Nightlife

Unfortunately, lesbian bars are a dying breed; only about 30 remain in the U.S. Fortunately, we’ve got one of the best right here in Phoenix. Boycott Bar in the Melrose District is a fun and welcoming space for the lesbian community. The space, decorated with large wall art depicting female celebrities, is a great neighborhood watering hole and the setting for plenty of fun events such as karaoke, country dancing, Pride events and theme parties. We also love the fact that there’s an original Nintendo on the screened-in patio, and we’ve caught a couple games of Super Mario Bros. 3 during nights out. Phoenicians already know how great Boycott is, but now the whole country knows it, too: This summer, it was one of 27 bars on the 2024 USA Today Bars of the Year list.

There are local rock bars, and then there’s Chopper John’s. Sloppy, rowdy and a whole lot of fun, the Indian School Road biker dive and live music haven embodies the rock ‘n’ roll spirit more than other joints with its gritty authenticity, rip-roaring vibes, cheap drinks and even cheaper thrills (almost every show is free). Thunderous tunes reverberate from the low-slung rafters on Friday and Saturday nights, courtesy of one the most consistently diverse lineups of local rock bands around. One weekend, it’s take-no-prisoners punk or face-shredding metal; the next, it’s gleeful power pop or twangy rockabilly. Chopper John’s grungy little heart also beats for the Phoenix music scene by adorning its red-and-black walls with framed shirts from local groups and occasionally hosting album release parties. From its ample smoking patio outside to its stripper pole and year-round Christmas lights inside, Chopper John’s is always conducive to a good time.

When local Reddit users were asked to name the Valley’s grimiest bars earlier this year, several mentioned long-running Tempe joint Yucca Tap Room. “That is what I consider a true dive bar,” one Redditor commented. “A bar whose smell perfectly captures its vibe.” Sounds like the kind of scuzzy-but-lovable place punks would frequent — and they have, for decades now. Yucca Tap’s come-as-you-are-vibes, cheap drinks, sticker-laden restrooms and spacious main room have helped make it a preferred destination for generations of local punks. Its bookers frequently bring in such legendary touring bands as Dwarves and Agent Orange or allow local promoters to put on memorable and wild shows and event like the burlesque-friendly Titties, Ass and Punk Rock nights. Best of all, many shows are free to attend, which is the most punk thing of all.

If you hark back to the days when Vince Fournier (a.k.a. Alice Cooper) attended Cactus High School in northwest Phoenix in the late 1960s, it can be said that the best fans of heavier rock ‘n’ roll came from the north Valley. It’s only fitting, then, that the best place to catch a metal show in Phoenix right now is The 44 in Glendale. The venue is the home to a killer stage with some of the best sound gear in town and also has a pretty tasty menu of reasonably priced bar food and drinks to boot. Talk about an excellent place to catch a band like The Dead Boys, Green Jelly or locals Go Ahead and Die with 300 or so of your best new friends. If a little (or a lot of) headbanging is your cup of tea, get over to The 44 and find out what all the shouting is about, but don’t forget some ear protection.

The Marquee Theatre, originally the Red River Opry, debuted in 1993 and transitioned into the renowned concert venue in 2003. Located one mile north of Arizona State University in Tempe, the Marquee Theatre has hosted over 1,500 national touring artists since its 2003 rebranding. Part of the rebranding was to attract reggae acts to metro Phoenix, and recently, Marquee has hosted reggae sensations such as Steel Pulse, Alborosie, FYAH, JWADI, Hyer Tide and local favorite Dobra Sound, packing the house with reggae fans from as far away as Tucson. The auditorium-style venue, which can accommodate more than 1,000 fans, features a vast balcony, a full bar in the concert hall and an additional bar outside in the mezzanine. The venue has a booming sound system, perfect for the covers of Bob Marley and the Wailers’ one-drop rhythm covers. With ample parking available, it continues to offer unforgettable live music experiences, solidifying its status as a staple for reggae lovers in the Valley.

Believe it or not, pardner, but the Valley’s best country bar can be found within spitting distance of the city slickers of Arcadia. Sure, there might be bigger, fancier or more rustic cowboy-friendly joints around the Valley, but The Dirty Drummer gallops ahead the herd by embracing its vintage roots and delivering country comforts done right. Just ask local Twitter personality, raconteur and barfly Clue Heywood, who loves the place because “they capture the late-’70s Phoenix vibe to a T.” Opened in 1980 by Frank “Drummer” Armstrong and “Dirty Dave” Werner, this “eatin’ and drinkin’ place” feels like the sort of old-school Phoenix bar where one-time Arizona resident Waylon Jennings would tip one back. Retro beer mirrors, wrought-iron fixtures and a kitschy Kenny Rogers painting adorn the wood-paneled walls, adding to the charm. The Dirty Drummer also boasts great grilled wings, Jack Daniel’s cocktails, canned brews such as Montucky and an unrivaled country and western jukebox loaded with twangy tunes by George Jones and other legends. Weekends feature the most varied lineup of local and touring country artists in town, including Americana, old-timey folk, bluegrass and roots musicians. In a herd of look-alike local honky-tonks, The Dirty Drummer is a real outlaw.

