The very best 12 nightlife spots in Seattle, United States

If the term "nightlife" conjures up images of swanky clubs and posh bars, then Seattle is here to break the mold and hand you a refreshing drink on the side. Prepare to be dazzled by the hip, yet quirky, spots this city has to offer. From grungy dive bars serving craft cocktails to underground venues hidden behind bookshops, Seattle's nightlife scene is as unique as the city itself. So, grab your flannel shirt and your trusty plaid pants and hit up the 12 best nightspots - but be warned, Seattle's lively spirits may just have you dancing in the rain!

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1. Canon

4.5 (1397)

928 12th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122, USA

Welcome to Canon in Seattle, the epitome of eccentricity and liquid indulgence! As you step into this whimsical wonderland, situated in Capitol Hill, you'll find yourself transported into a spirited cocktail utopia. Prepare to be amazed by their vast collection of over 3,500 spirits, curated with the zeal of a caffeine-fueled squirrel on a quest for the perfect libation. The bartenders at Canon are not just mixologists; they are true cocktail spelunkers, endlessly exploring the depths of flavor with precision and creativity. Whether you're seeking a classic concoction or an imaginative potion, these alchemists will astound you with their mad wizardry. Just be sure to bring your sense of adventure and an elastic waistband, for Canon embodies both extravagant hedonism and relentless tastiness! Considered by many as an altar for those who worship the art of mixology, Canon is more than a cocktail bar; it's a voyage through time and spirits, complete with flickering candlelight, timeless jazz melodies, and an ambiance that drips with charm and mystery. So, grab a seat and prepare for an experience that will leave you both shaken and stirred, in the most delightful way possible.

www.canonseattle.com

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2. The Dunbar Room at Hotel Sorrento

4.1 (57)

Dunbar Room, 900 Madison St, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

Nestled within the charming confines of Hotel Sorrento, The Dunbar Room beckons guests with the allure of timeless elegance and culinary delights. As you step into this swanky establishment, prepare to be whisked away to a bygone era where polished wood accents, soft candlelight, and plush banquettes conspire to create an atmosphere that even the Great Gatsby would find envy-inducing. Whether you're a food aficionado seeking gastronomic adventure or simply a weary traveler in dire need of a scrumptious meal, The Dunbar Room guarantees to make your taste buds dance with joy, offering a delectable fusion of Pacific Northwest cuisine and comforting classics that will leave you grinning from ear to ear like a well-fed Cheshire cat.

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3. Unicorn

4.4 (3574)

1118 E Pike St, Seattle, WA 98122, USA

Welcome to Unicorn, a whimsical and wacky wonderland tucked away in the vibrant city of Seattle! This quirky and colorful carnival-themed bar promises an experience like no other. Step into a world that combines retro arcade games with deliciously bizarre cocktails, all while surrounded by flamboyant decor reminiscent of a psychedelic circus tent. Prepare to embark on a magical adventure as you sip on concoctions like "Cotton Candy Cosmo" and "Rainbow Unicorn Tears," sure to bring out your inner child (and possibly transport you to an alternate universe!). As you navigate through the neon-lit wonderland, be sure to check out their wide array of arcade games ranging from classic pinball machines to vintage shooting games - a perfect way to challenge your company and unleash your competitive spirit. In true Unicorn fashion, don't be surprised if you encounter an eccentric mix of locals and tourists alike; this whimsical joint is notorious for attracting a crowd of offbeat characters and free-spirited individuals. So, whether you're looking to unleash your inner unicorn or simply seeking a truly one-of-a-kind night out, Unicorn in Seattle is a magical spot that promises to leave you with unforgettable memories and hopefully, a slightly buzzed grin on your face.

www.unicornseattle.com

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4. The Upstairs

4.5 (118)

2209 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, USA

Welcome to The Upstairs in Seattle, where the name is as straightforward as the concept itself. Located above average ground level, this quirky establishment offers a unique vantage point of the city – quite literally. With only stairs as the entrance, it ensures that only those with appropriately working legs (or bionic enhancements) can indulge in its unparalleled views. So, if you're tired of ground-level views and yearn for a calf workout with panoramic sights, The Upstairs has got you covered – just make sure to watch your step while living it up on the upper echelons of Seattle.

www.theupstairsseattle.com

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5. Bathtub Gin & Co.

4.5 (1158)

2205 2nd Ave #310, Seattle, WA 98121, USA

Welcome to the eccentric oasis known as Bathtub Gin & Co., where the unexpected awaits thirsty travelers in the heart of Seattle. Nestled discreetly beneath the streets of Belltown, this speakeasy-inspired gem offers a whimsical escape from the mundane. With an extensive list of handcrafted cocktails that could rival a wizard's potions collection, their mixologists will have you feeling like a liquid alchemist, simply sipping away the day's worries. So, grab your flapper dress or fedora, seek out the mysterious bathtub on the corner, and prepare to take a sip back in time.

bathtubginseattle.com

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6. Knee High Stocking Co.

