LA Nightlife Guide

LA's nightlife is spread across neighborhoods, each with its own vibe. West Hollywood for LGBTQ+ clubs and bottle service. Hollywood for tourist-friendly clubbing. DTLA for craft cocktails and speakeasies. Santa Monica for beach-casual bars. LA bars close at 2am (earlier than NYC) — plan accordingly.

Perch (DTLA) — French-inspired with stunning skyline views. Spire 73 (DTLA) — highest rooftop bar in Western US, upscale. E.P. & L.P. (West Hollywood) — see-and-be-seen Sunset Strip scene. High Rooftop (Venice) — ocean views, laid-back. The Highlight Room (Hollywood) — pool scene, celebrity sightings. Reservations recommended.

The Varnish (DTLA) — speakeasy behind Cole's, serious cocktails. Death & Co (Arts District) — NYC import, innovative drinks. Bar Marmont (West Hollywood) — Chateau Marmont's legendary bar. The Roger Room (West Hollywood) — locals' cocktail spot. Employees Only (West Hollywood) — late-night NYC import, food too.

Sound Nightclub (Hollywood) — best sound system in LA, house/techno. Academy (Hollywood) — EDM, big-name DJs. Avalon (Hollywood) — historic venue, varied programming. The Mayan (DTLA) — ornate theater-turned-club, Latin nights. Pattern Bar (DTLA) — underground house music. Cover charges $20-50, dress code enforced.

The Troubadour (West Hollywood) — legendary intimate venue. The Roxy — iconic Sunset Strip club. The Wiltern — beautiful art deco theater. Hollywood Bowl — outdoor amphitheater, summer concerts. The Mint — blues and soul. Greek Theatre — stunning outdoor venue in Griffith Park.

Hollywood: touristy but fun, big clubs. West Hollywood: LGBTQ+ hub, Sunset Strip energy. DTLA: craft cocktails, art scene, warehouse parties. Silver Lake/Echo Park: hipster bars, indie music. Santa Monica: beach bars, relaxed. Koreatown: late-night, karaoke, 24-hour vibes. Pick based on your personality.