A hilly city in Northern California, San Francisco is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco Bay. It is famous for the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, vibrant Victorian houses, and stunning skyscrapers. The most distinctive high-rise building in the Financial District is the Transamerica Pyramid. Also, you’ll find in the bay the famous Alcatraz Island, which is where the former notorious prison is located. Another exciting thing about San Francisco is each neighborhood here offers exciting and refreshing nightlife. Visitors of this city will also find a number of themed hotels and hotels near nightlife available after a night of fun. In case you don’t know anything about it, then you have to read on, and discover our list of areas in San Francisco with the best nightlife
Popular picks in San Francisco
Those looking to sample some of the most delicious cocktails in the city must visit the neighborhood of Union Square. Some of the mindblowing spots you can explore here are Hawthorn, the award-winning Pacific Cocktail Haven, and Cityscape, which allows you to enjoy 360-degree city views, too!
Jazz lovers can spend their evening at SFJAZZ Center, which has a dynamic calendar of shows performed by Grammy winners as well as growing artists!
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 27, 2024.
Why Trust Trip101?
✅ Over 50,000 articles reviewed and published by our experienced team
✅ Over 50 years of combined experience researching, writing and reviewing travel articles
✅ Over 40,000 hours spent on research and fact-checking from credible sources (last year’s data)
✅ Optimizing content from data-driven insights collected directly from users on our platform
✅ Focus on authentic and up-to-date information by collaborating with local guides, global travelers and other industry experts
✅ Long-standing partnerships with credible brands like Airbnb, Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, GetYourGuide, Viator, RVShare and more
✅ Full disclosure on any partnerships or sponsored content
Trip101’s team of writers, editors, and content managers oversees the publication of all travel content, including destination guides, accommodation recommendations, and travel tips. They have extensive experience in the travel industry and no content, written or visual, gets published without a review. Many of our team’s work has also been featured in Travel+Leisure, National Today, The Indian Express, The Telegraph (India), Robb Report, The Adventure Handbook, Tripoto, Korea Tourism Organization, and Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Some of them are also members of professional organizations like the Society of American Travel Writers and the International Travel Writers and Photographers Alliance.
Each member of the team follows Trip101's methodology and strict editorial guidelines to ensure accuracy, authenticity, and relevance.
1. North Beach
Numerous dining options nearby, though breakfast service may be limited due to COVID-19.
Reasonable pricing for the excellent location in North Beach area of San Francisco.
Conveniently located near Fisherman’s Wharf, Coit Tower, and various restaurants and cafes.
Contactless check-in, clean rooms, and easy access to public transportation.
North Beach is a buzzy neighborhood, adjacent to Chinatown and the financial district, which features Italian heritage. It is famous for being one of the most sought-after areas for partygoers for its thriving and very busy night scene. The streets here are often packed with people going in and out of bars, clubs, pubs, retro restaurants, and more. If you want more of the mature scene, you better go to Broadway for adult-oriented shows. If it’s Italian cuisine you’re after, make your way over to the Columbus Avenue that is dotted with numerous authentic Italian and European restaurants. And, for a more youthful scene, head to the Grant Avenue, home to the bohemian hangouts with live music and laid-back vibe.
Washington Square Inn
Address: 1660 Stockton Street
1.49 km (1.0 mi) from Union Square
2. SoMa
SoMa or South of Market is the warehouse filled district of San Francisco, where you’ll find numerous museums, including the San Francisco Museum of Modern Arts, which is very famous for its extensive collection of arts from different times. Apart from warehouses and museums, you’ll find lots of dining choices and high-energy nightclubs. One example is the DNA Lounge, where they play a mix of live music and DJ beats that range from pop to punk to rockabilly, and more. Other clubs you shouldn’t miss include the Cat Club, Oasis, Mezzanine, and more.
The St. Regis San Francisco
Address: 125 3rd St
573 meters (0.4 ft) from Union Square
3. Mission
Superb breakfast with a good range of options, including homemade egg and veggie frittata, French toast, and a spread with bread, cheeses, salami, smoked fish, and fruit.
Reasonable pricing for a charming B&B in a prime location.
Perfectly situated in a charming neighborhood within walking distance to popular attractions, restaurants, and great dining options.
Impeccably clean, unique decor, and a beautiful garden with a wine temple.
