Top 12 Nightlife in Columbus, OH: A Guide to the Best Spots Near You

Over time, Columbus, Ohio, has evolved into a thriving city noted for its nightlife. Whether you live here or are just visiting, the city’s varied array of pubs, clubs, lounges, and live entertainment venues has something for anyone. From steamy speakeasies to throbbing nightclubs, Columbus has it all. This article will look at the top nightlife venues in the city, thereby enabling you to maximize your evening.

Top 12 Nightlife in Columbus, OH_ A Guide to the Best Spots Near You - Top Rated Choices

Find the Hottest Nightclubs and Bars in Columbus, Ohio

1. Forty Deuce Burlesque & Speakeasy

Google Rating: 4.8/5.0 Rating (2529 Reviews)

Facebook Reviews: 82% recommend (1,524 Reviews)

Lively night club featuring live music & burlesque dancing, with dinner & drinks options

Service options: Has outdoor seating, Serves great cocktails, Has live music

Located in: Easton Gateway

Address: 3959 Brighton Rose Sq, Columbus, OH 43219

Working Hours & Days: 

Tuesday To Thursday and Sunday: 04:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Friday and Saturday: 04:00 PM - 02:00 AM
Monday: Closed

Phone: +1 614-681-4242

Facebook: @fortydeuceburlesque

Instagram: @fortydeuceburlesque

Forty Deuce Burlesque & Speakeasy in Columbus- Top Rated Choices

About Forty Deuce Burlesque & Speakeasy

Forty Deuce Burlesque & Speakeasy, tucked away in the center of Columbus, is a special fusion of old-world appeal and contemporary entertainment. As soon as you step inside, the art of burlesque collides with the allure of a hidden speakeasy, transporting you to a different era. Those wishing to have a glamorous evening with drinks and captivating shows will find an ideal location here.

A romantic night or a special celebration would be perfect in this small environment. Offering a unique experience in Columbus, the burlesque presentations combine sensuality with artistic ability.

2. Park Street Tavern

Google Rating: 4.5/5.0 Rating (548 Reviews)

Facebook Reviews: 78% recommend (905 Reviews)

Brick-walled joint with 26 rotating beers on tap, live music 5 nights a week & a karaoke night

Service Options: Outside food allowed, Has outdoor seating, Doesn't accept reservations

Located in: North Market Downtown

Address: 501 Park St, Columbus, OH 43215

Working Hours & Days: 

Monday and Thursday: 03:00 PM - 02:30 AM
Friday: 02:00 PM - 02:30 AM
Saturday and Sunday: 12:00 PM - 02:30 AM

Phone Number: +1 614-221-4099

Instagram: @parkstreet_tavern

Facebook: @ParkStreetTavern

Source: Instagram

About Park Street Tavern

Park Street Tavern is the place to go if you want a laid-back vibe with live music. This establishment, which is in the busy Arena District, is a local favorite for its live music, large beer selection, and welcoming audience. For those who like music, The Tavern is a fantastic place as it presents a combination of rock, blues, and jazz events.

On warmer evenings, when you could sip your drink while listening to live music, the outside terrace is ideal. Park Street Tavern has a lot to offer, whether you’re looking to dance or just hang out with friends.

3. Axis Nightclub

Google Rating: 3.5/5.0 Rating (299 Reviews)

A multilevel gay-friendly dance club featuring DJs & entertainment such as drag cabaret acts

Service options: Has outdoor seating, Serves great cocktails, Doesn't accept reservations

Address: 775 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215

Working Days and Hours:

Friday To Sunday: 10:00 PM - 02:30 AM
Monday To Thursday: Closed

Phone: +1 380-239-2728

Price per person: $10–20

Facebook: @AxisNightclub

Instagram: @axisnightclub

Axis Nightclub in Columbus- Top Rated Choices

About Axis Nightclub

LGBTQ+ nightlife in Columbus centers around Axis Nightclub. For those wishing to dance the night away, Axis is a must-visit with its vibrant dance floor, drag events, and welcoming environment. The club frequently presents guest DJs, themed evenings, and drag events, including the well-known Nina West, who considers Axis her home stage.

From the throbbing main dance floor to more private places where you could unwind with a drink, the multi-level facility offers varied sensations. Axis is mostly about having fun and appreciating differences.

4. Club 185

Google Rating: 4.6/5.0 Rating (797 Reviews)

Facebook Reviews: 84% recommend (623 Reviews)

No-nonsense vintage watering hole with exposed brick & folk-art murals, serving brews & pub grub

Service options: Has outdoor seating, Serves great cocktails, Doesn't accept reservations

Address: 185 E Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH 43215

Working Hours & Days: 

Monday To Friday: 11:00 AM - 02:00 AM
Saturday and Sunday: 05:00 PM - 02:00 AM

Phone: +1 614-228-3904

Price per person: $10–20

Facebook: @Club185Livingston

Instagram: @club_185

Club 185 in Columbus- Top Rated Choices

About Club 185

Club 185 is a hidden treasure in Columbus’ nightlife scene for people who would like a more laid-back and personal environment. Housed in the old German Village, this little tavern exudes nostalgia with its nostalgic décor and traditional drinks. Carefully selected from artisan beers, wines, and professionally created cocktails is the drink menu. 

