Atlanta’s nightlife scene used to be filled with stripclubs and comedy as dancefloors took the backseat. That’s not necessarily the case anymore, even though party people don’t dance like they used to.
The best Atlanta nightclubs, like ChitChat, used to be just outside Atlanta, in enclaves around the city. When you dressed up for the club, it was with the understanding that it was an event.
Where Do Singles Go In Atlanta?
Single people flock to many of the clubs in Midtown Atlanta. The establishments range from reggae clubs to English-style pubs with loud music and flowing drinks.
But as urban sprawl continued and neighborhoods grew more discerning about what they wanted in their communities, things slowly changed.
Here Are The Hottest Clubs In Atlanta
Speaking of Buckhead, in the 1990s, the city allowed Buckhead Village to turn into a lively nightlife mecca with clubs like Tongue & Groove and the original Havana Club. Now, the best Atlanta nightclubs can be found in just about every quandrant of the city, east Atlanta, the westside, Buckhead and even in the suburbs.
Traffik Kitchen and Cocktails
1100 Crescent Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | 404) 600-4360
Here’s what one reviewer says about Traffik: “The waitress and management team is first class. They take good care of you and make Sunday Funday brunch and drag show an amazing experience. They always come through correct.”
Embr Lounge
1136 Crescent Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (770) 765-3886
Here’s what one visitor says about Embr Lounge. “Randomly stumbled in after dinner next door on a Saturday night for the open bar offer. $12 for women & $22 for men, not terrible for El Jimador and house vodka. The ambiance is sophisticated, gives very grown & sexy vibes, the simulated fire is a great touch. We arrived early so there wasnt a lot of people but the bartenders were accommodating. They do taco Tuesday specials so I will be back to try again. My only gripe with this area is parking- it is always crowded and the parking lots are in poor condition.”
MJQ Concourse
736 Ponce De Leon Ave N.E. Atlanta, GA 30306 | 404-870-0575
MJQ is Midtown’s most famous and dank nightclub, known for bringing in some of the most highly regarded DJs from across the world to this humble spot located behind Chipotle just off Ponce de Leon Avenue. Come for the music, stay for the dankness.
One Google reviewer says: “My favorite club, I always end up here every weekend. The cover is usually minimal and I dig the grimy underground vibe. Yes, some nights the music is a bit off(rare) but the people there are fun and the patio out back has a great vibe. I’ve met alot of cool people there that end up partying with me the rest of the night. The girl DJ they put in the back room is mad funky, love her.”
Blue Ivory NightClub
599 Whitehall St SW, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 748-1699
Blue Ivory is a 24-hour nightclub that has a full kitchen and strong drinks not far from downtown Atlanta.
One Google reviewer says: “Nice little after hour spot. Warning dancers don’t get naked like regular strip clubs. If you want a cheaper priced bottle to turn up on a late night this is your spot. Would return for sure.”
Sanctuary is a Buckhead dance club and lounge that is the place to be if you want to listen to some Latin sounds. Club heads flock to the Bachata Room and Viernes Tropicales on Fridays.
One Google reviewer says: “Excellent salsa class before club opens… group of friends went on a Friday night the instructor was friendly, fun and easy to follow. We had a blast. The place isn’t overly crowded where you can’t find a space to dance.”
Josephine Lounge
3277 Buford Hwy NE, Atlanta, GA 30329 |(678) 973-4441
Josephines Lounge is the place to be for north DeKalb County partiers who don’t have the time nor patience to travel downtown or to Midtown Atlanta. Josephines’ music is a strong luring point: DJs wax hip-hop, R&B, reggae and afrobeats all in one groove.
One Google reviewer says: “Got a section for my birthday, it’s was the best time ever. The club was lit, music was pretty good. Troi was such a big help with everything, and the energy was great. Food menu was limited, bathroom was clean and we parked for free… not a long walk at all.“
Boogalou Restaurant & Lounge
239 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 | (404) 464-7705
Boogalou Lounge is a hip spot with a swanky decor featuring bar swings and other unorthodox design. Come here if you want some good food, hookah and cocktails as the DJ handles his business in the background. They charge as much as $20 for people who don’t adhere to the dress code. Parking outside the venue can be expensive.
One Google reviewer says: “I often visit boogalou for happy hour on the week day and Saturday night ladies night. Women are free on Saturday nights but the line is typically long if you get there after 11pm. There is no free parking and the cheapest parking I had was $10 across from the lounge.”
Club Ellery’s
2008 Campbellton Rd SW, Atlanta, GA 30311 | (404) 755-2040
Photo credit: Youtube
Located in southwest Atlanta, Club Ellery’s is one of those places that partiers come to eat first then party. It’s a bar and nightclub, but the food is what packs the seats. The menu has such hits as jumbo wings, Polish sausage and more.
One Google reviewer says: “Well you need too really be there by 8 on fri or there wont be no seats on Fridays. Sat there open at 9 drinks 11:00, p.m. other than that the men are older and u will enjoy.”
