Are you looking for things to do in Gainesville at night?
I hope you’re well rested because you have a lot of options!
There are loads of restaurants and bars that stay open late. For those looking for somewhere that is less crowded, hip, and lowkey, then I have all of that for you too in this guide to nightlife in Gainesville.
So, what is there to do in Gainesville at night? Let’s jump right in as I show you the best way to enjoy the UF nightlife.
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Gainesville Nightlife and Things to Do Tonight at a Glance
- Have a stomping good time at The Keys Grill and Piano Bar as the dueling pianos play out some of your favorite tunes
- Unwind to the jazz sounds at Covey Kitchen & Cocktails with an Old Fashioned in hand and a side of Hot Fresh Crispy Pork Rinds with Pimento Cheese
- Have a blast from the past at Arcade Bar with a retro night of drinks, dancing, and classic games
- Sing your way through the night at Stage 7 Karaoke Bar in Gainesville where everyone can feel like a star
- Skip the bar and make it a colorful night with your besties at Painting With a Twist
Keep reading to find out all the best things to do in Gainesville at night in this full guide.
1. Stage 7 Karaoke Bar and Event Venue
Sing your heart out and dance the night away with laughs, great drinks, and friends at Stage 7 Karaoke Bar in Gainesville.
They have private rooms that can hold up to 30 people, so you don’t have to worry about strangers hearing your lovely singing (if you’re a bit shy).
Or if you want to go all out and have a house party, they even have space for 80 to 120 people and you can take the whole venue!
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do in Gainesville at Night
Serving signature cocktails, wine, and beer from across the world, 400,000 songs, high definition video screens, and sound, Stage 7 Karaoke Bar is one of the best things to do in Gainesville tonight where you can sing it like a star.
So, if you want a fun night out for your birthday or another fun celebration, then you have to check this place out.
Address: 4110 SW 34th St. Gainesville, FL 32608
Hipster Power Tip: If you want a private on the weekends, be sure to call ahead and book your reservation early!
2. Fluid Lounge
Now if you really want to upgrade your Gainesville nightlife, then you must visit Fluid Lounge.
This upscale bar features a top selection of wine, beer, and liquor to complete the intimate, yet lively and classy vibe.
With high ceilings, an open layout, and modern décor, this is one of the best things to do in Gainesville at night.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do in Gainesville at Night
Just in case the innovative and handcrafted cocktails weren’t enough, you can enjoy some top tunes and DJ sessions to help bring your evenings to life in this college town.
The energy is electric and there is always something going on every night of the week.
Plus, there’s a cigar humidor where you can find the perfect premium cigar to go with one of Fluid Lounge’s amazing cocktails!
Weekly Events:
- Monday Night Trivia at 7 p.m. with prizes for the winning team
- Tequila Tuesdays: Half-off tequila all night
- Whiskey Wednesdays: Half-off whiskey special all night
- Thursday Happy Hour ALL NIGHT and DJ Sunshine from 8 p.m. until closing
- DJ Nelson Live on Fridays and Saturdays from 9 p.m. until closing
- Happy Hour Monday through Friday: Half off classic cocktails and single mixers (from opening until 7 p.m.)
Best Cocktails:
- Old Fashion: Old Forester Bourbon, Old Overholt Bottled in Bond Rye, Simple Syrup, Angostura, and Orange Bitters
- Blood and Sand: Monkey Shoulder Scotch, Luxardo Cherry Liqueur, Antica Sweet Vermouth, and Orange Juice
- Bramble: Gin with Fresh Muddled Blackberries served over crushed ice with Creme de Mure
Address: 140 SW 128th Suite C Newberry, FL 32669
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3. Arcade Bar
If you’re like me and you are into the classic arcade games at the same time as having great drinks, then you MUST visit the Arcade Bar.
It’s games, drinks and DJs. Not only are the cocktails cheap with new monthly specials but the games are free with unlimited play!
Yes, I did just say FREE!
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do in Gainesville at Night
Sign up for Brewskee-Ball, come out for karaoke, hit the dance floor, or relive some of your favorite classic arcade battles.
