San Antonio nightlife is full of energy, flavor, and unexpected finds. The city’s mix of historic charm and modern edge makes it one of the most exciting places to enjoy a night out in Texas.
Explore the best bars in San Antonio, sip cocktails with skyline views at buzzy rooftop bars, or dance late into the night at stylish clubs across the city.
Use this guide to plan your perfect night out.
@visitsanantonio Dreaming of midday cocktails at 📍Tenfold Rooftop #ThingsToDoInSanAntonio #SanAntonio #kimptonhotels #tenfoldrooftop #visitsanantonio ♬ original sound - Ana Radosavljevic
🍷 Wine Bars in San Antonio
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If you prefer a more intimate gathering all while sipping on a glass of wine, visit one of our many local wine bars:
- Re: Rooted 210 | Find this hidden gem at Hemisfair for an urban winery and tasting room experience. Try a glass of wine on tap or a wine flight.
🍸 San Antonio Distilleries (Tours & Tastings)
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Explore our community's distilleries, where they meticulously craft their own products and invite you to indulge in tastings and tours.
- Devil’s River Whiskey | Nestled in the old Burns Building, a registered historic place in San Antonio, this spot offers its own bourbon, rye, agave, and cinnamon bourbon!
🍺 Local Breweries & Beer Bars
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Photo by Kuenstler Brewing
Cheers! If you love beer, there’s no shortage of breweries in the Alamo City:
- Kunstler Tap Haus | Located in Southtown, Kunstler Brewing is San Antonio’s first artisanal craft brewpub, re-inventing old beer styles into flavorful and innovative works of craft beer artistry.
- Mad Dogs British Pub | Experience an authentic British-themed pub with a full range of draft + bottled imported beers and live entertainment 7 days a week!
🍹 Craft Cocktail Bars
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If a cocktail in hand is more your style, take a look at these spots around the Alamo City:
- Prost River Walk & Alchemy Bar | Embark on a sensory adventure as their craft extraordinary elixirs that will enchant your taste buds and ignite your imagination.
- Esquire Tavern | With the longest wooden bar top in Texas (100 ft. long) and historic preservation of history, you will love exquisitely crafted cocktails, fine spirits, and beer while taking in the sights of San Antonio’s past.
- Amelia | One of the newest bars located in the Creamery District offers an extensive wine list, craft cocktails, and a snack menu that is reminiscent of a European bar, lounge, and patio.
- Pink Shark | Recently unveiled in the vibrant heart of San Antonio, this is the latest addition to the craft cocktail scene. Treat yourself to a delightful experience with the newly launched brunch menu featuring mouthwatering boozy delights.
- Double Standard | Known for its impressive selection of cocktails, beer, and an expansive array of whiskey and liquors, it has something to satisfy every palate.
🥂 Dance Clubs & Live Music
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- Merkaba | DJs and live music take the stage every Thursday through Sunday, and there are plenty of happy hours rotating daily.
- Club 1902 | Known as “The Jewel of San Antonio” and The Building of 1,000 Lights, this venue hosts major DJs and concerts.
- Howl at the Moon | If it's dueling pianos, rock n' roll, great drinks, and tons of fun you're after - then Howl at the Moon is for you. High energy and live music surround you here, and you will surely have an unforgettable time!
- Crockett Tavern | Enjoy the outdoor patio with live country music, and check out the daily drink specials.
🏙 Rooftop Bars with Views
Back to Top of List- The Moon’s Daughter | Located atop of the Thompson Hotel, a rooftop oasis offering stunning views and craft cocktails, creating an enchanting atmosphere for a memorable evening under the San Antonio sky.
- 1Watson | One of the newest rooftop bars in San Antonio, you can taste inventive cocktails all while catching a glimpse of San Antonio | The Saga at San Fernando Cathedral.
- Paramour at the Phipps | Known for its Sunday Drag Brunch, here you’ll find diverse cocktails and views of the Museum Reach.
- Otro Bar | Located along the Downtown River Walk, you’ll get the best view of the holiday lights during Christmas time.
- Fairmont Rooftop Oyster Bar | An upscale rooftop experience, you’ll love the handcrafted cocktails that pair well with its fresh oyster menu.
🍾 Unique Nightlife Experiences
Back to Top of List- Nightly Spirits | Get a little spooky while getting boozy with Night Spirits, San Antonio’s premiere ghost tour and pub crawl. Costumed guides will escort you through downtown San Antonio, allowing you to explore the haunted history of the city’s historic locations.
- Howdy, Sore Loser | Enjoy great drinks, sports, and recreation fun. This is your perfect spot for thrilling UFC & boxing nights, and lively sports action in a fun, vibrant atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of competition.
FAQs: Exploring San Antonio Nightlife
What are the best rooftop bars in San Antonio?
Some of the best rooftop bars in San Antonio include The Moon’s Daughter at Thompson Hotel, Paramour at the Phipps, 1Watson, Otro Bar on the River Walk, and the Fairmont Rooftop Oyster Bar. Each offers stunning city views paired with inventive cocktails and unique atmospheres.
Where can I go dancing in San Antonio?
If you’re looking for dancing in San Antonio, head to Club 1902 for big DJs and concerts, Merkaba for DJs and live sets Thursday–Sunday, or Howl at the Moon for dueling pianos and high-energy fun.
Is downtown San Antonio nightlife walkable?
Yes! Downtown San Antonio’s nightlife is highly walkable. Many of the city’s best clubs, rooftop bars, and cocktail lounges are clustered around the River Walk and Houston Street, making it easy to explore multiple venues in one night without driving.
Do clubs and bars in San Antonio have a dress code?
Most bars in San Antonio have a casual dress code, especially pubs and breweries. However, upscale cocktail lounges, rooftop bars, and nightclubs like Paramour or Club 1902 may enforce dress codes that lean toward smart-casual or nightlife attire. It’s always best to check ahead if you plan a night out.
What unique nightlife experiences can I try in San Antonio?
Beyond traditional bars and clubs, San Antonio nightlife offers Nightly Spirits ghost tour pub crawls, dueling pianos at Howl at the Moon, and themed nights at Howdy, Sore Loser. These experiences combine history, entertainment, and nightlife in unforgettable ways.
Get all the details on each of San Antonio's vibrant neighborhoods and suggestions on the best places to eat, things to do, arts & culture, and more!