Downtown St. Petersburg, Florida, is a vibrant hub, especially when the sun goes down. For anyone looking for a fantastic night out in the Tampa Bay Area, downtown St. Pete is the place to be. It boasts an incredible array of bars, all conveniently located within walking distance of each other. Whether you’re in the mood for hidden speakeasies, sophisticated craft cocktail lounges, lively sports bars, or bars specializing in whiskey or wine, downtown St. Pete truly has it all. And let’s not forget the amazing restaurants and breweries that contribute to this area’s dynamic nightlife scene.
Choosing the right bar in St. Pete FL depends entirely on what kind of evening you’re envisioning. This guide is designed to help you navigate the exciting bar scene in downtown St. Pete and find the perfect spot for your night out.
Best Downtown St. Pete Bars for Craft Cocktail Connoisseurs
1. Tequila Daisy
For tequila and mezcal aficionados, Tequila Daisy is a must-visit destination in downtown St. Pete. This bar boasts an impressive collection of over 500 spirits, creating an atmosphere that elegantly honors the rich history of tequila. The name itself is a tribute to the classic “Daisy” cocktail, the precursor to the Margarita, setting the tone for the bar’s sophisticated yet approachable vibe.
Tequila Daisy excels in crafting top-tier drinks in an ambiance that perfectly balances style and relaxation. Mezcal lovers will find themselves right at home here. During a visit, be sure to try signature cocktails like the Nectar of the Gods and Melon Mezcal. Both are exceptionally crafted and flavorful, promising a delightful experience for discerning palates.
2. Copper Shaker
Copper Shaker is the ideal starting point for a night out centered around expertly made craft cocktails. The bar offers a setting that’s both laid-back and intriguingly moody, creating a backdrop for serious cocktail enjoyment without pretense. The bartenders here are true professionals, skilled in the art of mixology and ready to impress.
Popular choices include the Last Summer and Bee Sneeze, each offering unique flavor profiles. For those who prefer something off-menu, the bartenders at Copper Shaker are happy to create custom cocktails based on your personal preferences. Just describe what you like, and they will concoct a bespoke drink tailored just for you.
3. Club 201
Hidden within the historic Detroit building, Club 201 presents a unique Victorian Steampunk aesthetic, reminiscent of a secret speakeasy. This bar provides an intriguing escape with its meticulously crafted cocktails and a playful selection of “Club Shooters”. The chocolate-covered pretzel shot is a standout and highly recommended for a fun, flavorful experience.
For those on the move, Club 201 even features a convenient to-go window, perfect for grabbing a drink while bar-hopping in downtown St. Pete. However, to fully appreciate what Club 201 offers, it’s worth lingering. With top-notch cocktails and daily live music, it’s an excellent spot to immerse yourself in a distinctive atmosphere and enjoy the vibrant sounds.
4. Saigon Blonde
Saigon Blonde, a 1960s-inspired tiki bar, stands out as one of the most uniquely themed bars in St. Pete FL. The décor is exceptionally detailed, featuring tiki totems, bamboo-covered ceilings, and vintage Vietnam War propaganda posters, creating an immersive and visually stimulating environment.
The cocktail menu at Saigon Blonde is equally inventive, featuring creative presentations and even a selection of CBD-infused drinks. While The Keith cocktail (now retired) was a previous favorite, the Depart at Dawn has become a new must-try, embodying the bar’s innovative spirit. Saigon Blonde offers a lively ambiance that’s perfect for any time of day or night, making it a versatile choice for those seeking a bar with character.
5. Mandarin Hide
Mandarin Hide is the premier destination for espresso martini enthusiasts in St. Pete. Renowned for serving some of the best espresso martinis in town, this bar is a must-visit for fans of the drink. Beyond martinis, the skilled bartenders are adept at crafting a wide range of cocktails to suit any taste.
