Discover Pennsylvania's Vibrant Nightlife

Dance the night away in Philadelphia’s club scene

Top nightclubs: NOTO, Concourse, The Dolphin Tavern

Of course, the very first agenda of anyone looking for some action is to party in style! Philadelphia, the state’s largest city, boasts a full and electrifying nightlife that’s hard to beat. There are clubs like NOTO and Rumor, which are famous for their high-energy atmospheres, world-class DJs, and stylish crowds. NOTO is short for “Not of the Ordinary,” and wouldn’t you know? It has truly become a staple in the city’s nightlife, hosting international DJs and themed nights that keep the dance floors packed. You can even book a VIP Table, and the upcoming events include shows by Vintage Culture, Will Sparks, and Galantis.

On the other hand, Concourse prides itself on being a dance bar (not a nightclub!) that offers a more trendy vibe – it’s got no dress codes, VIP sections, or bottle service – all you have to do is jump on the ball pit and dance to the music. It even has an Ice Room where you can chill with your friends.

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If you’re looking for something a little more underground and less mainstream, head to The Dolphin Tavern, known for its eclectic music and retro vibe. It’s also a combination dive bar, tavern, and lounge, and it has a rotating lineup of local DJs and unique events – like an upcoming Goth Valentine’s Day! - and it’s a must-visit for music lovers seeking a more intimate, unique atmosphere.

Explore Pittsburgh’s thriving brewery scene

Top breweries: Brew Gentlemen, Dancing Gnome, Grist House, Church Brew Works

In recent times, Pittsburgh has transformed into an even better craft beer haven, making it the perfect spot for those who prefer a laid-back night out. For a relaxing beer hopping adventure, go to breweries like Brew Gentlemen and Dancing Gnome, which offer innovative brews in stylish taprooms and even make deliveries of your favorite beer. You can find Brew Gentlemen’s IPA beer, General Braddock’s, on the tasting room of Brew Gentlemen every Wednesday to Friday from 4pm to 9pm and on Saturdays from 1pm to 9pm – but you can also find its IPA in numerous breweries in the state, such as Arsenal Beer Emporium, Froggy’s, Ironborn, and many others. Meanwhile, Dancing Gnome Brewery is also a top brewery in the area, and it is famous for its house pale ale (which is a definite must-try!), Lustra.

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On the other hand, Grist House provides a cozy, dog-friendly outdoor space perfect for warm summer nights, and it’s got a house-full of outstanding beers such as Hazedelic Juice Grenade and our personal favorite, Clean Line, a West Coast IPA.

If you’re looking for a more extensive beer selection, head to Church Brew Works. This unique brewery is set inside a restored Roman Catholic church, with stained glass windows and massive brewing vats replacing traditional pews – it’s an absolute wow, and if you have an upcoming event, you can even hold it here! The combination of history and craft beer makes it an unforgettable nightlife experience. Don’t forget to try the Sleigh Wrecker, the Pious Monk Dunkel, and the Fresh Hop Belgian Sour. Oh, and it serves delicious food, too – what more could you possibly ask for?

Experience live music in The State Theatre and other venues

Top live music spots: State Theatre, Café 210 West, The Phyrst

If you’re not into pub crawls or dancing til the wee hours of the morning, then come on over to State College. Home to Penn State University, State College offers a lively nightlife scene fueled by its student population. The State Theatre, for instance, hosts a wide range of live performances, from local bands to national touring acts. This month, it features acts such as The Wildmans, Amythyst Kiah, Dan Navarro, and Lucy Wainwright Roche – each artist promising a night of musical talent and prowess that extends from bluegrass and country to R&B.

For a more intimate setting, check out The Phyrst, a beloved bar known for its live music 365 days a year and its warm and energetic crowd. The Phyrst is an institution in Pennsylvania, and it is known for its ‘happy valley tradition’ all the way from 1966. It also has a Happy Hour from 10pm to 12am every Sunday to Thursday and from 7pm to 9pm every Friday to Saturday.

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If you’re in the mood for a more intimate nightlife experience, Café 210 West is another hotspot offering outdoor seating and a robust lineup of live music throughout the year. It has a Happy Hour as well, and it has a food menu that would leave you full and satisfied! Whether you’re into rock, jazz, or acoustic sets, you’ll find something to suit your taste.