This arcade bar is the best spot for you to gather with your friends for some friendly competition as you enjoy the Gainesville nightlife.
Parking is easy here (which is an absolute plus) and it features a 3 story Arcade Bar and two buildings. It’s a fun night out!
So, be sure to enjoy classic games such as:
- Skeeball
- Pinball
- PAC Man
You can enjoy a wide range of classic games as you vibe to the DJ while sipping on your adult beverage!
Address: 6 E University Ave Gainesville, FL 32601
4. Gather: Social Lounge
This hidden Gainesville gem is located inside one of the best hotels in Gainesville, Hotel Indigo in Celebration Pointe.
Don’t let its chic, modern, and sophisticated atmosphere make you think that you won’t have a fun drinking and dining experience.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do in Gainesville at Night
Gather: Social Lounge’s mission is to serve up outstanding nightlife with ingredients locally sourced to create the best cocktails.
With hip and chic vibes and gourmet delights, it’s the perfect place to unwind in style or network with professionals in its social atmosphere.
With its ideal location, top-notch drinks, and laid-back atmosphere, this place has become my new go-to Happy Hour spot in Gainesville, Florida.
Best Food and Drinks:
- Tuna Tartare
- Chicken N’ Waffles
- Chef-Inspired Charcuterie Board
- Crispy Fried Chicken and Mofongo
- Classic Margarita
- Cosmo Martini
Address: 5020 SW 30th Ln, Gainesville, FL 32608
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5. Keys Piano Bar and Grill
Get ready to head to the keys as Duval Street comes to Gainesville!
The Keys Grill and Piano Bar is home to the best piano show in Gainesville and the piano entertainment is fueled by crowd requests.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do in Gainesville at Night
With both solo and dueling piano shows you will find some of the best entertainment in Gainesville, a whole 176 keys worth of good tunes, times, and fun.
Not only does this place offer some of the best entertainment in Gainesville, but it also serves delicious Florida seafood and affordable cocktails with its daily happy hour.
Their weekly special 5 O’clock Somewhere runs Sunday through Thursday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. with 50 percent off drinks and appetizers.
Best Dishes and Drinks
- Conch Fritters
- Southern Fried Pickles
- Frozen Mango Margarita
- Keys Pain Killer
- Gator Spicy Margarita
So be sure to get a reservation before you get there, unwind with an amazing beverage, and sing along to piano renditions of your favorite tunes.
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6. White Buffalo
Ready to party like a true local? Then you’ll love The White Buffalo.
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This unique bar not only serves cocktails and craft beer from local distilleries, it’s club vibes are just outright fun.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do in Gainesville at Night
This is one of the top bars in Gainesville, FL. you should visit if you want to get out and party and just throw your hands up in the air.
Throwback Techno night, nights of liquid relief, dancing, and a roaring good time out in downtown Gainesville, White Buffalo is a social hub of vibrant energy.
Address: 111 South Main Street, Gainesville, Florida.
7. Dave and Busters
Dave and Busters is a powerhouse of the arcade industry, offering more than your average arcade.
They have a full restaurant and bar, loads high def televisions, and a huge open area of both classic and modern games.
This Gainesville attraction is a great place to go for a fun night out with friends or family.
Best Dishes and Drinks:
- Garlic Parmesan Truffle Fries
- Stuffed Cinnamon Sugar Churros
- Pretzel Dogs
- Kick Off Shot: Absolut Citron, Dekuyper Blue Curacao and sweet ‘n’ sour
- Halftime Shot: Remy Martin VSOP Cognac, Cointreau and sweet ‘n ‘ sour
Specials at Dave and Busters in Gainesville
- 15% Military and First Responder Discount: Get 15% off food and beverage for you and up to 4 Guests
- Half Priced Games every Wednesday from open to close
- Happy Hour: Monday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday through Thursday from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. (1/2 Price Cocktails, $2.95 Domestic Pints, $1 off 22 oz Drafts, $1 off Wine Glasses, $3 off Wine Bottles)
Address: 3023 SW 45th Street Gainesville, Florida 32608
8. Covey Kitchen + Cocktails
This is THE place to be in Gainesville and is by far the best bar/lounge for anyone looking for an upscale dining and drinking experience.
