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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to San Jose

Bars and fun activities

You want a bar that offers more than just stools and taps, with activities that keep the night moving.

Based on 838 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Goosetown Lounge image 1
Goosetown Lounge image 2
Goosetown Lounge image 3
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Small and cozy lounge offers karaoke nights and darts for entertainment. Atmosphere feels laid back and friendly, filled mostly with locals creating a warm, lively vibe. Affordable drinks and a jukebox add to the casual, neighborhood bar experience.

A friendly neighborhood bar with plenty of TVs and a wide karaoke selection. Drinks are hand poured, and the staff is attentive and welcoming.

Energetic nights bring lively music and a vibrant crowd. Karaoke sessions with KJ Anthony add to the laid back fun atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the karaoke here to be really fun."

"The karaoke here is so much fun."

"This bar has karaoke on Friday and Saturday nights."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens on Fridays and Saturdays starting at 9:30 PM.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere as karaoke picks up after it starts.

3

Drink prices are affordable, allowing for multiple beverages.

02
Guildhouse image 1

Enormous space combines bar, internet cafe, and dance club with a strong gamer and nerdy vibe. Open and spacious layout supports board games and video gaming, creating a chill, friendly atmosphere. Noise levels vary, allowing quieter spots for relaxation amid social activity.

An eclectic mix of bar, internet cafe, and dance club creates varied social vibes. The spot blends gaming with drinks, offering a chill place for board games and video games.

Events like Tuesday trivia nights and Thursday fighting game tourneys create a lively atmosphere. The space supports fun with tabletop, video, and card games alongside enjoyable cocktails.

People are saying

"This bar is a gaming lounge with tons of board and video games."

"You can get a free hour of gameplay with the purchase of a mocktail."

"You can play a huge variety of board games here with friends."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Every Friday night features a free party in the back room.

3

Thursday fighting game tournaments start at 6pm; bring your own controller.

03
Cash Only image 1

Narrow, all-wood bar with Johnny Cash theme and honky tonk vibe creates a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Music centers on Johnny Cash, with a jukebox dedicated to his songs. Back room offers a pool table, and drinks include freshly pressed juices for cocktails like the Whiskey Apple.

A hip dive bar with no high prices offers a fun atmosphere and friendly, quick bar staff. The bar features well-maintained oak cabinetry and avoids the usual dive bar crowd.

The bar offers a really fun atmosphere. The menu keeps things simple and fun.

People are saying

"The bar was cash only, so I had to pay with cash."

"Jay, the bartender, is an amazing mixologist."

"You've got to try the cocktails; the apple one was a refreshing delight."

Good to know

1

The bar is cash only, so bring cash for your visit.

2

Parking is available nearby in a structure or on the street.

3

Security should oversee situations involving intoxicated patrons.

04
Renegades image 1
Gay bar

Dive bar with a neighborhood vibe where people generally know each other. Outdoor area offers a relaxing atmosphere while inside feels fun and lively. Known as an institution in the American Kink scene, it lacks food and has limited parking.

Known as an institution in the American Kink scene, this bar has a community vibe with regular socializing and weekly events. It operates as a dive bar where most people know each other.

Saturday nights bring a fun and lively atmosphere. The energy stays high and keeps things entertaining.

People are saying

"This bar has a real community vibe with socializing and weekly events."

"Karaoke here really breaks up the week."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Tuesday night, attracting a friendly crowd.

2

Thursdays are lively with various social events and a welcoming atmosphere.

3

Parking can be challenging, so consider arriving early or using rideshare.

05
Still O.G. & Alter Ego Cocktail Club image 1

Speakeasy-style bar splits into a laid-back vinyl lounge and an intimate, reservation-only cocktail club with a 1920s Gatsby vibe. Atmosphere blends throwback decor, vinyl DJ sets, and creative cocktails featuring unique ingredients. Space suits both casual gatherings and exclusive date nights with a chill, exclusive ambiance.

A speakeasy-style back bar offers a hidden, intimate vibe with carefully crafted cocktails and a strong focus on music that shapes the atmosphere.

High-energy nights feature engaging DJs who bring passion to the music. Loud tunes and fun vibes keep the dance floor lively with neat decor adding to the atmosphere.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are excellent and beautifully presented."

"The bartenders here are true mixologists crafting amazing drinks."

"The cocktails here are creative and balanced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential for the intimate space at Alter Ego Cocktail Club.

2

Happy hour runs daily from 5pm to 7pm with $5 cocktails and skewers.

3

Without a reservation, entry may be denied due to capacity limits.

