MBA and nightlife are not two words that go together very often, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t. The truth is that just because you’re getting an MBA doesn’t mean you can’t have a life outside of school and the office. In fact, going out for drinks with friends and coworkers can be a huge stress reliever, according to CNN. You need a way to blow off steam.
So, where should you go to school for the best nightlife experience? Every metro has its ups and downs, but if you want the best of the best nightlife, then you need to learn and work in one of these cities.
New York City, New York
If you didn’t think NYC would be on the list, then you’ve never visited the city. Not only is New York home to some of the top MBA programs in the world, but it’s also ranked as one of the least relaxing cities in the world. That can be a good thing for the nightlife scene. According to Travel + Leisure, it’s one of America’s Best Cities for nightlife. It’s got great diversity with everything from bottle-service clubs in the Meatpacking District to dive bars in the East Village. The only downside; it’s expensive.
Still, if you can afford the nightlife in New York, then make sure you hit one of these hot spots:
- The Bronx Brewery: Most breweries only offer concrete floors and nothing else. That’s not the case at The Bronx Brewery. It has squishy sofas, foosball tables, and a 5,000 sq ft courtyard where you can enjoy the beautiful weather and limited-edition elixirs.
- Lavo: Lavo offers a mash-up of hip-hop, pop, and EDM music that makes it easy to get swept up and onto the dance floor. It’s all energy and opulence.
- Late Night Basement: If you’re looking for something a little different, the Late Night Basement comedy club is perfect. It puts on shows with notable guests, has a post-show dance party, and two-for-one beer specials.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is known for its sports bars, cocktail bars, and jazz clubs. All over the city, MBAs can find an upscale nightlife setting that is arguably one of the best in the world according to Fodors. Chicago nightlife is always an adventure. Almost anything you could imagine and want is available in the city, and the prices are relatively reasonable.
For the best nightlife spots in the city, try one of these unique options:
- The Aviary: If you’re looking for a cocktail that is delicious and a work of art, then head to the Aviary. All their drinks are made with only the freshest herbs and ingredients, plus their late-night snacks are the perfect accompaniment.
- Barrelhouse Flat: Barrelhouse Flat is the place for traditional Southern hospitality. They have an extensive drink menu with everything from classic to contemporary offerings.
- Smart Bar: When you just want to dance, you want Smart Bar. It’s not posh, but its mix of techno, rave, and house music will get you on your feet and dancing into the wee hours of the morning.
Houston, Texas
What? You didn’t expect a city in Texas to make it on the list? Shame on you! Houston is home to a vast amount of oil money, pressed jeans, and Texas hospitality. And, according to National Geographic, it’s one of the best cities in the world for a hopping nightlife. Houston isn’t just cowboy boots and spurs. It’s unpretentious and fun with excellent club hopping along Washington Avenue.
If you’re looking for where to go, try out one of these trendy spots:
- The Davenport: They have an impressive drink menu with over 40 martini recipes paired with an extensive collection of spirits. It’s a chic lounge in need of a face lift, but the ambiance is great, the DJs are fun, and the conversation is lively.
- Marfreless: If you’re looking for subdued, sexy lighting and cozy couches, then Marfreless is for you. It’s the prefect place for couples looking to relax in an intimate setting.
- South Beach: When you don’t have time to take a plane to South Beach, Miami you can head to South Beach on Pacific Street in Houston. The club offers pulsating mixes of dance music along with laser lights and great drinks.
Los Angeles, California
According to Business Insider, Los Angeles is full of glitz and glamour, not just on movie sets but also around town. The city has one of the most diverse arrays of bars and clubs, and there’s sure to be something that can fit almost any taste. MBAs in the city can find everything from clubs in Hollywood to martini bars in Westwood and rooftop lounges in the Valley.
A few of the best nightlife spots include:
- Club Monte Cristo: Club Monte Cristo offers patrons a large dance floor, a skilled DJ, and a fantastic bar.
- Ray’s and Stark Bar: If you’re looking for a Mad Men-esque bar experience, then you’ll want Stark Bar. It features seasonal cocktails, live jazz music, and an extensive wine list.
We can’t list every metro with a great nightlife, but we do have a runner up.
- London: London should never be left off any nightlife list. It’s a city that offers something for everyone from comedy cabarets to boutique bars and swanky restaurants.