Baltimore Bars by Going-Out Vibe

Abbey Burger Bistro

Featuring wall-to-wall television screens, Abbey Burger in Fell’s Point makes it possible to watch multiple NFL games at once in a lively atmosphere that’s as welcoming to rival team supporters as it is to Ravens fans. Pick from more than 40 local beers on tap or take advantage of game day beverage specials such as $15 domestic beer buckets and $5 Ravens bombs.

City Limits

Located in the quaint Locust Point neighborhood in South Baltimore, City Limits is a cozy neighborhood sports bar. They boast 19 HDTVs complete with NFL Sunday Ticket, NHL Center Ice and college sports packages, so you don’t have to worry about missing a game. While there, be sure to try some of the best wings in Baltimore according to WJZ.

Guilford Hall Brewery

With a 22-foot screen and state-of-the-art audio-visual system, Guilford Hall makes you feel like you’re right there on the field with your favorite players. The Station North brewery offers European-style ales and bites inspired by traditional Bavarian recipes, plus quintessential Baltimore bar bites like Honey Old Bay chicken wings.

Guilford Hall offers a cozy, communal game-watching experience fueled by good food and quality brews.

Max’s Taphouse

This self-proclaimed “Land of Beer” has more than 113 beers on tap and a collection of over 1600 bottles & cans. As for food, Max’s smokes their own meat in-house, providing the perfect game day fare. Max’s is also known for its community events, including the annual Hopfest that brings a robust lineup of domestic and international beers to Baltimore.

Mother’s Federal Hill

This longstanding bar in Baltimore’s Federal Hill draws a crowd on game days, whether it’s for the Orioles or the Ravens. (Head there during football season to hang out on the Purple Patio.) But don’t overlook the made-from-scratch food in Mother’s kitchen, whose specialties include crab cakes, fish and 20 types of burgers. Pair it with the classic Maryland summer drink, the orange crush, made with vodka, orange juice, triple sec and sprite.

Crossbar

It pays to be a Ravens fan at Crossbar, which takes its game day activations and specials seriously. Ravens legend Jonathan Ogden has stopped in to play bartender, and the bar has hosted VIP ticket giveaways. Plus, you’re guaranteed a good game day drink deal, from $15 buckets to $7 Miller Lite liters and $5 Smirnoff bombs.

Pickles Pub

Located just across the street from Camden Yards, Pickles is a popular pregame spot for Orioles and Ravens fans.

Located among a cluster of rowhomes across from Camden Yards, Pickles Pub has been around since 1988 and is one of locals’ go-to game day destinations. It offers great happy hour specials and plenty of TVs to watch the game. Try the crab patty, a burger topped with crab dip, and pair it with some crabby fries and a Natty Boh for a classic Bawlmer meal. True to its name, the bar serves beer-battered pickles over tortilla chips.

Turp’s Sports Bar

Positioning themselves as “Baltimore’s gayest sports bar,” Turp’s is a welcoming departure from the rowdier game-watching atmospheres in Federal Hill and Fell’s Point. The Mount Vernon establishment is also known for their burgers, which are customizable and half-priced every Wednesday from 4 p.m. to close, and their low-stakes Tuesday trivia nights.

29th Street Tavern

This cozy neighborhood bar in Remington packs an impressive number of screens into its quaint interior. Settle into a seat at the bar, a high-top table or spacious booths perfect for large groups—you’re guaranteed a view of the game no matter where you sit. As for grub, 29th Street Tavern boasts a large selection of Baltimore beers, plus traditional bar eats like burgers, tater tots, chicken wings and cream of crab soup.

Baltimore Spirits Co.

Take a distillery tour or settle in with a cocktail in Baltimore Spirit Company’s tasting room.

Baltimore Spirits Company’s inventory runs the gamut from amari to gin, and, of course, rye whiskey. Stop by their distillery and tasting room in Hampden’s Union Collective to enjoy a specialty cocktail in a colorful space that features a rotating collection of works by local artists. You can also take a tour of the distillery that provides four free samples and the opportunity to create your own blend of whiskey.

Bloom’s

Ulysses, the swanky hotel concept from ASH NYC, promises its guests two things: “strong drinks and soft beds.” It delivers on the former with Bloom’s, a self-described “late-night drinking parlor.” The plush pink sofas, warm accent lighting and reflective wrap-around bar evoke the campy, rebellious artistry of Baltimore icon John Waters, and the cocktail menu is just as playful. Create your own Old Fashioned by choosing from a selection of spirit bases and bitters, or try the “Jungle Bird,” composed of Blackstrap Rum, Cappelletti Aperitivo, pineapple, lime and demerara syrup.

