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Indianapolis Nightlife

From laid-back breweries to high-energy dance clubs, Indy's nightlife has something for everyone.

Best Bars in Indianapolis

6 venues

The Ball & Biscuit

cocktail bar
4.2
$$

Indy's original cocktail bar specializing in classic and creative cocktails.

Mass Ave4pm-12am

Vintage and modern, laid back and sophisticated.

Nicky Blaine's Cocktail Lounge

cocktail bar
3.9
$$

Known for its extensive martini and scotch selection, and for being a cigar-friendly establishment.

Mile Square4pm-2am

Old-school, dimly lit, with leather chairs and a cinematic feel.

The Vault Indy

cocktail bar
4.4
$$

Entering through a bank vault door with a secret code.

Bates Hendricks4pm-12am

A true speakeasy with a secret entrance, specializing in bourbon and tequila.

Dorman Street Saloon

dive bar
4.2
$

A classic dive bar with a great beer selection and a pool table.

Cottage Home3pm-3am

Unpretentious and welcoming with an eclectic crowd.

Sam's Silver Circle Bar

dive bar
4.2
$

Known for its cheap prices, great pizza, and karaoke nights.

Fountain Square10am-3am

A classic dive bar with walls covered in memorabilia.

The Inferno Room

cocktail bar
4.3
$$

A transportive tiki experience with a vast rum selection and expertly crafted tropical drinks.

Fountain Square4pm-11pm

Exotic island-themed bar with a fascinating collection of artifacts.

Best Night Out in Indianapolis

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.

The Ball & Biscuit

Mass Ave · $$

9 PM–12 AMPrime Time

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

12 AM–3 AMLate Night

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

The Vogue

Broad Ripple · $$

Nightlife Neighborhoods

Broad Ripple

A vibrant, youthful neighborhood known for its high concentration of bars, live music venues, and late-night eateries. It's a popular spot for college students and young professionals.

Best for: Bar hopping and live music
Crowd: Young and energetic
Walk Score: 75/100
The VoguePlump's Last ShotThe Red Room

Fountain Square

A quirky and artistic neighborhood with a diverse mix of bars, restaurants, and entertainment options. It has a more laid-back and alternative vibe compared to other nightlife districts.

Best for: Unique bars, live music, and a hipster scene
Crowd: Hip and artistic
Walk Score: 85/100
The Inferno RoomSam's Silver Circle BarImbibe

Mass Ave

A trendy and upscale neighborhood known for its cocktail lounges, wine bars, and theaters. It's a great place for a sophisticated night out.

Best for: Craft cocktails and a classy atmosphere
Crowd: Young professionals and adults
Walk Score: 90/100
The Ball & BiscuitLibertine Liquor BarBurnside Inn

Wholesale District

The heart of downtown Indianapolis, the Wholesale District is home to many of the city's major sports venues, concert halls, and high-end nightclubs.

Best for: Pre- and post-event drinks and high-energy nightlife
Crowd: A mix of sports fans, concert-goers, and party-seekers
Walk Score: 95/100
INVY NightclubKilroy's Bar & GrillBrothers Bar & Grill
DistrictBest ForCrowdWalk ScoreTop Venues
Broad RippleBar hopping and live musicYoung and energetic
75
The VoguePlump's Last Shot
Fountain SquareUnique barsHip and artistic
85
The Inferno RoomSam's Silver Circle Bar
Mass AveCraft cocktails and a classy atmosphereYoung professionals and adults
90
The Ball & BiscuitLibertine Liquor Bar
Wholesale DistrictPre- and post-event drinks and high-energy nightlifeA mix of sports fans
95
INVY NightclubKilroy's Bar & Grill

Local Nightlife Tips

  • Ride-sharing services are readily available and recommended, especially if you plan on drinking.
  • Many bars and clubs have a dress code, so it's always a good idea to check before you go.
  • Some of the more popular spots can get crowded, especially on weekends, so consider making reservations or arriving early.
  • Indianapolis is a very walkable city, especially in the downtown area, so consider exploring different neighborhoods on foot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best neighborhood for nightlife?

It depends on what you're looking for! Broad Ripple is great for a lively, party atmosphere, while Mass Ave is perfect for a more sophisticated night out. Fountain Square offers a more alternative and artistic scene, and the Wholesale District is the place to be for major events.

What time do bars close?

Most bars in Indianapolis close at 3am, but some may close earlier, especially on weekdays. It's always a good idea to check the hours of the specific bar you plan on visiting.

Is there a cover charge?

Some nightclubs and music venues may have a cover charge, especially on weekends or for special events. It's best to check the venue's website or social media for information on cover charges.