Tacoma's bar scene packs a punch. Devil's Reef, a nautical-themed tiki bar blending Polynesian pop aesthetics, is always worth a visit. The dim lighting, exotic rum cocktails, and immersive atmosphere make it ideal for small group outings—just note they're open Wednesday through Saturday evenings only.
For a more refined experience, en Rama in the historic Courthouse Square building specializes in craft cocktails and house-made pasta. Their rotating seasonal menu and intimate space (reservations recommended) create an atmosphere where conversations flow as smoothly as the drinks.
The McMenamins Elks Temple deserves special attention. This 1916 Renaissance Revival building sat vacant for decades before being transformed into a sprawling hotel, brewery, and entertainment complex. Within its seven floors, you'll find multiple themed bars: The Old Hangout offers tropical drinks near an indoor waterfall, the Spanish Bar serves tapas-style bites with gin-focused cocktails, and somewhere in the building hides The Vault—a secret speakeasy you'll need to discover for yourself. The Spanish Ballroom hosts live music most nights, making it easy to transition from dinner to entertainment without leaving the building.
Hunger strikes differently after dark. The Matador on Pacific Avenue serves Texas-sized nachos and tacos until 2 a.m., along with an impressively large tequila selection. For gastropub fare, Dirty Oscar's Annex (featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives) keeps the kitchen running late with creative dishes like elk sliders and bacon candy.
For comedy, the Tacoma Comedy Club downtown brings national touring acts alongside Pacific Northwest talent to an intimate 200-seat showroom. Their full food and drink menu means you can make an entire evening of it.
In the mood for some pinball? The Triple Knock on 6th Ave boasts an impressive collection of machines, from vintage classics to contemporary gems. This spot is a great destination for group activity, or a stop along the way as you explore the 6th Ave neighborhood.
While many Ruston Way restaurants close earlier, the waterfront remains beautiful after dark. A post-dinner stroll along the two-mile paved trail offers views of the illuminated Olympic Mountains across Commencement Bay—a perfect way to decompress before heading back to your hotel.
The city's compact downtown means most venues sit within walking distance (or a quick ride) of major hotels and the Greater Tacoma Convention Center. Whether your group prefers live music at the Spanish Ballroom, creative cocktails at a hidden speakeasy, or competitive rounds of vintage pinball, Tacoma's evening offerings provide genuine experiences that extend beyond typical conference fare.