4.5 (485)

1356 E Olive Wy, Seattle, WA 98122, USA

Welcome to Knee High Stocking Co., a delightful Seattle establishment that is sure to tickle your taste buds and quench your thirst! Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Capitol Hill, this whimsical watering hole offers a truly magical experience. From the moment you step through the charming, knee-high red door, you'll be transported to a bygone era of speakeasies and forbidden libations. Prepare to indulge in expertly crafted cocktails that will have you feeling like a bootlegger with a touch of class. Trust us, Knee High Stocking Co. is the bee's knees of Seattle's bar scene!

www.kneehighstocking.com

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7. The Pine Box

4.4 (1331)

1600 Melrose Ave, Seattle, WA 98122, USA

Welcome to The Pine Box in Seattle, where you can experience the unique sensation of drinking amongst the dearly departed. This former funeral home turned stylish beer hall invites you to sip your brew while contemplating life, death, and the perfect food pairing. Don't worry, though, the ghosts here are quite friendly - they won't ask for a sip of your beer, but they might just raise their glasses in approval from beyond the grave. So grab a stool, raise your glass, and let The Pine Box remind you that life is too short to take beer, or ourselves, too seriously.

www.pineboxbar.com

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8. Shorty's

4.3 (1011)

2316 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, USA

Welcome to Shorty's, where greasy burgers and quirky clown decor collide for a truly eccentric experience in the heart of Seattle! This hidden gem of a dive bar will transport you to a nostalgic wonderland, guaranteed to leave you questioning if you've stumbled into a circus or a jukebox-filled time machine. With its retro arcade games, mismatched furniture, and a drink list that could make even a clown blush, Shorty's is definitely not your typical watering hole.

www.shortydog.com

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9. Damn the Weather

4.4 (1180)

116 1st Ave S, Seattle, WA 98104, USA

Nestled in the heart of Seattle's Pioneer Square, Damn the Weather is a delightful little spot that embraces the city's notorious drizzle rather than shying away from it. Step inside and be prepared to be 'damn' impressed by their inventive cocktails that will make you forget all about the impending gloom outside. The rustic yet charming décor adorned with vintage knick-knacks offers the perfect setting to sip on your drink and ponder why Seattleites are so obsessed with weather forecasts.

www.damntheweather.com

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10. Zig Zag Cafe

4.6 (1019)

1501 Western Ave Ste 202, Seattle, WA 98101, USA

Nestled in the heart of Seattle, Zig Zag Cafe is a cozy den for those seeking respite from the drizzling rain or the friendly haze. With more spirits than a haunted house and an atmosphere that's as convivial as a family reunion, this joint offers a refuge for the weariest of souls. So grab a seat, prepare thy liver, and dive headfirst into the exhilarating world of mixology, where drinks are crafted with more expertise than Picasso's art and packed with enough flavor to make your taste buds do the tango. Cheers!

zigzagseattle.com

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11. The Pike Brewing Company

4.3 (1653)

1415 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98101, USA

Tucked away in the heart of Seattle, The Pike Brewing Company is a boozy oasis where hops enthusiasts unite. This beloved establishment is not your average brewery; it's like a hoppy Disneyland without the screaming children. As you step into this beer wonderland, prepare yourself for an adventure filled with aromatic brews, friendly beer nerds, and possibly more beards than a dwarf convention.

www.pikebrewing.com

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12. The Crocodile

4.4 (2209)

2505 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, USA

Nestled within the vibrant city of Seattle lies a quirky gem known as The Crocodile, a haven for music lovers and party enthusiasts alike. This legendary music venue has stood the test of time, sporting an eclectic decor that would make any rockstar shed a tear of joy. Unleash your inner music aficionado as you bask in the company of locals who can out-hum any Seattle seagull, and get ready for a night of toe-tapping beats and unforgettable memories.

www.thecrocodile.com

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Seattle by plane is to fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. There are many airlines that fly into this airport from all over the world including United Airlines, Delta, and Alaska Airlines.

Car

The best way to get to Seattle by car is to take the I-5 highway if coming from the north or south. If coming from the east, take either the I-90 or US-2 highway. Traffic can be heavy during peak times so plan accordingly.

Train

Currently, there are no passenger train services that go directly to Seattle. However, Amtrak does operate a train that goes to nearby Tacoma. From there, passengers can take a bus or taxi to reach Seattle.

Boat

The best way to get to Seattle by boat is to take a ferry. The Washington State Ferries are a popular option for passengers coming from nearby islands or the Olympic Peninsula. The downtown Seattle ferry terminal is located at Pier 52 and serves multiple ferry routes.

Bus

The best way to get to Seattle by bus is to take Greyhound. Greyhound has many locations throughout the United States and has a station located in downtown Seattle.

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