These guys can do it weird, man. The spirit of Burning Man is alive and well at this not-quite-underground but certainly not mainstream venue hidden away in Phoenix’s industrial district, where a variety of big and emerging names in electronic music stop by for sets. The Where?House is not for people looking for a “normal” time. The space is unlike anything around — a playground of art where things get bumping and personal expression is highly encouraged. Walter Productions’ dazzling fleet of art cars, from an enormous Volkswagen bus to a repurposed fire truck that shoots flames, dominate the expansive room. A high-powered lighting system and a gallery of paintings made by local artists make for a very stimulating environment. At any show, you’ll see a number of people showcasing their flow with hula hoops or other glittering objects. This is where the party’s at, making it the crown jewel of Phoenix EDM venues.

We’ve all run into the problem: It’s 2 a.m., the bars are closing, but you’re still looking to stay out and have fun. Enter Karamba Nightclub on the stretch of McDowell Road in east Phoenix known as Miracle Mile. The DJs at Karamba are basically scientists, measuring the perfect BPM against a catchy melody perfect for getting you on your feet. They find a way to mix 2000s Shakira (the Spanish versions, of course, as it is a Latin club) with new music trending on TikTok. And it somehow sounds good. With a dance floor open till 4 a.m., the crowd is here to sweat, not awkwardly hold a drink while listening to a “Mr. Brightside” mix like in other Phoenix bars.

Gracie’s Tax Bar regulars probably couldn’t believe their bloodshot eyes. Earlier this year, the popular Seventh Avenue hangout announced on social media it had ditched its beloved Rock-Ola CD jukebox for a TouchTunes system. Turns out it was just an April Fools’ Day joke, one that earned plenty of responses from patrons. Some were bummed. Others didn’t buy it. Both reactions speak to the jukebox’s revered status as the best in the Valley and how integral it’s become to the vibe at the bar. After all, it wouldn’t be Gracie’s without a soundtrack of indie rock gems, ’90s hip-hop bangers or outlaw country classics hewn from a vast and varied rotating selection of CDs hand-picked by owner Grace Perry. There’s also French psych-punk, groovy soul standards, funky acid jazz, Southern rock anthems and synth-pop favorites to choose from, and they can be had on the cheap (three songs for a buck or 20 spins for $5). Whatever the mood or moment happening at Gracie’s, the perfect song is always waiting in its jukebox.

Maybe you know it as Desert Sky Pavilion, Cricket Pavilion or a handful of other names. Regardless, Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre is the crown jewel of local music. From Lollapalooza and Billy Joel (who played the debut show in November 1990) to the Mayhem Festival and Green Day and countless other artists, Talking Stick’s hosted the biggest names to ever grace the Valley. Now, some folks out there might think that an open-air amphitheater in Phoenix is a bad call. (Some 8,000 seats of the space’s 20,000 total are under a roof, FYI.) But there’s true a magic that transcends the weather — it’s such a magnificent party in a surprisingly inviting setting that you hardly notice the 108-degree temps. But even if it got to be 1,000 degrees, Talking Stick has been an important presence in Phoenix’s continued evolution as a big-time music spot, a venue that has helped birth and extend a robust scene around its confines. It’s no hyperbole to say the Valley wouldn’t be what it is without Talking Stick, and the place has captured all the joys and significance of our home with every new show. Call it whatever you want, just never insignificant.

Looking to see a show in a venue that’s not too small and not too big? With a capacity of 1,800, The Van Buren is the Goldilocks of Phoenix venues. As a theater, it boasts excellent acoustics and can pack in a lively audience without the space feeling too crowded. With the majority of tickets being general admission and easy visibility from the audience, seeing an act here is mostly an egalitarian experience. The building, from the 1930s, is elegant with historic touches, like exposed rafters and chandeliers. With Ziggy’s Magic Pizza Shop adjacent and Via Della Slice Shop around the corner, getting a preshow bite is easy enough. Since it’s part of the Live Nation empire of venues, it brings in a variety of big-name but not overexposed artists. In short, it’s a great place to catch great acts.

A uniquely intimate space for concerts, the Crescent Ballroom has been named the top small music venue in Phoenix by New Times for five years running. The ballroom accommodates roughly 500 people, so the acts that come through town to play a show there tend to be lesser or moderately known. That makes it an exciting place to catch up-and-coming acts or get a close look at some very talented musicians. The bar and patio seating also make for a great spot to have a drink or bite beforehand without having to hustle to get to the show. Not only does the ballroom host great concerts, it’s also a staple for local artists in the community. Its varied programming includes lots of free performances, like songwriter showcases and weekly jam sessions.

Jaguars Club stands out as the top nightlife destination in Phoenix, offering an unmatched experience with one main stage, four satellite stages and over 100 showgirls. The atmosphere is always lit, with dollar bills constantly raining down, especially when rap stars and professional athletes make appearances. The spot also offers a full lunch and dinner menu that rivals local restaurants, featuring everything from their famous chicken wings to full-course meals. The club’s three bars keep the drinks flowing, while optional hookahs add an extra layer of indulgence. Then there’s the VIP Lounge with cabana seating, providing prime views of the action, and the $100 bottle service is a popular choice for newbies and regulars. The club’s annual pole dance competition attracts top talent from across the Southwest, showcasing the best of the best and keeping the performances fresh and exciting. With live DJs, stunning entertainers and a reputation for throwing unforgettable parties — you can’t miss at Jaguars.

