What do the Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen, U-2, The Kinks and Bob Dylan have in common? They have all played at this legendary hot spot, along with almost every other road show. For almost 30 years, this place has been hopping (pun intended) with an incredible lineup of live music and a dance party that just won't quit. It has been voted nightclub of the year several times, so consider a trip to Toad's to partake in music history, not to mention a good time.

Located in the heart of Yale's campus, Gryphon's Pub at the Graduate and Professional Student Club at Yale is a popular spot for people looking for cheap drinks and a good time. This campus pub is always presenting some kind of special or event, whether it be pub trivia, martini night or DJ dance party.

Established way back in 1934, Rudy's has been a popular place for a bite and a pint ever since. Rudy's features a long, impressive list of craft beers on tap and in bottles. Make sure you get an order of the frites, and try as many of their different dipping sauces as you can manage. In addition to the signature frites, they also serve up burgers, salads, wraps and flatbreads. Rudy's happy hour is a great time to sample some delicious brews with friends.

Though the bar is called Ordinary, it is anything but. This elegant and popular bar is imbued with an elegant atmosphere and features carved, polished wood walls, tables and seats, and leather banquettes. In addition to the craft beer and cocktail selection, they serve up a menu of light meals and sophisticated snacks like cheese plates, Giardiniera, cookies, and cupcakes. If you're looking for a classy night with drinks and good company, look no further than Ordinary.

Head to the Bar if you are looking forward to a lively evening in New Haven. Located in dowtown, this place is known for serving some of the best pizzas in town along with an impressive beverage menu to accompany you for the night. Choose from the variety of pizza bases and toppings to suit your taste or opt for the popular favorites, everything on their menu is sure to entice your palate. The delectable dishes are followed by an impressive list of beverages and cocktails that have been loved by all. Besides, the Bar hosts several DJ parties and live music gigs which makes it the ultimate nightlife spot to visit when in New Haven.

The name says it all. Burgers and beers. Prime 16 Tap House + Burgers is a craft beer heaven, with 20 beers on tap, not to mention the fully stocked bar. From the kitchen, take your pick of any of the juicy specialty burgers with amazing flavor combinations. Or you could even create your own. The kids menu makes Prime 16 a perfect place for everyone to get something they like.

Ring in the weekend with some great drinks and good music to accompany at Stella Blues. This chic bar is a popular hangout spot amongst the locals as well as the tourists and is known for the regular live music gigs that it hosts. Besides, Stella Blues offers an impressive list of beers and ales. The menu is priced moderately and the Happy Hours assure that you can drink without digging a hole in your pocket. In addition to the live music performances, the bar has a pool-table and TV to keep you entertained. All in all, you are sure to have a good time when here.

If you are looking forward for a lively evening, Firehouse 12 is the spot you should head to. This bar is known for its casual ambiance and peppy live music gigs and guarantees a good time to its guests. Besides the music, the bar is known for offering an extensive beverage list to choose from. If the regular spirits don't excite you, ask the bartender to whip up a specialty cocktail that is sure to tantalize your palate. With an exceptional service and award-winning menu, this bar is truly one of the favorite hangout spots for the locals as well as the tourists. Check their event calendar before planning your visit here.

OK, so it's not in the most popular section of New Haven, on a corner off on its own. But despite appearances, this is an outstanding spot for hearing live bands and performers. During the week it showcases a diverse selection of music and talent, and on the weekends you can listen to well known bands or outstanding jazz and blues players jam.

In the shadow of East Rock, this 100-year-old eatery has a cozy bar with a lively atmosphere, which can be a little raucous at times. But it is where you meet up with friendly locals and chow down on the "best Buffalo wings" outside of Buffalo. Unpretentious but hearty victuals like sandwiches and burgers are served until late. The pub also has locations in Fairfield and Milford.