With an impressive selection of over 450 spirits, including a notable collection of bourbon, whiskey, and scotch, Mandarin Hide is a haven for spirit lovers. For those celebrating a birthday, bringing a group comes with perks—a complimentary bottle of champagne complete with a sparkler adds a festive touch. On weekends, a live DJ enhances the vibrant atmosphere, making Mandarin Hide a lively spot to enjoy drinks and music. It’s sister location, Mandarin Heights in Seminole Heights, offers a different vibe but the same commitment to quality, further solidifying their reputation among the best bars in Tampa.
Best Downtown St. Pete Bars for Dancing the Night Away
6. Good Night John Boy
Good Night John Boy is a 70s-themed nightclub that transports you straight into a disco dreamscape. Imagine glittering disco balls, bold, funky patterns, and a dance floor designed for classic grooves. This venue is all about celebrating nostalgia with a high-energy, modern twist, making it one of the best bars in St. Pete FL to dance until dawn.
Good Night John Boy is a standout destination in St. Pete. The dazzling disco ball and vibrant dance floor are instant draws. While it’s enjoyable any time, weekend nights are particularly lively, though expect a line—the energetic atmosphere is consistently worth the wait for those ready to dance.
7. Crafty Squirrel
Crafty Squirrel is a versatile spot known for both sports viewing and vibrant nightlife. It’s a great place to catch a game, but as the evening progresses, it transforms into a lively party venue. With DJs spinning on weekends, attractive bottle service options, and daily specials, Crafty Squirrel is an easy choice for a fun and dynamic night out in downtown St. Pete.
8. The Estate
For those seeking a high-energy club experience, The Estate is the definitive destination in St. Pete. This venue elevates the nightlife scene with VIP booths, high-octane EDM mixes, and spectacular light shows. It offers a mini-music festival vibe every weekend, perfect for serious club-goers looking to immerse themselves in sound and light.
9. Concrete Jungle
Concrete Jungle, a unique basement lounge, introduces a Tulum-inspired jungle vibe to downtown St. Pete. As one of the few basement bars in Florida, its underground setting alone is noteworthy. Coupled with a moody atmosphere and excellent drinks, Concrete Jungle offers a distinctive nightlife experience.
During the day, it operates as a restaurant, offering weekend brunch. By night, the jungle-themed basement transitions into a vibrant dance spot with enticing cocktails. Note that Concrete Jungle is closed Monday through Wednesday, so plan your visit accordingly to experience its unique nighttime energy.
10. Lost & Found
Lost & Found is a cozy, retro bar that feels like stepping back into the 70s and 80s. It’s adorned with vintage furniture, old-school décor, and nostalgic touches throughout, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Often featuring a lively DJ and live music on Fridays and Saturdays, the energy here is consistently upbeat.
The Pornstar Martini is a popular choice at Lost & Found, but regardless of your drink selection, the bar’s ambiance encourages guests to relax and stay awhile. A patio area adds to its appeal, perfect for daytime drinks or cooling down after dancing. The recent trend of retro bars in St. Pete is well-represented by Lost & Found, making it a favored spot for those seeking a nostalgic night out.
Best Downtown St. Pete Bars for a Unique and Memorable Experience
11. Pour Judgement
Pour Judgement distinguishes itself as Tampa Bay’s first craft shot bar, offering an astounding 269 shots to choose from. Simply browsing through their extensive shot book is an experience in itself. For a solid recommendation, the Nerds Rope shot is a popular and flavorful choice.
They also feature extravagant options like the S’mores shot, which is served with a torched marshmallow on top, adding a theatrical flair to your drink. Pour Judgement is a must-stop bar in St. Pete for those looking to add a fun and unconventional element to their night out, even if just for a quick, memorable shot.
12. The Dog Bar
The Dog Bar perfectly lives up to its name, offering a delightful combination of dogs and drinks. This bar is a true “serotonin factory” for dog lovers and casual visitors alike. You don’t need to be a dog owner to enjoy the atmosphere, but be prepared to be surrounded by friendly dogs and their owners. Engaging with the dogs is part of the fun, and the bar even has “rufferees” to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone, both humans and canines.
