Explore the vibrant bar scene in Richmond VA with our guide to the best craft beer, cocktail, dive, wine, rooftop, and more bars. Find happy hour specials, live music, and late-night fun.
Best Bars in Richmond VA
Craft Beer Bars
If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, Richmond VA has plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds. Craft beer bars in the city offer a wide selection of local and regional brews, as well as unique and rare beers from around the world. These bars pride themselves on their extensive beer menus and knowledgeable staff who can guide you through the different flavors and styles. Whether you prefer hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, or refreshing wheat beers, there’s a craft beer bar in Richmond that will cater to your preferences.
Cocktail Bars
For those who appreciate a well-crafted cocktail, Richmond VA is home to some exceptional cocktail bars. These bars boast skilled mixologists who can create both classic and innovative cocktails using high-quality ingredients. From hand-shaken martinis to creative concoctions featuring local spirits and fresh ingredients, cocktail bars in Richmond offer a sophisticated and enjoyable drinking experience. Sit back, relax, and let the talented bartenders surprise you with their creativity and expertise.
Dive Bars
If you’re in the mood for a laid-back and unpretentious atmosphere, Richmond’s dive bars are the perfect choice. These bars are known for their friendly and welcoming vibe, where you can enjoy a cold beer or a simple cocktail without breaking the bank. Dive bars often have a loyal local following and are a great place to strike up a conversation with friendly regulars. Don’t expect fancy decor or extensive drink menus, but do expect a fun and unpretentious night out.
Wine Bars
Wine lovers will find their haven in Richmond’s wine bars, where they can indulge in a variety of reds, whites, and everything in between. These bars offer an extensive selection of wines from around the world, allowing you to explore different regions and grape varietals. Whether you’re a connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of wine, the knowledgeable staff at Richmond’s wine bars will be happy to recommend a glass or bottle that suits your taste.
Rooftop Bars
For stunning views of the city skyline and a unique drinking experience, head to one of Richmond’s rooftop bars. These bars offer a picturesque setting where you can sip on your favorite drink while enjoying panoramic views of the city. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date spot or a lively gathering with friends, rooftop bars in Richmond provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable evening.
Sports Bars
Sports fans unite at Richmond’s sports bars, where you can catch all the action of your favorite games while enjoying a cold beer and delicious food. These bars are equipped with multiple large screens, ensuring you don’t miss a single play. Cheer on your team alongside fellow fans, indulge in game day specials, and soak up the lively atmosphere that sports bars in Richmond have to offer.
Speakeasy Bars
Step back in time and experience the allure of the Prohibition era at Richmond’s speakeasy bars. These hidden gems offer a unique and intimate atmosphere, reminiscent of the clandestine establishments of the 1920s. To gain entry, you may need to find a hidden entrance or provide a secret password, adding to the excitement and exclusivity of the experience. Inside, you’ll find expertly crafted cocktails, jazz music, and a sense of nostalgia that will transport you to a bygone era.
Live Music Bars
Richmond’s live music bars are the perfect destination for music lovers looking to enjoy a night of entertainment. These bars showcase talented local musicians, as well as touring bands and artists from various genres. Whether you’re into rock, jazz, blues, or indie, you’ll find a venue in Richmond that caters to your music preferences. Immerse yourself in the vibrant music scene and discover new sounds at one of the city’s live music bars.
LGBTQ+ Bars
Richmond VA embraces diversity and inclusivity, and its LGBTQ+ bars are a testament to that. These establishments provide a safe and welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies to come together and celebrate. With vibrant atmospheres, drag shows, and themed events, LGBTQ+ bars in Richmond offer a lively and accepting environment where everyone can be themselves and have a great time.
Neighborhood Bars
For a taste of local flavor and a sense of community, look no further than Richmond’s neighborhood bars. These bars are often the heartbeat of their respective neighborhoods, serving as gathering places for residents to unwind and socialize. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, you’ll be greeted with warm hospitality and a friendly atmosphere. Enjoy a drink, strike up a conversation with locals, and soak up the unique charm of Richmond’s neighborhood bars.