Losing a music venue is always a bummer, but it’s even sadder when it involves a beloved spot from Phoenix’s already tiny blues bar scene. Case in point: The closure of the iconic Chars Live earlier this year. Westside Blues, Jazz & More in Glendale was spared this fate, though, thanks to the intervention of general manager Channing Pickett. After co-founders Paul Vincent Perez and Cindi Jackson decided to step away from their nightclub and venue last year, Pickett bought the place and prevented things from ending on a sour note. Wisely, she also kept everything that makes Westside the best blues joint in town. The 3,500-square-foot establishment still offers Chicago-style speakeasy vibes, fantastic acoustics and plush seating. Pickett also upgraded the exterior patio to allow outdoor alcohol consumption — “Now you can sit outside and listen to music and drink,” she told Phoenix New Times in April — and added shows on Thursdays. The best local blues/R&B artists hit Westside’s stage regularly, including such talents as guitarist Johnny DeFrancesco and ensembles such as Cold Shott and the Hurricane Horns and Big Daddy D and the Dynamites. Like many of Westside’s patrons, we hope to sing its praises for years to come.

It’s tough to be a gay bar in 2024. LGBTQ+ people are welcomed in most nightlife spots, even celebrated as drag shows — once the domain of gay bars — make their way into brunch joints across the Valley. So the demand for queer-only safe spaces isn’t what it used to be. And that demand further eroded thanks to apps, which meant the gays no longer needed a bar to make friends and cruise for romance. But there’s a reason Charlie’s has thrived since its opening in 1984 — giving the people what they can’t find anywhere else. There’s a massive dance floor, multiple bars and a spacious outdoor area. When it’s not summer, that massive patio space makes for a packed Sunday Funday. Guys in thongs gyrating on boxes don’t hurt, either. Neither does Charlie’s Tacos, a food truck that serves tasty bites to the public who approach it from Camelback Road or patrons on the patio, who line up on the weekend before its 7 p.m. opening to order tacos, quesadillas, nachos and more. To be sure, Charlie’s offers the traditional gay bar staples, including show tunes, drag shows, karaoke and an underwear night. But it shines by hosting special events. Big gay sports tournament in town? Charlie’s will welcome those jocks. A tamale and salsa competition? Yep, they offer that, too.

Plop down a redo of dilapidated auto repair and body shops in the Melrose District, add not one but two bars offering Golden Girl Margs and some kitschy shops, and complete the look with some midcentury flair, and what did you think would happen? You can’t swing a rosemary and black pepper fry from Yum Bar around The Royale and not hit a gaggle of well-appointed gay men arriving for drag brunch. This place brings the boys to the yard. Literally — there’s a cute courtyard with artificial turf. Yum Bar, which opened in January, is the heart of the development, hosting charity fundraisers, tea dances and Pride events when it’s not serving up its eponymous burger, Melrose Bowls and specialty cocktails. The project is the work of Mark Howard and Rocco Menaguale, the same creative force behind Fez, which continues to attract an LGBTQ+ crowd after nearly 20 years, and queer-friendly Bliss ReBAR, which closed in 2022.

Almost every single cast member of the current season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” performs at Kobalt Bar during the season, and the bar’s viewing parties of the show are hosted by local drag legend Barbra Seville. Former “Drag Race” competitors and winners stop here often, and Kobalt’s weekly shows — “Cirque du so Trey,” “The 4Some Revue” and “The Queer Arcana” — feature Phoenix’s best local drag queens, some of whom have made international names for themselves on shows. These shows are late, loud and frequently sell out, even on weeknights, so if you’re looking for a high-energy atmosphere, free-flowing drinks and some top-shelf lip-syncing, Kobalt is the move.

Gay men have been packing the parking lot and raising the roof since 1971 at Nu-Towne Saloon, Phoenix’s oldest gay bar. Some of them pack their pockets, too, if they happen to get lucky at the bar’s Monday night Pokeno games. It’s free to play, and the jackpots vary — they’re usually $100 to $200 but have been as high as $800. The games start at 8 p.m. sharp and late arrivals aren’t allowed to play, so get there early to secure your spot and take advantage of reverse happy hour. Nu-Towne is known for its frozen drinks and hot men, so gay men looking for new friends could still get lucky even if they don’t win Pokeno.

This queen came rodeo ready when she arrived at the 38th annual Arizona Gay Rodeo in February. There were wigs and sashes aplenty at the Corona Ranch and Rodeo Grounds in Laveen. But she pulled on her best jeans and got her hands dirty inside the ring. She mingled with the cowboys, of course, but when it was time to compete, she jumped into action without messing up her makeup or wig. The goat dressing competition includes putting a diaper on a goat and sprinting in the dirt. For this drag queen, it also meant running in full rodeo regalia. That’s boots, tight jeans, a long sleeve shirt and wig that gave new meaning to the phrase Dolly Parton popularized — “the higher the hair, the closer to God.”

Ladies and gentlemen, prepare to be titillated in a variety of ways by this troupe of body positive and inclusive group of sexy humans in Phoenix. With your Phoenix faves and some national headliners rolling through, Spellbound Burlesque boasts almost monthly shows at The Grand Ballroom or you can sneak a peak of the guys and gals dressed — and undressed — to the nines at at Century Grand every second Wednesday. Learn the art of seduction and amazing costume design through these sizzling performances, including skills such as how to remove a glove with your teeth. Take that energy home and shimmy.

