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LIVE MAPPA

Pittsburgh Nightlife

Experience the Steel City's vibrant and diverse nightlife, from historic dive bars to upscale cocktail lounges.

Best Bars in Pittsburgh

10 venues

Acacia

cocktail bar
4.7
$$$

Known for high-end spirits and novel creations

South SideMon-Thu 5pm-12am

Upscale speakeasy with unique cocktails

Bridges & Bourbon

cocktail bar
4.6
$$$

Creative cocktails with unique flavor profiles and customized glassware

Cultural DistrictMon-Thu 4pm-11pm

High-end, inventive cocktail bar

The Summit

cocktail bar
4.9
$$

Delicious cocktail creations and modest food menu, steps from Grandview Avenue skyline views

Mount WashingtonSun-Thu 5pm-11pm

Cozy neighborhood cocktail bar with great views

Tina's

cocktail bar
4.7
$$

Well-crafted cocktails at reasonable prices

BloomfieldMon-Wed 4pm-12:30am

Modern retro with nostalgic ambiance

The Speakeasy (Omni William Penn Hotel)

cocktail bar
4.5
$$$$

High-end creations in traditional formats, hidden within a historic hotel

DowntownVaries

Sophisticated, 1920s themed Prohibition-era bar

Emerson's Bar

cocktail bar
4.5
$$

Modest cocktail menu with house takes on classics, large space with partial Market Square views

DowntownTue-Thu 5pm-10pm

Cozy bar space with European cafe vibes

The Lion

cocktail bar
4.6
$$

Wide array of house-made infusions, regularly changing board

North Side4pm-late daily

North Side's cocktail hideout with vinyl spinning

Bar Botanico

cocktail bar
4.5
$$

Mix of house creations and classics, Bartender's Choice option

LawrencevilleMon

Vibrant, sophisticated craft cocktail experience

Co-Sign Speakeasy

cocktail bar
4.6
$$$

Hidden gem with impressive decor and craft beverages south of the city

HomesteadVaries

Proper speakeasy with Prohibition-era aesthetic

The Monks' Bar

cocktail bar
4.7
$$$

Smallest bar in Pennsylvania, great conversations with bartenders

North SideVaries

Intimate, artfully curated cocktail and beer menu

Best Night Out in Pittsburgh

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.

Acacia

South Side · $$$

9 PM–12 AMPrime Time

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

The Finch by Big Springs Spirits

South Side · $$$

12 AM–3 AMLate Night

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

Enclave

South Side · $$$

Nightlife Neighborhoods

South Side

Known for its vibrant and bustling nightlife, especially along East Carson Street, offering a mix of bars, clubs, and restaurants.

Best for: Bar hopping, lively crowds, diverse options
Crowd: Young, energetic, diverse
Walk Score: 90/100
AcaciaEnclaveThe Finch by Big Springs Spirits

Lawrenceville

A trendy and artistic neighborhood with a thriving bar scene, featuring craft cocktail bars, breweries, and unique local spots.

Best for: Craft cocktails, unique bars, trendy atmosphere
Crowd: Hip, artistic, young professionals
Walk Score: 85/100
Bar BotanicoBelvedere'sGrapperia

Downtown

The central business district offering a mix of upscale cocktail lounges, hotel bars, and entertainment venues, particularly in the Cultural District.

Best for: Upscale drinks, theater-goers, business casual
Crowd: Professionals, tourists, pre/post-show crowd
Walk Score: 95/100
The Speakeasy (Omni William Penn Hotel)Emerson's BarOllie's Gastropub

Mount Washington

Famous for its stunning panoramic views of the city skyline, offering a few elevated bars perfect for a scenic drink.

Best for: Scenic views, romantic evenings, relaxed atmosphere
Crowd: Couples, tourists, locals seeking views
Walk Score: 70/100
The Summit
DistrictBest ForCrowdWalk ScoreTop Venues
South SideBar hoppingYoung
90
AcaciaEnclave
LawrencevilleCraft cocktailsHip
85
Bar BotanicoBelvedere's
DowntownUpscale drinksProfessionals
95
The Speakeasy (Omni William Penn Hotel)Emerson's Bar
Mount WashingtonScenic viewsCouples
70
The Summit

Local Nightlife Tips

  • Explore different neighborhoods: Pittsburgh's nightlife varies greatly by district, from the lively South Side to the trendy Lawrenceville.
  • Check for happy hour specials: Many bars offer great deals on drinks and appetizers, especially during weekdays.
  • Utilize public transportation or ride-sharing: Parking can be challenging, and it's always safer to not drink and drive.
  • Dress code varies: While many places are casual, some upscale cocktail bars and nightclubs may have a dress code.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best neighborhood for nightlife in Pittsburgh?

The South Side is generally considered the most vibrant for bar hopping, while Lawrenceville offers a trendier, craft cocktail scene.

What time do bars close in Pittsburgh?

Most bars in Pittsburgh close around 2 AM, especially on weekends.

Is there a cover charge for nightclubs?

Some nightclubs, particularly on weekends or for special events, may have a cover charge. It's best to check their websites or social media in advance.