Best Nightlife Scenes in the USA
Looking for a buzzy party destination? Or maybe you just want a few days to unwind in some mellow lounge or dive bar in a city you've never been to before. Whatever your mission, U.S. News Travel offers you tools and tips to help you start planning your getaway. Here are standout spots for a fun night out on the town.
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Why Go: Las Vegas has earned its reputation as a giant playground for adults for good reason. Some of the world's most riotous nightclubs reside in the city's palatial casinos. Travelers looking for a less flashy alternative to the Strip should head to Fremont Street. Read More»
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Why Go: No city has a wider variety of nightlife options than NYC. There are a million ways to spend an evening, whether it's sipping cocktails in a trendy SoHo lounge, participating in a never-ending bar crawl in the East Village, or belting out karaoke with your friends. Read More»
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Why Go: When the sun goes down, Chi-town hot spots crank up the nightlife with live music, theatrical performances, and dance beats. But while the Windy City boasts a fair number of swanky lounges and booming nightclubs, most locals prefer a more laid-back night out at a neighborhood bar. Read More»
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Why Go: Miami Beach's night scene has always been hopping, and the chic South Beach neighborhood leads the party pack. You'll find everything from plush lounges to deafening dance clubs lining its art-deco streets. Just note: A night out can add up quickly when you add up cover charges and cocktails. Read More»
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Why Go: L.A. boasts some of the most exclusive see-and-be-seen spots in the country. The "scene" is fiercely competitive for patrons as well as bar owners. Venues open and close here at a speed that only the fast and fashionable can follow. Read More»
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Why Go: New Orleans has its own distinct identity, and this is most readily apparent when the sun goes down. The French Quarter is the infamous locale for riotious times, and party-goers here usually stay out until the wee hours. You won't want to miss the party of the year: Mardi Gras. Read More»
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Why Go: Every San Fran neighborhood has its own scene, so spend some time figuring out which areas suit you the best. For starters, you can't go wrong with a night out in the Mission District. And for those longing for the days of frat parties, you'll find the perfect bars near the Marina. Read More»
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Why Go: Austin's unofficial nickname is the "Live Music Capital of the World." And while it is true that music venues pepper the city, the more pertinent motto is the often heard "Keep Austin Weird." 6th Street's lively bar seen is not to be missed. When UT is in session, expect a more youthful and exuberant crowd. Read More»
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Why Go: Philadelphia's rich history, diverse food scene, and variety of attractions draws travelers of all types, including night-owls. The city boasts everything from trendy clubs to homey bars. For an impressive array of options, spend your evenings on South Street. Read More»
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Why Go: There are plenty of nightlife options in D.C. Georgetown, Dupont Circle, Adams Morgan and the, U Street Corridor all house excellent bars and restaurants. H Street in Northeast's up-and-coming Atlas District has some of the most innovative bars, but it is a little out of the way for most visitors. Read More»
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Why Go: Key West knows how to party. The party-centric set will want to head straight to Duval Street. Sometimes described as the "Bourbon Street of Florida," Duval overflows with rowdy bars and bumping clubs. Come during the island's hallmark festivals for a truly wild experience. Read More»
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Why Go: Puerto Rico features a mish-mash of bars and music venues. While there may not be as many places to choose from as there are in New York or L.A., the quality and diversity of the island's after-hours joints are just as impressive as those found in any continental U.S. city. Try Old San Juan for salsa and merengue. Read More»
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Why Go: Along with Portland, Seattle represents the best of nightlife in the Pacific Northwest thanks to its flourishing live music scene. All across town, concerts and jam sessions occur almost every night. For a quieter night out, Seattle also features plenty of low-key neighborhood bars. Read More»
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Why Go: Atlanta hosts bars, clubs, and jazz venues tailored to every night owl's interest. While Buckhead's popular clubs can be pricey, you can balance them out with casual bars in Virginia Highland. It's important to move around the city to experience everything ATL has to offer. Read More»
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Why Go: More and more live-music venues are popping up, and not all of them cater to country-music fans. You may have to look a little harder, but you can find whatever suits your tastes. And if you do love country music, you came to the right city. Read More»
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