For all its hustle and bustle during the day, Atlanta truly comes alive after dark! The Atlanta nightlife scene is energetic and diverse, with plenty of spirited and laid-back fun.
Whether you’re a local looking to discover something new or a visitor eager to explore the city, there’s no shortage of things to do in Atlanta at night.
In this guide, you’ll find some of the best ways to experience Atlanta nightlife – whether you’re looking for an outgoing night on the town or a more relaxed evening under the stars.
A few of our favorite Atlanta nightlife ideas:
- Attend a unique and delicious 1920s-inspired dinner!
- Go bar-hopping on Edgewood Avenue or in East Atlanta Village
- Explore Atlanta’s museums after dark
- Stargaze or take a “full moon walk” during a guided nocturnal nature experience
- Catch a show at Lips, or practice your own performing talents at karaoke!
- Dance the night away at Atlanta’s nightclubs
In this post, you’ll find:
- Unique Atlanta date ideas for after work or weekend evenings
- Fun nighttime activities for Atlanta tourists and locals
- Atlanta nightlife suggestions for foodies, art lovers, and concert-goers
- Ideas to explore the LGBTQ+ and gay nightlife Atlanta scene
Atlanta Food & Drink Experiences After Dark
Prohibition Progressive Dinner
This 3 hour gourmet food and co*cktail dinner is the cat’s pajamas! The Prohibition Progressive Dinner gets you exclusive access to the best spots in Downtown Atlanta. Peek at the real Coca-Cola vault and experience the city’s stunning skyline from a rotating rooftop!
Along the way, try sumptuous food and drinks from acclaimed local chefs as our fun, friendly 1920s character guide shares how Atlanta kept the party going throughout Prohibition. You’ll take a short stroll through Downtown, home to some of Atlanta’s most happening (and hidden) destinations.
Includes 9 hearty tastings and 3 swanky full-size co*cktails from 4 restaurants, with one all-inclusive ticket price. Perfect for an anniversary or birthday dinner, or just a fun night out! You can also book this as a private group experience for corporate teams and social events.
Go Bar-Hopping on Edgewood Avenue
Looking for a fun night of bar-hopping? Head to Edgewood Avenue near Downtown Atlanta! Here, you’ll see Georgia State University students along with a diverse mix of other locals. Whether you want to dance, sip, or people-watch, Edgewood Ave has something for everyone.
Start your night at Joystick Gamebar for nostalgic, laid-back fun. This retro arcade bar serves up craft beers, wings, Korean corn dogs, and more alongside classic video games. Age 21+ after 8pm.
Then, head across the street to Mambo Zombi for artful co*cktails and a colorful atmosphere. They regularly host fun events like K-pop nights, live music, trivia, and more.
End your adventure at Sister Louisa’s Church of the Living Room (age 21+)! This quirky, art-filled bar is known for its irreverent vibe and Ping-Pong tables. Be warned: the art on the walls isn’t for the faint of heart, using religious iconography to share messages that spark conversations and raise eyebrows.
Bonus Idea: Explore Edgewood Avenue by Day!
Spending time near Edgewood earlier in the day? Book a ticket for our Historic Market Food Tour + Biscuit Class! During this 2-hour Atlanta foodie experience, you’ll try 9 mouthwatering tastings (enough for a hearty lunch) in Atlanta’s oldest market. Plus, try your hand at making fluffy Southern-style biscuits in a guided class! Watch the 1-minute preview video above to learn more.
Experience East Atlanta Village at Night
Nightlife in East Atlanta Village (EAV) is all about eclectic vibes and a sense of community. This is where dive bars, music venues, and unique hangouts come together for an authentic Atlanta experience.
Start your night with craft co*cktails at Argosy. Their wood-fired pizzas, homestyle dishes, and creative drinks make for a perfect start to your evening. Then, catch a show at The Earl (21+), a beloved Atlanta institution for 25+ years! The Earl offers live music and a solid menu of bar food classics and snacks, including vegetarian-friendly options.
For a fun night of dancing, head to a themed DJ dance party at The Basem*nt! Be sure to also check out Mary’s, a queer bar that proudly shares it has been “named by the Logo Channel and Out Magazine as one of the best gay bars in the world.”
End your night at Banshee (pictured above) for co*cktails and “screamin’ weenies” until 2am on Friday and Saturday nights!
Late-Night Atlanta Eats
Atlanta is home to plenty of late-night dining spots. Below are a few favorites for an after-hours bite. Note: all times listed are current at time of publishing; check hours with each restaurant ahead of time for the latest information.
- R. Thomas Deluxe Grill: An Atlanta staple for 30+ years, this eclectic restaurant is open 7am-5am Weds-Sun with a diverse and delicious menu. This spot is especially great for vegetarians and gluten-free diners!
- Waffle House: While hours can vary, most of the 100+ metro Atlanta locations are open 24 hours! Enjoy classic breakfast staples in an unfussy environment. If you’ve never been to Waffle House, it’s a must!
- Buford Highway: Eat your way through late-night restaurants on Atlanta’s globally diverse Buford Highway. Find authentic eats from around the world and try new flavors or familiar favorites. End your night at Karaoke Melody, open until 2:30am Thurs-Sat!
- Java Lords: Grab a late night cup of coffee at this Little 5 Points coffee bar – also featuring a full co*cktail bar! Open until midnight (“or whenever we want”) on Friday-Sunday.
