7 Best Nightlife in Tacoma, Washington Cascade Mountains and Valleys

You can't claim to have a sophisticated nightlife scene until someone in a vest is mixing artisanal cocktails, and 1022 South is Tacoma's top spot for fine drinks made with unusual infusions (nettles, yerba maté), house-made liqueurs and colas, and premium liquors with hipster cachet (Portland's Aviation gin, for example). Daily happy hour is 4 to 7 pm, and the kitchen produces nosh-worthy nibbles, from cheese plates to burgers.

This beloved craft brewery and its spacious taproom occupy the Historic Heidelberg Brewery building in downtown Tacoma, a short walk up the hill from the museum district and next to the city's University of Washington campus. It's an appealing place to sample such popular ales as the crisp Axis Brut IPA and the slightly tart, tangerine-infused Life Jacket Citrus IPA. On-site Canteen restaurant serves tasty gastropub fare. A second location is in Gig Harbor, where the brewery originated.

Sexy and contemporary, this cocktail bar in the Alma arts space is a snazzy spot for mingling and people-watching, whether at the buzzy bar or in a plush upholstered armchair. In addition to skillfully mixed, creative drinks, there are tempting food options, from duck liver–mousse toast to steamed mussels with garlic, bacon, and lemon herb butter. The venue frequently hosts live music performances and other events.

Known for its setting inside a fabulous 1920s roadside building shaped like a coffee pot, Bob's is one of the city's most enduring landmarks—and it's a pretty fun dive bar for karaoke and cheap drinks. Fun facts: Indie singer Neko Case used to be a bartender here, and parts of the screwball comedy movie I Love You to Death were filmed inside.

Venture inside this hip craft-brew bar just off colorful 6th Avenue to try some of the Northwest's finest ales. There are 16 taps, and 8- and 16-ounce pours are available.

This lively pub inside a historic building has microbrews on tap, pool tables, and bands on stage Thursday through Saturday. Monday brings free admission for live blues night, and there's karaoke on Wednesday. The place is best early in the evening before the bands start playing—it can get pretty loud and rambunctious in here as the evening goes on.

Tacoma has a sizable gay community, and this friendly, welcoming bar with a nice-size dance floor and fun karaoke parties is the top nightspot among LGBTQ folks. It's in the heart of the Theater District.