The very best 12 nightlife spots in Sacramento, United States

Welcome to Sacramento, where the nightlife scene is as vibrant as a disco ball on overdrive! In this article, we'll take you on a whirlwind tour of the city's twelve hottest spots after the sun goes down. From cheeky speakeasies tucked away in secret locations to dance floors that make even the stiffest hips shake, Sacramento's got it all. So grab your dancing shoes, your sense of adventure, and get ready to party like it's 1999 (or any other year you fancy) in California's capital city!

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1. Dive Bar

4.1 (1556)

1016 K St, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA

Welcome to Dive Bar, where the sheer absurdity of this quirky joint in Sacramento will leave you both in awe and disbelief. Picture your wildest dreams mashed together in a technicolor blender, and voila, you have Dive Bar! Brace yourself for an aquatic adventure as you sip cocktails next to a jaw-droppingly massive aquarium with mermaids swimming around—wait, what? Yes, you heard it right, mermaids! Dive Bar takes "sink or swim" to a whole new level, ensuring you have a tale to regale friends with for years to come.

divebarsacramento.com

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2. LowBrau Bierhall

4.2 (964)

1050 20th St, Sacramento, CA 95811, USA

Welcome to LowBrau Bierhall, affectionately known as the "wunderbar palace" of Sacramento's beer scene! Step into this lively biergarten and let the lederhosen-clad staff transport you straight to Bavaria, without the hassle of learning German. From the moment you enter, it's clear that the only thing they take more seriously than beer is having a good time - so loosen your belt, grab a giant pretzel, and dive into an extensive selection of craft brews that will make you wonder if it's Octoberfest every day.

www.lowbrausacramento.com

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3. The Shady Lady Saloon

4.5 (1635)

1409 R St, Sacramento, CA 95811, USA

Tucked away in the delightful city of Sacramento, you'll stumble upon The Shady Lady Saloon, a hidden gem that is guaranteed to tickle your taste buds and your funny bone. With its speakeasy atmosphere and skillfully mixed concoctions, this saloon is ready to transport you to a bygone era of bootlegged beverages and illicit merriment. Get ready to jive to the smooth tunes played by talented musicians while savoring delectable bites that will leave you both satiated and yearning for more.

shadyladybar.com

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4. Flamingo House

4.3 (810)

2315 K St, Sacramento, CA 95816, USA

Welcome to the delightful Flamingo House in fabulous Sacramento! Prepare to be charmed by the vibrant clash of pink and tropical vibes that permeate this quirky vacation rental. Nestled in the heart of the city, Flamingo House is the ultimate oasis for those seeking a unique blend of whimsy and comfort. Whether you're gazing at the flamboyantly flamboyant flamingo wallpaper or enjoying a poolside cocktail surrounded by flamboyantly flamboyant flamingo floaties, this flamboyantly flamboyant abode will surely make an unforgettable impression!

flamingohousesac.com

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5. Tank House BBQ and Bar

4.4 (1759)

1925 J St, Sacramento, CA 95811, USA

Welcome to Tank House BBQ and Bar, a meat lover's paradise nestled in the heart of Sacramento! Get ready to have your taste buds do a happy dance as you sink your teeth into their smoky, tender, and finger-licking good barbecue dishes. Be warned though, once you enter this meat haven, there's a high chance you'll never want to leave – you may find yourself involuntarily hugging the walls made of mouthwatering brisket, giving a thumbs-up to the pork ribs, and having those slow-cooked flavors infiltrate your dreams.

tankhousebbq.com

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6. Back Door Lounge

4 (22)

1112 Firehouse Alley, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA

Welcome to the Back Door Lounge in Sacramento, the place where drinks flow like a river and laughter echoes through the dimly lit rooms. Its unassuming entrance, tucked away like a secret treasure, gives you a sense of exclusivity without the need for a secret password or a wink from the doorman. Once you step inside, prepare to be dazzled by the eclectic mix of vintage furniture, mismatched chairs, and walls adorned with curious knick-knacks that seem to have their own stories to tell.