Experience the dope pulse of metro Phoenix’s underground hip-hop scene at the Arizona Hip Hop Festival, hosted by JustUs, the Mayor of the Underground. Usually held at Evolutions, upstairs from the Monarch Theatre, this festival features three stages running simultaneously with 100 performers, from emerging rappers to seasoned freestylers, all taking part in the ultimate open mic experience. Occurring three to four times a year, the festival also highlights live art, tattoo artists, vendors and a diverse selection of food trucks (we’re partial to Mr. Wonderful Chicken and Waffles). Enjoy freestyle rap battles and dance competitions, with the most recent dance-off judged by three of the state’s top choreographers and bearing a $1,000 prize. Guests can savor free prerolls, edibles and dabs from local canna-businesses while immersing themselves in a world of self-expression and music. The festival champions the “Respect The Underground” way of life, providing artists with a platform to showcase their talent, whether they’re rappers or beatmakers. Awards for Best Performer and Best Crowd come with cash prizes and access to the Underground Academy, designed to help artists build their brands. The Arizona Hip Hop Festival is your gateway to experiencing Arizona’s hip-hop community’s raw, authentic spirit.

We may not be the Bronx or Queens, but the Valley still has a solid hip-hop scene. Names like Mega Ran and MC Magic might dominate that resulting conversation, but you must give the appropriate nod to the “little guys,” including The Lord’s. The outfit, which includes vocalist Preston Dobbins and mixer/producer Richard Lam, has this distinctly ’90s approach to hip-hop, where it’s all about the minimalist beats that rumble with force and purpose and lyricism that’s all about wordplay as much as it is deeply engaging storytelling. They are a throwback to rap’s underground heyday, when the genre was more interested in spinning yarns about the real glories and troubles of everyday life. Yet there’s no denying The Lords’ modern sheen, and they intriguingly filter ideas, sounds and energies for songs that comment on and add to the framework of life in 2024. They may not be the undisputed champs of Phoenix, but The Lord’s bring us hip-hop with the purity, deliberateness and emotion as it was once intended. And for their endless bounty, we are truly blessed.

Admittedly, Snailmate aren’t going to be everyone’s cup of tea. That’s because the band — keyboardist/vocalist Kalen Lander and singer/drummer Bentley Monet — purposefully make difficult music. They cheekily call it “genre-fluid” so they can shapeshift from song to song, blending hardcore, rap, electro and whatever other shiny bits they glom onto to continually confront listeners. But as they proved with last year’s “Stress Sandwich,” Snailmate’s poking and prodding fosters a deep emotional understanding. Under all that chaos and noise are two people just trying to get through life, and there’s heaps to relate to and apply to our own personal journeys. It would explain how Snailmate have garnered shows across the world: Theirs is a catharsis that crosses borders and languages to help everyone feel things more deeply and thoroughly. Plus, they continue to evolve on record and on the stage, becoming a fun and frenetic musical creature who generates parties wherever they might go. So, no, Snailmate are not for everyone, but they’re often everything to those who have consumed their neon-colored brand of musical moonshine.

As a rule, anything called “These Precarious Experiments Determine What The Future Will Be” demands your unyielding attention. Local rockers Chrome Rhino have nailed more than just the album title with this 14-track sonic smorgasbord of wonderfully nerdy prog rock, sensuous glam rock and oversized space rock. Chrome Rhino have come a long way since March 2021’s “I Think They’re After Me,” which while pleasant and entertaining, only hints at the songwriting chops and sheer ambition of Chrome Rhino collectively. “These Precarious Experiments…,” meanwhile, seems to better capture both the band’s core ability and charm as well as their energetic live show. From the sleek, slow-burn of the space blues jam “The Void (You Only Have Yourself To Blame)” to the New Wave-tinged “Gemini,” the LP truly achieved the “shiny and dangerous” tag the band have touted. There’s an overarching concept involved (albeit with a little more subtlety than some similar offerings), but the real story is that Chrome Rhino have elevated their craft with joy and precision alike. Welcome to the future. It totally rocks.

Pete “SuperMix” Salaz is regarded as the godfather of Phoenix’s electronic dance music scene, and it’s not just an empty honorific. Few local DJs are as universally beloved as Salaz, and many can attest to his generous nature, iconic status and phenomenal talents as a mixmaster. A club owner, producer, promoter and guru, he’s helped shape generations of local DJs since his days spinning records alongside Eddie Amador in the late ’80s. He’s given opportunities to up-and-comers at Monarch Theatre and Bar Smith, the downtown Phoenix nightspots he co-owns. And his dance events are the stuff of Valley legend, from underground parties such as Chupa and Red Monkey to Solstice Saturdays, his long-running house night with DJ Senbad. Salaz has also influenced many while showing off his skills in the DJ booth, where he deftly weaves house and world music into intoxicatingly exotic mixes. And at times, he’s doing so with a loftier purpose than just getting people moving on the dance floor — fostering mindful listening in hopes of improving connections and communication between human beings. As the vocal track Salaz occasionally plays during his sets states, “Just listen, not only with your ears, but with your heart.” Wise words indeed.

