers.
Costs vary widely depending on the type of experience and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium options can range from $200-500+. Group discounts and packages are often available.
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