12 Best Nightlife in Miami and Miami Beach, Florida

Smoky, dark, and delightfully unpolished, this complete dive bar (cash only) is anything but what you'd expect from glitzy South Beach. Once a favorite of the late Anthony Bourdain, this spot is decorated with neon signs that were a gift when they hosted the Miami Vice wrap party in the '80s. Happy hour takes place from 8 am to 5 pm, and you'll always find an eclectic crowd at the bar at all hours.

This edgy bar has a retro vibe most evident by its bright-red carpeting, "No Regerts" mural, and twinkling ceiling. The party lasts until 5 am seven nights a week with a menu full of bold cocktails like the popular pornstar martini and sparkling Tommy's margarita. Late nights a DJ sets the vibe, and on the last Sunday of every month, there's an emo night that draws a massive crowd.

This skyscraping rooftop bar, hands down the best in the city, is the essence of Brickell: futuristic, worldly, and beyond sleek. Draped in tropical flora, it crowns the 40th floor of EAST Miami, the luxury hotel tucked inside Brickell City Centre shopping complex. The sunsets here are spectacular, as are the Southeast Asian bites and cocktails. Pop into the Tea Room on the same floor for late-night brunch with bottomless drinks.

This tropical-chic, come-as-you-are cocktail lounge and restaurant has won all kinds of national and local awards for its incredible spirit-forward cocktails and fresh-and-funky vibe. For something extra special, reserve the Bartender's Table, which operates like a chef's table, but here you're in the thick of the bar action, tasting libations. Food from a full menu created by co-owner and James Beard Award winner Michelle Bernstein is served until 4 am.

Popular with the cool crowd, this indoor-outdoor craft cocktail joint lures in droves to revel in creative mixology and fabulous people-watching. Everything at the vintage-chic hot spot is perfectly Instagrammable, from the daring and beautifully presented drinks to the twinkle lights over the pool. It's no wonder the venue has been awarded national titles such as America's Best Bar.

This dive bar strung with twinkling lights is complete with a pool table, nightly DJ, and karaoke. They're known for never having a menu but employing bartenders who can make any drink you're thirsty for, whether it's a simple vodka soda or an elaborate Corpse Reviver #2.

With a vibe that's a bit speakeasy, a bit dive bar, a bit hipster hangout, and a bit Miami sophisticate, this local watering hole is hands down one of the coolest places in the city and appeals to a wide demographic. Mixology is a huge part of the Blackbird experience—be prepared for some awesome artisanal cocktails.

At this come-as-you-are bar that prides itself on welcoming everyone, there's a decent beer list and even better cocktails. Nightly activities like drag bingo, trivia, and karaoke keep regulars coming back for more. Those looking for late-night munchies can order from the counter at Pizza Tropical, home to some of the best pizza in Wynwood.

What was once a vintage denim store called Lost Boy Dry Goods is now a popular hangout with the same name. The convivial, unpretentious vibe draws imbibers for classic cocktails (half-price during the 4 to 8 pm weekday happy hour) and a long list of draft beers and wines. Those looking to soak up their cocktails can create their own charcuterie boards or enjoy homemade sandwiches and snacks.

Play pinball, pool, or air hockey; chow down on bar grub; and order a few rounds from the full bar (which includes 150 different beer varieties) at this pool hall–resto–dive bar on quaint Española Way. Mingle with an eclectic crowd, from visiting yuppies to local drag queens to celebs on the down-low. It's so South Beach!

One of the oldest bars in South Florida (est. 1946), the old Hofbräu has been reincarnated a few times and now goes by the name "The Bar." A massive American flag hangs on the wall of this locals' hangout, arguably the only cool nightlife in suburban Coral Gables. The Bar delivers DJ-led tunes Wednesday through Saturday nights and karaoke on Tuesday night. Oh, and they have pretty awesome, farm-fresh bar food, too.

Miami's oldest drinking establishment is a staple in Coconut Grove, known for its expansive whiskey collection. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, and the bartenders are knowledgeable in their craft. The menu features a solid mix of classic cocktails and others inspired by Coconut Grove's lush surroundings. It's also often home to weekend pop-ups from other local vendors.