The more things change in downtown Phoenix nightlife, the more they stay the same. In the case of the Bikini Lounge, it’s been 20 years since the last time we crowned the historic tiki-themed haunt as the Valley’s best dive, and it’s still worthy of the honor. In that time, not much has changed at this long-running Grand Avenue mainstay, which dates back to 1947, save for the tiki-style bike rack in front and the bamboo-ringed patio out back. It’s still a cash-only spot, filled with quintessential dive bar bona fides, from its gloriously scuffed bar and stained concrete floor to the men’s room outfitted with a janky condom machine, sketchy paint job and questionable odors. Maybe it’s the potent pours at the Bikini Lounge, but the Christmas lights always seem to shine a little brighter, the regulars are friendlier and the staff is more colorful (including doorman and local sideshow artist Dr. Rev. Stephen Strange) than at other local shitholes. In an age when the dive bar aesthetic has become an oft-copied concept for new nightspots, nothing beats a true classic like the Bikini. We’re betting it’ll still be serving dirt-cheap drinks long after these newer and trendier spots go belly up.

A milestone like a 60th birthday is an excellent reason to throw oneself a party. In the case of Tool/Puscifer/A Perfect Circle frontman Maynard James Keenan, he threw himself a tour. Ten years ago, Keenan celebrated his 50th with Cinquanta, a two-night show in Los Angeles featuring Puscifer, A Perfect Circle and Failure. Cinquanta is 50 in Italian, and sessanta is 60, so the Sessanta tour kicked off in April, this time with A Perfect Circle, Puscifer and jam band legend Primus. Sessanta had two shows at Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre in Phoenix, and being at the venue felt a bit like you’d crashed Keenan’s private celebration. Each night, he got a birthday cupcake, members of the bands played table tennis as other musicians performed and the mood was relaxed and affectionate. It seems like the bands had as good of a time as the fans did: A second leg of the Sessanta tour, scheduled for 2025, was recently announced.

When Phoenix blues joint The Rhythm Room faced dire financial straits earlier this year, owner Bob Corritore took a cue from Sonny Boy Williamson II’s 1963 song “Help Me” and reached out to the community for assistance. They didn’t disappoint. In January, the long-standing venue’s insurance company threatened to cancel its insurance policy unless the parking lot was repaved to the tune of $30,000. Corritore lacked the funds, putting The Rhythm Room in danger of closing after 33 years in business. He launched a GoFundMe campaign and hoped for the best. The response was overwhelming. Donations poured in from all over — from fans and regulars of The Rhythm Room; from musicians and artists. Even legendary concert promoter Danny Zelisko and local music venues Crescent Ballroom and Valley Bar contributed. (Full disclosure: Phoenix New Times also chipped in.) Within days, the crowdfunding raised the necessary cash, plus an extra $4,000 that went to other improvements. The Rhythm Room was saved, and Corritore was thrilled by the “spectacular show of support” by the community. “There’s such a history with The Rhythm Room. People who hardly ever come any more, but had great times here wanted those who come after them to have those same experiences some day,” he said.

The name Danny Zelisko is synonymous with live music in the Valley. The man behind concert promotion outfit Danny Zelisko Presents celebrated 50 years in the business earlier this year, and in addition to a blowout private party, the public was treated to a look at some of the concert memorabilia he’s amassed. A free exhibition at Walter Studios downtown displayed just a fraction of Zelisko’s collection, and it was packed with treasures. A surfboard signed by The Beach Boys, a collage of backstage passes, a guitar given to Zelisko by Jimmy Page, a drum signed by Ringo Starr and a signed poster from the first Lollapalooza were just some of the gems in the exhibit. Zelisko was on hand at the venue to talk to old friends and attendees who wanted to share memories of decades of Phoenix concerts with him. The exhibition only ran a couple of nights and was very well attended, so we hope there are more events like it in Zelisko’s future.

It’s hard to believe it’s been 25 years since members of Tempe’s Roger Clyne and The Peacemakers came up with the idea to throw a music festival down in Rocky Point. But Circus Mexicus celebrated that anniversary this summer with another epic party south of the border. Today, the festival spans four days and dozens of musical performances, many of which are brought to you by musicians from the Valley. This year’s lineup included locals such as Sliced Limes, Natalie Merrill, The Hourglass Cats and Ghetto Cowgirl. Over the past two and a half decades, Circus Mexicus has entertained thousands, donated $150,000 to Rocky Point-based charities and helped forge a community that stretches across the country. Let’s drink a shot of tequila to the next 25 years.

In the middle of The Rolling Stones’ epic May 7 concert at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, frontman Mick Jagger made a surprising announcement: “We’re gonna go out to Valley Bar after, OK? So you can join us there.” Fans looked at each other in surprise. Surely, the world’s greatest living rock band didn’t just tell tens of thousands of people where they’d be after the show. But a number of people at the show (including us) decided that, if there was the slightest chance Jagger wasn’t kidding, they had to be there. That Tuesday evening, Valley Bar was filled with Stones fans, some of whom were visiting the underground watering hole for the first time. As the clock neared 2 a.m., we acknowledged what we already knew in our hearts: Of course, the band wasn’t coming. But Jagger’s comment did two things. It gave us a reason to extend a unforgettable evening of music. And it gave one of our favorite bars a packed house on a typically slow night. We’re not mad about it.