06
The Caravan Lounge image 1

Dive bar with live garage bands and punk decor creates a loud, intense atmosphere. Friendly, local crowd gathers for rock music and comedy nights. Cash-only bar offers pool table and jukebox for casual entertainment.

A punk dive bar with stickers and kitsch on the walls offers a safe and friendly atmosphere. The bartender crafts amazing drinks and the place hosts open-mic comedy nights and live music without cover charges.

Plenty of fun activities keep the vibe lively and no frills get in the way of a good time. It stays a fun place anytime you want to drop by.

People are saying

"It's a fun place with good music and a welcoming crowd."

"This dive bar has a jukebox, pool table, and live music."

"The bar has awesome live music and cool vibes."

Good to know

1

The lounge accepts only cash payments.

2

Karaoke is available on Tuesdays with a two-drink minimum.

3

There are no cover charges for entry.

07
MINIBOSS image 1

Large space filled with classic arcade games and a dedicated pinball room creates a lively, nostalgic vibe. Neon lights and old-school game sounds blend with a modern industrial design to keep energy high. Crowds are comfortable, and the atmosphere stays fun and relaxed despite noise levels.

A festive bar with holiday-themed decor and innovative cocktails served in festive mugs and glasses. It combines a lively atmosphere with game memorabilia and attentive service.

Creative drinks and hidden Easter Eggs add a unique twist to the fun atmosphere. Playing a 3v3 driving game with friends keeps the energy lively and engaging.

People are saying

"The arcades here have an awesome collection of retro games and pinball."

"This bar has a great selection of retro arcade and pinball machines."

"The arcade and pinball games here are awesome retro fun activities."

Good to know

1

Thursdays offer free games at MINIBOSS from open until close.

2

Expect a busy crowd on weekends; arrive early for better seating.

3

Arcade games cost between 25ยข and 75ยข per play.

08
Hyde Park Lounge image 1

Small, dive bar with pool table and outdoor seating offers a local yocal atmosphere and an old school crowd. Music plays from a jukebox or DJ, creating a lively vibe on weekends but quiet at times. Mostly male patrons gather here, enjoying affordable drinks and casual hangouts.

A small, dive bar with a local crowd and quick service. It features a pool table, a DJ, and no food service, but BBQ from next door can be delivered.

Offers a fun local bar vibe with quick drinks and feel good fun.

People are saying

"It's a cool local bar with a friendly neighborhood crowd."

"It's a fun, local bar with a friendly neighborhood vibe."

"I had a ton of fun here."

Good to know

1

Hyde Park Lounge is a bar only, with no food service.

2

Smokin Pig BBQ next door will deliver food to Hyde Park Lounge.

3

You have to pay the jukebox to hear music; otherwise, it is quiet.

09
Poor House Bistro image 1
Cajun restaurant

Old Victorian house hosts a cozy shaded outdoor patio with live blues music and a friendly, lively atmosphere. Small dance area and ample outdoor seating invite casual gatherings. Popular spot for quick pre-event dinners near SAP Center.

Fabulous drinks like honeysuckle lemonade and espresso martinis stand out. The bar stays full and fun during visits.

Live music creates a fun atmosphere both day and night. The bar fills up, adding to the energetic vibe. Outdoor seating offers a relaxed spot for drinks and meals.

People are saying

"The live music here is a great bonus with amazing players."

"The live music here is so much fun, with great bands playing."

"The bartender was a delight and easy to talk to."

Good to know

1

Expect a 45-minute wait during busy hours, especially on event nights.

2

Parking is limited, especially when events are happening nearby.

3

The venue hosts live music from Wednesday to the weekend.

10
Willow Den Public House image 1

Bar features vinyl album covers and walls covered with dollar bills and vintage decorations. Atmosphere stays relaxed and lively with live music, karaoke, and games like pool and ping pong. Crowd mixes diverse personalities enjoying various seating and entertainment options.

A lively dive bar with a pretty impressive craft beer selection and a fun atmosphere. Friendly bartenders offer great tequila recommendations and engage groups with Bar Bingo.

Karaoke every Sunday draws a lively crowd eager to sing. Pool table and ping pong add to the friendly, fun atmosphere where diverse groups hang out comfortably.

People are saying

"You can play a game of pool indoors with friends and family."

"I found this bar to be a fun dive with a lively atmosphere."

"It's a fun dive bar with a lively atmosphere and live music."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Tuesday and Wednesday night at 8pm.

2

You can bring food from nearby restaurants to enjoy at the bar.

3

Entry requires a photo ID; state-issued IDs may not be accepted.

