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The Ultimate Guide to Nightlife in Harrisburg

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If you are looking for a fun night out, Harrisburg is the place for you. Whether you want to hit the dance floor, enjoy a cocktail or listen to live music, you will find a place to let loose.

Going clubbing. Grabbing a casual drink. Jamming to a local band. Whatever you’re looking for, the nightlife in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, has something to offer. To help you choose between the endless options, here is a quick rundown of the best places to visit to enjoy the Downtown Harrisburg nightlife.

Places to Party in Harrisburg

If you like listening to good music or want an upscale party experience, Harrisburg is the place to be. Here are four of the best dance clubs in Harrisburg. 

1. Level 2

Are you looking for an upscale club experience? If so, look no further than Level 2. 

Level 2 offers the fun of a club in a classy package. With a formal dress code and dramatic decorations, you can enjoy a night of luxury. When you aren’t grooving to the music on the dance floor, indulge in a specialty drink or a small plate. 

 So, what are you waiting for? Put on your favorite night-out dress and head to the dance floor. 

2. Sawyers

Sawyers is a well-established outdoor bar that allows you to dance the night away under the stars. With a live DJ and a wide variety of cocktails, Sawyer’s is a great place to party during the summertime. 

For some extra excitement, stop by on Thursday for King Kong Pong night. Dancing, drinking and playing pong. Is there a better midweek pick-me-up? 

3. Bourbon Street Saloon 

If you want to do more than dance, the Bourbon Street Saloon is the place for you. Featuring music, firepits, outdoor seating, three bars and pong and pool tables, there are tons of opportunities to let loose and have fun. With so many things to do and a long list of specialty shots and drinks, you can party the way you want. 

4. District Bar & Lounge

The District Bar & Lounge is a relaxed club that has a full menu of American and Caribbean cuisine. Open from Thursday to Sunday, the District Bar & Lounge offers both a laid-back and party scene. With events spanning networking socials to DJ nights, you never know who you will see.

District Bar and Lounge

On Fridays and Saturdays, the lounge turns into a relaxed club experience with a DJ for you to enjoy your favorite songs while you drink a specialty cocktail from the full bar. Whether you stop by on a weekend evening or for after-work cocktails with your co-workers, you won’t be disappointed!

Places in Harrisburg to Listen to Live Music

If you would rather sit back and listen to a band while enjoying a nice drink and meal, Harrisburg has plenty of options. Here are four of the best venues to listen to live music in Harrisburg: 

1. The Harrisburg Midtown Arts Center

If you want to see a comedy show or band, stop by the Harrisburg Midtown Arts Center (HMAC). Located in the heart of Harrisburg, the HMAC hosts a variety of bands and comedians, including local talent. As you enjoy the show, you can get a drink from the full bar.

2. The Sturges Speakeasy 

Get ready for a blast from the past. This tavern-style bar offers it all — a full menu, multiple beers on draft, a wide range of mixed drinks and live music. 

Stop by the Sturges Speakeasy any time between 11 a.m. and 2 a.m. to enjoy one of the 16 beers on draft or one of over 200 cocktails and seasonal drinks. Pair your drink with lunch or dinner, head out to the rooftop deck, and sit back and relax. Make sure to visit on Thursday to enjoy listening to a live band starting at 7 p.m.

3. The Harrisburg Beach Club

The Harrisburg Beach Club offers the best views of the river. As you take in the views, you can enjoy a drink from their extensive drink menu. If alcohol isn’t for you, there is also a wide range of mocktails and sodas to choose from.

Show up hungry: There’s a food truck on-site so that you can grab a bite to eat. Depending on the day, you may also catch a live band. When you want a great beer and great food while listening to a great band in the great outdoors, stop by Harrisburg Beach Club. 

4. Crawdaddy’s 

Are you looking to enjoy some Southern comfort food with a New Orleans twist? If so, Crawdaddy’s is the stop for you. Start with an order of crispy catfish nuggets and end with a big bowl of classic gumbo. And don’t forget to order one of their photo-worthy cocktails!

As you enjoy your food and drinks, you can listen to a live Jazz band and take in the lively atmosphere. 

Places to Have a Laid-Back Night in Harrisburg

If you’re looking to have a relaxed night — sans live music and dancing — you have plenty of options. Here are three of the best bars in Harrisburg where you can enjoy a casual drink with friends or on your own.  

1. Millworks

Millworks is an upscale restaurant that features a farm-fresh seasonal menu. Open until 10 p.m., you can enjoy a meal as you sip on a local brew or artisan cocktail. If the weather is nice, sit on the rooftop deck or in the outdoor courtyard. 

The restaurant aims to connect local farmers and artisans to the city. In addition to sourcing ingredients from local farmers, the restaurant also allows artisans to work on their crafts in the restaurant while customers watch. Customers then have the opportunity to view or buy the art in the gallery.

2. Federal Taphouse

If you are looking to have a laid-back meal as you sip on a craft beer, the Federal Taphouse is the place for you. With a full menu of American staples, you can enjoy a specialty burger or a wood-fired pizza as you browse the craft beer menu. 

On Friday and Saturday, there are extended hours until midnight, so enjoy a late night of great food in a relaxed environment. 

3. Stock’s on 2nd

As a Gastropub, Stock’s on 2nd specializes in serving whiskey and bourbon while cooking high-quality food. 

The pub aims to source food locally, with their goal being to buy 90% of ingredients from local farmers and butchers. The restaurant’s focus on locally sourced ingredients, materials and labor is seen in the decor. The tables are Amish-built, and the lights hang from barn beams taken from a Carlisle barn. 

With Stock’s on 2nd having a large selection of whiskey, beer and cocktails, stop by one of the best bars in Harrisburg, and enjoy a drink and meal in an unrivaled relaxed environment.

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