The Valley has plenty of beloved holiday traditions, but none are as cool as Alice Cooper’s Christmas Pudding. For more than 20 years, big-name musicians have come to the Valley for a one-night-only holiday show benefiting Cooper’s Solid Rock Teen Centers. Past guests have included Styx, The Doors’ Robby Krieger, Dee Snider, “Weird Al” Yankovic, Lita Ford, Roger Clyne & the Peacemakers, Cheech Marin, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Sebastian Bach, Hollywood Vampires (Cooper’s supergroup with Johnny Depp and Joe Perry), Gin Blossoms and many more. The vibe is cheerful and fun; as it turns out, holiday cheer mixes well with killer guitar licks. Tickets sales plus proceeds from a silent auction bring in hundreds of thousands of dollars each year to keep programming at Cooper’s two teen centers completely free for Valley youth. (A third location is set to open in Goodyear next year.) We can’t think of a better way to celebrate the season of giving.

Platform 18 goes far beyond an evening of high-end cocktails to give guests an immersive experience unlike anything else in Phoenix. One of three concepts in the Century Grand building, Platform 18 is a bar situated in a 36-seat Presidential Pullman-inspired train car, taking its patrons on a journey by rail as they imbibe. With the debut of its new menu earlier this year, the current journey takes guests to New York City circa 1924. The lineup of drinks celebrates madams, mobsters and the melting pot that was America in the early 20th century. For people who like sweeter drinks, Texas and Her Mob is a bright, bubbly drink made from vodka, bergamot, Aperol and prickly pear. A unique option is A Fight a Night, a cocktail based on the flavors of a shepherd’s pie that is served with a cup of potato chips. We recommend ending the evening with Platform 18’s Irish coffee, the best we’ve ever had.

Quartz and its sibling bar-within-a-bar, The Cave, are pumping out well-made, whimsical cocktails. Residing in the historic Welnick Marketplace and Liefgreen Seed Co. building, the main bar is sleek and chic, tucked under a geologically inspired slab of craggy rock. Its cocktail menu pays homage to birthstones, delivering richly colorful, piquant drinks. If you’re not sure where to start, order up your birthstone’s tipple and one of Quartz’s delightfully higher-brow Jell-O shots. But don’t stop at the main bar. Snag a reservation for The Cave, a visually stunning mirrored cavern with a mood set by lighting and global music. The Cave’s menu takes inspiration from deserts around the world, with ingredients and presentation are far-reaching and occasionally over-the-top. Unlock a childhood memory, and try not to get a brain freeze, with the herbaceous frozen sipper Polar Puppy.

Huarachis is known for its tacos and its founder, Chef Rene Andrade. But at the downtown Phoenix restaurant, the cocktails stand out as well. And that’s all thanks to Jesse Knox. Tasked with creating drinks that would fit the vibe of this trendy-yet-nostalgic taqueria, Knox came up with a playful menu of libations that both celebrate classic flavors and dial them up a notch. Take the Horchata Punch, a clarified cocktail that evokes the creaminess of the classic milky rice drink through a boozy, crystal-clear format. Many of the cocktails pair Jarritos sodas with artisinal mezcal spirits such as bacanora or sotol. The menu continuously rotates, but one thing remains true: With Jesse Knox behind the bar, the drinks at Huarachis make this taco shop a cocktail destination.

Pigtails gives us everything we want in a speakeasy without the bluster and pretension that can bloat this genre of cocktail lounge. In both its downtown and Desert Ridge locations, Pigtails manages to hide itself from plain view without dissuading drinkers with passwords or the need to make a reservation. The vibe is dark and moody, but a living wall and copper accents add dimension to the space. The cocktail menus differ by location but both expertly riff on classic shaken and stirred tipples, along with shots, mocktails and a regularly-rotating mystery punch. Pigtails also has snacks to tide you over, from sophisticated raw bar bites to craveable cheesy nachos.

New bars open all the time, and most don’t do much to make a lasting impression. But in Tell Your Friends, the speakeasy underneath North Scottsdale eatery The Americano, we’ve got a winner. The ultra-luxe space is anchored by a golden fixture that runs across the ceiling and down behind the bar. There are a small number of seats at the bar, or you may choose to sit in an elegant velvet chair. The cocktails are potent and inventive. Call the Paparazzi is Tell Your Friends’ version of an espresso martini, and the Flapper Fizz, made from vodka, apple, vanilla, amaro, lemon and Champagne, is a bubbly delight. Lest you get too tipsy, consider ordering something off the food side of the menu; options include fire-roasted oysters and a dip trio (smoked white fish, caramelized onion dip and pimento cheese) served with potato chips and fried saltines.

We honestly don’t know what Tempe nightlife would be like without Casey Moore’s Oyster House. The bar, set in an early-20th-century home, has been a mainstay of the area for decades, serving generations of ASU students and professors, neighborhood folks, fans of seafood and Gammage patrons. Drinks are strong and fairly cheap, and menu has a solid lineup of pub favorites (our picks include the gold wings, the fish and chips and the Cajun cream pasta). On a Friday or Saturday night, you can only hope that’ll you find a table at the lovely wraparound patio dotted with trees and lights or inside at the bar. (There’s an outdoor bar, too.) If you’re extra-nice to the staff, they may let you take a peek upstairs, but watch out for the ghosts that are said to haunt the bar. The vibe is always casual, the clientele is always friendly and with any luck, Casey Moore’s will always be around.

