19 Best Bars in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tempe, Arizona

The best place to take part in Downtown Phoenix's thriving nightlife offers a mix of clubs, entertainment, restaurants, and shopping, all within steps of hotels and sports arenas.

This spot has spectacular views of Paradise Valley and Camelback Mountain; an upscale, modern bar lined with windows; and a relaxing fireplace-lighted patio.

Boasting the largest dance floor on Mill Avenue, Aura offers 5,000 square feet of space to let loose. Given its location near campus, it's no surprise that Aura is a favorite of ASU students. If you need a vibe that's a little more postcollege, opt for a VIP table and bottle service.

This spot is great for feasting on huge portions of food and lavish quantities of liquor, but also for feasting your eyes on the fabulous people who flock here on weekend nights. It's a great stop before and after an Old Town event or a night of partying.

Tucked behind a shopping center on Scottsdale's main shopping drag, BsWest draws a stylish, well-heeled LGBTQ+ crowd.

Watch real cowboys and cowgirls two-step to live music at this saloon, where you can also gorge on mesquite-grilled chicken and buffalo chips (hot, homemade potato chips). Reservations are suggested for the all-you-can-eat Friday-night fish fry, which draws crowds. There's live music and dancing just about every night.

A laid-back institution where students, hippies, and families come together, Casey Moore's occupies a 1910 house rumored to be haunted by ghosts. Enjoy more than two dozen beers on tap and fresh oysters at this Irish pub–style favorite.

A longtime favorite of local gay men, Charlie's has a country-western look (cowboy hats are the accessory of choice) and friendly staff.

This lively restaurant and bar attracts a Western line-dancing, 10-gallon-hat-wearing crowd.

Harold's has two full bars, a huge dance floor with live bands on weekends, a game room, TVs, and a restaurant serving some of the best ribs in the Valley. It's also the go-to place to watch Pittsburgh Steelers games during the NFL season.

Snuggle up with a friend---or make some new friends---while sampling from a selection of wines from around the world and more than 200 whiskeys. Enjoy live music nightly.

Decorated with local art and retro furniture, Lux is an eclectic gathering place where artists, architects, and Downtown businesspeople enjoy excellent classic European espresso drinks.

Operated by former Phoenix Suns basketball player Dan Majerle, this sports bar offers a comprehensive menu for pre- and postgame celebrations as well as some of the best people-watching potential in town.

Grill your own burgers and nosh on picnic food at this casual beer and wine pub. You can also play horseshoes, chess, or volleyball.

Postino has grown from a small neighborhood haunt into several separate destinations throughout the Valley. More than 40 wines are poured by the glass. Order a few grazing items off the menu (the bruschetta is unmatched by any in the Valley) and settle in, or carry out a bottle of wine, hunk of cheese, and loaf of bread for a twilight picnic.

Excellent local and national rock and blues artists perform here seven nights a week.

Enjoy one of the dozen European brews on draft at this fun and friendly place. It also has one of the largest scotch collections in Arizona. A small kitchen turns out traditional Irish fare.

This Downtown Phoenix comedy club features national acts.

Part of a national chain, The Tempe Improv showcases better-known headliners from Thursday to Sunday. Get here early for good seats.