Star-studded, picturesque, and full of glamor, there are few cities as booming as Los Angeles. Known for its iconic Hollywood hills, pristine beaches, and youthful crowd, this is a city wherein nightlife is the only life. If there’s a place to party, it’s in Los Angeles, whether you’re looking to dance the night away, run into a celebrity, celebrate in style, or sip refined cocktails in a luxurious lounge. From massive house music venues to rooftops with stunning views, here’s a list of some of the hottest nightlife spots in Los Angeles.
2025 Los Angeles Club Events Schedule
Academy
If you’re into EDM, Academy should be your first stop. This massive venue is a party lover’s haven, complete with an expansive dance floor, laser-lit ceilings, and A-list musicians and DJs like Deadmau5 and Bassrush. In fact, the owners of Academy are the same brains behind the iconic Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC). So, expect a top-of-the-line sound system, head-shaking bass, and a crowd that stays energized until the sun starts to come up. Academy also sports a more laid-back outdoor patio with string lights and patio tables. Parking is cash only, and you might want to RSVP for free to an event on the club’s website, where you can also request a VIP table.
Avalon
Avalon is smack in the middle of Hollywood, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists. First opened almost a century ago, this iconic venue epitomizes all that Hollywood is: flashy, loud, entertaining, and a little wild. Like the rest of high-end LA architecture, this club is sprawling, with a DJ booth and dance floor upstairs and a large stage and dance floor downstairs. From headliner DJs and artists to exotic dance shows and themed nights, there’s always something big going on at Avalon. As such, you’ll want to purchase tickets, a VIP table, or both to ensure that you get in and have a good time, although tickets are also sold at the door. Likewise, take heed of the dress code and leave your beach wear at home.
Exchange
There is no shortage of quality nightclubs in Los Angeles, all with stellar sound systems, top-tier DJs, lively crowds, and good drinks. Exchange sets itself apart from the rest with four spacious floors, six full-service bars, a huge stage, VIP booths, and, as the business itself boasts, more bathrooms than any other club in Los Angeles. Located on South Spring Street, Exchange is nestled in the heart of LA, and it’s a prime location for events. Exchange has space for large private events, but its weekend shows always attract huge crowds of partiers eager to dance – we’d suggest wearing closed-toe shoes to avoid trampling your pedicure. You can expect high energy, packed dance floors, and costly drinks at Exchange. Exchange also offers group packages with pre-purchased drink deals, which might help offset the slightly steep drink prices. As always, getting a VIP table is a good idea if you’re rolling deep or want a bit more personal space. Visit their website to purchase tickets, packages, and VIP tables.
Warwick
View this post on Instagram
Los Angeles is home to most celebrities we know of, and many locals are accustomed to casually seeing famous people while running their daily errands. For out-of-towners, however, a celebrity sighting is something of a ritual, and tracking them down is like a tourist’s sport. While there are numerous establishments that celebrities are known to frequent, Warwick is one of the most well-known. An upscale nightclub, Warwick is vast and sports a stunning interior, complete with glamorous chandeliers, floral arrangements, and plush sofas. It’s not necessarily the place to go for a dance-crazy night, but it’s great for group dinners, with celebrity chef collaborations for private events and great menus. Although they have quality DJs, it’s ideal for a classier, intimate evening, especially if you reserve one of many VIP table service booths.
Precinct
View this post on Instagram
Amongst many other distinctions, Los Angeles is a city known for its vibrant gay community, and the nightlife in Los Angeles is no exception. From Hollywood to Downtown Los Angeles, rowdy LGBTQ-friendly bars with enthusiastic crowds and dance floors will give any fun-seeker FOMO. At Precinct, you can attend weekend-long drag shows, daytime drag-themed brunch (with plenty of vegan food options), gay trivia nights, go-go dance competitions, and performances from headliners including Adam Levine and Katya Zamolodchikova. This spot opened in 2015, and LA locals and tourists alike continue to see it as a cornerstone of LA’s LGBTQ nightlife. With two floors, lots of colorful lights, and plenty of space for wild Saturday night dance parties, this LGBTQ bar is an all-around good time. Don’t forget to check their social media for upcoming events.
The Rooftop at Mama Shelter
View this post on Instagram
Day or night, a rooftop bar is a dream when the view is of Los Angeles. Perched atop the pink neon-lit Mama Shelter hotel and restaurant is the Mama Shelter Rooftop Bar, both a day-drinking dream location and a picturesque place to enjoy dinner, drinks, and games. An Instagrammable bar if there ever was one, everything here is colorful and bright, including the eclectic young crowd you’ll find sprawled on rainbow-striped patio couches, playing friendly games of foosball and taking in the view of the Hollywood sign. The food at this sun-bathed spot is raved-about, from gourmet burgers to divine charcuterie boards, and their cocktails don’t disappoint. This popular spot is walk-in only and is on the pricier side. Located a block away from Hollywood Boulevard, there may be minimal parking available nearby, so plan accordingly.
