Top Rated Nightlife in Providence

In the Downcity area of Providence, there are plenty of bars to choose from, like the Dorrance, Congress Tavern and Union, however the spot for carefully crafted cocktails is The Eddy. Here, the focus behind the bar is on the cocktail, sure they have beer, but you would be remiss not to try the 'Dutch 75.' The drink is a nice take on the French version, only this one is made with Bols Gin, a homemade lemon cordial and Prosecco instead of Champagne. The beer and wine lists are equally creative and the bar snacks are even better than elsewhere, with options like pickles, crostini, small sandwiches and deviled eggs, it's no wonder the place is always packed.

This nondescript little gem inside Olneyville Square is probably one of the best kept secrets in Providence. There is no sign above or placards to show you the door, but if you look for the shop with lingerie in the window, then you've found it. When you enter behind the curtain the bar takes you back nearly a century. But even better than the nostalgic 'Roaring Twenties' setting is the drink selection, all of their cocktails are made with premium liquor and fresh ingredients. Try the 'French 75', it's made with simple syrup, lemon juice, cognac and champagne. It's undoubtedly one of the best classic cocktails in the entire city.

The local zine 'The Phoenix Providence' consistently rates this bar as one of the best dives in the city. In addition to the generously poured and reasonably priced drinks, there is always some type of event going on, from the house band on Mondays to Bluegrass Throwdowns on Thursday. And if nobody is on stage, then the jukebox provides a ready standby. There is never a cover charge and the bar only accepts cash in true dive bar fashion.

If you find yourself in the Fox Point neighborhood and are looking for a casual, fun, unpretentious place, The Point Tavern is just the spot. It is the quintessential neighborhood bar on Wickenden Street and it's actually located inside a residential house. The beer and wine list is small, but carefully curated and always filled with ever-changing selections. The kitchen also has a limited menu, but the pizza, sliders and quesadillas hit the spot with the right beer or wine.

With a name inspired by the Irish folk hero Jack Duggan, The Wild Colonial is a cozy bar serving the best Guinness in town and is extremely popular destination with locals. The interiors contain happy drinkers within the confines of exposed brick walls and minimal lighting, a place perfect for conversations. The food menu is simple, it's comprised of cheese and sandwich selections, always a hit in the Northeast. So come in for a post-work drink with friends or to catch the latest games on their large-screen TVs.

On the corner of Richmond and Friendship in a trendy, former industrial area downtown is where you'll find a glut of clubs. Ego is the one that caters to the LGBT community. Every night of the week is a themed one, with names like AlterEgo Wednesdays, Star Search Thursdays and Twerk Fridays. The music and DJs vary depending on the night and on weekends the club stays open until 3AM. If you are looking for clubs, this neighborhood is the one to visit if you want to see how Providence lives after dark.