Enjoy swanky sips at Bloom’s bar & lounge, ornamented in plush pink seats and shimmering metal accents.

The Bluebird Cocktail Room

Stylish and inviting, this second-story cocktail bar in Hampden pairs a sophisticated setting with a literary theme. The name comes from a Charles Bukowski poem and drink offerings change seasonally and take thematic inspiration from literature. No detail is spared at The Bluebird—ice cubes are custom carved from a 300-pound block—and the concoctions are artfully balanced. Plus, many of the cocktails can be made spirit-free! As a bonus, head to the building’s basement level to check out the Pub, featuring the same level of craft cocktails alongside a global whiskey menu.

The Coral Wig

The Coral Wig was named one of Bon Appétit‘s Must-Visit Bars in 2024. Credit @terragoldphoto on Instagram.

From the restaurateurs behind beloved Baltimore establishments Clavel and W.C. Harlan, The Coral Wig specializes in tropical classics with a twist set inside a moody low-lit bar space and outdoor patio inspired by 1980s-era Manila. The cocktail bar, recognized by Bon Appétit as one of the best new bars of 2024, is located in the alley of Mount Vernon’s Hotel Ulysses, giving it a mysterious speakeasy-feel.

Dutch Courage

With a name that refers to the bravado one feels after downing an alcoholic beverage, it’s no wonder that Dutch Courage continues to develop innovative gin-focused cocktails while offering a stellar food menu and an always-on-point playlist. Their 18-page spirits list contains more than 100 gin variations, as well as whiskeys, tequilas and rums, that you can enjoy as tastes or pours, or combined with other ingredients in a creative concoction.

The Elk Room

Ranked as one of Esquire’s best bars in the country in 2018, this Harbor East speakeasy offers up stellar cocktails in a chic, intimate space. At The Elk Room, the guest list is capped at 50 and photography is prohibited to play up the secretive vibe. The rotating drink menu consists of creative concoctions in line with a certain theme, such as “I Spy” or “Apothecary.” A current menu highlight is the “Passion Pit,” which consists of Baltimore-based Old Line vodka, orange, passion fruit, olive oil, Thai basil and white chocolate.

Customers sit at the bar while the bartender makes drinks at The Elk room interior in Baltimore.

Sugarvale

An intimate lower-level bar in historic Mount Vernon, Sugarvale is a neighborhood favorite for a reason. The space is petite, with seating for 35, and walls lined with crisp white subway tiles—and the cocktail menu feels equally modern. Divided into drinks either shaken or stirred, the selection includes intriguing combinations, such as sherry with Mexican bitters, house made fig jam, rosemary honey and egg white, or the Danish aquavit combined with amaro, thyme liquor, ginger, lemon and sesame oil.

W.C. Harlan

Tucked into a humble Remington rowhouse, this speakeasy-inspired spot pairs a cozy, candlelit setting—complete with period antiques and an authentic 1920s vibe—with expertly crafted cocktails. Expect new riffs on classic drinks at W.C. Harlan, like old fashioneds and pisco sours, reworked with complex, distinctive flavor profiles and stylishly served in vintage glassware.

Mustang Alley’s

Mustang Alley’s is an upscale bowling alley and bistro that combines a favorite pastime with a chef-inspired menu and elevated beverage options. Grab one of the 12 lanes—four are duckpin, a type of bowling that originated in Baltimore in which the balls and pins are shorter and lighter, and eight are ten-pin. Ask for a local craft beer from Union, Heavy Seas, Diamondback or Brewer’s Art paired with an appetizer or two from your server, who will take your order at the lane.

GameOn Bar + Arcade

Try your hand at Pac-Man, Frogger, Centipede, Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker and more at GameOn.

As far as bars go, it doesn’t get more nostalgic than Federal Hill’s GameOn Bar + Arcade. The Federal Hill bar boasts a bright and colorful retro aesthetic with portraits of Pac-Man, Beavis and Butt-Head, Donkey Kong and Bart Simpson on the walls. Grab a game-themed drink or Jell-O shot at the bar before trying your hand at Frogger, Centipede and Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker. Plus, there are Skee-Ball and pinball machines that celebrate Metallica, Iron Maiden and more. For a quieter vibe, check out the cozy speakeasy on the top floor, where you’ll find a selection of board games to play.