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7. The Golden Bear

4.4 (693)

2326 K St, Sacramento, CA 95816, USA

Welcome to The Golden Bear in Sacramento, where you can unleash your inner bear while enjoying some fruity drinks! This quirky watering hole, affectionately named after the iconic California state animal, is a delightful den for locals and adventurers alike. Step into this dimly lit haven and be prepared for a plethora of potent concoctions, all served with a side of bear-some charm. Don't forget to try their famous Bear Necessities cocktail – it's the berry best!

www.goldenbear916.com

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8. Kupros Craft House

4.5 (1254)

1217 21st Street, Sacramento, CA 95811, USA

Situated in sunny Sacramento, Kupros Craft House is a delightful haven for beer enthusiasts and foodies alike. With walls adorned by quirky trinkets and mismatched furniture that somehow still works, this local gem exudes a charmingly eclectic ambiance. Whether you're seeking a delicious craft brew or a scrumptious meal, Kupros Craft House will make your taste buds jump for joy like a kangaroo on a pogo stick.

www.kuproscrafthouse.com

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9. Pour House

4.3 (1834)

1132 16th St, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA

If you find yourself with an uncanny thirst for beer in Sacramento, Pour House is your haven. This unpretentious watering hole boasts an impressive selection of craft beers that could make a beer snob weep with joy. Don't be fooled by its unassuming exterior; once you step inside, you'll enter a realm where hops and camaraderie flow abundantly, making it the perfect spot to let loose and embrace your inner beer enthusiast.

www.phdowntown.com

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10. Bottle & Barlow

4.5 (491)

1120 R St, Sacramento, CA 95811, USA

Tucked away in Sacramento's blossoming R Street Corridor, Bottle & Barlow is a charming escape for those craving the perfect blend of pampering and partying. With its exposed brick walls, vintage barber chairs, and hipster-approved mixologists, this barbershop meets cocktail lounge is the swankiest spot in town to get a haircut while sipping on a finely crafted drink. So whether you're seeking a new trendy hairstyle or just thirsty for a fantastic libation, Bottle & Barlow beckons you to sit back, relax, and experience the ultimate grooming and imbibing adventure.

www.bottleandbarlow.com

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11. Coin-Op Game Room

4.4 (2567)

908 K St, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA

Welcome to Coin-Op Game Room in Sacramento, where adults can unleash their inner child and challenge their friends to epic battles in a hipster’s paradise! Get ready to enter an arcade wonderland, where vintage arcade games and craft beers unite in a harmonious blend of nostalgia and liquid courage. As you step through the doors, prepare to dance your way through Pac-Man mazes, fling balls with Skee-Ball precision, and possibly discover an impressive talent for digital karate in Street Fighter.

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12. The Red Rabbit Kitchen & Bar

4.4 (936)

2718 J St, Sacramento, CA 95816, USA

Nestled in the heart of Sacramento, The Red Rabbit Kitchen & Bar is a culinary gem that'll leave you hopping with joy. This lively hotspot combines creativity, comfort, and deliciousness, offering a menu that effortlessly leaps between traditional comfort food and eclectic dishes with an unexpected twist. From their succulent rabbit sliders to their playful cocktail concoctions, this place will have you bouncing back for more.

www.theredrabbit.net

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Sacramento via plane is to fly into Sacramento International Airport (SMF), which offers both domestic and international flights.

Car

The best way to get to Sacramento via car is to take Interstate 5, which runs North and South through the city.

Train

Although there is no direct train service to Sacramento, Amtrak's California Zephyr offers service from both the East and West coasts, arriving at the Sacramento Amtrak Station.

Boat

Although Sacramento is located on the Sacramento River, there is no direct boat service to the city. However, river cruises departing from San Francisco and other Bay Area cities often make stops in Sacramento.

Bus

The best way to get to Sacramento via bus is to take Greyhound, which offers service to the Sacramento Greyhound Station located downtown.

More guides

Budget-Friendly Sacramento: 5 Days of Fun

A trip to Sacramento on a limited budget can still be enjoyable and full of activities. Visit the California State Capitol for free tours and explore the Crocker Art Museum on their free admission days. Take a stroll along the Sacramento River and grab a bite to eat at one of the many food trucks or local restaurants.

Budget-Friendly Day Tripping in Sacramento

Sacramento, the capital of California, offers plenty of affordable activities for travelers on a budget. Visit historical landmarks like the State Capitol and Sutter's Fort, hike in nearby nature reserves, and sample local cuisine at food trucks and cheap eateries. Stay in hostels or budget hotels and take advantage of public transportation to save money on your trip to Sacramento.

Discover Sacramento's Charm in 3 Days!

As a tourist in Sacramento, one can enjoy exploring the rich history and culture of the city. Attractions such as the California State Capitol, Old Sacramento, and the Crocker Art Museum should not be missed. Additionally, outdoor enthusiasts can find ample opportunities for recreation in the nearby Sierra Nevada Mountains and Lake Tahoe.

Sacramento in 3: Budget-Friendly Fun Guide

A trip to Sacramento on a limited budget can be an enjoyable experience. Included attractions are the California State Capitol Museum, Old Sacramento State Historic Park, and the Crocker Art Museum. For affordable accommodations, travelers can consider hostels or budget hotels outside of downtown.