Los Angeles Nightlife

The vibrant Los Angeles nightlife rivals that of Las Vegas. In fact, many of the headliners who play the night clubs in Los Angeles also have Vegas on their tour itineraries, and many of the most famous Los Angeles clubs also have a club in that famous Nevada gambling spot. The iconic House of Blues is an example of one of the spots with a club in each city.

The best party atmosphere night clubs in Los Angeles will be found in Hollywood and West Hollywood, located on or near Hollywood Boulevard, Santa Monica Boulevard, and Sunset Boulevard. There are literally dozens of them, with the biggest concentration in Hollywood. Typical of the larger spots is the Vanguard, which got its start in the "rave" culture. It took over an entire warehouse with 20,000 square feet and transformed it into a world class party and music venue similar to the famous nightclubs on Spain's island of Ibiza. There is a state-of-the-art sound system in the cavernous space that also has numerous, more intimate lounges. Hollywood & Highland is more than one of Los Angeles clubs as it is a large complex encompassing restaurants, hotels, and the Kodak Theatre—as well as the Highland Nightclub. This is a supper club with deejays and as well as live music performances.

Not all nightlife in LA is music and dancing. Some important Los Angeles nightlife will be found in comedy clubs, and the majority of these will also be found in Hollywood and West Hollywood. The Improv, Laugh Factory, and Comedy Club are the most well known, but the city is also known for its smaller clubs and theaters that provide many newcomers with their first foot in the door.

West Hollywood is one of the most gay-friendly little cities in the country, with special events that draw visitors from around the world, including one of the largest Gay Pride parades and a famous Halloween party. There are a number of gay clubs in LA located here. Several, like the Circus Disco on Santa Monica Boulevard host a mostly gay crowd, but many (like the 4100 Club on Sunset Boulevard) are friendly to and comfortable for all.

Both comedy and music Los Angeles clubs can be found in other neighborhoods, most prominently in Santa Monica and Venice Beach. The Zanzibar in Santa Monica is a good example of the great music venues. With an Indian/African theme, there is excellent music and a funky mixture of cozy bars and lounges. The Westside Comedy Club offers an amateur night as well as improv classes. Both these clubs are located very near the Third Street Promenade shopping area.

Good Los Angeles nightlife can be found outside of these four areas. The large sprawling city offers many neighborhoods with good music bars, comedy, and dancing. Several are clustered around LAX. While many of these are adult entertainment venues, there are some good mainstream clubs. Harry O's Bar is one such place, with live music, sports events, and a dining spot. You will also find many night clubs in Los Angeles around Burbank, which has a heavy concentration of film industry businesses. Nearby Universal City Walk also boasts nightlife, including a Hard Rock Café, Comedy Club, the Howl Along music revue, and the Rumba Room (a Latin dance club).