Pennsylvania stretches from the Delaware River to the Ohio border, encompassing historic Philadelphia, dynamic Pittsburgh, the scenic Pocono Mountains, the rolling Amish farmlands of Lancaster County, and some of the most important Revolutionary and Civil War battlefields in the United States. It is one of the original 13 colonies, home to Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and Gettysburg National Military Park.
Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are the nightlife hubs of Pennsylvania. Philadelphia's Old City, Rittenhouse Square, Fishtown, and Northern Liberties neighborhoods offer everything from craft cocktail bars to late-night clubs and live music venues. The South Street strip is a walkable evening destination with bars and restaurants. Pittsburgh's South Side (East Carson Street) is the most concentrated bar district in western PA, running nearly a mile with dozens of bars and clubs. The Strip District adds brewery taprooms and gastropubs.
Nightlife districts
Where the action happens after dark.
Bars & pubs
Where locals drink.
Franklin Mortgage & Investment Co.
Known for: Prohibition-era speakeasy-style cocktail bar; no signs outside; ring the bell
112 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Khyber Pass Pub
Known for: Historic Old City bar with Southern-inspired food and regular live music
56 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Elixr Coffee Roasters (evening)
Known for: Best craft coffee in Center City for early evenings before dinner
315 S 11th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Bar Hygge
Known for: Scandinavian-inspired comfort bar near Eastern State Penitentiary; excellent Nordic-style cocktails and a warm, hygge atmosphere
1720 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130
Rowhouse Cinema Bar
Known for: Independent cinema bar with themed programming and local craft beers
4115 Butler St, Pittsburgh, PA 15201
Clubs
For dancing into the early hours.
Rumor Philadelphia
Cover: $5–$15 depending on night
Hours: Thu–Sat 10:00 PM–2:00 AM
Sound Nightclub
Cover: $10–$20
Hours: Fri–Sat 10:00 PM–2:00 AM
Nightlife tips
Stay safe and have fun.
Most venues warm up after midnight — earlier arrivals get easier entry and shorter queues.
Carry ID, even if you look older — bouncers check at most venues.
Plan your ride home before you go out — last transport runs earlier than the clubs close.