Ropewalk Tavern

Located on busy Charles Street in Federal Hill, Ropewalk has a little something for everyone. The first floor features televisions for game-watching in addition to duckpin bowling, Skee-Ball and a foosball table to unleash your own competitive spirit. Upstairs, there’s a DJ to keep you dancing all night long. And don’t miss the dueling pianos performing every weekend!

No Land Beyond

For a cozier gaming environment, head to No Land Beyond. Owner Michael Cohn started his board game library by collecting used board games from around the state. You’re guaranteed to find a game that is new to you here, along with a selection of familiar options like Yahtzee, Pictionary, Risk and Outburst. Use the bar’s stop light coding system and symbols to pick a game and settle into the cozy atmosphere.

No Land Beyond offers a calm and cozy environment to grab a beer and enjoy a game with friends. Photo by Ana Tantaros / Side A Photography.

Holy Frijoles

Holy Frijoles tagline says it all: “Viva Tacos! Viva Pinball!” Pick a margarita and taco or burrito, then have some fun with the restaurant’s 15 pinball machines. They are rotated about once a month, making it a surprise as to what you’ll see when you get there.

Peabody Heights Brewery

Situated in Waverly on the site of the former Oriole Park No. 5 from the early 1900s, Peabody Heights Brewery is more than just a place to enjoy delicious craft beer. The aptly named Dugout game room features walls of pinball machines plus a few retro multiplayer games. Grab a craft staple like the Astrodon (a hazy IPA named after the Maryland state dinosaur) or Mr. Trash Wheel’s Lost Python Ale and let your inner child loose for a few hours.

Bark Social

Bark Social is the perfect place to grab a refreshing drink, whether you have a pet or not!

What if there was a bar designed with both humans and their pets in mind? Enter: Bark Social, a cafe, bar, pet store and regulated dog park all in one. Enjoy Baltimore-brewed beers and coffee blends, locally made pastries and classic pub food—served with a hearty side of serotonin that comes from being surrounded by human’s best friend. And because we know you’re wondering: yes, non-pet owners are more than welcome (for free!).

Bringing your pet to Baltimore? See our pet-friendly guide for a full list of recommendations.

Bayside Cantina

Located in Canton’s Tindeco Wharf development, Bayside Cantina offers one of the best waterfront settings in the city with ample covered and uncovered outdoor seating. The menu features traditional Mexican fare like tacos and burritos while the cocktail list encourages you to step outside your comfort zone. The Mescalita, for example, is a twist on a margarita that pairs mezcal, sour mix and caramelized chile ancho syrup. Follow their Facebook to keep tabs on Taco Tuesday deals and live music nights.

Drift Bar

Inspired by the elevated, laid-back atmosphere of the Mediterranean Coast, this floating dock bar provides breathtaking views of the water, top-tier cocktails and delicious bites to satisfy every palate. Lean toward surf with small bites like coconut shrimp or opt for turf with Italian meatballs and loaded french fries. The drinks are the main event, though; frozen cocktails come in four sizes, from 15-ounce souvenir glasses to 40-ounce fishbowls. You can also get 60-ounce pitchers of margaritas, crushes and sangria, so bring your friends and treat yourself to a couple of hours on island time.

Hampden Yards owners Tim Conder and Jesse Vann turned the back lot of an old church into a relaxing beer and wine garden.

Hampden Yards

Located just off Hampden’s main drag, 36th Street (aka “The Avenue”), Hampden Yards is a laid-back, dog-friendly and entirely outdoor spot that offers craft beer, cocktails, wine, crushes and bites like brats, burgers and pretzels. Plus, they have outdoor TVs to watch sporting events, and board games and foosball on deck to keep you entertained during commercials.

Watershed

At the end of Cross Street Market in Federal Hill, Watershed is a welcome rooftop reprieve from the neighborhood’s bustling bar and club scene. Whether you want to watch an Orioles or Ravens game on the big screen or relax with a beverage at the covered bar, Watershed can match your going-out vibe. As for the menu, it’s elevated Charm City seafood: cream of crab soup, stuffed lobster, pan seared rockfish, soft shell crab platters and pistachio crusted scallops.

Lithuanian Hall

One of Baltimore’s wildest dance parties takes place inside an unassuming historic building near Camden Yards and M&T Bank Stadium. On the first Friday of every month, Save Your Soul brings raw soul, R&B and more to Pigtown’s Lithuanian Hall, a nonprofit committed to promoting Lithuanian culture in Charm City.