Anyone who has stepped inside its cramped yet hallowed halls knows the true power and influence of The Rebel Lounge. But for Billboard to name it “Best Venue Under 500-Capacity” in early 2024 is an important validation of what Rebel does to truly empower the local arts and music scene. Of all of the tiny clubs dotting the U.S., it was Rebel that stands the brightest for its divey-but-welcoming aesthetic, the genre-spanning artists it hosts day in and day out and the sense of respect and awe for great art that’s chiseled into Rebel’s very brick and mortar. Rebel doesn’t need the honors to continue delivering for the Valley, but it sure does do wonders for furthering Phoenix as a rich cultural hub that honors art and music with so much enthusiasm and passion. Hats off and horns up to the wonderful team at Rebel.

You want to watch the game? How about all of them? Santisi Brothers in northwest Phoenix takes game-day options to a new level with its 100 — yes, 100 — televisions that they refer to as the Wide Wall of Sports. That many screens means that you can keep tabs on multiple sporting events at once. And as you cheer for your favorite teams, you can enjoy drinks from the full bar and well-executed sports bar fare. Santisi Brothers is known for its pizzas and Italian fare; the garlic knots are excellent, and we’re partial to the Santisi Combo pizza, which comes topped with pepperoni, sausage, green peppers, onions, olives and mushrooms. On any given Sunday, there’s a good chance you’ll find us watching the game at Santisi Brothers.

There are lots of tiki bars around, brightly colored joints with wicker furniture, drink umbrellas and coconut shrimp. We love those places. But UnderTow is a tiki bar on a whole other level. The Barter & Shake concept takes you underwater into the hull of a 19th-century ship, complete with portholes and sound effects. The current menu is inspired by the Yucatan and includes complex, inventive cocktails for all palates. The showstopper is the In Honor of Nameless Days, a rum- and tequila-based monster flavored with plantain, poblano, coconut, pineapple, lime and garnished with gold. It costs $44 and arrives at your table covered with a skull inside a lion head. (You just have to experience it.) A welcome recent addition to the menu is a snack trio of corn nuts, cheese and chorizo, which helps soak up some of the alcohol and is delicious to boot.

We’re not trying to push any buttons, but the arcade bar concept feels a little played out. What was once a niche idea locally has expanded to numerous nightspots across the Valley, offering a similar mix of joystick favorites, pinball machines, game-inspired cocktails and not much else. Enter a new challenger: Taproom-120 in Gilbert, a VHS-themed bar with a punk flair that’s a scrappy alternative to its competitors with unique thrills to complement its solid lineup of games. Inside its Outpost Kodelia arcade, a curated collection of 15 pinball titles and various arcade classics — including gems such as a Crystal Castles cocktail unit and Transporter The Rescue pinball machine — awaits players. Taproom-120’s other draws can be found in its main room, where a stage hosts lively rock and ska shows, or outside when the Arizona Wrestling Federation sets up a ring for events. Other geeky distractions at Taproom-120 include handmade items from local artists for sale, enormous bookshelves packed with board and card games and fun events such as the Wrestler Roulette Paint Night. A skateboarding festival is even happening in early October. Who needs to play Donkey Kong for the umpteenth time when you can watch smackdowns or go skanking at Taproom-120?

Speakeasy can be a four-letter word. It evokes pomp, circumstance and unnecessary passwords. While Stardust Pinbar technically fits the bill of a hidden bar, it leaves any of the pretension of a traditional speakeasy at the door. To find this eclectic, electric David Bowie-inspired pinball lounge and watering hole, you’ll enter through Ziggy’s Magic Pizza Shop. Open what is disguised as a freezer door and you’ll be greeted with upbeat music, an illuminated dance floor and a disco ball twisting overhead. The walls are lined with vintage pinball machines. The bar manages to balance its nerdcore and club vibes to create a unique, quirky space that is never dull. Order a drink and try your luck at a few games. Stardust features a menu of specialty cocktails including the Saguaro Slammer. The tipple of gin, melon liqueur, kiwi puree, lemon and soda water arrives in a cactus-shaped glass.

There’s no better place to be during one of Phoenix’s shockingly vibrant sunsets than a rooftop bar. We’ve got plenty to choose from, but we’re partial to Skysill, the lounge atop the Westin Tempe near Mill Avenue and Arizona State University. Truth be told, there’s no bad time to be at Skysill. In summer, during the day, it hosts pool parties and the views of Tempe are spectacular. At night, you might find a DJ or a movie night, the city nights sparkle and you get a breeze that’s impossible to catch at ground level. And whenever the bar is open, you’ve got cold drinks, a light but satisfying food menu and a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

Want to go to the ultimate place to see and be seen during a Scottsdale bachelor party weekend? You’ll want to post up at Maya in the heart of the Old Town Scottsdale nightlife district. The vibe is “dress to impress” and “here for a good time, not for a long time” whenever the doors are open. Pool parties are held during summer weekends, but anytime is a good time to come to Maya if you’re looking for outdoor games such as Skee-Ball, giant pong and Connect Four; casual fare including sliders, wraps, hot dogs, salads and appetizers; a full bar; and plenty of opportunities to mingle with your fellow patrons. If you’re really looking to live large before your buddy’s wedding, we recommend you call ahead to make a reservation for VIP bottle service. The ladies will love it.

