Top 20 Best Bars in Raleigh From a Local - A Full Guide

If you’re looking for a fun time in Raleigh, the bar scene is a must-do. With a variety of high-end to low-key comfy bars, you’re sure to find something that meets your hopes for the night. A majority of the bars are located in the downtown area, but you can still find some hidden gems outside of this typical area. Here is a list of the top 20 bars to check out in Raleigh, North Carolina.

The Raleigh Times

As its name suggests, this bar is located in downtown Raleigh at the paper’s historic location. With Belgian beers, microbrews, and pub food, you are sure to find a fun local crowd at this bar. Dogs are allowed outside and there is a place to sit on the rooftop. Be sure to check out the bloody mary and fried pickles.

Flying Saucer Draught Emporium

Flying Saucer is a taproom with over 200 beers. In this lively beer garden, you’re sure to have a fun time. With weekly trivia and flights, you’ll be able to have a fun social experience. Make sure to order their iconic pretzels.

Watts & Ward

Watts & Ward is a cocktail bar situated in a basement with cozy touches like tufted couches and artisanal drinks. The more upscale ambiance is sure to guarantee you a good night. There are three bars inside and one located outside. 

Hoppy Endings

With a large selection of bourbon and craft beer, this bar is a crowd favorite for good reason. This hidden gem gets positive reviews from locals for its welcoming environment, unbeatable service, and selection.

Dram & Draught

With a cool atmosphere and outdoor seating options, you’re sure to find a fantastic night at Dram & Draught. Their small hand-crafted drink menu earns each cocktail the best reviews. 

Aunty Betty’s Gin and Absinthe Bar

At Aunty Betty’s you’ll find live music, quirky decor, and craft cocktails. It’s also attached to Morgan Street Food Hall so you’ll be able to find a yummy bite with your drink. 

Slims Raleigh

This dive bar, fully equipped with live music, outdoor seating, and a pool table, is sure to find you a fun vibe. The smaller venue size helps the intimacy and cheap drinks ensure a night out without breaking the bank.

Clouds Brewing Raleigh

Lots of TVs, lots of beer, lots of seating. This cool Raleigh spot is sure to give you a great space to mingle or catch a game. 

The Bison Bar

TVs. Pool. Pinball. This funky bar with fun little things to do and a mixed crowd will keep you coming back for more any day of the week.

The Blind Barbour

Beyond its shelves of bourbon and whiskey, you’re sure to find a chill vibe. This little bar tucked away in a strip mall offers more than you would think. Their seasonal cocktails are also great to check out.

The Bridge DTR 

This English pub-themed bar will offer you soccer game previews, live music, and an exciting atmosphere. The beer and food are real crowd pleasers.

Fox Liquor Bar

This taproom offers great cocktails plus meat and cheese boards to fuel your classy night out. The upscale, industrial-feel, environment is great for a date or special occasion. 

The Haymaker

Haymaker is a fun venue that offers comedy shows, music, art, and punchbowls. The Haymaker attracts a very diverse crowd, giving it a hip and creative feel. Their offbeat vibe is something new to be sure to try.

Level7

This rooftop bar on top of the AC Hotel is sure to have a fun sunset evening. You’ll find fun cocktails and a selection of tapas to make your evening Instagram-worthy.

The Goat

This funky bar is the place for dancing and drinking. Fully decked with dollar bills on the wall, this Raleigh spot is a good spot for reasonably priced drinks and a fun environment. 

William & Company

William & Company is a great place for seasonal cocktails and fun art displays with a mellow vibe.

Atlantic Lounge

This low-key lounge is a great place to start or end your night with a variety of types of vinyl to listen to and a fun list of cocktails.

Empress Room

This stylish cocktail bar is fully equipped with plush couches, red and black decor, jazz piano players, and hand-crafted cocktails. This unique setting is a fun place for a drink in Raleigh.

The Architect Bar & Social House

Placed in a 1920s building, The Architect is a brick-lined bar with live music and fun cocktails. The smoke deck will also give you a great view of the city.

Clockwork

Drinks at clockwork are a large pour for your buck and the venue has a swanky vibe. The drinks and decor are also great for a picture moment. 

Conclusion

Whatever bar you pick in Raleigh, please enjoy responsibly and you'll be sure to have a great time!