Best nightclubs in Indianapolis: find options near you

Saw The Electric Avenue on 02/28/2026. Great show! Great atmosphere! No problems with picking up tickets at Will Call. Premium Seating was comfortable, reasonably priced and painless to reserve. Servers were on point with warm greetings, addressing party by name and coming around to check on our needs regularly. Exceeded all expectations!

I’ve been going to The Vogue Theater and seeing live music there off & on since 1995. Anyone and everyone in music BIG & small has performed there at some point. Legendary artists that have went on to have very successful musical careers – some of those guys/bands cut their teeth in this venue! It’s been a training groud of sorts. And that’s why alot of bands – even after they make it ‘big’ – at some point they all come back to pay homage to a venerated place and grace its stage again… They almost always do! ❤️ 🎤 🎶

Very vibey venue. Had great drinks for decent prices. Probably is worth it to get the vip seating next time. Love that where I stood the bands would pass by and gave a chance to chat with different members!

Came for the KREAM show. The artists were great, but The Vogue isn’t the best setup for EDM shows. The layout, especially with the bar placement, creates congestion and awkward sightlines. For a high-energy electronic show, that disrupts the flow and movement on the floor. The biggest issue is lighting. The ceiling reflects too much light, making the room brighter than it should be. EDM relies on darkness and contrast to create immersion, and the extra brightness really kills some of the experiential impact during drops and big moments. Love the history of the venue, but it could use some production adjustments to better support electronic acts.

This 21 and over venue is the place to see some of the best new and established local, regional national and international music artists in a smaller setting. Forty 5 is a local boutique production company that also owns this venue, the recently added «Turntable» venue next store as well as The Tobias Theatre. Turntable features mainly newer artists in a more intimate 18 and over space. If you like exploring music you can’t go wrong with a show at either of these spaces.

I like the venue and the acoustics for a metal show. The place was packed for Whitechapel, which detracted a little, but the crowd was cool, so everyone did okay getting banged into, even outside the pit. Beverage areas seemed to be pretty quick and prices are reasonable for a music bar. There is enough still open in the area after a show to get a snack or late cocktail before going home. I will return to The Vogue for future shows.

Went and saw kream. Light show all night was boring. The djs were cool. Sound seemed pretty low all night. Definitely not what I’m used to when going to see dj’s. Great bartenders though.

My wife and I just happened to be walking by and saw Tommy Davidson was in town that night. I asked the front bouncer security guard about tickets and he told us to go ahead get in line he had us covered. We got in the door and for $36 a ticket we were sat at a nice private table in the club. They serve appetizers and small enters. Typical bar fried food items. I had the spicy goat cheese fig jam burger, it was ok. Good unique flavors but was as hot as I would expect. I was starving so I can’t complain. My wife had the chicken finger basket which was decent think high school lunch chicken fingers. Big Rich Green opened for Tommy Davidson and he was a riot from my home state of Ohio!! Tommy Davidson was hilarious and my face hurt by the time we left, that’s how much I laughed. Check it out if you’re in town!

Great spot in downtown. The acts that come in are cool. We got to see Nimesh Patel! He was fabulous. There’s a two item minimum inside but the food and drink menu is extensive, so it doesn’t feel bad to do that at all. We in fact ended up ordering a lot more.

Had a GREAT time watching Dale Jones. He is an absolute LEGEND and is woefully underappreciated, so I was extremely glad to see him coming to Indy! The staff at the club were extremely friendly and helpful and made sure they were never in the way or overbearing. The food isn’t horribly overpriced like one might expect and is quite delicious!

It was fine. We went on a Thursday for the 7:30 Phil Hanley show. There was no food available in the bar area. The local beer selection was really good and the bar tender was great. The hostesses seating the audience didn’t seem to understand Phil’s comedy style and sat the wrong people near the stage. Phil made it work but it could have been much better. For our two items per person we ordered the appetizer platter. It was great. The chips and salsa was a joke. They brought a bowl of «chips» that were completely crushed. What was really funny was the waiter had upsold us the queso. 🤣

Came over the summer to watch one of my fav YouTubers comedy show. I love that the area is spacious but still very intimate. They do have a 2 item minimum, it doesn’t have to be drinks. Most comedy clubs make you order atleast 2 drinks and I’m not a drinker. I had the Ceasar salad which was amazing, I definitely recommend trying. Can’t wait to visit again.