Mobtown Ballroom and Cafe

Housed within the historic North Avenue Market building in Station North, Mobtown Ballroom and Cafe offers drop-in beginner Lindy Hop lessons on Monday and Friday evenings, followed by hours of social dancing. They also have a full kitchen and bar with a revolving door of menu items, making it the perfect all-in-one spot for a night out.

Mobtown Ballroom is a swingin’ place to be on Monday and Friday nights when they host dance socials. Photo by Jerry Almonte.

Ottobar

Self-proclaimed goths, punks and emo kids will feel at home in Ottobar, named one of the best live music venues in the U.S. by Rolling Stone. Downstairs is where you can mosh along with metal or indie rock artists as well as nationally touring dance parties Sad & Boujee and Emo Nite. More dance parties await in the casual upstairs space—which boasts its own bar and plenty of seating for when you need to rest your legs—from “Metal Monday” to “Girls Rule” and “#FlashBackFridays.”

Polish Home Club

The hole-in-the-wall Polish Home Club transforms into a swinging blues club on the first and third Wednesdays of the month. The vibe is set by a talented roster of musicians who jam together, meaning they riff off each other in the moment rather than rehearse ahead of time. Anyone can bring their instrument and join in! There’s no formal dance lesson, but most regulars will happily show you the basic blues steps upon request.

Power Plant Live

With an array of restaurants and bars on-site, including the locally loved Underground Pizza, Power Plant Live is the perfect all-in-one place to fuel up and flex your dancing feet. Grab a drink at Luckie’s before heading next door to Ram’s Head Live, whose recent dance parties include tributes to Michael Jackson, Justin Bieber and the 1980s. More of an EDM fan? Head to Power Plant’s Mosaic Nightclub and Lounge for bass-thumping beats and bottle service.

Sweet Spot

Celebrating queer icons and pop divas, Sweet Spot is an inclusive dance party hosted at various Baltimore locales, from Ram’s Head Live to Metro Baltimore and Baltimore Soundstage. The high-energy events are always full of surprises, but the crowd of drag performers, fashion queens, DJs and dancers always deliver a good time.

Sweet Spot parties are always full of surprises. Photo by Quintin Parson (IG: @qntnprsn).

Waverly Brewing Co.

Grab your cowboy boots and scoot over to Waverly Brewing Co. for Baltimore Honky Tonk, named “Best Concert Series” by Baltimore magazine readers in 2023. A beginner-friendly country two-step lesson is included in the event’s cover charge, but you can also expect to see dancers break out the polka, swing, waltz and other moves on the floor depending on what the live band is playing.

The Charles

A casual brunch and game-viewing spot during the day, The Charles is a high-energy nightlife hub on the weekends. There are two full-service bars with a neon-adorned dance floor on the upper level. The club is open late, but you’ll want to start your night out early on Saturdays to take advantage of The Charles’s $40 “All You Can Drink” promotion from 5-8 p.m.

Nobles Bar & Grill

Save big at Nobles, which hosts a late-night happy hour every Thursday from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. Settle in at one of the four bars for BOGO mixed drinks and green tea shots. As far as the music selection, Nobles plays a little bit of everything; check their social media to keep tabs on Latin music nights, rave-style EDM nights and more.

The Rockwell

The Rockwell provides a more traditional club experience. Co-owned by the lead guitarist of homegrown band All Time Low, the inside of this Fell’s Point bar is illuminated by wall-to-wall projection screens that display artistic cityscapes and music videos while a DJ spins the latest pop, rock and rap hits. Take advantage of the late-night happy hour with discounted drinks.

The Royal Blue

The Royal Blue provides a glittery atmosphere to dance the night away.

With a colorful exterior, mouthwatering food and creative cocktails, The Royal Blue’s disco pit might go unnoticed at first. On the weekends, however, the intimate back room is the place to party. Let loose under the pink lights and shimmering disco ball, then take a breather in the adjacent 1970s-esque lounge space.

Wayward Bar & Kitchen

Don’t let the wood-slat walls and rustic decor fool you, come weekend evenings this Federal Hill mainstay is a packed party spot. The large outdoor patio gets a lot of play in the warmer months, with Wayward hosting themed events such as a “Waywatch” beach party. Don’t miss the popular Thursday flip nights. The bartender flips a coin for a game of heads or tails; if you guess correctly, you only pay a penny for your drink!