The very best 12 nightlife spots in Philadelphia, United States

Welcome to the City of Brotherly Love, where the night comes alive and the spirits (both liquid and spectral) roam freely. Philadelphia, home to passionate sports fans and even more passionate drinkers, boasts a plethora of nocturnal haunts. Dive into the charming complexity of Time, where jazz and whiskey flow like a well-conducted symphony. Visit Franklin Mortgage and Investment Co. for a taste of prohibition-era glamour, where bartenders craft enchanting concoctions that could make even Benjamin Franklin himself raise an eyebrow. Finally, venture into the realms of fairytale at Hop Sing Laundromat, an ostentatiously hidden gem that greets you with a quirky street sign and serves mind-blowing cocktails that warrant their own bedtime stories.

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1. Frankford Hall

4.5 (2860)

1210 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125, USA

Welcome to Frankford Hall, the quintessential German beer garden in the heart of Philadelphia, where beer flows like water (almost) and the atmosphere is as lively as a lederhosen-clad chicken. Prepare to feast your eyes on long communal tables that can comfortably accommodate even the tallest of giants, and indulge in a bountiful selection of bratwursts that are as delicious as they are difficult to pronounce correctly. Don't forget to challenge your friends to a fierce game of Jenga, because what's more exciting than risking it all while balancing two-foot tall wooden blocks after one too many steins of beer?

www.frankfordhall.com

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2. The Dandelion

4.6 (4003)

124 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA

Welcome to The Dandelion, Philadelphia's charming British-inspired pub where pints and witty banter flow seamlessly. Step inside and be transported across the pond as you soak up the quirky atmosphere, complete with walls adorned with vintage London bus signs and cozy fireplaces that make you feel like you've stumbled into Sherlock Holmes' favorite haunt. Embrace your inner Anglophile and indulge in their delightful comfort food, from classic fish and chips to hearty shepherd's pie that will have your taste buds applauding with a standing ovation.

thedandelionpub.com

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3. McGillin's Olde Ale House

4.4 (3564)

1310 Drury St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA

In the heart of Philadelphia lies McGillin's Olde Ale House, an institution of merriment and gastronomic delights. This charming establishment proudly boasts an ambiance that could transport you to the bygone era of jovial camaraderie mingling in the air alongside the faint scent of ale-soaked history. As you step inside, be prepared to traverse quaint nooks and crannies adorned with timeless decorations and walls that whisper stories of countless folks who have quenched their thirst and widened their smiles within its hallowed halls.

www.mcgillins.com

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4. Johnny Brenda's

4.4 (1705)

1201 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125, USA

Welcome to Johnny Brenda's, the hippest and quirkiest joint in the City of Brotherly Love! With its name sounding like a stylish café-owner-slash-rockstar, this place is a melting pot of awesome vibes, killer tunes, and mouthwatering eats. Nestled in the heart of Fishtown, prepare to embark on an adventure where old-school charm meets quirky, modern sophistication. Once you step foot inside Johnny Brenda's, it's like being transported to a hidden world where coolness reigns supreme. Imagine vintage-meets-hipster decor, illuminated by charmingly mismatched light fixtures that provide the perfect ambiance for your Instagram posts. Whether you're a music aficionado or just looking for a snazzy spot to grab a cold brewski, this joint has got your back. But hey, let's not forget the most important part: the grub! Johnny Brenda's boasts a menu that can only be described as culinary magic. From the juiciest burgers to finger-licking-good BBQ, your taste buds will be doing the tango in no time. So, whether you're looking for a rockin' night out or just craving some top-notch eats, Johnny Brenda's is your ticket to a memorable experience in Philadelphia.

www.johnnybrendas.com

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5. The Franklin Bar

4.4 (786)

1715 Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA

Welcome to The Franklin Bar, Philadelphia's charming watering hole that can make you forget Benjamin Franklin's many achievements, but not his love for a good drink. Step inside this trendy establishment and allow yourself to be transported to a place where history meets mixology, as if Bogart himself were shaking up a concoction behind the bar. With its dimly lit ambience, knowledgeable bartenders, and more craft cocktails than you can count, The Franklin Bar is bound to provide the perfect hideaway, where you can ponder life's mysteries while sipping on a drink named after Franklin's illegitimate cousin's pet ferret.

thefranklinbar.com

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6. Village Whiskey

4.4 (1299)

118 S 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA

Welcome to Village Whiskey, where the holy trinity of beef, booze, and banter come to life! Tucked away in the vibrant streets of Philadelphia, this carnivorous haven combines the charm of an old rustic tavern with the swagger of a modern whiskey den. Here, you'll devour succulent and monstrous burgers, sip on artisanal cocktails that will make your taste buds tango, and potentially leave with your belt loosened and a newfound appreciation for the phrase, "size does matter."