13. Floridian Social Club
The Floridian Social Club is an exceptional venue that blends old-school theatre charm with a modern edge, making it one of the most visually stunning spots in St. Pete. The entertainment here is diverse, ranging from jazz and cover bands to captivating aerial performances.
Their craft cocktails are thoughtfully designed to reflect the history of St. Pete and the building itself, adding a layer of local heritage to your drinking experience. The Floridian Social Club regularly hosts engaging events, making it worthwhile to check their calendar and plan your visit around a special performance or theme night.
14. Dirty Laundry
Dirty Laundry, a clever St. Pete speakeasy, is a standout destination. During the day, it operates as a seemingly ordinary laundromat serving coffee and pastries. However, at night, it transforms into a hidden bar. To enter, simply use the payphone inside the laundromat, and you’ll receive instructions to access the speakeasy. Inside, you’ll find a Havana-inspired cocktail lounge complete with neon signs, live music or a DJ, and Cuban-themed drinks. A large outdoor patio distinguishes it as one of the most spacious speakeasies around, offering ample room to relax and enjoy the unique atmosphere.
15. One Night Stand
For a uniquely adventurous night, One Night Stand offers the unforgettable experience of riding a mechanical bull. This country bar is a distinctive spot in downtown St. Pete, known for its country music, bar games, and the mechanical bull named “Mustache Rides.” It’s a lively and entertaining place for those looking for a less conventional bar experience.
16. The Canopy
The Canopy is downtown St. Pete’s premier rooftop bar, situated right on Beach Drive. It boasts stunning waterfront views, private cabanas, fire pits, and an acclaimed frosé. Wednesday nights are particularly popular with ladies, featuring half-price frosé during ladies’ night. The elevated setting of The Canopy offers a fantastic perspective of the city, enhancing the overall bar experience and making it a mood-lifting destination.
Best Downtown St. Pete Bars for Games and Interactive Fun
17. Park and Rec
Park and Rec lives by the motto “Youth has no age,” embodying a playful and energetic atmosphere. This bar combines games, drinks, and a lively DJ, creating a trifecta of entertainment. Inside, you’ll find classic arcade games like Guitar Hero and DDR, while the outdoor area features cornhole, Jenga, foosball, giant pong, and more.
Park and Rec is particularly popular on weekends, but with multiple bars throughout the venue, drink service remains relatively quick. If you’re in the mood to dance in addition to playing games, Park and Rec is an excellent, multi-faceted choice.
18. Ferg’s
Ferg’s is more than just a bar—it’s a sprawling entertainment complex covering nearly two city blocks. Featuring 11 distinct areas, a backyard capable of hosting 3,000 people, and over 90 TVs, Ferg’s is the destination for sports enthusiasts. It offers a wide array of activities, including live music, a dog park, pool, darts, and even axe throwing, ensuring there’s always something happening.
While not necessarily a prime weekend nightspot, Ferg’s is ideal for pre-gaming before a Rays game due to its proximity to Tropicana Field. A convenient tunnel under 1st Avenue South provides direct access to the Trop, making it exceptionally convenient for game-day gatherings.
19. No Vacancy
No Vacancy perfectly captures a vacation vibe with its tropical-meets-old-Miami aesthetic. The bar is known for its fun cocktails and shareable punch bowls. Their happy hour, running Monday to Friday from 4-7 PM, features $4 drafts, wine, and bubbles, plus $5 well drinks.
A must-try is their Under the Sea Nachos, priced at just $6 during happy hour, which are highly recommended. For entertainment, No Vacancy also offers games like Giant Connect 4, adding a playful element to your visit while you enjoy your drinks and the relaxed, tropical atmosphere.
Ready to Explore the Best Bars in St. Pete, Florida?
Downtown St. Pete’s nightlife is incredibly diverse, offering something for every taste and mood. Whether you’re in search of expertly crafted cocktails, energetic dance floors, or unique speakeasy experiences, you’re sure to find the perfect bar to make your night in St. Pete unforgettable. From retro-themed venues to lively game bars, this guide will help you discover the ideal spots for an amazing night out. Explore these Bars In St Pete Fl and get ready for a fantastic experience!
