When you think of Salt Lake City, you might envision breathtaking mountain views, outdoor adventures, or attractions that are great for families with kids. However, Salt Lake City is quite vibrant and diverse for night owls once the sun goes down. Whether you're looking for chic lounges, buzzing downtown bars, booming nightclubs, or underground live music venues, this Salt Lake City nightlife guide has it all.
This in-depth blog will introduce you to some of the best places to drink, dance, and unwind in Utah's capital, from downtown nightlife havens to quirky hidden gems. So, if you're trying to decide where to go after dark, just keep reading.
When the sun sets, the downtown area of Salt Lake City is the place to be. Regardless of personal entertainment proclivities, downtown boasts a variety of drinking establishments. Check out all the downtown bars, lounges, or nightclubs one after the other—all walkable!
Beer Bar
Beer Bar has an enormous selection of craft beers, both local and from all over the world. No wonder it’s a popular drinking spot for avid beer drinkers. It's got a very casual ambience and large communal tables, so it's perfect for large groups.
Bar X
Next door to Beer Bar, this cocktail joint is well known for its delicious pours and speakeasy vibe. Picture yourself in a name-your-price bar with dim lighting, leather couches, and skillful cocktails.
Lake Effect
This upscale lounge serves craft cocktails and tapas and has live music. Therefore, if you want to do something romantic, you could always holster your jaw for the lounge and tapas logic feels. It’s a great lounge atmosphere.
Keys on Main
A high-energy dueling piano bar where the audience becomes part of the show. It’s funny, fun, and ridiculously entertaining. This venue is ideal for celebrations like birthdays or bachelorette parties.
Salt Lake City will surely deliver if you want to dance until sunrise on a night out. Salt Lake has a more reserved vibe than Las Vegas or Miami, but the nightclubs are full, inclusive, and fun on weekends.
Sky SLC
As one of the premier nightclubs in Salt Lake City, Sky SLC includes a fantastic rooftop bar, world-class DJs, and an electric dance floor. Sky has a lot of themed events, so be sure to check out the calendar.
Echo
Conveniently located downtown, Echo merges modern design with hip-hop and Latin beats. It is a great spot to dance late into the night, with an energetic and youthful vibe.
The Exchange
The Exchange is a trendy, Vegas-style nightclub with VIP sections and LED light displays. Salt Lake's most fashionable crowd comes out to party at the Exchange.
Area 51
Area 51 is Salt Lake City's alternative dance club with multiple levels and themed dance floors that can go from industrial to EDM. Area 51 tends to be immensely popular with the LGBTQ+ crowd.
Can you catch a live show or an intimate acoustic set? The Salt Lake City nightlife scene includes a range of venues for live music lovers, from big-name bands to up-and-coming local acts.
The Depot
Housed in a historic train station, The Depot offers incredible acoustics and hosts national touring acts. Balcony seating gives it a unique concert hall feel.
Urban Lounge
A local favorite for indie and alternative music, Urban Lounge is gritty in the best way. The laid-back atmosphere and great sound make it perfect for discovering new bands.
Kilby Court
This intimate garage venue has become a launchpad for indie artists. It’s standing-room-only and BYOB (bring your blanket), but the experience is authentic and raw.
Soundwell
A mid-size venue downtown offering a mix of DJ sets, EDM, and hip-hop. Their themed parties and state-of-the-art lighting attract a diverse crowd.
Sometimes, you only need a well-made Old Fashioned and a good conversation. These lounges and secret spots cater to a more refined after-dark experience.
Prohibition
This 1920s-themed speakeasy in Murray (just south of downtown) offers weekend prohibition-era cocktails and burlesque shows. Dress the part for the whole experience.
The Rest
Hidden beneath Bodega, The Rest is a moody, candlelit underground bar with taxidermy, heavy wood furniture, and an impressive drink list.
BTG Wine Bar
For wine lovers, BTG offers curated flights, over 75 wines by the glass, and a cozy yet classy setting. It’s perfect for pre-dinner drinks or a quiet night out.
Salt Lake City knows how to rally around its local teams. Whether you’re watching the Utah Jazz, college football, or a UFC match, these bars make every game night a blast.
Gracie’s
This multi-level gastropub has TVs, a patio, pool tables, and a strong beer list. Gracie’s also offers a weekend brunch if you're nursing a hangover.
Legends Sports Pub
Located near the U of U campus, this bar draws a lively crowd of students and alumni: affordable drinks, friendly staff, and plenty of screens.
Bout Time Pub & Grub
With multiple locations around the city, this chain is reliable for burgers, beer, and sports. It is also family-friendly earlier in the evening.
Looking for something a little different? Salt Lake City has quirky and lesser-known experiences that offer a fun twist on a night out.
Keys on Main
Mentioned earlier for dueling pianos, but it deserves a double shoutout for its rowdy, interactive atmosphere. Audience participation is a must!
The Paint Mixer
Pair wine with creativity at this paint-and-sip venue. It's a great alternative to bars and works well for group nights or dates.
Velour Live Music Gallery (in nearby Provo)
A short drive from SLC, this eclectic venue has hosted everyone from Imagine Dragons to Neon Trees before they made it big.
Though Salt Lake City may be known for its conservative roots, many places still offer adult entertainment, from cabaret-style shows to gentlemen’s clubs.
Trails Gentlemen’s Club
Arguably, the most well-known strip club in the city. Classy and clean, with themed nights and VIP packages available.
Southern posture
Offers a more traditional adult club experience, with a relaxed dress code and regular stage shows.
Prohibition Burlesque Nights
Held at the Prohibition Lounge, these are stylish, sassy, and more about performance than nudity—a perfect blend of vintage and sexy.
Liquor laws are unique in Utah. Cocktails may be less intense due to state regulations, but bartenders are creative and still serve a great drink.
IDs are a must. You’ll be carded almost everywhere, regardless of age.
Public transport and ride-shares are accessible. Use UTA or apps like Uber to get home safely—parking downtown can be limited and pricey.
Some clubs require a dress code, especially at upscale venues like Sky SLC or The Exchange.
While Salt Lake City isn't always associated with a wild and legendary night out, don't let the clean-cut image of the city fool you. There are upscale lounges, music venues, clubs, craft beer bars, and even adult entertainment venues; you'll find plenty to fill your evenings with fun.
Whether you're bar-hopping throughout downtown Salt Lake City, catching a concert, dancing the night away, or sipping on wine under candle-lit ambiance, this Salt Lake City nightlife guide will surely lead you to the vibe you're looking for.
Grab your friends, your best outfit, and your sense of adventure, and experience the not-boring nights of Salt Lake City.
This content was created by AI