villagewhiskey.com

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7. The Olde Bar

4.4 (999)

125 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA

Welcome to The Olde Bar, a charming and historical establishment in Philadelphia that boasts an atmosphere as timeless as sunscreen stains on your shirt. Nestled in the iconic Old City, this delightful bar serves up cocktails that will have you wondering if you accidentally stumbled upon Hogwarts' secret potion stash. With its exposed brick walls and dim lighting, The Olde Bar is the perfect setting to enjoy a drink or two while pondering life's burning questions, like why French fries always taste better when stolen from someone else's plate.

theoldebar.com

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8. Fette Sau

4.4 (1379)

1208 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125, USA

Nestled in the heart of Philadelphia lies Fette Sau, a barbecue haven where carnivores unite. The scent of smoked meat wafts through the air, enticing even the most indecisive eaters. As you step inside, prepare yourself for a mouthwatering experience that will leave your taste buds singing a sweet, smoky symphony - just be sure to bring your stretchy pants, because indulgence is the name of the game here.

fettesauphilly.com

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9. Southwark

Southwark, Philadelphia, PA 19147, USA

Welcome to Southwark, Philadelphia's hidden gem or as locals like to call it "the borough of quirky charm". Known for its offbeat art scene, friendly locals, and streets that seem to lead you on an adventure of their own, Southwark is the place to be for those seeking a dash of eccentricity away from the city's hustle and bustle. Be prepared to stumble upon colorful street murals, vintage shops bursting with treasures, and a multitude of delightful eateries that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Once you step foot in Southwark, be ready to embrace the unexpected. Take a leisurely stroll down the labyrinthine streets and let yourself get delightfully lost among the mishmash of architectural styles, from historic row houses to artsy lofts that look like they were designed by a band of mischievous unicorns. Don't be surprised if you find yourself face to face with a statue of a giant pigeon wearing a mini top hat, Southwark loves its unexpected surprises! Feeling peckish? Southwark has got you covered with a delightful array of culinary adventures. From neighborhood cafes where the baristas get to know your caffeine preferences better than your grandmother, to rustic family-owned diners dishing out mouthwatering comfort food that will make your belly sing with joy. You might even stumble upon a food truck selling the latest food trend - cheesesteak-filled donut burgers (don't knock it till you've tried it!). Southwark is a foodie’s paradise with eccentricity on the side.

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10. Bob & Barbara's Lounge

4.6 (473)

1509 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19146, USA

Welcome to Bob & Barbara's Lounge, the delightful dive bar where you can embrace Philly's unique charms while sipping on a Lizard Punch. Stepping inside feels like stumbling upon an eccentric aunt's living room, decked out with mismatched furniture and disco balls hanging from the ceiling – a hodgepodge worthy of a hipster hoarder. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the spectacle of the infamous drag show, where even the most confident can feel overdressed as the performers bring next-level fabulosity to the stage.

www.bobandbarbaras.com

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11. The Ranstead Room

4.6 (590)

2013 Ranstead St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA

Welcome to The Ranstead Room, where the cocktails flow like a river and the dimly lit ambience makes you feel like a secret agent (minus the dangerous missions). Located in Philadelphia, this hidden gem is so inconspicuous that finding it might require the skills of Sherlock Holmes, Indiana Jones, and a pinch of luck. Once inside, prepare to be transported to a bygone era when mustaches were all the rage, and mixologists elevated bartending to an art form that even Van Gogh would appreciate.

ransteadroom.com

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12. Standard Tap

4.5 (1075)

901 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19123, USA

Nestled in the heart of Philadelphia, Standard Tap awaits with open arms and frosty mugs, ready to charm your taste buds. This lively tavern is the ultimate spot to cozy up and enjoy delectable bites and exceptional craft brews. With its casual atmosphere and a menu that'll make your stomach dance a jig, Standard Tap is a must-visit on any beer lover's itinerary.

www.standardtap.com

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Philadelphia by plane is to fly into Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) which has international and domestic flights available.

Car

Driving to Philadelphia via Interstate 95 is a convenient option for those coming from nearby cities.

Train

Amtrak offers train services to Philadelphia's 30th Street Station from various cities across the United States.

Boat

While there are no direct boat routes to Philadelphia, passengers can arrive in Philadelphia via a cruise to nearby cities such as New York or Baltimore and then take ground transportation to Philadelphia.

Bus

Greyhound and Megabus provide bus services to Philadelphia from various U.S. cities.

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