Savor craft cocktails in Harrisburg

Top bars, lounges, and entertainment halls: The Sturges Speakeasy, House of Music, Arts, and Culture (HMAC), Ad Lib Craft Kitchen & Bar

We bet you didn’t know that Philadelphia or even Pittsburgh aren’t the state capitals of Pennsylvania. It is, in fact, Harrisburg, and it has a burgeoning cocktail scene that rivals larger cities in PA. For one, there’s the speakeasy at the Sturges Speakeasy, and it is a hidden gem, offering expertly crafted cocktails in a cozy, Prohibition-era setting. It also has Happy Hour from Monday to Friday at 4pm to 6pm, but it also offers Sunday Brunch from 10am to 2pm. But of course, for the best nightlife experience at the Sturges Speakeasy, try their signature Old Fashioned or explore their seasonal cocktail menu for something new. Needless to say, the craft cocktails are superb – and you are sure to find your favorite with more than 200 on offer!

For a more modern vibe, head to 2nd Street, Harrisburg’s main nightlife strip, where you’ll find a mix of trendy bars and lounges. The first on the list is HMAC (House of Music, Arts, and Culture), which has a full lineup of events and shows – from ‘just announced’ shows like Hardcore Throwdown featuring Face the Dark, Ametropia, and Heel to the Hackensaw Boys, First to Eleven, and Jackyl.

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Another noteworthy hangout on 2nd street is Ad Lib Craft Kitchen & Bar, which has an outstanding and creative menu (perfect for foodies) and a distinctive bar scene with drinks like edible, craft, and barrel-aged cocktails. Harrisburg is a sure standout, combining art, music, and mixology for a unique night out.

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Enjoy casino nights in the Poconos

Top casinos: Mount Airy Casino Resort, Mohegan Pennsylvania

If you’re feeling extra lucky, the Poconos region offers some of the best casino nightlife in Pennsylvania. Mount Airy Casino Resort features an amazing range of gaming options that’ll keep you busy (and on your toes!) for hours, from slot machines to poker tables. But the night’s activities don’t stop there – there’s live entertainment and upscale dining as well. After testing your luck, you can unwind at the resort’s nightclub, The Glass Bar, where DJs and live bands keep the party going into the early hours. There is also an Events Center where different kinds of events happen on a weekly basis, from this month’s events such as a Tribute to Elvis to a performance by renowned ventriloquist and magician extraordinaire, Gemini.

Mohegan Pennsylvania, located in Wilkes-Barre, is another top destination for casino enthusiasts. It’s open 24/7, but at night, it comes alive with spectacular shows and events, such as Lalas Burlesque Show, Party on the Patio, which has daily challenges and giveaways, and Trivia Nights at The Hive Taphouse. If you’d love a night of laughs, you can also head to the Wise Crackers Comedy Club, which features a lot of upcoming events and shows from top performers and stand-up comedians. The venue hosts regular concerts, making it a one-stop spot for memorable nightlife entertainment.

Discover quaint bars and taverns in Lancaster

Top taverns and bars: The Lancaster Dispensing Company, The Belvedere Inn, Shot & Bottle

Lancaster may be known for its Amish heritage, but it also boasts a surprisingly vibrant nightlife scene. One of Lancaster’s most renowned and famous venues is The Lancaster Dispensing Company, affectionately known as “DipCo,” which is a local favorite offering a rotating selection of craft beers and hearty pub fare. More than this, it has live, local, and original music every weekend, and the evening’s entertainment doesn’t stop until the last guest leaves.

For a more upscale experience, head to The Belvedere Inn, where you can enjoy creative cocktails and live jazz in an elegant setting. The Inn also features a trendier vibe and atmosphere, and its Happy Hour specials are certainly tempting: our faves are the Espresso Martinis at only $8, the Surfside at only $6, and the appetizer list, which is also half off during Happy Hour.

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If you’re a fan of speakeasies, be sure to visit Shot & Bottle, a cozy spot specializing in Pennsylvania-made spirits and inventive cocktails such as Lanc Old Fashioned, Blanco Negroni, Midnight Forager, Winter Daiquiri, and The Fennel Countdown. What’s more, the intimate atmosphere and friendly staff make it a perfect place for a relaxed night out on the town - and you’ll be painting the town red before you know it.

