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.

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.

The Dark Lady is Providence's best known LGBT bar and club. This downtown hot spot comes alive post sunset with techno and pop beats, drag shows, karaoke, and live music. Theme nights and special events keep thing lively and draws in a sizable crowd. On weekends the club heats up post 10p, culminating in an entertaining midnight show on Saturday nights. An iconic dance club and nightlife venue, the Dark Lady has carved a niche for itself in the city's after hours scene.

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.

This bar is hidden away in the bowels of Brown University deep in the basement of the Residential Life building. Unfortunately for the majority of the public, you can only get in if you are a current student at Brown, you are with someone who goes (or went) to Brown, or pay an annual membership fee. For those who opt to pay the fee, it's worth it because the drinks are remarkably cheaper than elsewhere and the Grad allows you to bring in your own food. Inside it definitely screams 'college', with banners everywhere, pool tables, board games and the obligatory dart board.

This club is primarily for the younger crowd because the age restriction is only 18 years-old and up, however there are plenty of different age groups interspersed throughout. DJs usually ply electronic beats and the nights are similar to raves in the typical sense, with people gyrating among the smoke machines. A number of live music events and concerts are also hosted here from time to time. It's definitely a place to dance the night away, at least until 2:30am.