Stories > Great Things to Do After Dark
Great Things to Do After Dark Last Updated: November 2023
Nightlife in Connecticut is as diverse as the activities you can enjoy here during the day. Live music, festive cocktails, comedy, dancing, billiards, karaoke...however you like to spend your evenings out, Connecticut has all kinds of entertainment destinations that come alive when the sun goes down. So grab your friends or get a sitter for the kids, and get out and experience these places that really light up after dark.
Sizzling Live Music Venues
Not-To-Be-Missed Music Fests
Dance Like No One’s Watching
Late Night Fun and Games
Outdoors in the Dark
Sizzling Live Music Venues
Connecticut is filled with places to listen to amazing live music performances. From rock to jazz, country music to piano battles, you’re sure to find a place to unwind, rock out or sing along. Here is just a sampling from the long list of places where you can enjoy live music.
Not-to-Be-Missed Music Fests
In addition to Connecticut’s many great music performance venues, there are dozens of annual festivals and musical series that are ideal for an evening out. Here are a few of the most popular festival destinations for music in Connecticut.
Dance Like No One’s Watching
Looking to let loose or tango the night away? Hartford and New Haven have several spots that fit the bill, as do Connecticut’s world-class casinos. We've come up with a short list of interesting hot spots for your next night out.
Late Night Fun and Games
Who says playing games is kids’ stuff? In addition to gaming at the casinos, check out just a few of the places in Connecticut that stay open long past bedtime, so adults can feel like a kid again:
Outdoors in the Dark
Here are a few creative ways to have a little nighttime fun in the great outdoors.
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Mansfield Drive In
Pack a picnic and enjoy a date night with first run flicks on multiple screens. -
Seaside Shadows Haunted History Tours
Moonlit Ghost and Graveyard Strolls on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. -
Rolnick Observatory, Westport
The largest telescope in Connecticut open to the public is free to visit on Wednesday nights when the skies are clear.
Looking for More Ideas?
Ready for more? Check out our list of great nightlife destinations and attractions in Connecticut, including LGBTQ-friendly bars, drag shows, and more.