raleigh nightlife enthusiast at a halloween bar crawl

The Best Bars in Raleigh, According to a Bar Crawl Organizer

The City of Oaks has a long history as a Southern cultural hub. Maybe that’s why so many young people are flocking to call it home.

Sure, any city is going to offer places to hit up on a night on the town. But Raleigh is known for a special kind of night out. And only true Raleighites know how to wring the city for every last drop of fun.

There are a ton of bars to choose from in Raleigh but trust us, these are the very best. If you are looking for a fun night out in Raleigh, NC, these are the spots to duck into. Read on to discover our full list, from the best sports bars to the best singles bars in Raleigh, NC.

1. The Best Rooftop Bar in Raleigh

There are tons of bars in Raleigh that offer seating above ground floor. But how many of them can truly let you take in the grandeur of your gem of a city? If you are hunting for a true rooftop where you can enjoy drinks with friends, Level 7 is it.

This bar and lounge is easily one of the best rooftop bars in Raleigh. Its outdoor patio is situated atop the AC hotel in Raleigh’s North Hills. It’s got a diverse menu of small bites and tasty drinks from a wide range of small and local distillers, brewers, and winemakers.

So sit back, take in the views, and enjoy yourself at Level 7 just north of downtown Raleigh. We are sure you’ll never visit another “rooftop” like it in Raleigh.

2. Best Sports Bar in Raleigh

The south and sports go hand-in-hand. Maybe that’s why the city is home to a staggering number of sports bars. Some, however, just rise above the rest.

Players Retreat is a Raleigh institution and with good reason. Here, you can cozy up with fellow diehards as you enjoy a staggering food and beer menu. Just remember to wear red. Go Canes!

3. Best Cocktail Bar

Watts & Ward has a sort of word-of-mouth vibe. Maybe it’s the high-end leather seating or the basement setting. Or maybe it’s because the place is harkening back to a time when enjoying a drink meant knowing a password.

Either way, we love Watts & Ward for its vibe and its artisanal craft cocktails. Without question, it’s earned its legacy as one of the best bars in Raleigh’s downtown.

4. Best Barcade

Color no one surprised to see Boxcar on this list. This arcade + bar is consistently voted as one of the best bars in Raleigh downtown. Not just one of the best barcades, mind you.

It is just icing on the cake that Boxcar offers dozens of arcade-style games so you can play while you drink. Just remember not to spill your craft beer on the cabinets!

As a bonus, there’s also a Durham location!

5. Best Singles Bar

Raleigh is a major draw for 20-somethings. So, it should come as no surprise that the city is a hive of pulsating bars that are perfect to meet other singles.

One of the best singles bars in Raleigh, NC is Neptunes, which opened in 2012.

The subterranean aesthetic is dark and moody. The music is locally renowned. And the vibe is all fun. The perfect cocktail to invite fun-seeking singles to the seat next to yours.

6. Best Dance Bar

Still Life brings the beats you crave with a heavy rotation of local DJs, drinks, and fellow dancers. Bring your glowsticks and prepare for the night of your life at this fun spot.

7. Best LGBTQ Bar

Ruby Deluxe is going to offer allies and LGBTQ partiers alike a safe and inclusive haven. It’s the flagship location for Queer Raleigh, so you can imagine it’s plugged into the beating heart of the local queer scene.

But if you’re looking for something with a slightly different flavor, consider Queer Raleigh’s other two locations. These are The Night Rider and The Wicked Witch and have a vibe all their own.

Discover More of Raleigh, NC

Sometimes, the best way to experience your city’s nightlife is to have a curated experience. And Bar Crawl LIVE! is ready to deliver that and so much more.

Our partner establishments are ready to show you the best of what Raleigh has to offer. Here are just a few of them:

  • Whiskey Rose – Perfect for drinking in good whiskey and good live music.
  • Split Nightclub – Two floors offering two distinct nightclub vibes
  • Alchemy Nightclub – Get lost in a sea of neon and thick beats
  • Cornerstone Tavern – Outdoor vibes for ultimate relaxation
  • Milk Bar Raleigh – Dog-friendly bar with an industrial vibe
  • Halcyon Nightclub – Upscale experiences for discerning drinkers
  • Wonderland Bar – Influencer-inspired nightlife at its best
  • Nomad Bar – A new take on your friendly neighborhood bar

Our bar crawls are celebrated nationwide for uncovering the best of what our cities have to offer. And we have themed bar crawls planned at some of the best bars in Raleigh, North Carolina. Just reserve a spot, roll up, and have fun. Find Upcoming Raleigh Bar Crawls!