Top Rated Nightlife in Boise

Customers perch on bar stools and the conversation is always flowing at this downtown nightspot open since 1996. The large windows at Bittercreek Alehouse are perfect for people watching. With about 21 different Northwest micro-brews, the pub has become a favorite hangout. The food is original and inventive with appetizers such as polenta fries, halloumi with jam and poutine, which is a popular Canadian dish with gravy, fries and cheese curds. Their beignet and butterscotch dessert is also worth a try!

Live music and a full bar welcome visitors to this painfully hip club. In addition to its often peculiar patrons, pinball, pool and Ms. Pac-Man fill the space of this dim, smoke-filled building on the periphery of downtown's nightlife. Bands range from obscure local musicians to the borderline mainstream variety. Other nights, DJs spin music and wannabe models strut their stuff at fashion shows. Check website for upcoming events.

For stiff drinks minus the flair, this cozy full-service downtown bar caters to sports enthusiasts and alternative 20-somethings alike. Local and national sports memorabilia enhance the bar's interior, located in the basement of the historic Idanha Hotel. Conversation is encouraged in this dim and smokey, but strangely charming tavern. Although housed in small quarters, chairs and stools take up most of the space. The draft beer selection is limited. If you prefer premium beer, buy it in the bottle.

This popular bar is one of the veterans of Boise's downtown nightlife. Live blues and rock acts pound out cover tunes at this centrally located watering hole. The Rocci Johnson Band, an old mainstay, plays its own original tunes here. A balcony overlooks the stage and dance floor. Darts, pool and video games also are located downstairs. Despite a smattering of college students, the clientèle is generally 30 and older.

When you step into the Balcony Club, you will get a view for sure. Only the view is not picturesque, but Gothic Industrial! This bar has a variety of theme nights and entertainment events every week. Mardi Gras, Pride Fest, and White Party are a few of the hot events that attract huge crowds throughout the year. Check the website for upcoming events.

When comedians come to Boise, they come to Liquid Lounge. This comedy club features some of the country's best comedians on Thursdays through Sundays. For those looking to break into the game, open mic Wednesdays and comedy workshops during the week are there to help you learn the craft. The bar features a good selection of beer, sure to make any comedian a little bit more hilarious. Check out Liquid Lounge's calendar of performers and prepare to laugh until it hurts.