Historic Bars
Richmond’s history is deeply intertwined with its bar scene, and historic bars offer a glimpse into the city’s past. These bars often occupy buildings with rich stories and architectural significance. Step inside and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time, surrounded by vintage decor and an air of nostalgia. Raise a glass to the past and appreciate the historical significance of these unique establishments.
Outdoor Patio Bars
When the weather is pleasant, Richmond’s outdoor patio bars become the place to be. These bars offer a refreshing alfresco experience, allowing you to enjoy your favorite drinks while basking in the sunshine or under the stars. Whether you’re looking for a lively patio with live music or a more relaxed setting with cozy seating, Richmond’s outdoor patio bars provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable evening outdoors.
Happy Hour Specials
Looking for a great deal on drinks and bites? Richmond’s happy hour specials have got you covered. Many bars in the city offer discounted prices on select drinks and appetizers during specific hours of the day. It’s the perfect opportunity to try out new bars, catch up with friends, and enjoy some budget-friendly indulgence. Check out the local listings or ask the bartenders for their recommendations on the best happy hour spots in town.
Late-Night Bars
When the sun goes down, Richmond’s late-night bars come alive. These establishments cater to night owls and those looking to extend their evening adventures. Whether you’re in the mood for live music, dancing, or simply a relaxed atmosphere to unwind after a long day, late-night bars in Richmond offer a variety of options. From trendy hotspots to cozy dives, there’s a late-night bar for every preference.
Whiskey Bars
For whiskey connoisseurs and enthusiasts, Richmond’s whiskey bars are a dream come true. These bars boast an impressive selection of whiskeys from around the world, including rare and limited editions. Whether you prefer Scotch, bourbon, or rye, you’ll find a diverse range of flavors and styles to explore. Knowledgeable bartenders can recommend the perfect pour, and some bars even offer tasting flights for a more immersive whiskey experience.
Tiki Bars
Transport yourself to a tropical paradise at one of Richmond’s tiki bars. These bars embrace the Polynesian-inspired tiki culture, serving exotic cocktails adorned with colorful umbrellas and garnishes. With tropical decor, lively music, and a laid-back atmosphere, tiki bars in Richmond offer a fun and festive escape from the everyday. Sip on a fruity concoction and let the island vibes transport you to a beachside getaway.
Brewery Taprooms
Richmond’s craft beer scene extends beyond traditional bars to include brewery taprooms. These spaces offer a unique opportunity to experience the brewing process up close and personal. Visit a brewery taproom to enjoy freshly brewed beers straight from the source, often accompanied by tours and tastings. Immerse yourself in the world of craft beer and gain a deeper appreciation for the art of brewing.
Jazz Bars
If you’re a fan of smooth melodies and soulful tunes, Richmond’s jazz bars will be music to your ears. These establishments showcase talented jazz musicians, creating a sophisticated and intimate setting for jazz enthusiasts. Sip on a classic cocktail while immersing yourself in the captivating rhythms and improvisations of the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned jazz aficionado or simply looking for a memorable night out, Richmond’s jazz bars offer an enchanting experience.
Karaoke Bars
Unleash your inner rock star at one of Richmond’s karaoke bars. These lively establishments provide a stage for aspiring singers to belt out their favorite tunes. Whether you’re a karaoke veteran or a first-time performer, the supportive and energetic atmosphere of Richmond’s karaoke bars will make you feel like a star. Grab a microphone, choose your go-to song, and let the good times roll.
Trivia Night Bars
Put your knowledge to the test at Richmond’s trivia night bars. These bars host regular trivia nights where you can team up with friends or join a group to compete for prizes. Challenge yourself with a variety of trivia categories while enjoying drinks and bites. Trivia night bars provide a fun and interactive way to socialize, exercise your brain, and maybe even discover some surprising facts along the way.
In conclusion, Richmond VA offers a diverse and vibrant bar scene that caters to every taste and preference. Whether you’re in the mood for craft beer, creative cocktails, live music, or a relaxed neighborhood vibe, you’ll find a bar in Richmond that suits your mood. Explore the city’s unique establishments, immerse yourself in the local culture, and create memorable experiences as you indulge in the best bars that Richmond has to offer.
