San Diego Nightlife - San Diego’s nightlife has a bit of everything from brewpubs, hip-hop clubs, karaoke bars, country bars, to upscale establishments. There are a number of bars and clubs throughout San Diego, but most are on 4th, 5th and 6th Avenues in the Gaslamp Quarter. This makes it easy to jump from club to club whenever you want. Just remember all the clubs charge; however, if you get to some early enough you can get in before they start charging a cover.

Finding a parking spot on Friday or Saturday Nights can be difficult. Public transportation is highly recommended. The San Diego Trolley has numerous stops in downtown, which makes it easier and safer to enjoy the nightlife. Taxis and pedi-cabs are other options and of course you can walk since everything downtown is fairly close together.

The Gaslamp Quarter isn’t the only area offering outstanding clubs and bars. Those in Pacific Beach and Mission Beach are much more laid back and you can get away with a more relaxed dress style. Most are within a block or two of the beach and have outdoor patios where the breeze is cool and salty, which is great in the summertime. Unfortunately the Trolley doesn’t have stops in either of these places, but parking isn’t too bad.

Coronado Island has a few great bars and clubs as well. They can get quite packed on the weekends since Coronado is home to the North Island Naval Station, but don’t think the clubs are just for military personnel. Anyone is welcome to have a good time.

If it’s Country & Western you desire, San Diego has several great country bars. Besides country music, some start playing hip-hop and rock later in the night. Get there early and take advantage of the free dance lessons.

Depending on your mood you can find a club anywhere in San Diego that will satisfy your music tastes. Most clubs have DJ’s that mix it up by playing ‘80s dance tunes one night then disco or techno the next. However, there are plenty of clubs that have live music. For a more complete listing visit www.sandiegoclubs.com or check the entertainment section at www.signonsandiego.com.

On Broadway Event Center
615 Broadway
San Diego, CA 92101
1-619-231-0011
On Broadway is one of San Diego’s most lavish establishments. On the weekends it’s a high-energy dance club, complete with a 90,000-watt sound system, and offering three different levels of music. On other nights the venue is available for private use. It’s not cheap, but it’s a great way to experience the high-life.

Dick’s Last Resort
345 4th Ave.
San Diego, CA 92101
1-619-231-9100
If rowdiness, attitude, and a 23-ounce glass of beer are what you want then Dick’s the place. The décor is loud as well as the crowds and even the servers! Dick’s offers buckets of grub and although silverware is optional, you might want to wear a bib. It can get messy. Get there early. It gets crowded, especially when live bands take the stage.

Croce’s Restaurant and Jazz Bar
802 5th Ave.
San Diego, CA 92101
1-619-233-4355
Ingrid Croce, wife of the late singer Jim Croce, owns this popular spot that is actually several venues in one. Latin and contemporary jazz can be heard at the Jazz Bar, while R&B plays at the Top Hat Bar. The restaurant serves upscale American cuisine and patrons get complimentary entrance to both bars. With it’s relaxed atmosphere it’s the perfect ending to a wild night.

In Cahoots Dance Hall & Saloon
5373 Mission Center Rd.
San Diego, CA 92108
1-619-291-8635
With live country bands, pool tables, an outdoor patio, and a DJ that likes to rock on occasion, this place is the spot to experience country western San Diego style. Lots of drink specials and typical, but tasty, bar food causes this place to get packed. Don’t’ worry there’s plenty of parking and cowboy boots aren’t required.

The Field Irish Pub & Restaurant
544 5th Ave.
San Diego, CA 92101
1-619-232-9840
Now this is San Diego’s version of an Irish Pub and restaurant. Everything is imported from Ireland – the wood used to build the place, the decorations, the kitchen utensils, even the staff! But don’t just enjoy the killer drinks. The food is as authentic as everything else is. The patio is a great place to relax and people watch. Or sit inside and watch the cloggers and listen to some Irish tunes.

McP’s Irish Pub & Grill
1107 Orange Ave.
Coronado, CA 92118
1-619-435-5280
Though not as authentic as The Field, McP’s is still another great Irish Pub. Located next to North Island Naval Station and one of only a few clubs on the island, it may seem like a military pub, but it’s not. Live music, good food, and reasonably priced drinks make this a popular weekend hangout.

Pacific Beach Bar & Grill
860 Garnet Ave.
San Diego, CA 92109
1-858-272-1242
There are a number of bars in Pacific Beach, but this is the best place to start. Only a block from the beach, you’ll be able to enjoy the cool ocean air while you dine on some of the best grub in P.B. Club Tremors opens its doors onto the patio so music can be heard throughout the premises. After dinner take a turn on the dance floor or sit back, sip your drink, and enjoy the big screen TV’s.

Henry’s Pub
618 5th Ave.
San Diego, CA 92101
1-619-238-2389
This casual Finnish pub offers over 50 ales, pilsners, and ports and over 54 imported beers (from Belgium, England, Germany, Ireland, Scotland, Mexico, etc.). With drinking games, live music, dancing, and great food it’s no wonder Henry’s is such a popular hangout, not just on weekends, but any day of the week. On Sunday’s come live the karaoke experience. After a “Finnish Guinness” you just might find yourself up on stage singing a song or two.