Dive into LA’s vibrant nightlife scene with our curated guide to bars where fun knows no bounds! From epic board game battles to electrifying live music, these hotspots offer endless options for groups and unforgettable nights. So grab your crew, unleash your inner game master, and let the good times roll!
Let the Games Begin: LA’s Bars Where Fun Takes Center Stage
Forget the same old bar scene – LA’s nightlife is bursting with vibrant energy and endless possibilities for groups seeking an evening of laughter, competition, and good times. Ditch the phone screens and embrace the analog revolution at these epic bars, where board games ignite friendly rivalries, darts become a test of skill, and trivia nights unleash your inner know-it-all. Whether you’re a seasoned game master or a casual player seeking a break from the ordinary, these hotspots offer something for everyone.
For the Board Game Aficionados:
- Button Mash (Echo Park): Step into a retro wonderland of vintage consoles and classic board games. Challenge your friends to a nostalgic showdown with Pac-Man or gather around the table for epic Catan battles. Button Mash even hosts themed game nights, from sci-fi to ’80s nostalgia, guaranteeing a night of laughter and friendly competition.
- EightyTwo (Arts District): This arcade bar combines vintage video games with a curated selection of board games, crafting a haven for nostalgic souls. Grab a craft cocktail and unleash your inner child on classic arcade cabinets, then head to the dedicated board game area for a strategic showdown. From Ticket to Ride to Carcassonne, the options are endless.
Pool Sharks and Dart Demons:
- The Golden Spur (Silverlake): This historic dive bar boasts a lively atmosphere and a fierce devotion to darts. Grab a beer, mingle with the locals, and test your aim on their legendary dart boards. The Golden Spur even hosts regular tournaments, attracting LA’s finest throwers for a night of friendly competition and bragging rights.
- Birdsong (Highland Park): This stylish gastropub offers a sophisticated twist on the classic pub game. Head to their spacious outdoor patio, complete with fire pits and string lights, for a laid-back evening of darts and delicious comfort food. Birdsong also boasts a curated selection of craft beers, making it the perfect spot for a casual gathering with friends.
- The Basement: This subterranean gem in Silver Lake is a hidden gem for dart enthusiasts. Their custom-built dart lanes are a magnet for both casual throwers and competitive regulars. Challenge your friends to a game or join one of their weekly tournaments. Bonus: Their food truck menu boasts some of the best late-night eats in town.
For the Trivia Titans:
- The Library Alehouse (Santa Monica): This cozy bar lives up to its name with an extensive library of books and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Tuesday nights are dedicated to trivia, with themes ranging from pop culture to history. Gather your brainiest friends, put your knowledge to the test, and compete for the coveted prize – bragging rights and, of course, eternal glory.
- The Lost & Found (Venice Beach): This gastropub boasts a relaxed vibe and a rotating selection of craft beers on tap. Monday nights are trivia night, with themes changing weekly to keep things fresh. Enjoy a delicious meal, sip on a local brew, and flex your intellectual muscles while making new friends in this laid-back Venice Beach hotspot.
- The Mermaid Inn: This Venice Beach institution is a local favorite for its laid-back vibes and killer trivia nights. Wednesdays are for music lovers, Thursdays are dedicated to pop culture, and Fridays are open season for anything and everything under the sun. Come thirsty for knowledge (and maybe a tiki cocktail or two).
- The Escapist: If you’re looking for a truly immersive experience, head to The Escapist in Culver City. This escape room bar combines adrenaline-pumping puzzles with a lively atmosphere and creative cocktails. Choose your adventure, gather your bravest friends, and see if you can escape before the clock runs out – all while enjoying themed drinks and post-game celebratory shots.
For the Music Mavericks:
- Harvelle’s Blues Club (Santa Monica): Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of blues music at this legendary venue. Catch some of the best blues musicians in the world perform live, from established legends to rising stars. Harvelle’s offers an intimate setting and a passionate atmosphere, guaranteeing an unforgettable musical experience.
- The Misfit Restaurant & Bar (Venice Beach): This vibrant restaurant and bar boasts a diverse lineup of live music, from DJs and electronic beats to indie rock and jazz. Grab a table on their spacious patio, soak in the California sunshine, and let the music transport you. The Misfit is the perfect spot for a lively night out with friends, offering good vibes and a taste of LA’s eclectic music scene.
The Baked Potato: Studio City’s Baked Potato is a Los Angeles institution, and for good reason. This comedy club and music venue has seen countless iconic acts grace its stage, from Neil Young to Eddie Murphy. Catch a hilarious stand-up set, sing along to a live band, or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere – The Baked Potato is guaranteed to leave you with a smile.
Bonus Round: Epic Group Hangouts:
- The Basement (Arts District): This sprawling complex is a haven for group fun, offering multiple bars, a bowling alley, and a karaoke lounge under one roof. Whether you want to unleash your inner rockstar, challenge your friends to a bowling showdown, or simply enjoy a vibrant atmosphere, The Basement promises a night of unforgettable entertainment.
- The Escapist (Hollywood): Bond with your crew over a thrilling escape room experience. Choose from themed rooms like Pirate’s Plunder or Antidote, and work together to solve puzzles, crack codes, and escape before time runs out. The Escapist is a guaranteed recipe for laughter, teamwork, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Bonus Round:
For the Foodies: Don’t forget to fuel up! Many of these bars offer delicious food menus, from gourmet pub fare to late-night bites. Check out The Daily Pint in Culver City for their epic burger selection, or head to Lost & Found in Venice for their mouthwatering gastropub fare.
Pro Tip: Plan ahead, especially on weekends and for popular events. Reservations are recommended for some venues.
So, gather your crew, unleash your inner game master, and prepare to experience LA’s vibrant nightlife scene like never before. From pool halls to board game havens, trivia nights to live music, these bars offer more than just drinks; they offer an unforgettable night out that will leave you laughing, cheering, and maybe even a little competitive. Now go forth and play!