The menu serves Florida-inspired seasonal dishes and has an exquisite handcrafted cocktail list.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do in Gainesville at Night
With Sunday and Wednesday jazz nights, a laid-back hipster vibe, and handpicked ingredients from local growers, Covey Kitchen + Bar combines all of the required elements of a top-notch restaurant and bar located inside Hotel Eleo.
Best Dishes:
- Hot Fresh Crispy Pork Rinds with Pimento Cheese
- French Onion Gratin Soup
- Ribeye Pintxos
- Onion-Crusted Scottish Salmon
- Grilled Vegetable Ravioli
- Smoked Fish Pate
Best Drinks:
- Night Audit: Tito’s, Double shot espresso, Frangelico, Kahlua whipped cream, Lavender and cocoa shavings
- La Nacional: brugal 1888, St. Elizabeth All Spice Dram, Lemon, Pineapple, Mint
- Covey Old Fashioned: Buffalo Trace, Angostura and orange bitters, Sugar cube, Smoked to order
- Mile Marker: Hangar 1 Lime Vodka, Coconut puree, Pineapple, Lime, Agave, Biscoff rim
Hit me up once you visit this place and let me know what your cocktail adventure was like. I’m pretty sure it will not disappoint you. Check out the full menu here.
Address: 1514 SW 14th Street Gainesville, Florida 32608
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9. Regal Cinemas 10 & RPX at Celebration Pointe
If you want the perfect movie date night complete with traditional movie snacks and drinks, then Regal Cinemas at Celebration Pointe is one of the places to do Gainesville at nighttime.
You can kick back and relax in one of their luxury, super comfy, and plush reclining chairs as you enjoy a blockbuster film on the gigantic screen.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do in Gainesville at Night
One of the best things is that they offer reserved seating for you to choose from.
Plus you will be happy to know that there is a full bar for you to grab your favorite cocktail, beer, or wine to bring back to your seat and get nice and cozy.
Address: 4901 Steve Spurrier Way Gainesville, Florida 32608
10. Hangout in Downtown Gainesville
Now you may be asking, what is there to do in downtown Gainesville?
Downtown Gainesville is a great place to be after the sun goes down just for you to enjoy the beautiful night outdoors.
You can walk along the town square and visit the local shops, eateries, bars, and nightclubs. However, the art life and culture of downtown Gainesville is where this city really shines.
So if you want things to do in Gainesville at night that are budget-friendly, yet fun, then I suggest exploring this area of the city.
17 Things to Do in Downtown Gainesville at Night:
- The Arcade Bar
- Boca Fiesta
- Loosey’s Downtown
- Boxcar Wine & Beer Garden at Depot Station
- The Bull
- Union Street Station
- The Top Restaurant
- Acrosstown Repertory Theatre
- Havana’s Wine & Cigar Lounge
- Main Street Bar & Billards
- Dragonfly Sushi & Sake Co.
- First Magnitude Brewing Co.
- Hatchetbury Axe Throwing Bar
- High Dive
- Hippodrome Theatre
- Vivid Music Hall
- Kava Bar & Hookah Lounge
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11. Watch a Performance Show
Adding a performance art show to your Gainesville itinerary is a great way to spend an evening out. It is a fun experience that can be shared with friends and family.
Theater is also a great way to spend time learning about the history of the world and the culture of this Florida area.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do in Gainesville at Night
Gainesville’s stages come alive with stories of the past as many of the local theater shows in Gainesville are based on historical events or people.
The Hippodrome Theater is a great place to catch a show since the performing arts theater is within the historic Federal Building.
Theater life in Gainesville is vibrant and strong, especially since the city boasts one of the top colleges in the country, the University of Florida, with a thriving arts community.