Club 185 is the type of venue where one may relax after a demanding day or engage in a peaceful chat. This is a fantastic place for both locals and guests, as the atmosphere is friendly.

5. Spain Night Club

Google Rating: 4.1/5.0 Rating (128 Reviews)

Service options: Has outdoor seating, Serves great cocktails, Has live music

Address: 6136 Busch Blvd, Columbus, OH 43229

Working Hours & Days:
Friday To Sunday: 10:00 AM - 02:00 AM
Monday To Thursday: Closed

Phone: NA

Price per person: $10–20

Instagram: @spain_nightclub

Facebook: @grooveshouston

spain night club in Columbus- Top Rated Choices

About Spain Night Club

Spain Night Club is the place to go if you want an evening of Latin music and dancing. This energetic location draws a varied audience eager to dance the night away with its combination of salsa, bachata, reggaeton, and more. The club is among the best places for Latin nightlife in Columbus because its intense music and brilliant décor accentuate its dynamic environment.

Spain Night Club offers an amazing evening of fun and culture, regardless of your level of experience with dancing or your desire to try something different.

6. Avalon

Google Rating: 3.9/5.0 Rating (388 Reviews)

Cocktails & bar bites offered in a contemporary space with bottle service, dancing & a VIP section

Service options: Has outdoor seating, Serves great cocktails, Has live performances

Address: 205 N 5th St, Columbus, OH 43215

Working Hours & Days:

Tuesday: 05:00 PM - 01:00 AM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 01:00 AM
Thursday and Saturday: 11:00 AM - 02:00 AM
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Monday: Closed

Phone: +1 614-971-9280

Facebook: @avalon.columbus.3

Instagram: @avaloncolumbus

Avalon in Columbus- Top Rated Choices

About Avalon

Renowned for its elegant décor, sophisticated audience, and first-rate DJs, Avalon is among Columbus’s trendiest venues. Among those wishing to take in the contemporary nightlife of the city, the club is popular because of its sophisticated sound system, LED walls, and roomy dance floor. 

Avalon makes sure there is always something interesting by frequently arranging themed parties and guest DJs. Avalon is an excellent choice for large events or a night of indulgence because the VIP areas and bottle service add a touch of luxury.

7. Noir Lounge

Google Rating: 4.5/5.0 Rating (100 Reviews)

Service Options: Serves great cocktails, Has live music, Has karaoke

Address: 15 W Cherry St 1st Floor, Columbus, OH 43215

Working Hours & Days: 
Thursday: 07:00 PM– 01:00 AM
Friday and Saturday: 07:00 PM– 02:00 AM
Sunday: 06:00 PM– 11:00 PM
Monday To Wednesday: Closed

Phone: NA

Price per person: $10–20

Facebook: @NoirColumbus

Instagram: @iamshif19

Noir Lounge in Columbus- Top Rated Choices

About Noir Lounge

Noir Lounge offers a refined evening with its elegant décor, well-created drinks, and soft jazz music. Perfect for a romantic night out or a sophisticated meeting with friends, the lounge is well-known for its soft couches, low lighting, and exquisite environment.

Experts create each distinctive and traditional beverage on the cocktail menu with flair and accuracy. Noir Lounge is all about savoring the good things in life, from the atmosphere to the beverages.

8. Bullwhinkles

Google Rating: 2.9/5.0 Rating (258 Reviews)

Contemporary, neon-lit nightclub featuring a large, vibrant dance floor, DJ music & drink specials

Service options: Serves great cocktails, Doesn't accept reservations, Has dancing

Address: 1770 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201

Working Hours & Days:

Thursday: 10:00 AM – 2:15 AM
Saturday and Sunday: 09:00 AM – 2:15 AM
Sunday To Wednesday: Closed

Phone: NA

Price per person: $1–10

Facebook: @Bullwinklescbus

Bullwhinkles in Columbus- Top Rated Choices

About Bullwhinkles

A mainstay of Columbus nightlife, Bullwinkles is well-known for its vibrant college environment and exuberant vibe. This pub, which is close to The Ohio State University, is a common hangout for students and young professionals trying to let loose.

Bullwinkles offers a blend of reasonably priced beverages, dancing music, and a laid-back atmosphere. One of the highlights is the big outside patio, which offers a perfect area for socializing and nighttime enjoyment.