11
Market Bar image 1

Outdoor courtyard with live music and multiple bars creates a lively atmosphere especially on weekends. Food court offers diverse cuisines including Asian, Peruvian, and Italian with casual patio seating. Crowd enjoys craft beers and cocktails in a social, energetic setting.

Tons of taps and a great selection of bottled beer come at reasonable prices. Live bands perform regularly, and the bar offers a wide variety of drinks and eats, making it a solid spot for a weekend bar crawl or a casual night out.

Live music fills the air, creating a fun atmosphere with patio seating that invites hanging out. The place gets noisy and crowded, making it lively for family nights, dates, or outings with friends.

People are saying

"I loved the live music in the outdoor space."

"The bartenders here are amazing and share fascinating stories."

"I found it to be a fun place with live music in the evening."

Good to know

1

Parking is free for the first 90 minutes and costs $1 for every 15 minutes afterward.

2

Market Bar is open until midnight, making it a late-night option.

3

They offer free dance classes every Wednesday, perfect for beginners.

12
Five Points image 1
Cocktail bar

Old saloon style bar offers an intimate dance floor and a hidden speakeasy with a cozy, exclusive vibe. Live music and DJs create a lively atmosphere where conversation requires leaning in. Unique cocktails and rustic decor add to the distinctive experience.

Busy atmosphere with quick service and friendly staff keeps the bar lively. Drinks are available even when nearby spots close, and a separate area plays different music for a distinct vibe.

Creative themes and a unique speakeasy vibe make the atmosphere lively. The bar features fun details and serves great drinks for a super fun time.

People are saying

"The Harry Potterโ€“inspired cocktails were all on point."

"This bar had a fun Harry Potter theme with cool details."

"The Harry Potter-themed drinks were all on point."

Good to know

1

Cocktails are 50% off on Wednesdays.

2

Jazz night happens every Monday, featuring live performances.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere on Friday nights with live music.

13
FITOOR image 1
Modern Indian restaurant

Modern Indian restaurant combines live DJ performances and fire dancers to create an energetic atmosphere with upbeat music. Interior features modern dรฉcor and ambient lighting, while outdoor seating offers a relaxed environment. Tables are placed closely, contributing to a lively but less intimate setting.

Upbeat, cool, and sexy lounge vibes fill the space with a DJ and fire entertainer adding to the lounge atmosphere. A full bar serves a unique cocktail menu, including standout drinks like the Cordelia.

Live DJ performances and fire dancers create an upbeat vibe. Belly dancing happens on weekends, and bartenders make incredible cocktails for a fun time with friends and family.

People are saying

"The food here is fabulous, creative, and flavorful."

"The Bar here has really good food that's packed with flavor."

"The food and cocktails here are top-notch and delicious."

Good to know

1

FITOOR has a belly dance performance on Saturday and Sunday evenings.

2

On weekends, they have a DJ and belly dancers.

3

A belly dancer performs on Fridays and Saturdays with a live DJ.

14
Dr. Funk image 1
Tiki bar

Tiki bar with elaborate decor that transports guests to faraway lands, featuring detailed interior and exterior themes including holiday touches. Atmosphere is vibrant and intimate, with outdoor seating and fireplace adding to the experience. Drinks focus on world-class tiki cocktails with a strong emphasis on rum.

Vibrant Tiki bar with fun decor and a friendly staff creates a lively spot to unwind with friends.

Laid-back island vibes and lively fun set the tone for both big groups and intimate gatherings. Creative drinks and themed dรฉcor add to the unique, enjoyable atmosphere.

People are saying

"This tiki bar has a really fun and unique atmosphere."

"The holiday cocktails here have a fun, spooky Nightmare Before Christmas theme."

"The drinks here are creative, pack a punch, and are the star of the show."

Good to know

1

Reservations can be made on OpenTable for a guaranteed spot.

2

Happy hour runs all day on Tuesday with discounted drinks.

3

Expect a crowded atmosphere on weekends; arrive early to secure a seat.

15
Sharks Ice at San Jose image 1
Ice skating rink

Four ice rinks operate within a cool, family-friendly atmosphere where music plays during downtime. Multiple bars and a restaurant overlook the rinks, offering places to relax and watch hockey practice. Support buckets assist beginners, making it welcoming for children and new skaters.

Two very large bars offer a good selection of beer and food. Seating areas provide a view of multiple rinks, letting you watch hockey or skating while you hang out.

Ice skating offers fun for beginners and kids with energetic classes. Watching ice hockey adds excitement to the experience.

