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The 10 Cities in Canada That Have the Best Nightlife
Canada is undeniably packed to the brim with cities that truly come alive when the sun sets. From the lively jazz clubs of Montreal to the energetic festivals in Toronto, to the historic pubs of Halifax, Canada’s nightlife is as diverse as it is exciting.
So whether you fancy catching a live gig, dancing the night away, or simply enjoying a pint or two with friends, Canada’s got you covered. Read on as we journey across this vibrant country to discover the top cities with the best nightlife.
Calgary, Alberta
Calgary is well known for its thrashing live music venues and irresistible clubs. A trip to Calgary wouldn’t be complete without tasting a bit of its Western charm in action.
You’ll find plenty of kickin’ country bars alongside more modern and upbeat locations, catering to every mood. You can head to popular spots like Cowboys and Ranchman’s Cookhouse & Dancehall to lose yourself in the beats.
Make it your priority to explore the city’s pubs, cocktail bars, and breweries where you can sample local libations while making some new friends. And don’t forget about the incredible annual events that light up the city, like the Stampede and Country Thunder.
Local tip: If you’re visiting in mid-July, definitely hit the Calgary Stampede for the ultimate cowboy experience—just remember to dust off your boots and don your best cowboy hat!
Vancouver, British Columbia
Nestled between the rugged mountains and the Pacific coast, you’ll be smitten by both Vancouver’s beauty and great nightlife. Take a stroll through the neon lights of Granville Street also known as the Entertainment District, and you’ll find it buzzing with activity.
For your dose of live music, don’t miss the famous Commodore Ballroom and Celebrities Nightclub, which host a variety of genres ranging from indie rock to jazz.
And if sipping on custom cocktails is more your speed, the bustling Gastown area is home to quite a few trendy cocktail joints, teeming with hipster charm and innovative elixirs.
After a day of outdoor adventure, unwind with a cold brew at one of Vancouver’s many exceptional craft beer establishments. And let’s not forget that this city is home to one of the best food scenes in the country.
Local tip: Vancouver’s food trucks are simply to die for, so make a beeline for Japadog or Tacofino to fuel up before inviting the night in.
Toronto, Ontario
As the largest city in Canada, Toronto offers a diverse array of entertainment options, from packed clubs to mesmerising live performances. King West is your destination for chic bars and upscale nightclubs.
It’s here that you can dance beneath the shimmering disco balls and rub shoulders with the glitterati of the city. On the other hand, Queen West is the hub for avant-garde live music and artsy venues, perfect for the cultured night owl seeking a unique experience.
If you’re looking for affordable good times, the vibrant Annex area knows how to party on a budget. You can also get your feet tapping at the underground dance clubs or enjoy the beats at one of the famous bars, like the Dance Cave or Sneaky Dee’s.
Local tip: Try hitting a karaoke bar or two in Koreatown—you’re guaranteed a night of laughter and unforgettable memories!
Montreal, Quebec
Montreal is known for being the premier city for entertainment. Let loose in this treasure trove of cool bars, eclectic dance clubs, and stunning art galleries.
You can begin your night by savouring delicious refreshments in the Plateau Mont-Royal, a neighbourhood infamous for its foodie spots and cosy hangouts.
Every music connoisseur must visit Casa del Popolo, where you can chill out listening to live bands or explore their two dance floors. And for a more upscale evening, go to the renowned New City Gas, which hosts the hottest international DJs.
For after-hours action, head to Circus or Stereo, which will keep you dancing until the sunrise. And don’t worry, in the City of Saints, you can still score that perfect poutine in the early morning hours.
Local tip: Experience the wildly popular “5 à 7” (pronounced “cinq à sept”) in one of the city’s numerous bars—it’s a traditional Québécois happy hour where you can mingle with locals and enjoy some tasty bites!
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Halifax is bathed in history, culture, and exceptionally good vibes. Wander down Argyle Street, and you’ll be serenaded by the sweet sounds of Celtic, folk, and indie tunes wafting from the eclectic mix of Irish pubs and bars—it doesn’t get any more Maritime!