Great club. Very shallow and wide, which means everything feels close and intimate. I saw Heath, Martin, and Ahurn tonight. Super funny guys. I hope they come through again soon. There was one woman who wouldn’t shut up. She was given a couple of warnings from the stage, then they kicked her out. Great work from the club staff on getting rid of the distraction. Food and drinks were a little pricey, but normal for a captive venue. And the wait staff had a perfect balance between making sure I had what I needed without constantly interrupting my experience. It was a little tricky to find. It was listed as inside the Circle Center Mall, but some of the entrances to the mall (and all the stores) were closed (at 7:30p on a Wednesday), the mall information maps were not working, and the cleaning staff didn’t understand English. Overall, it was a great experience, and I’ll be going back.

The workers at Helium Comedy Club were not overly polite, but were not mean. The drinks were good, but pricey. They had a 2 drink minimum per person, which I have found is uncommon for comedy clubs.

We had are after Xmas party here. On a Saturday night 6 till 9 company employees only. There was good food some free drinks. And some door prizes. Herd some good music and had a great time…

Went to celebrate my birthday here and we absolutely loved it! My friends and I had a great time. The drinks were really good, food was good, our waiter did awesome, 0 complaints!

Food not served here. I highly recommend the Sex on the moon mixed drink. We got a bucket and it was well worth it!

I had an absolute blast at Howl at the Moon in Indianapolis! This place is the ultimate nightlife spot, with an electrifying atmosphere that keeps the energy high all night long. The dueling pianos were a total highlight—talented musicians played everything from classic rock to today’s hits, taking crowd requests that had everyone singing and dancing. The venue’s vibrant vibe, great service, and interactive entertainment made it a perfect night out. five stars all the way!

Always an awesome time when we go there. We are frequent flyers now. We’ve been to the one in Chicago and the one in Indianapolis and they’re both look great. You should try it out. You’ll be addicted ❤️❤️❤️💯🎉

My husband and I went to Howl at the Moon for Valentine’s Day (we went the weekend prior). It was a blast!! I would highly recommend to any one in the younger crowd of bar-going. They had live music and very attentive bartenders. We got a cocktail in a bucket and 3 shots each. It was not overly priced like most downtown bars are, but they did have a special for the holidays. It was a very fun time and I am excited to go back!

We had such a great time! We reserved a table for 10 pm. We were right on the dance floor, had everything we wanted/needed. Music was great! Crowd was great! This might be my favorite Howl at the Moon location!

Really great local brews on tap served in glass. Super cool atmosphere with nice lighting. Great date location!

For the last 2 years I’ve been coming in with my small dog to grab a drink and study. The bartender would say hi and the cooks would bring treats. Today after seating myself and settling in, I was sharply informed, without greeting or anything, that my dogs are not allowed. It was curt and unapologetic and made me feel like I had done something wrong. There is no sign out front and there have been others with dogs (regulars) which was why I started bringing mine. When I tried to ask about what has changed or of this was always a thing, the bartender was incredibly passive aggressive, refusing to acknowledge me or my question. She made very clear that I was unwelcome and a bother. Would not even engage with my questions. Just straight gaslit me, like I’d never been in. I understand policy changes, and I respect rules. I have no problem with dogs not being allowed. What was disappointing and hurtful was the complete lack of kindness and passive aggressive dismissal I received. She could have simply been kind, said hello first or even smiled. But instead I left feeling humiliated in front of everyone there and I will never return, with or without my dog. It was already a rough day, so much for being compassionate towards each other. Thanks to the other 3 male bartenders who have always been welcoming.

Good was great…our bartender Matt was excellent…after his shift he went to the back bar where we got corned been n cabbage and had another great bartender…with a rockin mohawk! We will be back! Happy St Patrick’s Day!

Good place to relax and hand out. Friendly staff and nice service. Food is good, specially Thursday is steak night. If you like steak , you shouldn’t miss it. Forgot to take pic because it’s too good. 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼 the chicken wing is amazing, try the everything sauce, you will love it.

