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Atlanta Nightlife & Entertainment

They don't call this city "Hotlanta" simply because of the weather. The nightlife is pretty hot, too. The bars in Buckhead are legendary; during major events or conventions, the crossroads of Peachtree, Paces Ferry, and Roswell Road are packed with people bopping from bar to bar. Within a half-mile radius, you can find everything from upscale martini bars and Irish pubs to pool halls and dance clubs. In fact, Buckhead has become so popular that concerned residents fought for, and got, an ordinance forcing the bars to shut down at 3 am.

Phillips Arena in Atlanta draws major entertainment acts.
©2006 Atlanta CVB
Phillips Arena, located in the heart of Atlanta,
draws the biggest acts in entertainment.

If the bar scene isn't your thing, there is always a live performance to be found. Downtown's Phillips Arena, the Gwinnett Center, Hi-Fi Buys Amphitheater (formerly known as Lakewood Amphitheater), and Chastain Park usually feature the biggest performers. Depending on the season, you can experience world-class performances in the arts. Or if you just want to enjoy a movie, Phipps Plaza offers a 14-theater complex right in the heart of town.

Insider's Guide: The Best of Nightlife & Entertainment in Atlanta

If you want to hear music in an intimate setting, make your way to Eddie's Attic
in Decatur (515 North McDonough St). Groups like the Indigo Girls, John Mayer, and Cigar Store Indians have played there in the past. It's almost like listening to music in your own living room, and you can mingle with the artists after their sets.

The decor hasn't changed in 20 years, but the legendary Johnny's Hideaway
(3771 Roswell Road) is still the best bet for "big kids" who want to dance. Seemingly always open, the music ranges from Frank Sinatra to pop music. Once in a while, the disc jockey will even throw in a waltz.

For the best sports bar, visit Frankie's at The Prado
and try some tasty wings (5600 Roswell Road). Go for a pint of Guiness at one of the city's best Irish pubs, Prince of Whales (1144 Piedmont Ave). The premier brew pub, Park Tavern (500 10th St), pays homage to the designer of Piedmont Park with its signature Olmstead Amber brew.

If you'd rather taste a variety of wines, head to the best wine bar around, Eno
(800 Peachtree St). It offers a wine tasting every Wednesday night.

The Down and Dirty martini is the drink to whet your whistle while listening to jazz tunes at Beluga
(3115 Piedmont Road). The most unique drink combos can be found at the Lobby Bar at the Glenn Hotel (110 Marietta St). Your best bet is the peach julep.

If you are interested in having a good laugh, visit the The Punchline
(280 Hildebrand off Roswell Road, Sandy Springs). This is the place that helped launch comedian Jeff Foxworthy.

Test your sleuthing skills and see if you can solve a murder by dessert at Agatha's Murder Mystery Theater
(161 Peachtree Center). Dinner theater doesn't get any better than this.

If you're looking for a livelier experience, enjoy some sushi and a sake martini while blending in with the beautiful people at the trendy singles bar, Phipps Plaza
(3500 Peachtree Road). If the singles scene isn't your thing, you can enjoy an intimate setting while listening to the best outdoor music venue at Chastain Park.

In the mood for billiards? Visit one of the top pool halls in the city, Twains
(211 E. Trinity Place, Decatur). This is not your typical grungy pool hall -- it offers a good selection of tables and a better selection of beer.

While most drive-in movie theaters have closed, you can experience this uniquely American thrill one more time at the Starlight Drive-In
(2000 Moreland SE). An old-fashioned drive-in with six screens, this place doubles as a flea market during daylight hours. If you'd rather experience movies with all the modern comforts, visit the Regal Hollywood 24 (3265 Northeast Expressway, Chamblee), which features all-stadium seating.

If you're looking for things to do that are slower paced, Atlanta has that covered, too. Go to the next page to discover the best ways to relax and unwind in this Southern city.

 



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