Global Major Cities Guide

Los Angeles features a diverse range of bars, from rooftop lounges to craft cocktail bars and nightlife hot spots.

The Rooftop at The Standard (Downtown LA)
- Experience: A chic rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city, a pool, and a relaxed vibe.
- Cost: Cocktails range from $15–$20.
- Tips: Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially on weekends.
The Varnish (Downtown LA)
- Experience: A hidden speakeasy-style bar known for its expertly crafted cocktails and intimate ambiance.
- Cost: Cocktails are $16–$22.
- Tips: Look for the unmarked door inside Cole’s French Dip restaurant.
Tiki-Ti (Silver Lake)
- Experience: A quirky, family-run tiki bar offering tropical cocktails in a kitschy setting.
- Cost: Drinks range from $12–$18.
- Tips: It’s cash-only, so come prepared.
E.P. & L.P. (West Hollywood)
- Experience: A trendy rooftop bar with Asian-inspired cocktails and a lively crowd.
- Cost: Cocktails are $15–$20.
- Tips: The rooftop (L.P.) is first-come, first-served, but reservations are available for the restaurant (E.P.).
No Vacancy (Hollywood)
- Experience: A Prohibition-era-themed bar with a secret entrance and live entertainment.
- Cost: Cocktails are $14–$18.
- Tips: Dress to impress, as there’s often a strict dress code.

Academy LA (Hollywood)
- Experience: A high-energy nightclub featuring top EDM DJs and a state-of-the-art sound system.
- Cost: Cover charge is $20–$40; drinks are $12–$18.
- Tips: Tickets for big-name DJs sell out quickly, so book in advance.
The Highlight Room (Hollywood)
- Experience: A rooftop lounge and nightclub with a pool, offering stunning views of the Hollywood Hills.
- Cost: Cocktails are $16–$22; cover charge varies ($20–$50).
- Tips: Reservations are highly recommended for bottle service or large groups.
Sound Nightclub (Hollywood)
- Experience: A smaller, intimate club with a focus on underground house and techno music.
- Cost: Cover charge is $20–$30; drinks are $10–$15.
- Tips: Arrive early to avoid long lines.
Avalon Hollywood
- Experience: A historic nightclub hosting big-name DJs and live music events.
- Cost: Cover charge is $20–$50; drinks are $12–$18.
- Tips: Check the event calendar for themed nights and special performances.

Rooftop Bars: Perfect for enjoying LA’s mild weather and city views (e.g., Perch, Mama Shelter).
Speakeasies: Hidden bars with a vintage vibe and creative cocktails (e.g., The Varnish, Employees Only).
Dance Clubs: High-energy venues with live DJs and dance floors (e.g., Exchange LA, Sound Nightclub).
Live Music Venues: Bars and clubs featuring live performances (e.g., The Roxy Theatre, The Troubadour).
Themed Bars: Unique concepts like tiki bars (Tiki-Ti) or retro arcade bars (Button Mash).

Tipping: It’s customary to tip bartenders 15–20% of your total bill.
Dress Code: Many upscale bars and clubs enforce a dress code. Avoid casual attire like flip-flops, shorts, or athletic wear.
Peak Hours: Most venues get busy around 10 PM and stay open until 2 AM (last call for alcohol is at 1:30 AM).
Diversity: LA’s nightlife is incredibly diverse, so you’ll find LGBTQ+ friendly bars (e.g., The Abbey in West Hollywood) and venues catering to specific music genres or cultural communities.
Celebrity Sightings: In areas like West Hollywood and Beverly Hills, you might spot celebrities at high-end venues.

Minimum Drinking Age: The legal drinking age in the U.S. is 21. Always carry a valid government-issued ID (passport for international visitors).
Last Call: Alcohol sales stop at 2 AM, and most bars and clubs close shortly after.
DUI Laws: Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly enforced in California. Use rideshare services or designated drivers.
Smoking: Smoking is prohibited inside bars and clubs, but many venues have designated outdoor smoking areas.

Bars: Most bars operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but some upscale venues (e.g., rooftop bars) accept reservations for larger groups or special occasions.
Clubs: Reservations are often required for bottle service or VIP seating. For general admission, purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended.

Rideshare Services: Uber and Lyft are the most convenient and widely used options for getting around LA at night.
Public Transit: Metro trains and buses run until midnight, but service is limited late at night.
Parking: If you’re driving, parking can be expensive and scarce near popular nightlife areas. Use valet services or park in designated lots.
Walking: LA is not a very walkable city, so plan your transportation accordingly.

Downtown LA (DTLA): Known for its rooftop bars, speakeasies, and trendy lounges.
Hollywood: Home to iconic nightclubs, live music venues, and celebrity hotspots.
West Hollywood (WeHo): The heart of LA’s LGBTQ+ nightlife scene, with lively bars and clubs like The Abbey and Rocco’s.
Silver Lake: A hipster haven with dive bars, craft cocktail spots, and live music venues.
Venice Beach: Offers a more laid-back vibe with beachfront bars and casual pubs.

The Abbey (West Hollywood): A legendary LGBTQ+ bar with a lively atmosphere and great cocktails.
Perch (Downtown LA): A rooftop bar with French-inspired decor and stunning views.
Exchange LA (Downtown LA): A massive nightclub housed in a historic building, perfect for EDM fans.
The Bungalow (Santa Monica): A beachy, bohemian bar with a relaxed vibe and ocean views.

Plan Ahead: Check the dress code, cover charges, and event schedules before heading out.
Stay Safe: Stick with friends, keep an eye on your belongings, and never leave drinks unattended.
Explore: LA’s nightlife is spread out, so don’t hesitate to explore different neighborhoods for unique experiences.

With this guide, you’re well-equipped to enjoy the best of Los Angeles’ nightlife scene!

Los Angeles