You gotta stop by this place! OG Mike is amazing! He has been there since before I was born, and he knows his stuff. And the new bartender Hannah is also the bees knees!! Go check it out.

Literally my favorite bar in Indy (shitty kitty side) – have been going for over 20 years. I enjoy the diverse crowd, the bartenders are nice, and I always feel comfortable and relaxed there!

Just a blast from the past when I used to hang out in my punk n drunk days. I’ve never eaten here…. maybe next time I’m in Indy!

In May, the concierge of my hotel recommended The Chatterbox for local jazz. This shotgun style of a dive bar feels like a time warp to times near forgotten. The place is filled with people from all walks of life and the music was well worth the $9 cover, plus the bar takes cards if you don’t have cash for the door. I loved the atmosphere and and Jade was quick on the drinks and gave some good recommendations on how to spend my down time.

Great live jazz (even on a Wednesday), intimate bar, fairly priced drinks – pleasant staff. Highly recommend & will go back!

Ten out of ten experience. Wonderful staff, great drinks, great music, and an energy that can only be held by people who care about what they do.

Was there last night and listens to one of the finest jazz guitarists I’ve ever heard. Was planning on one drink and home. Stayed until 12:30 am. Couple memebers of the symphony came by to jam and I felt like I was in the East Village.. not Indy! What a gem this little place is. We shared our table , met great people. Best time in a long while!

Such a cool spot! Got here early enough that the crowd wasn’t bad. Music started at 8pm with a $4 «cover charge» added to bill. Jukebox available before the jazz band starts. Awesome conversation with Jess at the bar! I had already eaten before I got here, but they do have small food items available. Such a cool vibe in here. If you haven’t been, come. If you have been, chances are likely you’ll be back.

I came here a few times, just for drinks. If you’re expecting a well polished place then go somewhere else, but this place is a really really great dive bar. I’ve never been there for live music, but the staff and people are friendly. Very unique for the area. I wasn’t there for live music, but I’ve heard it’s pretty great when they do have that since it is technically a Jazz bar. Very eclectic decor that’s kind of hodgepodge together in the best way. I will say this bar was on the news for not being friendly to conservatives, but I don’t know the whole story what happened there. Disheartening but I’ve had nothing but good experiences here the two times I’ve been.

We’ve been coming here on a regular basis,sometimes 2-3 x per week. The entrance is $8 when a band plays. The place can tell a thousand stories,every inch of it has some memories from the past .Amazing music every single day! Jess,Katie,Ben and David are great! This place is truly one of a kind!

We’re visiting from OKC and had the opportunity to drop into this neighborhood dive bar on a Sunday evening around the corner from our Airbnb. Jacob made my husband’s «usual» just right and successfully entertained my various drink requests. The pizza came in clutch and we chatted with visitors from the UK while regulars mingled. Thanks for the memories while in Indy 🫶🏻

Great vibes..Great bartenders..Great music and ambiance..Tried the homemade artichoke and spinach dip and it was fantastic! Can’t help but love the old school jukebox 😎 The bartenders Anthony..Kat..Jacob are great creatures of the human species lol..Good times definitely recommend!! A+

Cozy, cool dive bar. Drink prices are fair, and bartenders know their stuff. I’ve never tried any of their food here, but both times I’ve been here the service has been great! Nice outdoor patio area, pool table, and a juke box (which could use some upgrades on music options). Will definitely be back!

Quintessential dive bar. I highly recommend stoking the juke with quarters it has a fantastic selection of music! Staff was great, open late.

Great dive, come w friends, pool in the back, bring $1s for the record player. I like the #2 beer cocktail, or just a lift off and fernet.

One of my favorite bars! Great bartenders, great vibes and don’t forget to ask for the banana Jameson! Yum!

The worst bar to go to in Indianapolis.hands down do not waste your time here. Bartenders are not friendly and the atmosphere is very middd. Stay as far away as possible. There are so many other options to go to that will treat you with respect and actually dine you! Dnu 100%

Super cool little dive bar. They had security at both exits which made me a little nervous but the bartender was super nice and we felt welcome. Jalapeno poppers were pretty good!

