Columbus Nightlife Guide: Complete Guide
Experience the best bars, clubs, live music venues, and entertainment after dark. Discover the best nightlife experiences in Columbus.
Welcome to the ultimate nightlife guide for Columbus! 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 Columbus 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 Columbus. 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
- Columbus offers over 86 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.
Law Bird
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.8 stars from 251 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 740 S High St, Columbus, OH 43206, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Good Night John Boy
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.8 stars from 831 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 906 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Club 185
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.6 stars from 899 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 185 E Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Lincoln Social Rooftop
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.5 stars from 1200 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 711 N High St 9th Floor, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Mainline Bar + Courtyard
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.9 stars from 27 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 216 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Half Baked
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.7 stars from 226 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 765 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
The Walrus
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.4 stars from 2785 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 143 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Trolley Pub Columbus
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 5 stars from 2021 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 152 N Young St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
The Alibi Bourbon & Cocktail Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.7 stars from 283 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 843 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Smash Buddies
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.9 stars from 374 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 460 S Front St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Ace of Cups
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.6 stars from 943 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 2619 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Char Bar
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.5 stars from 700 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 439 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Nightclubs & Dance Venues
Popular nightclubs, dance clubs, and venues featuring top DJs and live performances.
Forty Deuce Burlesque & Speakeasy
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.7 stars from 2740 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 3959 Brighton Rose Sq, Columbus, OH 43219, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
District West
Highly rated International in Columbus with 4.6 stars from 143 reviews.
📍 145 N 5th St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Noir Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.2 stars from 140 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 15 W Cherry St 1st Floor, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
The Forum
Highly rated International in Columbus with 4 stars from 167 reviews.
📍 144 N Wall St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Good Night John Boy
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.8 stars from 831 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 906 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Axis Nightclub
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 3.5 stars from 342 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 775 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Palmas Tropical Escape
Highly rated International in Columbus with 4.1 stars from 169 reviews.
📍 46 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Lincoln Social Rooftop
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.5 stars from 1200 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 711 N High St 9th Floor, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Club 185
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.6 stars from 899 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 185 E Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Bullwinkles
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 3 stars from 277 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1770 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201, USA
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Live Music Venues
Concert halls, jazz clubs, and venues showcasing local and international musical talent.
KEMBA Live!
Highly rated International in Columbus with 4.4 stars from 4845 reviews.
📍 405 Neil Ave, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Natalie's Grandview
Highly rated Restaurant in Columbus with 4.8 stars from 791 reviews.
📍 945 King Ave, Columbus, OH 43212, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Newport Music Hall
Highly rated International in Columbus with 4.5 stars from 2180 reviews.
📍 1722 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
The KING of CLUBS
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.7 stars from 1459 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 6252 Busch Blvd, Columbus, OH 43229, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Woodlands Tavern
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.5 stars from 1291 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1200 W 3rd Ave, Columbus, OH 43212, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
RiverCenter for the Performing Arts
Highly rated International in Columbus with 4.8 stars from 1031 reviews.
📍 900 Broadway, Columbus, GA 31901, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
The Bluestone
Highly rated International in Columbus with 4.5 stars from 1547 reviews.
📍 583 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
The Forum
Highly rated International in Columbus with 4 stars from 167 reviews.
📍 144 N Wall St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Late-Night Dining
Restaurants and eateries open late for post-party meals and midnight cravings.
Forno Kitchen + Bar
Highly rated American in Columbus with 4.5 stars from 2506 reviews.
📍 721 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic American cuisine
Astra Rooftop
Highly rated Restaurant in Columbus with 4.7 stars from 388 reviews.
📍 517 Park St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
The Walrus
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.4 stars from 2785 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 143 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Smash Buddies
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.9 stars from 374 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 460 S Front St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Galla Park Social
Highly rated American in Columbus with 4.4 stars from 470 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 900 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic American cuisine
HydeOut Kitchen & Bar
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.5 stars from 523 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 201 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Agni
Highly rated Restaurant in Columbus with 4.8 stars from 319 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.
📍 716 S High St, Columbus, OH 43206, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Parlay Sporting Club + Kitchen
Highly rated Bar in Columbus with 4.5 stars from 901 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 570 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Entertainment & Shows
Comedy clubs, theaters, and entertainment venues offering nighttime performances.
Kickback and Laugh Comedy Show
Laugh the night away at this popular Columbus comedy venue, showcasing both local and touring comedians.
- •Arrive early for best seating
- •Two-drink minimum often required
- •Be prepared to interact with performers
- •Check age restrictions (often 18+ or 21+)
- •Avoid sitting in front row if you don't want attention
The Attic Comedy Club
Laugh the night away at this popular Columbus comedy venue, showcasing both local and touring comedians.
- •Arrive early for best seating
- •Two-drink minimum often required
- •Be prepared to interact with performers
- •Check age restrictions (often 18+ or 21+)
- •Avoid sitting in front row if you don't want attention
RiverCenter for the Performing Arts
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Columbus 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
Shadowbox Live
Experience unforgettable entertainment at this Columbus 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
Columbus Funny Bone
Catch live music performances at this vibrant Columbus 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
Atlanta Comedy Theater
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Columbus 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.
Park Street Tavern
Explore Columbus'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
District West
Explore Columbus'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
Good Night John Boy
Explore Columbus'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
UP at Smoke rooftop bar
Explore Columbus'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
Club Diversity
Explore Columbus'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
Club 185
Explore Columbus'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 Columbus 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 Columbus 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
Columbus 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 Columbus 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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