Live music
From huge concerts at the ex-Olympic Tabernacle, to local bars with singer-songwriters, indie bands, and bluegrass performers, Atlanta’s live music scene sets the nightlife scene abuzz. Hit the open mics and small venues to see the next big thing.
A relaxed, unpretentious bar which brews good beer and great music, Eddie’s Attic is the place to come for new acts and local singer-songwriters, as well as the odd big name. It attracts a mixed crowd, with a good proportion of youngsters, as under-21s are allowed in too.
515-B North McDonough Street, Decatur GA 30030.
Breweries
If there was ever a match made in heaven, it’s the smoky deliciousness of Southern cooking partnered with a robust, locally-brewed beer. No surprise then that the craft beer scene has boomed in Atlanta over the last few decades. Do your tastebuds a favor and sample Atlanta’s ales.
Red Brick Brewery
Taking its name from the brick building where it was founded, this craft brewery is Atlanta’s oldest, and its signature beers have been honed to perfection. The staff will be happy to help you choose between the light, hoppy beers and the dark, caramel ones, but you may need to taste a few before you can make up your mind.
2323 Defoor Hills Road, Atlanta GA 30318.
Nightclubs
With a twinkle of chandeliers, a swish of red carpet, and a clink of Champagne glasses, Atlanta’s superclubs are primped, polished and ready for a night of upscale partying. If you’re looking for that VIP treatment, you’ll find it at the city’s hottest after-dark addresses. Opera
Occupying a former opera house, Atlanta’s premier nightclub has the glam factor in spades. If being among the heaving crowds isn’t your style, then take over one of the VIP booths – the old opera boxes. Here, you can sip extravagant cocktails in your private empire above the dancefloor.
1150B Peachtree Street, Atlanta GA 30309.
Midtown’s most extravagant nightclub, CosmoLava is three floors of sumptuous lounges, DJ rooms and cocktail bars. Living up to its name, the club claims to serve the best cosmopolitans in Atlanta, but you’ll have to judge for yourself. Then hit one of the 4 dancefloors and party the night away.
45 & 57 13th Street NE, Atlanta GA 30309.
Comedy
Whether you want to be entertained, or are brave enough to try your own stand-up routine, Atlanta’s intimate comedy and open-mic venues generate a lot of laughs. Get the drinks in, sit back and get ready for your face to hurt from laughter.
Atlanta’s local comedy venues seem to be in competition to be the smallest – and the Laughing Skull Lounge takes that crown. With just 3 rows of seats, there’s no hiding away; it’s a truly interactive experience between comedians and audience. Plus with the Vortex Bar & Grill onsite, you can grab a burger and a beer before the show.
878 Peachtree Street, Atlanta GA 30309.