My daughter took me it was my first time here fried chicken was a 10 amazing like home cooking 🫶🏽 my drink was made just right a mango pineapple long island and it was the bar tender birthday so here service was on point. I will come back 🤭😊 darts games bar and seating. People just enjoying themselves and music on juke box

Another good local place on my way to downtown outings! Had a delicious wrap and onion rings. Cold bottled beer. Nice people and plenty of tables!

Always a great time here. We met Alexis on a random Thursday and she treated us so well we made plans to return the following week. We truly enjoyed karaoke night. The pizza, chicken wings, fried cauliflower and French fries are ALL delicious. The drinks are good too.

My friend and I came here specifically because the Google reviews said they had happy hour…we were ready to relax and enjoy some drinks. Turns out, they don’t have happy hour at all, which was already disappointing. But what really blew us away was the rude and unnecessary comment from the man at the front desk. The place was completely empty, no customers, no vibe, just silence. We could’ve just sat and waited for our Uber, but decided to order a drink anyway. As we were leaving, the man looked at us and said, «I hope you find somewhere cheaper,» as if we couldn’t afford to be there. It was insulting and totally uncalled for. We weren’t leaving because of the prices, we were leaving because the place misrepresented itself online. Judging by how empty it was, it seems like they don’t get much business anyway, and with that kind of attitude, it’s no surprise. Wouldn’t recommend this place to anyone. Misleading info, bad vibes, and rude staff

I didn’t wait long for a table because I caught seats at the bar, 😂 💯. It was really crowded that night. If you want to reserve for a group, you can contact the facility and do so for a fee. The place is cool; I gave 3 stars because the business is always booming on the weekends so it could really use a makeover. It is 2 old inside and highly dusty; I have real bad allergies so I stayed going out to get some air because it was stuffy and dry. Other than that, I okay 🎯 for the 1st time ever and I had a blast just hanging out with an old co worker and some cool strangers. We all took shots together, responsibly.

Great spot with good cold beer, drinks and excellent food! Patrons and staff are very friendly. I recommend the breaded tenderloin and hot 🔥 chips! Also plenty of parking 🅿️ is available and makes for an easy in and out! 5 ✨ ‘s! Looking forward to visiting again soon!

My wife and I went with another couple to see Tyler Braden for our first time at 8 Seconds. Some advice if it’s your first time: 1) General admission gets you a place to stand. It’s a small enough venue that you can see well enough but you’ll need to get there early if you want to be close to the front. 2) Plan on long concert (based on our one time experience). Opening band started at 8:45 and played for 45 minutes. Tyler didn’t start until 10:30; so there was a very long break. Probably to sell drinks and let people get through the long lines. 3) Consider getting a VIP table or if you’re good standing for 5+ hours to be right next to the stage, VIP general admission. We didn’t check the price difference, but when I go back, if I can’t afford the VIP table tickets, then I probably can’t afford to go. It was just too much standing for too long for a group of 50 somethings. 😂 Overall, it was a great venue and I could have a lot of fun there. If I lived close I’d definitely learn to line dance. I didn’t try the mechanical bull but I was tempted.

I absolutely love 8 seconds. They’ve always been very friendly, accommodating as much as possible, happy to answer any of your questions and the servers are amazing. The entertainment is… Well entertaining lol They do their best to provide top notch entertainment without killing our wallets. Always Interesting & fun. Ps. I for one am looking forward to magic Mike coming back- PLEASE!! 😉

This is one of the best night clubs I’ve ever been in and I’ve been in a lot. It kinda has the Gilleys Texas feel. Everyone is super friendly and staff is very accommodating. If you are over 50 stay off the mechanical bull and if you start thinking you are a good dancer stop drinking.

Wife and I have traveled two Fridays in a row to see concerts. It was well worth the 5+ hour round trip each time. I can’t think of anything negative to say about the place. Being a Texan born and raised, it definitely gives that back home feel and seeing Aaron Watson and Casey Donahew again was pretty awesome. We’ll be making this a very frequent outing. The manager, Dwayne, just an incredible guy. You’re guaranteed to have a great time.

