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LIVE MAPSC

Columbia Nightlife

Best Bars in Columbia

5 venues

Art Bar

bar/nightclub
4

Unique late-night bar & dance experience with an eclectic atmosphere.

The Vista

Prohibition Columbia

cocktail bar/live music
4.5

Brings innovative cocktails, eclectic cuisine, and live music to the heart of Main Street.

Main Street District

Bourbon

whiskey bar/restaurant
4.5

An award-winning whiskey bar and Cajun-Creole kitchen.

Main Street District

Motor Supply Company Bistro

cocktail bar/restaurant
4.5

Known for its artisan cocktails and refined yet relaxed atmosphere.

The Vista

Publico Kitchen & Tap

Latin-Asian restaurant/bar
4

Features Latin-Asian cuisine, a wide selection of craft beers, and a lively patio.

Five Points

Best Night Out in Columbia

A curated evening itinerary from early drinks to late-night dancing.

7–9 PMPre-Game

Start with cocktails or craft beers at a neighborhood bar. Keep it relaxed — the night is young.

Art Bar

The Vista ·

9 PM–12 AMPrime Time

Hit the main strip. Rooftop bars, live music, or a lively pub crawl through the best neighborhoods.

Rooftop Lounge

Main Street District ·

12 AM–3 AMLate Night

The clubs open up. Dance floors fill, DJs take over, and the real nightlife begins.

Art Bar

The Vista ·

Nightlife Neighborhoods

The Vista

The Vista is Columbia's arts and entertainment district, offering a vibrant mix of public art, live music venues, and lively bars. It's a popular destination for an unforgettable evening out.

Best for: Live music, art, diverse dining, and lively bars
Crowd:

Main Street District

The revitalized Main Street District serves as Columbia's cultural core, featuring upscale dining, craft cocktail bars, and cultural events. It offers a more sophisticated nightlife experience.

Best for: Craft cocktails, upscale dining, and a refined atmosphere
Crowd:

Five Points

Five Points is known as Columbia's original village neighborhood, overflowing with small businesses, eclectic nightlife, and a thriving college bar scene. It's a go-to spot for a more energetic and casual night out.

Best for: College bars, casual drinks, and lively atmosphere
Crowd:
DistrictBest ForCrowdWalk ScoreTop Venues
The VistaLive music
Main Street DistrictCraft cocktails
Five PointsCollege bars

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the nightlife like in Columbia, SC?

Columbia, SC offers a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene, with distinct atmospheres across its main entertainment districts. The Vista is known for its art, live music, and lively bars, while the Main Street District provides a more sophisticated experience with craft cocktail bars and upscale dining. Five Points caters to a younger, energetic crowd with numerous college bars and unique local establishments.

What are the best bars in Columbia, SC?

Some of the best bars in Columbia, SC include Art Bar and Tin Roof in The Vista for live music and a unique atmosphere. For craft cocktails and a more refined setting, Prohibition Columbia and Bourbon in the Main Street District are highly recommended. In Five Points, Publico Kitchen & Tap offers a great selection of craft beers and a lively patio.

What time does nightlife start in Columbia, SC?

Nightlife in Columbia, SC typically starts to pick up around 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM, especially in popular areas like The Vista and Five Points. Many bars and clubs remain open until 2:00 AM, with some establishments in Five Points catering to a later crowd.