If you’re into arts as well as into partying hard after twilight, then the Mission District is a must-visit area of San Francisco. This neighborhood has Latino roots and feature a hipster vibe, which you can see in its colorful mural-lined streets like in the Clarion Alley. You’ll also find here lots of taquerias, tattoo parlors, and gourmet ice-cream parlors. Aside from those, Mission District also boasts of eclectic live music clubs, craft cocktail lounges, pubs, dive bars, and more. One of the best dive bars you’ll find in San Francisco is here, the 500, with its neon sign, graffiti-filled bathrooms walls, cheap drinks, jukebox, you’ll surely have a wonderful time drinking and appreciating the simplicity of it all. It will also take you back in time for it is home to a few of the last phone booths in the city.
Noe's Nest Bed and Breakfast
Address: 1257 Guerrero street
4.31 km (2.7 mi) from Union Square
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Nob Hill
Home to the swankiest hotels in San Francisco, Nob Hill features numerous beautiful and charming attractions like the ornate, gothic-styled Cathedral of Grace and the stunning Huntington Park. Aside from beautiful structures, this district also features streets filled with restaurants and nightspots, including the Top of the Mark Lounge, which has an uninterrupted view of the city. Also, you should stop by the Big 4, a luxurious bar in the Scarlet Huntington Hotel, where you can attend late-night music parties. The bar also features green leather seating and dark woodwork, and walls adorned by memorabilia, which will take you back in time.
The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco
Address: 600 Stockton at California Street
423 meters (0.3 ft) from Union Square
5. Pacific Heights
One of the opulent residential enclaves in San Francisco, Pacific Heights feature architecturally significant homes, including the 1886 Haas-Lilienthal house, a great example of Queen Anne style architecture, which is open for public viewing. Other important sites you’ll see here include two grassy hilltop parks, Lafayette and Alta Plaza, and the Lyon Street Stairs, which will give you a 360-degree view of San Francisco. One of the best areas for nightlife here is Fillmore Street, which is a hub of lively bars, restaurants, clubs, and more.
The Laurel Inn, part of JdV by Hyatt This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 444 Presidio Avenue
3.45 km (2.2 mi) from Union Square
6. Embarcadero
Limited but complimentary breakfast, with nearby dining options.
Reasonable pricing for a prime location near Embarcadero and Ferry Building.
Conveniently situated near Chase Center and popular attractions, with easy access to transportation.
Complimentary wine hour, bike rentals, and access to YMCA lap pool.
Boasting numerous waterfront attractions, Embarcadero is home to 1898 Ferry building with an iconic clock tower, which is perhaps the major destination for foodies. It features lots of dining options that range from hole-in-the-wall shops to gourmet restaurants, like the Slanted Doors, and farmer’s market. Also, you’ll find lots of ferries that offer tours to Alcatraz Island. As for its night scene, this neighborhood is the best place to have a glass or more of wine. One example is the Barrel, which offers 50 selections of wine and features a speakeasy lounge that is open until late. If you’re looking for more, you should visit the Barbarossa Lounge and the Hidden Vine.
Harbor Court Hotel
Address: 165 Steuart Street
1.44 km (0.9 mi) from Union Square
7. Downtown
Complimentary breakfast with variety; nearby dining options; coffee and pastries available
Great value for the location; reasonable pricing for amenities
Central location near Union Square; convenient for shopping and dining; safe area
Spacious rooms; free breakfast and coffee; water dispenser; clean and modern
At the heart of San Francisco, the downtown offers numerous sights, delectable food scene, vibrant nightlife, and never-ending shopping options. It is dominated by towering and stunning skyscrapers, which house big companies and local businesses. But apart from having the financial district, it also boasts numerous party venues, rooftop bars, pub, speakeasies, and more. If you’re a fan of upbeat music and love going to dance clubs, then the Union Square is a must-visit spot for you. For live Jazz music, from Mondays to Saturdays nights, there is the Burritt Room + Tavern; and for a complete cabaret experience, you better go to the Feinstein’s at the Nicco.
Inn at Union Square This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 440 Post Street
147 meters (480.8 ft) from Union Square
8. Sausalito
A city in Marin County, Sausalito is located across the Golden Gate Strait and is famous for the Richardson Bay houseboat enclaves, which are built by WWII artist squatters. If this city is stunning in the morning with its bay views, it is equally interesting at night with its numerous party venues, dance clubs, lounges, dive bars, and more. One of the best night spots for singles is the Sausalito SeaHorse, where you can hear live music, including Brazilian music and other styles of music; every night there’s a different genre played. It also has special nights, where you can dance salsa. Additionally, they also conduct dance group classes.