For a fancy night in the city, check out the classic establishments and cocktail lounges, where you can sip on delicious libations while admiring the picturesque waterfront views.
And for those craving more intimate hideouts, the North End is bursting with small, character-filled bars that will charm your socks off.
Local tip: If you find yourself in Haliwood on the third Wednesday of every month, swing by Rockbottom Brewpub’s Fickle Frog for the ever-amusing Open Mic Comedy Night.
Ottawa, Ontario
Ottawa’s Byward Market, the epicentre of the city’s nightlife, is an absolute must-see. It’s stuffed to the gills with a multitude of restaurants, pubs, and dance clubs where you can let loose till the wee hours.
And, of course, no Ottawa night is complete without a pit stop at the Laugh Lounge for some gut-busting stand-up. You can even head down to Elgin Street, where you’ll find a series of venues bursting with soulful tunes every night of the week.
Happy Hour reigns supreme in Ottawa, where you can enjoy some amazing bar bites and beverages after the sun goes down before hitting one of the city’s high-energy nightclubs, like the ever-popular Tequila Jacks.
Local tip: Make sure to sink your teeth into a BeaverTail pastry on your night out in the chilly winter months—nothing warms you up better!
Edmonton, Alberta
Edmonton is surely known for its energetic festivals and lively bars that’ll keep you buzzing until dawn. You’ve got your staple activities on Whyte Avenue—a hotbed of thriving bars, dance clubs, and live music venues waiting to be explored and enjoyed.
But wait, there’s more! For a splash of excitement, make a beeline for the Edmonton Riverboat.
Yes, you heard me right—a riverboat—bringing you a unique nightlife experience complete with dining, drinks, and beautiful views of Edmonton’s river valley. It’s definitely a party vessel worth sailing on!
Local tip: Don’t forget to check out the assortment of food trucks in the city for a quick bite before your big night out.
Quebec City, Quebec
Old Quebec, for instance, bustles with entertainment, from dancing clubs and chilled-out lounges to street performers that line the cobblestoned streets. Your evening gallivanting around the city won’t be complete without a dip in the Grande-Allée.
Known as Quebec City’s nightlife centre, it’s chock-full of myriad bars and clubs ready to serve up vibrant vibes until sunrise. Want to keep things classier? Explore the trendy Saint-Roch district, filled with artisanal cocktail lounges and upscale eateries.
And guess what? Here you’ll find the famed Le Drague Cabaret Club, a legendary LGBTQ+ venue that’s been pumping out fun since 1985.
Local tip: For a more cultural twist, check out the local ‘Cercle’, where you can enjoy a cocktail and witness an art exhibit all in one go!
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Winnipeg is known for its kaleidoscope of festivals and unique venues that shine brightly under the prairie skies.
Get yourself over to the artsy Exchange District, filled with a wide range of bars and lounges that expose you to creativity, craft beers, and cocktails.
Don’t miss out on Live on the Levee, a lively music series taking place right on the Red River. And when it comes to dancing, the Pyramid Cabaret is the perfect place to get grooving with its frequent themed nights and incredible live gigs.
Local tip: Keep an eye out for the city’s ‘Pop-Up Toilet’ initiative, which aims to add fun and utility to your downtown experience—such a uniquely Winnipeg feature!
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
Lined with a record-breaking number of pubs, bars, and clubs per square foot in North America, St. John is the lifeblood of the city’s raucous nightlife scene.
Play it cool in the relaxed ambiance of the classic Irish-style pubs, where the local musicians truly give you a feet-tapping, hip-swaying, and fist-pumping music experience you won’t forget.
But wait, there’s a cherry on top! Every year, George Street hosts the Mardi Gras-style George Street Festival, with a full week of fun, beer tents, and stages with local and national music acts.
Local tip: Try the local favourite drink, the ‘Screech In, but be warned, it’s as strong as our friend the Newfoundland dog is friendly!