These are Some of the Best Live Theaters in Gainesville
- Gainesville Community Playhouse
- Hippodrome Theatre
- Florida Theater
- Acrosstown Reperatory Theatre
- Vam York Theater
- Curtis M. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
- Star Center Theatre
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12. Painting with a Twist
Painting With A Twist is a fabulous way to socialize and create art at the same time.
This is a great venue for socializing and meeting new people in your area and an alternative to a bar night.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do in Gainesville at Night
Make it a colorful catch-up night with the girls or a date with a loved one. They also have Trivia Night and Paint Your Pet Night for nights of endless fun in Gainesville.
It is also a great way to network while you’re in Gainesville, making it the perfect place to have a girl’s night out and pregame for an evening out on the town.
So sip, socialize, and create!
Address: 618 NW 60th St., Suite B Gainesville, FL 32607
13. Celebration Pointe in Gainesville
Not only does Celebration Pointe have city living, dining, shopping, and entertainment all in one place, but it’s also one of my favorite spots to hang out in Gainesville.
I say this because you can do a lot of things in one spot without having to drive to multiple locations.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do in Gainesville at Night
You can start at Hotel Indigo and hang out in Gather: Social Lounge, then make your way over to Keys Piano Bar and Grill for incredible food and entertainment.
Finally, you can end your night at the Regal Cinema for a late movie.
14. The Social at Midtown
The Social at Midtown’s big attraction is its open rooftop lounge with over 30 craft beers on tap along with intoxicating drinks.
You’ll love this spot as a place to enjoy a date night or a place to entertain your visiting friends and family making it one of the best options for your UF nightlife.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do in Gainesville at Night
Don’t miss out on the DJs, live acoustic music that happens every week, pitcher night, and their happy social hour.
It’s restaurant by day then by night the bar fun kicks off.
Don’t forget to watch the Florida Gators in action with the 60 flat-screen TVs making this the best place in town to watch football.
With $3 Margaritas and Lemon Drop Shots, $4 First Magnitude Drafts, and live DJs you don’t want to put it off any longer!
Best Dishes
- Buffalo Chicken Wontons
- Torts & Salsa Trio
- Sweet & Meaty Poutine
- Spinach, Kale & Artichoke Dip
Go to Midtown Social and enjoy. You can thank me later!
Address: 1728 W University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32603
15. The Bull
This local hotspot is one of the top places to go in Gainesville if you want to chill, relax, and listen to some great live music or looking for an open mic night.
Here you can expect to find a hip, modern, yet quirky atmosphere that is perfect for a Florida Hipster. It’s artsy and friendly vibes bring together the local artists and community.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do in Gainesville at Night
One of the things that sets The Bull apart is the excellent customer service.
The bartenders truly know what they are talking about and they love chatting with you to give you all the details on which drinks they know that you will love.
You’ll be treated to some incredible art, DELICIOUS drinks from around the world, and non-alcoholic choices.
The Bull is one of the best bars in Gainesville that is perfect for a date night, a solo trip, or a trip with friends.
Beyond the atmosphere and ambiance are the unique events that the bar has throughout the week so you are surely to find something you like.
Events at The Bull:
- Show and Tell: every other Tuesday
- Open Mic at The Bull
- Sip ‘N’ Sing: Salsa in the Street
- Karaoke Night
- Jazzology
Address: 18 SW 1st Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601
Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Gainesville at Night
As you can see, there are so many things for you to do in Gainesville tonight.
Whether you want to play classic arcade games, dance your heart away at a nightclub, enjoy a live performance show, watch a movie, or relax in a laid-back lounge, Gainesville is ready to take you on whatever adventure you want.
So, what’s your favorite Gainesville nightlife activity? Leave your answer down below in the comments section.
Until next time, Happy Florida Travels Hipster!
About the Author
My name is NikkyJ. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor, and a writer who loves exploring all the hidden gems of Florida!
I was born and raised in Leesburg, Florida which attributes to my passion about for this amazing state.
I want to show you how you can create your own memories while discovering the Sunshine State!
Connect with me on Instagram!
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(Original Article Date: September 29, 2021/Updated by Editor on January 12, 2024)