Ah, Atlanta. For all its southern charm, there’s also never any shortage of nightlife activities in a city as vibrant as this one. Atlanta manages to be one of those rare cities that is teeming with experiences while still remaining accessible and pleasant, and any trip there is sure to offer you a range of things to do, whether you are looking for shows, cocktails, or even late-night roller skating. And if you’re the kind of person who looks forward to nightlife then you will want to stay in a vacation rental located in downtown Atlanta so you are close to the action.
So put on your party pants – we’ve outlined 10 ways to enjoy Atlanta nightlife just for you.
Be dazzled at Atlanta Magic Theater
Aptly named the Magic Theater because, well, it’s all about magic! The Atlanta Magic Theater is home to magician Peter Morrison, who showcases his talent for magic and classical comedy every weekend in Atlanta. This is magic at its most authentic – no screwball tricks or over-the-top dramatics here. Just be ready for a bit of audience participation!
Hear the blues at Blind Willie’s
This self-proclaimed “Atlanta’s Greatest Blues Bar” is an infamous spot among locals who believe Blind Willie’s to be just that. Grab some booze and cajun food from their small bar menu and spend the late hours of the evening listening to the true southern blues from their rotating acts of live music.
See a show at the Fox Theater
The great thing about Atlanta nightlife is that it’s about way more than just finding a drink or two. If you’re looking to have one of those nights that will be the highlight of your trip, the Fox Theater is the place to go. Here you can catch a Broadway show, see a live taping of So You Think You Can Dance, hear comedy from the likes of Amy Schumer or Steve Martin, and even watch John Legend sing Christmas carols.
Sip spirits at Old Fourth Distillery
Located in Atlanta’s historic Old Ward district, Old Fourth Distillery still stands as the city’s first legal distillery since 1906. Old Fourth makes vodka and gin, but their specialty is called Lawn Dart, a vodka infused with fresh lemon peel, ginger juice, and sugar cane. Stop in and try one of their cocktail creations Thursday through Saturday until 12 AM.
Drink with queens Lips
Atlanta nightlife doesn’t get much more nightlifey (a word?) than a glamorous, over-the-top, rambunctious drag show hosted by some incredible queens who just want to make sure you have the night of your life (or at least your vacation). Sure, you can go to Lips for a drag brunch, but you can also indulge in a little booze and a lot of fake boobs at one of their late-night shows.
Take in the skyline at Sundial Restaurant
If you’re looking to have the kind of evening where you get to drink cocktails and eat delectable farm-to-table food all while taking in the glittering skyline, the Sundial Restaurant is the kind of Atlanta nightlife activity that will totally be your jam (or your seared sea scallops, because yes, you can get those here). The Sundial Restaurant offers a 360 degree view of Atlanta from 723 feet up, so you can fully appreciate the scope of Atlanta. You know, while eating bourbon pecan pie.
See improv at Dad’s Garage
Looking for a little comedy to spice up your night? Dad’s Garage in Atlanta is officially your destination, offering improv shows every Thursday through Saturday. Improv isn’t quite your thing? (Weird, but okay). Dad’s Garage also showcases scripted plays and special events, including hosting the elite literary event, The Moth.
Indulge in beer and views at 9 Mile Station
Okay, so you can choose from a Plethora of restaurants in Atlanta, but we’re highlighting 9 Mile Station for two reasons: it’s located on the top floor of the incredible Ponce City Market, and it gives you great views of the city. 9 Mile Station is an elevated beer garden serving up delicious southern brews, craft cocktails, and food you can easily share with a whole table. We love 9 Mile Station because you get access to an incredible view, a beautiful atmosphere, and the Ponce City Market just below your feet.
Stroll in Virginia Highland Neighborhood
A pit stop at the Virginia Highland Neighborhood is basically a given for anyone committed to enjoying Atlanta nightlife. Virginia Highland is a popular bungalow-lined Atlanta neighborhood established in the early 1900’s that is now home to eccentric and quaint coffee shops, stores, restaurants, and bars. It’s likely that if you stop in for a cocktail at one of the many small establishments in this area you will run into a bunch of locals who know this is the neighborhood to be.
Skate like there’s no tomorrow at Cascade Fun Center
And you thought roller skating was just for kids. The Cascade Fun Center is a roller-skating hot spot for kids and adults alike, but Wednesday nights are reserved for adults only who want to skate the night away until 12 AM to the sounds of old school R&B and hip hop.
Okay, have you convinced you yet that Atlanta nightlife is the stuff travel dreams are made of? Well, maybe not that extreme, but at least you know that your trip to Atlanta can be packed with experiences any time of day, ones that will make your time in this city memorable.