Casa Madrona Hotel and Spa
Address: 801 Bridgeway
10.03 km (6.3 mi) from Union Square
9. Fisherman's Wharf
The most touristy area in all of San Francisco, the Fisherman’s Wharf offers never-ending shop of souvenirs, and stalls selling crab and clam chowders, postcards of the bays featuring Alcatraz and the Golden Gate. Also, you’ll find here the Ghirardelli Square, which features boutiques and eateries. The busyness of the place doesn’t stop at the day, it continues throughout the night with its wide selection of night spots to visit, which includes lounges with live music, themed bars, dance club, and late-night eats. Bar hopping is one of the famous activities during the night here, for there are 10 bars within a 15-minute walk. So start your night by visiting either of these three: PIER 39’s secret Tiki bar, Luau Lounge and Gold Dust Lounge, which offers an extensive array of drinks, good food and live music. And finally, end your night with an Irish coffee at the Buena Vista Cafe.
Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli Square
Address: 900 N Point Street
2.34 km (1.5 mi) from Union Square
10. Potrero Hill
A family-friendly neighborhood in San Francisco, Potrero Hill features a stunning view of the bay and the city skyline. It also features a mix of condos, classic Victorian houses, and sports facilities. If its dining option and nightlife you’re looking for, better visit the eastern edge side of the neighborhood, and be amazed by the hip bars, clubs, lounges, and more, which runs along the waterfront. For the best live music according to the rolling stone magazine, there’s the Bottom of the Hill, which is a quirky bar that offers live music, ranging from pop to punk, rock, and more, plus it also features a modest dance floor. Other nightspots that may interest you include the Mighty, Cafe Cocomo, and Thee Parkside.
Signature San Francisco
Address: 259 7th Street
1.18 km (0.8 mi) from Union Square
More hotel recommendations near nightlife
Apart from the hotels already recommended above, there are plenty of other excellent options. If you need some variety to work with, check out more recommendations below.
11. JW Marriott San Francisco Union Square
JW Marriott San Francisco is a pet-friendly hotel that boasts a bar providing a large selection of cocktails and Northern California wines. Guests who stay at the hotel especially like the Belden Place that is just a few minutes drive from the property. It is a French quarter of the city, adorned with string of city lights and strewn with Gallic-themed restaurants that will surely delight a nightlife enthusiast. The Great American Music Hall with its live music performance is another popular spot along with The Chapel and its acoustic-friendly restaurant and bar. You can also visit Ghirardelli Square and Anchor Brewing Company, both are just a few minutes away.
JW Marriott San Francisco Union Square This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 515 Mason Street
274 meters (0.2 ft) from Union Square
12. Taj Campton Place
You’ll literally be steps away from the Union Square, a large public plaza that’s open 24/7. This is the central shopping and entertainment area in San Francisco. At Taj Campton, bedrooms feature a state-of-the-art sound system, perfect for your late-night get-together with friends. The on-site bar and bistro also offers late-night dining, and serves specialty cocktails and wines. It’s best to also have your dinner at their Michelin-star restaurant that serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Pier 39 and The Chapel are just a few minutes drive away from the hotel.
Taj Campton Place
Address: 340 Stockton Street
146 meters (478.8 ft) from Union Square
13. Orchard Garden Hotel
Guest rooms at this eco-friendly hotel feature an iPod dock, organic bath products, smart TVs and a large work desk. If you want to go for a night out, the closest you can visit is the popular Union Square. Benjamin Cooper, a contemporary cocktail bar at Union Square is open from Monday to Saturday from 5 pm to 2 am. You can have your late-night dinner at this new restaurant called Struzzo. They serve delicious desserts, sandwiches, salads, coffee, cocktails and wines. If you love antiques and anything history-related, you can visit The Irish Bank pub, which is open until the wee hours - about 2 am. The pub is decorated with historical ads and antiques. They serve the crowd favorite called Shepherd’s Pie, and also boasts a wide selection of beers and whiskeys.