First time visitor last night for the Casey Donahew concert. Very cool venue. Multiple bars were nice, I was never more than a minute or two from my next beer. The bartenders were some hard working SOBs!

This concert venue had great vibes! People were line dancing before the show and between sets, which added to the fun atmosphere. The doors opened on time, and the sets started pretty close to the scheduled time. The staff was friendly and welcoming. There were plenty of bathrooms available, which was a huge plus. Overall, this was a fantastic place to enjoy live music!

Great place. If you like country music, you will like this place. Not much to look at from the outside- parking is free but need to get there early if you want to be close. Cost to get in cash is 10.00. What a bargain. Can get tickets by card or Ticketmaster but a lot more. Real gem. Inside there is a pizza place looked good but ate before. Entertainment starts around 8:30, pre show was okay artist but usually the main artist makes up for this, starts around 10:30. Excellent lighting, special effects, acoustics improved through the set. Lots of energy in the crowd. Line dancing was cool to watch and try between the sets and afterward, good DJ for this. Dancers were welcoming. Had a soda and water, can’t comment on the drinks. Overall- fun place and will return when in Indy.

Had such an amazing time at this club! The atmosphere was so much fun, the girls were gorgeous, and the whole vibe was top notch. A special shoutout to Doug, the GM, who went above and beyond to make sure we had the best experience possible. Truly outstanding service he made the night unforgettable. Can’t wait to come back

Absolutely love the changes to the club especially the new bar service but what really has me coming back is the customer service. A gentleman whose name I believe he said was Oso was so kind with a nice smile wonderful hospitality too was so helpful. I will be back!

One of the best clubs in Indy for after hours on weekends. All the ladies look good even the servers, Lita helped me and my buddies out all night. Managers walking around making sure everyone was good 10/10 and they served food til 5 !

Imma business owner in the city & I been coming to pts for years & the doorman Eric is my guy, he the best doorman they’ve had in awhile very personable & very professional in selling bottles & not letting people in without an ID, he don’t play but he good peoples he just does his job right & educates how to come into an establishment and he’s know how to work the crowd and deal with all type of people. He a good dude.

Met drew out some where he convinced me to come visit his day shift and I can’t say that I’m disappointed in any way. he had a lot of girls for 2pm on a Tuesday and the free lunch was quality food too

PTS is a great place to visit any day of the week, great service, and an atmosphere that never misses. If you go, make sure to ask for Chicago Mike. He’s hands down the funniest and most genuinely hospitable person in the industry in Indiana.

Great fun place to see some beautiful entertainers. They have an amazing variety of girls to choose from. I also like that they play different genres of music…& let’s talk about the staff! Everyone was very nice & helpful. Especially this one security guard Ohso. This guy really went above & beyond to accommodate all of my needs. He was very kind & respectful. Pretty hot too if you ask me lol ; )

Dancers show club is always a solid spot to relax during day the dancers are talented. The music is solid and the service is always on point. Amanda is my go to bartender on Tuesdays and Thursdays. She remembers my order works fast and keeps things running smooth always a good time. I have even started bringing a couple of my buddies in during lunch definitely worth stopping in when the crew see the red car in the parking lot

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Tuesdays and Thursdays are hands down the best days to stop in! The bartender Amanda on duty is absolutely amazing — especially during the lunch hours. Super friendly, attentive, and always keeps the vibe just right. Definitely makes my weekday visits something to look forward to!

Traveling from out of town, stopped in for a beer. Had a blast with Michelle! Best bartender everrrr!!! She took great care of me and helped get my drunk ass an uber home. Will definitely be back in a few weeks 👍😊

Michelle is awesome. She kept me company in the snowstorm. The wings here were awesome. Drinks were coming fast, hot and ready. She’s the best!!!

Michelle is always so much fun and a blast to have around! She always make dancers feel like a second home great time with her awesome personality and cheesy jokes.

Davey’s behavior was aggressive and hostile, and he made me feel genuinely unsafe. His conduct toward women is rude, dismissive, and inappropriate. I find it deeply concerning that this establishment employs a security guard who behaves in this manner, and I believe his actions warrant immediate review and termination.

Michelle, Chelsea, and Lexi have made my experience at dancers better than I could’ve ever asked for. Great service great company great people.