Philadelphia Nightlife

Craft beer fanatics coming to Philly need look no further than this funky, second floor hangout. These guys brew their own ales, which have been rightly lauded as some of the best in the United States. The vibe is chilled and the snacks and pub grub are far more than just fodder.

The name is a bit of a giveaway. Watch Cuban expat pros do their thing and groove to salsa and merengue while sinking a few drinks. Once the show is over, jump on the dance floor and try to emulate their moves. On Friday and Saturday they really kick it up a notch when DJs begin to play Latin fusion music until 2am.

Philly’s hottest spot for cocktails, the Franklin takes its name from a Prohibition-era alcohol ring. The door’s unmarked, but once you wangle your way in, we promise you’ll want to stay for the whole evening. Make sure you check out the tiki bar upstairs.

Great for small plates and locally brewed beers, the atmosphere in this joint is always lively, but never too hectic. A handpicked array of fine spirits and natural wines add to the propitiator’s precision in crafting a world class drinking spot – just make sure you try the food as well.

Part-diner, part-dance club, Silk City is now one of the hottest clubs in Philly. Once the chefs have done their thing (the pub grub is really good here), it’s down to national DJs and local acts to rock the dancefloor. Its hippy patio and garden also has the odd sunset set too.

This cash-only club is the place to dance your feet off after a day on the tourist trail. It’s billed by many as a hipster joint and is one of the most welcoming clubs in the city, with great DJs and excellent tunes.

This hip 150 capacity venue has quickly earned a reputation as one of Philly’s finest hangouts. Come for the latest cutting edge bands, which pass through town, stay for the huge array of beers and the gut busting burger. Happy hour is between 1800 and 2000 every Tuesday to Saturday.

Union Transfer is Philly’s best spot for catching the finest new local indie bands and touring acts. Its wraparound balcony means you can kick back with a beer while watching the action. Alternatively, take it down to the pit and mosh with the best of them. Don’t worry about getting drinks from a crowd bar, there are three bars to choose from.

For an excellent line-up of world music, head across the river to WorldCafé Live, boasting two lovely performance spaces set in an old art deco factory. Downstairs is where the big acts roll up and get the party grooving, while its intimate café is where live radio broadcasts are recorded.