- Sublime Doughnuts: open 24 hours in North Druid Hills and near Georgia Tech.
For more fun, explore our guide to the best co*cktail bars in Atlanta!
Art & Culture Atlanta Nightlife
Catch a Concert in the Capital of the South
Atlanta is home to world-class concert venues, attracting the best musical acts in the business. Browse upcoming shows from top artists at Mercedes-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena. Or, attend more intimate shows at neighborhood spots like Eddie’s Attic in Decatur, Smith’s Olde Bar near Ansley Park, or Variety Playhouse in Little 5 Points.
You can also head to the Masquerade at Underground Atlanta for a wide variety of shows – but especially rock, grunge, metal, and pop punk. Jazz fans canventure north of the city to The Velvet Note, a standout jazz club in Alpharetta. Sip co*cktails while dining on upscale Southern comfort food and listening to legendary jazz acts.
Watch a Movie at The Plaza or Starlight Drive-In
Break out of the couch and streaming routine and catch a flick the old-fashioned way – at the theater!
The Plaza Theatre is Atlanta’s oldest operating independent operating cinema – and the city’s only indie theatre! Head here for cult classics and lesser-known, beloved movies. Plus, don’t miss The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Atlanta’s longest-running shadowcast! The Plaza Theatre also hosts special events and fun screenings with costume contests, drink specials, and more.
Another idea: head to the Starlight Drive-In! Bring the family or your special someone and watch the latest releases from the comfort of your car. Pack your favorite snacks and dinner, or buy refreshments from the on-site stand!
Pro tip:Film buffs can support local by renting from Videodrome, Atlanta’s only video rental store, in the Poncey-Highlands neighborhood. They have a great collection of unique and harder-to-find films, with staff members who can make recommendations based on your interests!
Explore Atlanta’s Museums after Dark
Atlanta’s arts, culture, and museum scene is vibrant and diverse. Here, you’ll find world-class institutions alongside a thriving community of galleries, theaters, and public art.
For a night of gallery hopping, head to the Castleberry Hill Historic Arts District near Downtown Atlanta. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this neighborhood is known for its many diverse art galleries and arts-infused events like the neighborhood loft stroll.
You can also head to the High Museum for Friday night fun on the first and third Friday of each month! This Midtown museum is renowned for its permanent collections as well as special exhibitions and programming.
Or, visit Fernbank Museum of Natural History (pictured above) on the second Friday of each month for Fernbank After Dark: adult science nights for ages 21+. For a family-friendly event, attend “Fernbank…but Later,” offered on select Friday nights with fun science-based activities!
Looking for daytime ideas to explore Atlanta’s art scene? Book the to discover how Atlanta’s street art carries out the mission of the city’s historic changemakers. This family-friendly tour offers an insider’s look at our city’s unique history and art!
Nocturnal Nature & Stargazing Experiences
Full Moon Night Walks in Mason Mill Park
If you hear “nightlife” and think of raccoons, possums, and owls instead of co*cktails, bar-hopping, and parties, this one’s for you! Sign up for a guided Full Moon Night Walk with charismatic Ranger Jonah and enjoy the forest after dark.
This monthly experience is a special chance to explore Mason Mill Park and the South Peachtree Creek Trail (pictured above, at dusk) after they close for the evening. Be sure to wear hiking clothes and bring your flashlight or headlamp and water!
Pre-registration is required on the Mason Mill Park Naturalist Eventbrite page to secure your spot. Their calendar also lists daytime events including edible nature walks, “intro to birding” meetups, kids’ events, and bilingual (Spanish) programs. Most events are free to join!
Stargazing Hikes & Sunsets on the Water with REI
If you’re an outdoors enthusiast, you’re probably familiar with REI’s stores – but did you know they also offer a lineup of guided nature experiences?
Local recurring programs include an Arabia Mountain Starlight Hike, sunset kayak tours, and dusk-time Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) classes. Many events take place at various Georgia state parks. Search REI’s Classes & Events page to find upcoming programs in your area. One major perk: avoiding sunburns and humidity!
More Atlanta Nightlife Fun
Dance the Night Away at Atlanta Nightclubs
When you need to get out there and leave it all on the dance floor – these are the spots for you!
Head to Sanctuary Nightclub in Buckhead for 21+ themed evening events. Check out “Culture Thursdays” with Reggaeton, Afrobeats, and Tech House; “Latin Fridays” featuring the best in Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Latin Pop, and more – and “LGBTQ Saturdays” for an inclusive and affirming space.
Other popular spots include District Atlanta (a 2-story converted warehouse space near Peachtree Hills) and MJQ Concourse in Poncey-Highlands.
Catch a Show at Lips – “The Ultimate in Drag Dining”
A show at Lips Atlanta is a dazzling, high-energy experience where glamour meets entertainment.
As you step into this chandelier-adorned venue, you’re immediately immersed in an atmosphere of celebration and inclusivity. The performers, with their stunning costumes and flawless makeup, deliver electrifying lip-sync performances, comedic skits, and dance numbers that keep the audience cheering all night long.
Whether you’re there for dinner and a show or a special event, Lips is sure to provide an unforgettable night out!
Keep the good times going with our post on Fun Things to Do in Atlanta for Adults! Or, discover Atlanta fun for all ages with The Ultimate Atlanta 3-Day Itinerary. Whichever activities you choose, we hope to see you soon on on of our top-rated food and history experiences!