9. Howl at the Moon Columbus

Google Rating: 4.3/5.0 Rating (194 Reviews)

High-energy regular live music shows in a popular bar chain featuring novelty bucket drinks

Service options: Has outdoor seating, Serves great cocktails, Has live music

Address: 504 Park St, Columbus, OH 43215

Working Hours & Days:

Thursday: 06:00 PM - 02:00 AM
Friday and Saturday: 06:00 PM - 02:30 AM
Sunday To Wednesday: Closed

Phone: +1 614-568-4695

Price per person: $10–20

Instagram: @howlcolumbus

Howl at the Moon Columbus in Columbus- Top Rated Choices

About Howl at the Moon Columbus

Unlike your usual nightclub, Howl at the Moon is a high-energy dueling piano bar sure to provide an evening of laughs and enjoyment. The gifted musicians at Howl at the Moon, as requested by the crowd, perform anything from current pop tunes to vintage rock. The performances’ participatory nature makes them a unique and interesting encounter. The audience is lively, and the beverages are inventive, offering options such as sharing buckets and large cocktails.

10. XO Nightlife

Google Rating: 3.3/5.0 Rating (48 Reviews)

Service options: Has outdoor seating, Serves great cocktails, Has live music

Address: 44 E Lafayette St, Columbus, OH 43215

Working Hours & Days: 

Saturday: 10:00 PM– 02:00 AM
Sunday To Friday: Closed

Phone: +1 614-843-3588

Instagram: @xo_nightlife

XO Nightlife in Columbus- Top Rated Choices

About XO Nightlife

One of the best nightlife venues in Columbus, XO Nightlife offers an opulent experience with its elegant décor, first-rate DJs, and unique ambiance. With a dress code fit for its elegant atmosphere, the club appeals to a trendy audience. Multiple bars, a large dance floor, and VIP sections for those wishing to improve their evening are characteristics of XO Nightlife. 

The dance floor is always crowded, as the music ranges from electronic to hip-hop. XO Nightlife is the ultimate destination for a glamorous night out.

11. Granero Lounge

Google Rating: 3.4/5.0 Rating (131 Reviews)

closed - Top Rated Choices

Granero means barn in Spanish & this club hosts regular parties to Latin music in its rustic space

Located in: Vine Street Garage

Address: 51 Vine St, Columbus, OH 43215

Working Hours & Days: Not Available

Phone: Not Available

Facebook: @GraneroLounge

Instagram: @granerolounge

Granero Lounge in Columbus- Top Rated Choices

About Granero Lounge

Combining a rustic environment with contemporary flare, Granero Lounge offers a distinctive nightlife experience in Columbus. The club’s restored barn creates a stylish yet friendly atmosphere. Particularly noteworthy is the outside patio, which offers cozy seating and fire pits, thereby facilitating socialization. From live bands to DJs, the lounge inside provides a range of music to suit a varied population.

12. District West

Google Rating: 4.5/5.0 Rating (78 Reviews)

Service options: Serves great cocktails, Has dancing

Address: 145 N 5th St, Columbus, OH 43215

Working Hours & Days: 

All Days Open: 06:00 PM - 02:30 AM

Phone: +1 614-826-8060

Facebook: @districtwest614

Instagram: @districtwest614

District West in Columbus- Top Rated Choices

About District West

Though it’s a recent addition to Columbus’ nightlife scene, District West has rapidly become a favorite for its innovative drinks, elegant décor, and live entertainment. The facility ensures a lively atmosphere by blending live music, DJ sets, and performances. 

With a focus on creating a friendly and inclusive environment, the modern and elegant décor reflects that District West is a fantastic place for both residents and tourists to have a night out, as it is all about gathering people.

How to Choose the Best Nightlife Spots in Columbus?

Given so many choices, selecting the finest nightlife venue in Columbus may be taxing. Here are some pointers to guide you toward the correct decision:

  • Get your Vibe: Are you seeking a laid-back pub, a high-spirited dance club, or a sophisticated lounge? Knowing the sort of environment you want can enable you to reduce your choices.
  • Consider the music: Various venues appeal to diverse musical interests. Park Street Tavern may be your go-to if you want live bands; electronic music aficionados may choose Avalon or XO Nightlife.
  • Review the events: From themed parties to guest DJs, several of Columbus’s nightlife venues hold unique events. By looking over the event schedule, you may choose a night that appeals to you.
  • Location is important: Think about how simple it is to travel to and from the venue, as well as how near other places you may like to see.
  • Crowd: Consider the type of gathering you’re comfortable with. For a younger, college-aged audience, Bullwinkles is fantastic; Noir Lounge presents a more refined and mature environment.

Conclusion

Columbus has an intriguing and varied nightlife environment fit for any taste and inclination. This city provides everything you would possibly want—an exciting night of dancing, a classy evening of drinks and discussion, or a vibrant live music event.

When you plan your evening out, consider the ambiance, music, events, and crowd to ensure that you choose the best place for your mood. Columbus is a city that understands how to keep the celebration going with locations ranging from trendy bars to vibrant nightclubs.

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