Dive into the midnight arts scene in Bethlehem

Top galleries, bars, and venues: The Funhouse, SteelStacks complex, Bookstore Speakeasy

Bethlehem’s South Side Arts District comes alive at night with galleries, live music, and eclectic bars. One fine example of this is The Funhouse - it is a beloved dive bar that features live music every night and a quirky, laid-back vibe. It has a monthly line-up of insane talent, which includes Dr Thomas Doubter, Landline, Dear Anna, Food Truck & Spoing, and so much more. In addition, Mondays are dedicated to Open Mic night, Tuesdays are Karaoke Nights, and Wednesdays are Pub Nite Pitcher specials.

If you’re into a more refined evening, visit the SteelStacks complex, which is a unique, one-of-a-kind venue that hosts concerts, film screenings, and cultural events against the backdrop of the historic Bethlehem Steel plant.

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It’s a ten-acre campus that boasts more than a thousand concerts and a total of eight festivals per year – so there’s no shortage of events to suit most anyone! It hosts an annual MusikFest you wouldn’t want to miss – and this year’s MusikFest is at the beginning of August, so open your schedule for an unforgettable night.

The Bookstore Speakeasy is another must-visit, offering a 1920s-inspired atmosphere complete with craft cocktails, vintage decor, and live jazz. It’s the perfect spot for a night of sophistication and nostalgia. It has just reopened this February, so watch out for what it has in store.

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Experience seasonal nighttime events and festivals

Top festivals and events: Pennsylvania’s night markets, The Three Rivers Arts Festival, HersheyPark After Dark

Pennsylvania’s nightlife isn’t limited to clubs and bars – there are plenty of seasonal events and festivals that offer unique cultural and historical experiences throughout the year. Pennsylvania has annual Night Markets, and these markets bring together food trucks, live music, and local vendors in different neighborhoods, creating a vibrant street party atmosphere.

In Pittsburgh, you will find the Three Rivers Arts Festival as well, and the festival, which is held every year, combines visual art, live performances, and food vendors, offering a lively cultural experience. This year, it will run from June 5 to June 8, so there are plenty of themes and events to look forward to! But for something truly unique and spooky, why not visit Hersheypark After Dark during the Halloween season? It is where the amusement park transforms into a spooky nighttime adventure, and it will run almost every weekend from September all the way to November.

Unwind with wine in the Lehigh Valley

Top vineyards: Galen Glen Winery, Vynecrest Vineyards, Blue Mountain Vineyards

For a more relaxed nightlife experience, head to the Lehigh Valley’s wine country. Galen Glen Winery, located in Andreas, offers guided wine bar tastings as well as wine by the glass and bottles. It is even available for private events – just make sure to call in advance as slots fill up quickly. Vynecrest Vineyards in Breinigsville which opened as far back as 1974 is open daily – and it’s another vineyard and winery offering scenic views and award-winning wines perfect for a leisurely evening. Many wineries host live music events, wine tastings, and food pairings, creating a sophisticated yet laid-back atmosphere.

For a unique twist, visit Blue Mountain Vineyards, where you can enjoy delicious and ultra-refreshing wine slushies while taking in panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains and the surrounding countryside. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic evening or a casual night out with friends, and it hosts casual events as well – for instance, this month, get ready for comedy night, slushie & mixer day, ValenWINE dinner and 80s/90s rom-com and trivia night, and more.

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Embrace the outdoors with nighttime adventures

Top outdoor experiences: Camelback Resort, Jack Frost Mountain (Big Boulder), Susquehanna River

For those who prefer outdoor activities in the evening, fear not - Pennsylvania offers plenty of nighttime adventures, too. In the Pocono Mountains, you can experience night skiing at resorts like Camelback Resort, known for being the most family-friendly resort in Pennsylvania; it is open throughout the winter season, and it even has an indoor waterpark. There’s also Jack Frost Ski Resort Big Boulder, where illuminated slopes provide a thrilling after-dark experience.

For a more serene outing, try a moonlit kayak tour on the Susquehanna River or a guided stargazing hike in one of the state’s many parks and nature reserves. These activities offer a unique way to experience Pennsylvania’s natural beauty while enjoying the tranquility of the night. It’s an otherworldly, magical experience and one you wouldn’t soon forget!

Pennsylvania’s nightlife scene in 2025 is as diverse as the state itself, and it offers something for everyone: from dance clubs and craft breweries to live music and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, savor a craft cocktail, or explore the arts, Pennsylvania has a nightlife experience to suit your personal style and preference. So grab your friends and family or that significant other, plan your night, and discover all that the Keystone State has to offer after dark.