Venue Nightclub & Lounge
4730 Frontage Rd, Forest Park, GA 30297 | (678) 949-9654
Club Venue in Forest Park is a bi-level club with a full kitchen featuring some good food, including fried chicken, sushi and other seafood. Bottle service is also available.
One Google reviewer says: “Nice but NOT for the light on money type. $4 sur charge every time you use your card. And the ATM charges $10. DJ only plays mumble rap but then that’s the crowd that was there but after 2 hours… Prob not the spot for the older crowd.”
Havana Club ATL
3112 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 941-4847
The Havana Club is one of the mainstay nightclubs in Atlanta and Buckhead. Inside the place, they have a trio of DJs spinning anything from house music to Latin fusion in the Gallery and Main Room.
One Google reviewer says: “House music/edm in one room(kinda empty) Latin music room (packed) and remixed hits of rap, pop, and hip hop main part of the club (lots of people but theres plenty of space). The club was clean (janitors with brooms cleaning every inch) which is a huge plus. The bartenders were also nice, long islands were $10 (small clear cups) shots were also $10 paid $20 at the door. Was it worth it? Would I go again? Yes.”
SkyLounge
110 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 521-2250
One of the best rooftop bars in the city, the Skylounge offers city views of downtown Atlanta in tandem with some pretty great cocktails. This lounge is atop the Glenn Hotel, which is right across the street from Centennial Olympic Park.
One Google reviewer says: “Great few of Atlanta. Olympic park and of course the Falcons stadium. Yummy drinks. Try the centennial. Service was awesome. Appetizers size allows for sharing. Prices about what you would expect.”
Hole In the Wall
3177 Peachtree Rd, Atlanta, GA 30305 (404) 233-9801
A Hole in the Wall in Buckhead caters to a young crowd with DJs, a dance floor and theme nights to mix things up. This place is huge for holidays like Halloween, St. Patrick’s Day and more. It’s 21+ and you can DM them to reserve VIP.
A Google reviewer says: “The bartender was hilarious and I loved her! The blue Mfr is AMAZING. The red drink and the hookah were Really good. Love the two levels just didn’t like that because someone drives drunk and hits another person and they get an attitude with us trying to pick up our family. Always get their insurance card like right then and there or RECORD them. Do not let it slide.”
Tongue & Groove has been one of Buckhead’s favorite adult playgrounds since it was located on the strip off Pharr Road. The big night at Tongue & Groove’s is Mondays, which attract a lot of college students as well.
One Google reviewer says: I’ve been here over ten times and I think is this overall one of the best clubs in Atlanta. Cover is usually $20 and staff has always been friendly when I’ve visited. Drinks are reasonably priced for a club, not cheap, but not over priced. The DJ is usually pretty good. My favorite night to visit is on Monday nights because its a hip hop crowd.”
Domaine Atlanta
1150 Crescent Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (678) 575-2994
Here’s what one club-goer says about Domaine: “This was my first time here with my husband and a friend, and it won’t be our last! We had such great service from our waitresses! 10/10 recommend VIP table services. We in particular had service from an amazing gentleman name Stephen who resolved a minor issue with our ice bucket, I believe one of the management staff. Overall 10/10 experience. Food amazing, atmosphere amazing, service amazing. And special shout-out to the DJ Desta. He was AMAZING. I will definitely be coming back on Fridays DJ Destas sets.”
Opium/SPK
119 Central Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 819-9609
Photo credit: Youtube
Club Opium packs a cool crowd every weekend with a number of entertainment-themed nights like Professional Recess and Taste of Art in Atlanta.
One Google reviewer says: “Club started out great …me and friends came during happy hour and we were seated on a sofa near the band and stage. Had been there in at seat since 730 and the time is now 1100pm . an employee of the club came and moved the sofa and table we were using…basically evicted us from the area with no warning. Told the sofa was not suppose to be there..we only sat where we were asked to. The manager did not offer anything to help ease the move. It was handled professionally or with care to us as paying customers..we have been buying food and drink since we got here.”
Revel
1778 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 |(404) 355-6800
Revel is one of Atlanta’s hottest clubs, catering to the young millennials looking for a respite from the professional world on the weekends. Every Friday and Saturday, it’s ladies free til 12 am with open bar til midnight as well. Come and see Big Tigger x V103 Dj Pnut on the ones and twos.
One Google reviewer says: “This is a world-class first-class venue with an excellent light show and definitely an upscale feel I love the fact that you can run into any and everybody from celebrities athletes to your neighbor.”
1100 Crescent Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, (404) 262-7112
Photo credit: Youtube
Truth Lounge is another club on the well-known party strip Crescent Avenue in Midtown. Known for “Krave Saturdays,” Truth Lounge is also a great happy hour option afterwork.
One Google reviewer says: “Cool spot. Really loud music, maybe too loud. Cool place to bring your friends to dance & smoke a few hookahs(if you’re into that kinda stuff). It can also be a bit crowded.”
Rosé & Rye
3377 Peachtree Rd, Atlanta, GA 30326, (678) 500-3190
Photo caption: Youtube
Rosé & Rye (formerly Whiskey Blue) located in the W Hotel in Buckhead is a cool, hip place for young professionals to gather for an afterwork drink. The rooftop lounge allows you to enjoy a cocktail looking out on the Buckhead skyline.
