Sip, Sing, Dance, Repeat: your guide to a night out in the city
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Canberra City might look a little different right now thanks to the light rail construction, but behind the scaffolding, the city’s nightlife is still thriving.
If anything, it’s the perfect time to rally the group chat, plan a girls’ night out, and show some love to the local businesses keeping the city buzzing after dark.
Whether your ideal evening involves spritzes and small plates, belting out karaoke classics, or dancing until late, here’s how to plan the ultimate night out in the city.
Stop one – dinner and catch-ups
Every good night out starts with food, and the city delivers plenty of options for settling in and reconnecting.
Tucked underneath Highball in the Melbourne Building, Amici (27 Northbourne Avenue) is perfect for an easy, social start to the night. Think hand-stretched pizzas, share platters, pasta and well-paired wines – ideal for groups easing into the evening. If you’re planning a midweek outing, their Tuesday night bottomless pasta and vino makes the decision even easier.
For something a little more refined, head upstairs to Bar Rochford (Level 1, 65 London Circuit), where the ever-changing wine list and European-influenced menu reward repeat visits. Sink into a booth, order a few plates to share, and let the evening unfold at its own pace.
Tucked in the heart of the City, within the Verity Lane Precinct, Dear Prudence (102 Alinga Street) offers a list of local and global wines by the glass along with European-inspired small plates and an effortlessly stylish atmosphere. Perfect for those relaxed and much needed after-work drinks or to set yourself up for the start of a long and memorable night out.
Stop two – cocktails and conversation
Once dinner wraps up, it’s time to move into cocktail territory.
Hidden down Odgers Lane, Molly (35°16’44.5″S+149°0) remains one of Canberra’s most memorable bars. With live jazz on Wednesday and Friday nights, expertly mixed drinks, and a cosy speakeasy feel, it’s the kind of place that instantly elevates the evening.
If rooftop energy is more your style, Highball (Level 1, 75 London Circuit) delivers creative cocktails, thoughtful mocktails, and high-vibe city views. Not to mention social salsa dancing every Tuesday night.
Meanwhile, Luna (99 London Circuit) offers beautifully crafted cocktails, including alcohol-free options featuring flavours like jasmine tea, coconut cream and lime. Still peckish? Sate your appetite with something from the Mod Oz menu.
For something playful, White Rabbit (65 Northbourne Avenue) leans into whimsical drinks and sweet-treat nostalgia – including zero-proof options that don’t compromise on fun. Cocktail classes on Friday and Saturday nights and DJs every Saturday mean there’s plenty to fill the night.
And for aperitivo lovers, Bar Lola (corner of Northbourne Avenue & Alinga St) brings Italian glamour to the Verity Lane Precinct, with spritzes, Italian wines and an atmosphere inspired by Italian nostalgia.
Stop three – sing, dance, repeat
When the energy lifts, Canberra City has plenty of ways to keep the night going.
For karaoke, you’re spoiled for choice. 88mph (Hobart Place) pairs retro party vibes with a dance floor and flashing lights, while Hey Show Karaoke (27 East Row) offers private themed rooms, multilingual song options, and space for larger groups – perfect if your night out includes a full performance schedule.
Inspired by queer nightlife culture and built around inclusivity, creativity and celebration, ChiChiz (32 Northbourne Avenue) hosts drag shows, cabaret, DJ nights and community events alongside cheeky cocktails and local pours.
And if dancing is the goal, Embassy Bar (38 Northbourne Avenue) has quickly become a go-to late-night destination, bringing DJs, cocktails and nightclub energy to the city.
Getting there and parking
The best thing about a girls’ night out in the city is how easy it is to turn a few plans into a full evening with everything within walking distance.
While construction continues to reshape the city centre, the venues that make Canberra City such a fun place to spend time are still open, welcoming, and ready for a night out.
Directional signage around construction areas makes navigation straightforward, and there are plenty of options when it comes to parking. View the printable City parking map to check out the most convenient spot to park – or take public transport to enjoy your night to the fullest.
All that’s left to do is pick a date and message the group chat: “City tonight?”
This article was produced in partnership with Infrastructure Canberra. Feature image of Highball supplied.