A couple of years ago, the New York Times reported that Scottsdale was the second-most-popular destination for bachelorette parties. (First place went to Nashville, Tennessee.) We can’t say we’re surprised; it’s a rare night out in Old Town when we don’t run into a roving pack of young women in sashes and cowboy hats. There are plenty of bars in the area where bachelorettes can party until late in the night, but for a more serene atmosphere, we recommend Wine Girl. The ultra-feminine decor includes roses in vases, white wicker chairs and several backdrops for photo ops, and the background music is heavy on the 1990s and 2000s pop hits. The menu, as you might imagine, is mostly vino, including tasting flights, wine cocktails and frosés. Nibbles include light fare such as dips, flatbreads and avocado toasts. It all makes Wine Girl a mandatory destination for bachelorettes.

Maple House is not your average bar. The downtown Chandler spot was opened in late 2023 by the team behind the craft cocktail bar The Brickyard and eateries including Hidden House. The space is inspired by an old farmhouse, with cozy spots inside and out, perfect for a relaxed afternoon or nightcap. While the founders know their way around a cocktail shaker, it’s Maple House’s alcohol-free options — from its all-day coffee service to zero-proof cocktails — that are notable. That’s by design; the team wanted to create a comfortable, casual spot with drinks to match. Maple House’s mocktails are based on popular classics. The Nojito replaces rum with the spiritless Seedlip Garden 108, which is made by distilling herbs and botanicals. The use of Seedlip ups the herbaceous quality of the cucumber and mint-forward refresher. In addition to nonalcoholic options, Maple House has a selection of low-ABV cocktails, beer and wine.

In case you didn’t know, there’s a mirrored wall inside Disco Dragon on Roosevelt Row, and behind the mirror lies Fuck You Pay Me, one of Phoenix’s newer speakeasies. Your journey begins with a welcome shot. Ours was a white tea shot, but don’t let that fairly basic sip fool you — FYPM is the place to take your cocktail-loving friends. Options like the sweet-but-not-too-sweet No Dice (dark cherry, cognac, apricot, smoky tea and tart cherry), the bubbly Main Squeeze (lemon cream greek yogurt, grains of paradise and orange gin) are fun and creative, and pair well with bar’s menu of Asian-inspired bites. (The shrimp tempura bao buns are to die for.) Add in an intimate space bathed in pink light and hip tunes playing in the background and you’ve got the perfect recipe for an evening of cocktails.

New bars and clubs often need a theme to survive and thrive in the Valley’s crowded nightlife scene. Case in point: Downtown Phoenix’s Thundercat Lounge made the biggest splash of any new local nightspot after its January debut by tapping into a deep sense of nostalgia. The “visually immersive” 3,000-square-foot club is like a time warp and differs from other recent arrivals with its retro vibes. The foyer is equipped with lighting inspired by “Star Wars.” The restrooms incorporate the vibrant aesthetics of “Saved by the Bell” and “Pee-wee’s Playhouse.” The main room is drenched in neon, adorned with Patrick Nagel prints and exudes an ’80s and ’90s mall food court aura. Thundercat Lounge transcends its nostalgic shtick by booking tastemaking DJ/producers such as Com Truise, YehMe2 and Felix Cartal to perform on the club’s stage, which is equipped with a 20,000-watt PK Sound system and LED video wall. According to co-owners Jeremiah Gratza and Jacob Wiedmann, the pair behind the Melrose District’s popular Thunderbird Lounge, this allows Thundercat to keep one foot in the past while staying relevant with cutting-edge music tastes.

Cake has been around long enough to qualify as a Scottsdale nightlife institution, but it’s anything but boring or predictable. No cap. One of the last true nightclubs in the city’s entertainment district, this 3,500-square-foot party haven is a hedonistic thrill zone focused solely on drinking and dancing. Cake is unrivaled for its uninhibited vibes — the bartenders and lingerie-clad waitstaff are all smokeshows — and unmatched drip — the decor is all neon, glitz and gold). Add in Scottsdale’s best audio-visual system, guest DJ sets by such GOAT-level talents as Dillon France and Zedd, unique entertainment such as aerialists and a reputation as a celebrity hangout, and it’s no surprise why Cake is considered the top club in town. Stop by for a slice of over-the-top nightlife fun, but be ready to wait in line.

If you’re looking for a place to see local talent perform in a non-nightclub atmosphere — or if you want to pack your guitar and take the stage yourself — check out Walk-In Wednesdays at Tempe Center for the Arts. The mic is open every hump day from 5 to 10 p.m., and performers benefit from TCA’s professional stage and sound setup. Walk-In Wednesdays celebrated its 15th anniversary in 2024, making it possibly the longest-running open mic night in town. TCA has a full bar in case you need some liquid courage, and open mic attendees can also visit the art gallery for free. Pro tip: Save some time to take in the view of Tempe Town Lake from the rooftop patio.