6 Great Nightlife Hotspots to Check Out in Albany, NY
Are you looking to have a great night out in Albany but don't know where to start? There are a variety of places to check out in the capital city, each of which provides a unique experience. Whether you want to listen to music and dance the night away, eat some amazing food, or sip a craft beverage, pick one of these 6 hotspots for your next night out.
Have a Blast All Night Long With Live Bands and DJs
Empire Live
Have you been to the new Empire Live yet in Albany? Located at 93 N. Pearl Street, Empire Live is a premier venue for live music with two different performance spaces. Enjoy music upstairs at Empire Live, a modern venue with a max capacity of 1,000, or head downstairs to Empire Underground, which features a max capacity of 350.
Waterworks Pub
Recognized as Albany's premier LGBTQ pub and dance club, Waterworks is the place to go to party throughout the night. The historic multi-level building offers something for everyone, including a hometown bar on the first floor and a modern dance club on the second floor. With a professional sound and laser system, dance lights, and regular and guest DJs, Waterworks is a key part of Albany's vibrant nightlife scene.
Savoy Taproom
Want to find the perfect combination of live music venue and cocktail bar in Albany? Savoy Taproom on Lark Street typically features live music ranging across genres, from jazz to acoustic to rock and beyond, as well as live comedy events and open mic nights.
While you're there, you'll definitely want to try the scratch made food and handcrafted cocktails to round out the night. They have an outstanding selection of classic cocktails and drink specials, beer, wine, and spirits.
Find upcoming live music events in the Capital Region >>
Go Out for an Evening of Great Food
Lost & Found Bar & Kitchen
Albany is home to a number of bars and taverns with an emphasis on fantastic culinary choices, and one of the top places for that is Lost & Found Bar & Kitchen. This local gastropub is known for putting a unique spin on their dishes, and there are new specials every week. Look forward to entrees like duck poutine, smoked leek pappardelle, and charred broccoli steaks.
McGeary's Irish Pub
From the traditional pub grub and extensive beer selection to the attentive bartenders and friendly staff, you can always expect to have a memorable time at McGeary's Irish Pub in Albany. Their main food menu includes a mix of hearty sandwiches, juicy burgers made with prime ground beef, and other delicious dishes. In addition, fish & chips and shepherd's pie are just some of the specials that they typically offer.
Keep your eye on their Facebook page for announcements about live music, trivia nights, and other events to enjoy during your meal at McGeary's.
Spend a Night Sampling Delicious Craft Beverages
Nine Pin Cider
As New York State's first farm cidery, Nine Pin Cider in Albany has everything you need for a fun night out. They offer an excellent selection of quality craft ciders using 100% local New York apples and fruit, and you can enjoy your cider with some of their gourmet sourdough personal pizzas or small plates.
Nine Pin Cider has both a tasting room and a patio, and they host special events throughout the year, such as Trivia Night and Nine PINGO (a twist on BINGO). Come and try a Nine Pin cider or some other local New York State beers and cocktails.
Ready to get out and experience Albany's nightlife scene? Plan a trip to one of these hotspots!