The Peppermint Club
Some fairly fancy places are among the star-studded Los Angeles nightclubs. The Peppermint Club oozes exclusivity and class – even its name feels like that of a posh secret society. This dimly-lit lounge is ‘60s-themed, with groovy orange lights, funky patterned carpets, and a round, elevated stage remnant of the time. As such, guests come here expecting and receiving high-end live music performances from various genres. Drinks are named after music venues but expect them to run a bit pricy. Bottle service and VIP tables are available for reservations, which might be the only way to ensure you get a seat in this intimate space.
Frolic Room
View this post on Instagram
There are tons of booming nightclubs in Los Angeles, plenty of sleek lounges, and dive bars wherever you go. Los Angeles is a big city, so every dive bar offers something a little different. Frolic Room is just about as divey as a dive bar can get — there’s free popcorn and even a cigarette machine. At Frolic Room, you can expect an eclectic mix of a crowd you may not find elsewhere in Hollywood. This iconic, intimate spot has been in business since the 1930s, sporting big, colorful lights and a lot of Hollywood-themed decor that doesn’t really match. The crowd here is a total mix, but just about everyone is simply trying to have a good time. Expect friendly crowds, super low prices, and a chill, fun time.
Bootsy Bellows
View this post on Instagram
Everything at Bootsy Bellows is pink or sparkly. It’s a chic, glamorously decorated lounge that was made to emulate Frank Sinatra’s Palm Springs home – hence, the palm trees and the ‘40s-era decor. It’s a spacious spot known for its array of quality live performances from top-notch DJs, artists, dancers, and even puppeteers. Open on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, it’s common to see A-listers partying at this chic club, and many host parties here after big events like the Superbowl. With large, velvety booths, the VIP service here is no joke and might be a smart option for larger groups since the line to get in is always notoriously long.
Canto VI
For those who prefer sipping fine wines over dancing to thumping beats, Canto VI in Chatsworth is the place. This refined, romantic wine bar offers an exceptional selection of premium wines, making it a haven for enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Alongside its impressive wine list, Canto VI serves rustic, farm-to-table cuisine that’s both comforting and creative. With exposed brick, dim lighting, cozy wooden accents, and reasonable pricing, this intimate space is the perfect spot for date nights or relaxed outings with friends. Whether you’re exploring a bold Cabernet or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, this sophisticated bar is for those whose nightlife expectations include a well-thought-out menu and a perfect wine pairing.
No Smoking Bar
No frills, no pretenses, and absolutely no smoking — this Mid-City hotspot reinvents the dive bar experience with a focus on expertly crafted cocktails. No Smoking took over the spot that once housed the beloved Mandrake Bar. Now, it’s filling the space for locals looking for a low-key vibe with modern-ish drink offerings. Price-wise, this spot might seem more upscale than desired, but it does offer $10 well drinks and glasses of wine for happy hour. With its moody lighting, pared-down decor, and easygoing crowds, it’s a good spot for laid-back nights in Culver City. Check their social media for live music, private events, and other specials.
Honey’s at Star Love
East Hollywood’s Honey’s at Star Love feels like a secret you’re in on with the cool kids. It’s New York Brat Summer in a speakeasy LA queer bar. This neon-lit gem has everything you need for a genuinely fun night out: a bumping dance floor, tasty, no-frills drinks, and a calendar stacked with events. Nestled on Santa Monica Boulevard, this lesbian, woman-owned club leans into its anything-goes vibe with regular DJ sets, comedy nights, and drag performances. The space itself oozes it-girl aesthetic, with disco balls, bold decor, and just enough dim lighting to make you feel like the main character. If you’re planning a visit, here’s what you need to know: Honey’s typically kicks off events around 9 p.m., but the real fun heats up closer to midnight. There’s also a happy hour from 7 – 8 p.m. every night, and bottle service is available upon request. Keep an eye on their Instagram for event announcements and setlists!
Tabula Rasa
Great location, unique options, and a timelessly inviting atmosphere make Tabula Rasa a well-known must-visit for group dinners, date nights, or happy hour. Its laid-back atmosphere, complete with picnic tables and string lights, plus fantastic drinks and a rotating lineup of food pop-ups leave this spot at the perfect balance between comfortingly predictable and exciting. The trendy-yet-unpretentious spot features a curated selection of natural wines, craft beers, and creative small bites. If you’re planning a visit, here are some tips: Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 p.m. daily, featuring $9 wines by the glass and $6 beers. Seating is first come, first served, so showing up early is your best bet, especially on weekends. Expect live music, wine tastings, and other fun events, all announced on the bar’s Instagram page.