People are saying

"It's a great place for ice skating, learning, and practice."

"I had a great time watching the live sports here."

"It's a really fun place for kids to explore and burn energy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like Pucks and Paws.

2

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Skate rentals are free, making it easy for beginners to try skating.

16
Urban Putt San Jose image 1
Miniature golf course

Indoor miniature golf course features creative themed holes with surprises like an animatronic shark and interactive mazes. The atmosphere is lively and immersive, evoking a cinematic vibe with a San Jose-centric design. A bar area offers drinks to enjoy while playing, though seating is limited outside the bar.

High ceilings create an open feel in the bar area. A full bar offers fancy smoke bubble drinks and a decent selection of draft beers. The gastro pub food pairs well with the drinks.

Indoor golf pathways offer a unique theme in each area, making the golfing experience fun and interactive. The mini golf game is family-friendly and provides a quick, enjoyable activity with friends.

People are saying

"The mini golf here is a fun and unique experience with creative holes."

"The bar here is super fun and has creative golf holes."

"They have a good list of mocktails for those who don't drink alcohol."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of around 45 minutes during peak hours.

2

Playing a round of mini golf takes about 60-90 minutes on weekends.

3

Parking is plentiful and available close to the venue.

17
Sideline Sports Bar & Grill image 1

Dark, friendly space with pool tables, dart boards, and lots of TV monitors creates a subdued, chill vibe. Music mixes genres with live bands adding to the atmosphere. Regulars include shady pool players and a biker crowd, making it a quiet neighborhood spot with room to hang out and watch games.

A friendly neighborhood bar with a biker vibe offers great drinks, pool tables, and darts. The staff keeps the place authentic and provides great service in a relaxed atmosphere.

Fun atmosphere thrives with friendly bartenders who know how to keep the energy up. Live music from bands like Texas Fun adds to the lively vibe and camaraderie among everyone.

People are saying

"This bar has a friendly atmosphere and great drinks."

"I thought the food was delicious and the chef amazing."

"The live band's music was awesome and had amazing musicians."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens on Thursday and Friday nights from 8 PM to 12 AM.

2

Lunch specials include fries for $10 with at least 5 options.

3

Fries cost $6.47, tax included.

18
The Old Wagon Saloon & Grill image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Wood and brick building offers a spacious saloon vibe with outdoor patio games like cornhole and shuffleboard. Atmosphere stays laid-back and casual, balancing lively music and a welcoming feel. Big screens show football, attracting a crowd that enjoys drinks and socializing.

The bar offers a good old bar feeling with courteous service from the bartender. Multiple TVs make it a great spot to watch games, though the screens sit a bit high above the bar.

Thursdays feature Line Dancing Lessons with a DJ, making it a lively spot for fun activities. The mix of food, drinks, and dancing keeps the energy high and the atmosphere engaging.

People are saying

"The patio is nice and has games like cornhole."

"The barbecue here is great, especially the ribs and pulled pork."

"You'll have so much fun with the line dancing lessons."

Good to know

1

Thursdays feature line dancing lessons with DJ Shivers at 7pm.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with drink specials.

3

DJ Mike Verba performs live music every Saturday night.

19
4th Street Bowl image 1
Bowling alley

Retro bowling alley with nostalgic decor and well-oiled lanes offers a chill, classic atmosphere that is friendly and family-oriented. Multiple activities include pool tables, a cafe, and a cocktail bar, creating a relaxed space without flashy distractions.

Great drinks and a wide selection make the bar stand out. You can grab an IPA and watch the game from the lounge while enjoying the lively atmosphere.

Bowling here offers a fun house shot that stands out from typical alleys. The clean alley and diner create a lively, nonjudgmental atmosphere that suits groups and families.

People are saying

"I found the bowling alley to be nice and clean."

"I found the bowling here to be really fun, especially the house shot."

"The bar staff here is so friendly and wonderful."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in plenty of free lots at the bowling alley.

2

Expect long wait times during busy nights, especially on holidays.

3

The bowling balls are often in poor condition and not clearly marked.

20
Casino M8trix image 1

Open casino floor with Vegas-style tables offers a lively atmosphere filled with plentiful games and live entertainment. Sports bar and casino floor bars serve food and drinks, creating a social vibe with happy hour specials. Parking is secure and convenient, supporting easy access.

The bar offers great food with a menu that has something for everyone. Staff are awesome and attentive, especially Alexis at the bar and the late-night bartender.

Small casino offers fun and entertaining games with a focus on poker. Late night visits combine good food with a lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"I had a lot of fun playing at this lively casino."