Orchard Garden Hotel
Address: 466 Bush Street
367 meters (0.3 ft) from Union Square
14. W San Francisco
You’re surrounded by several clubs, fashion shows and restaurants when you stay at W San Francisco. In fact, Union Square - where you can do countless activities - are just 8 minutes walk away. You can dine and drink at the Bartlett Hall, where you can enjoy good food and house-brewed beers. They are open until 1:30 am and you can have your last order as late as 12:30 am. Or, how about having a heavy and late dinner at the Halal Guys, famous for their platter of chicken? You’ll surely have a good time. Although Pier 39 may be a little far, they are also a great location for dining and entertainment.
W San Francisco This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 181 Third Street
702 meters (0.5 ft) from Union Square
15. Hotel Zetta San Francisco
How about spending the night socializing with other tech guests while playing shuffleboard and 50 Nintendo games? After gaming, you can all head to either the S & R Lounge or The Cavalier for some classic British cocktails. It will be a night to remember. Of course, if you’d rather go out, The Union Square is just around the corner. There are a lot of options to choose from - whether you’d like to have a late-night dinner or a happy hour, you’ll find them at Union Square. After having fun, visit the hotel gym - open 24 hours - for a workout.
Hotel Zetta San Francisco This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 55 5th Street
512 meters (0.4 ft) from Union Square
16. Omni San Francisco
Enjoy luxurious accommodation at the Omni San Francisco Hotel, which is only a few steps away from some of the most popular attractions of San Francisco, including The Union Square. You have a vast choice of drinking establishments, restaurants and coffee shops near you. The restaurants offer a wide range of cuisines, along with a plethora of wines, cocktails, beers and whiskeys to choose from. If you want to see some famous attractions before night falls, that’s possible too. You can visit Wells Fargo History Museum, Lotta’s Fountain, Embarcadero Plaza or the Transamerica Building.
Omni San Francisco
Address: 500 California Street
694 meters (0.5 ft) from Union Square
17. Hilton San Francisco Financial District
Good dining options, but breakfast was considered expensive by some guests.
Reasonable rates for central location, but additional fees for amenities.
Convenient location in the heart of Chinatown and close to major attractions.
Clean and modern facilities, but some rooms lacked basic amenities like fridges.
During the day, you can chill at the hotel room perchance enjoying the free wifi access. Or, you can hit the gym, visit the hotel library, see the art galleries or relax on the terrace or garden. You can either have your dinner at the on-site 750 Restaurant serving American cuisine, or head straight to the Union Square to have fine or casual dining. Bouche and Anzu Restaurants are good options. If you like to explore the outdoors before the nightlife, visit the Exploratorium, an outdoor exhibit with a simulated rainfall, a large harp and a mobile camera obscura. At night, you can go the popular Belden Place or the Great American Music Hall.
Hilton San Francisco Financial District This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 750 Kearny Street
833 meters (0.6 ft) from Union Square
18. Palace Hotel
Stay close to the ocean, the Twin Peaks Lookout Mountain and the nightlife when you stay at the Palace Hotel. Daytime is better spent swimming and enjoying water activities on the beach or trekking in the mountains. You can also just stay in the hotel and go swimming in the pool. Pied Piper, the on-site restaurant is a good option for dinner. At night, you can visit the Union Square that is replete with shopping centers, should you wish to indulge in some retail therapy. For casual dining, you can go to Cafe Mason or the Burger House. If you love coffee, you can visit Cafe Madeleine situated at the Union Square too. For guests who’d rather spend the night having cold drinks, Bar Norcini and Infusion Lounge are a few options.
Palace Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Francisco This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 2 New Montgomery Street
508 meters (0.4 ft) from Union Square
19. Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco
You’ll only be 5 minutes walk away to the popular restaurants at Yerba Buena Gardens and Union Square when you book Four Seasons Hotel. There is an on-site restaurant and bar, but it’s best to explore and try other interesting drinks and cuisines. Popular places to go at night include the Union Square, Lombard Street, Metreon and Pier 39. At Pier 39, you can shop all you want or play video arcades. There are also street performances and 3D rides you can enjoy. Belden Place and the Great American Music Hall are also within a few minutes drive from the hotel.
Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco
Address: 757 Market Street
296 meters (0.2 ft) from Union Square
No sleeping in San Francisco
San Francisco is one busy city that won’t make you run out of things to do, come daylight or nighttime. In the morning, you’ll be running around visiting famous sites, and in the evening, you’ll be partying until you drop, with its numerous karaoke bars, rooftop lounges, speakeasies, dance club, festivals, and more. Check out our list of the areas in San Francisco with the best night scenes.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
