Oakland Nightlife

Nightlife is alive and well in Oakland, California. Think craft beers, cocktails and lots of live music.

Whether you fancy an uptown bar with cocktails and beautiful people or a downtown dive bar with plenty of attitude, this hip Bay Area city has a nightlife offering that's right up your alley.

Like a pint of beer and a chilled-out pub atmosphere? You'll love Oakland's many taprooms and breweries, serving up more local craft beers than you can shake a schooner at.

Oakland is famous for its live music. Whether it's an intimate jazz gig or a loud and wild band you're after, the city's music venues have got you covered.

And if it's after-hours fun you're looking for, Oakland's eclectic clubs have a dancefloor waiting for you every night of the week.

Here are some of our top nightlife picks.

Best Bars

  • The Good Hop is a neighbourhood beer bar and bottle shop just north of Uptown. They sell over 400 beers from local craft breweries. That should keep you busy!
  • The Trappist pub is known for its European specialty beers and its cosy historic surroundings. Soak up the booze with one of their epic meat and cheese platters.
  • If you're craving creative cocktails, tasty bar snacks and art deco interiors, head to Fauna and hang out with their startling collection of taxidermy.

Best Live Music Venues

  • Catch some big-name acts at the grand Fox Theater. Oozing art deco charm, it hosts top international talent like Lily Allen and Hozier.
  • Iconic restaurant and jazz hall Yoshi's serves up delicious Japanese food with a side order of live jazz.
  • The 1930s Paramount Theatre is the place to go to see big stars from across the globe. Their varied shows cover everything from world music to pop hits.

Best Clubs

  • The Uptown Nightclub shows you a good time from happy hour right through to the wee hours. They put on everything from comedy to live music, and the dancefloor is always busy.
  • For an LGBTQ-friendly vibe, head to Club 21. Get ready for Latin beats, six different bars and a whole lot of fun.
  • Visit the Ruby Room for an intimate downtown club night. The atmospheric red lighting helps it live up to its name and create a glorious divey atmosphere.