"I found the happy hour drinks to be a great deal."

"The food at the bar was great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 9 pm with half-off drafts and appetizers.

2

Most appetizers and drinks are half off until 11 pm.

3

The casino offers sit-down dinner options after 10 pm.

21
Mr. Mojito Bar & Grill image 1

Bar and grill with huge TV screens and live music performances creates a lively, upbeat atmosphere where sports fans and music lovers gather. Spacious, covered patio offers comfortable outdoor seating for large groups. Lighting inside sets a subtle, romantic mood ideal for date nights.

Excellent drinks and friendly bar service stand out here. Multiple TVs show sports, creating a lively atmosphere ideal for relaxing or watching games.

A festive spot to hang out with friends and enjoy some drinks. The vibe stays fun and lively for groups looking to relax and socialize.

People are saying

"The Happy Hour lemon drop is strong and a favorite."

"The margaritas here are amazing."

"It's a fun place to hang out with friends and have some drinks."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 2pm to 6pm with discounted drinks and small bites.

2

The bar offers a variety of happy hour specials including lemon drop martinis and tequila shots.

3

The restaurant has a semi-enclosed patio for outdoor dining.

22
Bowlero San Jose image 1
Bowling alley

A large bowling alley with 50 lanes and multi-media screens at each lane creates a lively, modern setting. The atmosphere is dark and loud, filled with energetic music and a bustling bar scene. Additional features include an arcade area and a full-service bar offering creative cocktails.

A full-service bar offers a lounge atmosphere with friendly staff. Additional entertainment like arcade games complements the space for those just there for drinks.

Electric energy and a perfect atmosphere create a seamless and fun experience. Night bowling and hanging with friends or family add to the fun outing vibe.

People are saying

"It's a fun place with electric energy for a great time."

"It's a fun place for kids with lots of games."

"The bar here is huge and the service is good."

Good to know

1

Expect to spend at least $150 for two people if not just bowling.

2

Bowlero San Jose discontinued their unlimited bowl option on 9/6/23.

3

Gift cards are not accepted for party bookings.

23
El Cabron Kitchen & Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with vibrant decor and live DJ music creates a lively atmosphere that opens up for dancing in the evenings. The space features artwork and open windows that evoke a Mexican feel, attracting groups celebrating various occasions.

Bar offers a lively vibe with Latin and club music and dancing later. Friendly service includes a warm greeting and tasty drinks served at the bar without needing a reservation.

A live DJ spins on Sundays and evenings, creating a fun atmosphere with plenty of dancing. Photo opportunities add to the vibes that make the nights lively and memorable.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and super tasty."

"The bartenders here are so attentive and make you feel like family."

"It's a fun place for dancing with a DJ playing music."

Good to know

1

After 9pm, the place turns into a dance club.

2

Live music happens on Friday nights.

3

The kitchen closes after 12 am and the bar at 1:30 am.

24
San Pedro Social image 1

Basement hosts bowling lanes and a small arcade with a bar on the first floor. Music volume rises for dancing, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere. Games like shuffleboard and basketball complement social and team events.

Bars offer good music and food alongside a nice beer selection and quality well drinks. Social spots tend to be livelier than gaming lounges.

A lively spot with fun bowling, foosball, and arcade games creates a playful atmosphere. The vibe stays upbeat for hanging out, drinking, and dancing on weekend nights and weekdays alike.

People are saying

"It's a fun place with games and a lively atmosphere."

"I enjoyed the fun bowling experience here."

"This bar is a fun place to hang out and have a good time."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-30 minute wait for bowling on weekends.

2

Happy hour pricing is available, making drinks more affordable.

3

Karaoke room rentals are available for private events.

25
Splash Bar San Jose image 1

Gay bar with a spacious layout and lively music creates a fun atmosphere for dancing. Friendly crowd mixes chill and rowdy energy, with DJs catering mainly to gay men. Patio and multiple restrooms add comfort to the experience.

A lively spot with amazing music and drag performances that create great energy. The bar features a spacious layout including a patio, and the staff provides good service in a welcoming atmosphere.

Drag Bingo events bring lively entertainment and great energy. Friendly bartenders add to the fun atmosphere, making it a popular spot for a good time.

People are saying

"It's a fun spot with great energy and lively music."

"This bar is a safe space for gay and queer people."

"It's a great dance spot with a chill, sometimes rowdy, queer-friendly vibe."

Good to know

1

The cover charge is $20, even late at night.

2

Happy hour offers two-for-one drinks until 8 pm daily.

3

Drag Bingo is hosted regularly and is a popular event.

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