One Google reviewer says: “The staff is always nice. Really good drinks. Beautiful views. It’s a very small lounge so it gets crowded fast. They recently redesigned the interior. This is a great place to visit for a weekend cocktail or beer after work.”
The Gold Room is a favorite spot for visitors looking to experience some authentic Atlanta nightlife. The place can be a bit smokey at times, but the music is on point.
One Google reviewer says: “he DJ was freaking awesome! I wouldn’t go again without a section. You could barely even make way to the bar. Hookah was great. That “body to body” stuff is not the wave anymore. Other than that, two thumbs up!”
Club LaCura ATL
1919 Metropolitan Pkwy SW A, Atlanta, GA 30315, (404) 749-7898
Club LaCura is a vibrant “neighborhood” club catering to Zone 3 on Metropolitan Parkway. The club that brings a lot of med-level rappers and entertainers to rock the crowd. If you’re a fan of underground rappers, LaCura often books those types of artists.
One Google reviewer says: “I am from Jacksonville FL was visiting for my Birthday July 7. This place was the Best they showed so much love to a sister in there. I will definitely recommend anyone to celebrate their whatever in Lacura. Thank you to the Beautifull bar tenders, The DJ you sir who had on the black pants and black n white shirt you yeah you with the dreads omg I can’t stop thinking of you and More importantly thank you Mr. Peewee… Love from DUVALLL Baby.”
Mansion Elan
3595 Clairmont Rd, Atlanta, GA 30319 |(404) 997-6901
Photo credit: Youtube
Mansion Elan is a relatively new addition to Atlanta’s nightlife, but you should definitely add it to your things to do in Atlanta list. Although they advertise a “free with text” option, it may make you wait in line, but that’s OK. Once inside, you’ll enjoy the vibe.
One Google reviewer says: “Music Great !!!!! A mix of sounds Grade equipment you can breathe not a smoke-filled environment….. yeah. The renovations are spectacularly beautiful to any clubs from Vegas to Miami recommend this spots.”
Sutra Lounge
1136 Crescent Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, (404) 607-1160
Photo credit: Youtube
Sutra Lounge is located in one of the most famous strips in Midtown, a short distance from the city’s financial district. Sutra has an underground dance floor known for attracting gaggles of girls and tourists as well. While there are no chairs in the club, VIP for $250 is the way to go if you can afford it.
One Google reviewer says: “The fire bartender “Flame” is so entertaining I went to sutra to celebrate my sister birthday and she made us birthday Flame shots on fire!!!! It’s wa super fun and I will recommend everybody to go there for their birthday, it’s literally LIT!”
Suite Food Lounge
375 Luckie St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313 | (404) 577-2500
Photo credit: Youtube
Known for its day parties and other special events, Suite Lounge, officially, Suite Food Lounge, is located on Lucky Street across from the Georgia Aquarium in downtown Atlanta. Situated in one of the most high-profile corners of downtown, Suite Lounge draws a faithful weekend crowd and caters to the grown and sexy set.
One Google reviewer says: “It’s hands down the venue of choice there is No competition. Up scale atmosphere but the mixed crowd and culture of people, are down to earth. The food is tasty, and on time drinks are priced right strong not watered down for an upscale venue. Security is always on point no joke and professional. DJ’s lit Fire!! Bartenders lovely and patient. This lounge is a celebrity favorite,I salute team suites from owner’s, Manager’s Don’t recall all there name’s Tim, Joshua, just to name a few great guy’s. Fridays/ Saturday’s please visit they won’t disappoint you, And you won’t regret Good times.”
Does Atlanta Have A Vibrant Nightlife?
Photo credit: Sarthak Navjivan
Atlanta is known as the City Too Busy to Hate, but it’s also the city that knows how to party. One of the largest metropolitan areas in the Southeast, Atlanta is one of the nation’s leaders in redevelopment.
The urban sprawl in Atlanta has led to several developments that characterize the metro area, including:
Atlanta’s nightlife is full of great clubs with charismatic DJs and gourmet chef-driven food for people who want an upscale experience when they party.
If that sounds like you, keep reading to find the best clubs in Atlanta.
Some clubs are good for strong drinks, others have the most lit DJs, and still others specialize in dancehall or open past 2 a.m. It just depends what you like.
Atlanta has some pretty cool clubs if you like to dance or just listen to music. As a recap, here are the ones that are usually open all the time:
Best Lounges In Atlanta: These Clubs Are Poppin’ Right Now
First, to find all the good things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown Atlanta. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are. CNN Center often has something cool going on! Check out these events in Atlanta today and this week and this weekend:
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com you might like:
CJ Johnson: CJ is a longtime Atlantan who has written a book about Atlanta's food scene. He has also fallen in love with the city's music and sports scenes. He writes about Food, Restaurants, Travel, Sports and Atlanta Culture. Check out the book. https://amzn.to/3RPmbZM
