Dublin is renowned for its buzzing nightlife with many a stag or hen spending their last few nights of freedom in the capital. A massive range of lively pubs and rocking nightclubs often means a pub-crawl and a bounce around the dance floor is the preferred way to bring in the dawn.
But sinking pints and throwing shapes around your handbag may not be for everyone. Never fear, our fair city is by no means a one-trip pony ride and there are plenty of other sources of entertainment for a night to remember.
After much deliberation, we have narrowed it down to just 5 of our favourite spots to hit when the sun goes down on Dublin.
5. The Sugar Club, Lower Leeson Street
The Sugar Club is a music venue with a twist. It used to be the Irish Film Theatre and has certainly kept much of its big screen features. The original velvet tiered seating reflects the cinematic roots and cult classics are still shown at the venue on occasion.
World music, however, is very much top of the agenda nowadays with some fantastic artists regularly taking centre stage. Not to mention their superb Film Fatale events including the upcoming Great Gatsby Party where you can embrace your inner gangster moll and step back in time.
This is a vibrant venue with lots on offer for a night to remember in Dublin. Situated in Leeson Street, it is a rather cool place to be seen so plan your night in advance and dress to impress!
4. 3Arena, North Wall Quay
For world-class entertainment in Dublin city, look no further than the 3Arena in North Wall Quay just on the outskirts of the capital.
Welcoming some of the world’s biggest performers to the stage, this is Ireland’s preeminent music and entertainment venue.
For old-school Dubliners, the name ‘The Point’ (as it was formerly known) will ring a bell, but don’t let its modern facade deter you – it’s still the best entertainment venue on the Emerald Isle for all ages.
Address: N Wall Quay, North Dock, Dublin 1, Ireland
3. The Sporting Emporium Casino, Anne’s Lane, South Anne’s Street
Online casinos have been gaining popularity over the last few years, but sometimes there’s nothing like the real thing.
There are a few casinos dotted around Dublin but The SE is one of the best. You pay €25 to enter but get an equal amount in free chips once you’re in. Sitting just off Grafton Street, it is easy to find and provides a warm welcome to players of all abilities.
The friendly staff team are happy to let novices play a few practice games with fake money to get the hang of it. And once warmed up you will be sure to gain confidence (and with a bit of luck, a couple of wins).
A great place for groups of friends or a last minute work event, this Dublin casino can add a bit of glitz to a fun night out. And with it open until 6 am and offering up to 6 different games, there is something for everyone.
2. Laughter Lounge, Eden Quay
The Irish are often noted for their quick wit and sharp sense of humour so where better to experience a comedy night than our fair city of Dublin? For more than two decades the Laughter Lounge has hosted a range of comedians and is by far the best spot to enjoy a bit of stand up in the capital.
An electric atmosphere, cold beer, hot pizza and great entertainment will let you kick back and really soak up an evening of pure fun at this venue. Arrive early for a complimentary drink to get things going and make memories with your pals in the free photo booth.
Whether you’re a group of hens or a happy couple, everyone can enjoy a great night of comedy here and as it is located in the heart of the city it is a fab spot to plan a night around one of the 3-hour gigs.
1. Button Factory, Curved Street, Temple Bar
The Button Factory is a fantastically intimate venue for live music and has hosted some super talented musicians. With tickets averaging around the €20-mark and free gigs offered at their sister-venue, ‘Crowbar’, three nights a week, you will be planning your next night before you know it.
Found in Temple Bar, the music hub of the capital, The Button Factory is a gem for a night of live music and true Dublin vibes. The small stage and subtle lighting only compliment the acoustic experience, setting it apart from the larger (and more expensive) hotspots.
For a night of culture, music and Irish soul, either of these two spots will be right up your Crown Alley!
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