Come alive at night: Nightlife in Columbus

From jazz to disco to arcade games, here’s how to make the most of the nightlife scene in CBUS.

To-go cans are available after gaming at 16-Bit Bar + Arcade | Photo via @16bitbar

Feel nostalgic with classic games at 16-Bit Bar + Arcade. | Photo via @16bitbar

Table of Contents

The nightlife scene in Columbus is continually evolving — and whether you’re looking to dance, play games, or sip on a drink with downtown views, there’s a spot for everyone.

Hit the dance floor

The newest disco bar in CBUS is Good Night John Boy, which took over SeeSaw in the Short North. The 1970s-themed spot is complete with a disco ball, lit-up dance floor, and music from that decade.

Another disco bar is The Go Go in Italian Village. The bar is decked out with neon decor, vibrant art painted on the walls, lava lamps, and disco balls. Expect a full dance floor, flashing lights, and music that rotates from 80s to current hits.

Service industry workers get 20% off every Sunday | Photo via @goingtothegogo

Service industry workers get 20% off every Sunday at The Go Go | Photo via @goingtothegogo

All that jazz

Ginger Rabbit Jazz Lounge is the newest jazz bar in the city, located in the Short North. The dimly lit, basement-level lounge features live jazz and bluegrass music nightly. Cocktails are the specialty, with a wide selection of classic drinks and originals. Upscale seafood bites are available like octopus, branzino, and smoked trout filets.

Fun and games

Channel some friendly competition at 16-Bit Bar + Arcade. You can play 40+ classic arcade games like Pinball and Pac-Man, and as long as you order a drink, the games are free.

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Imagine the views in this room at night. | Photo via Hilton Columbus Downtown

Sip with scenic views

The newest rooftop bar in Columbus is Brass Eye, which is above The Junto Hotel in Franklinton. Take in views of the skyline with both indoor and outdoor seating, including an outdoor fire pit.

Stories on High is the tallest rooftop bar in CBUS, and it offers views of both downtown and the Short North. The upscale restaurant and bar is located in the Hilton Downtown.

Mandrake Rooftop in the Short North also has an amazing city view + features a DJ and dance floor on the weekends. Bottle service is also available.

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