Last updated on October 3, 2022 by Wandering our World
Anaheim is a popular destination for so many reasons, but the biggest reason has to be the fact that the city is home to one of the most popular and recognized theme parks in the world: Disneyland! The Disney vibe extends outside the park into the city too, with nearby hotel resorts, shopping, dining, and even bars in Anaheim all feeling part of that magical vibe.
But there’s plenty more to this town. You have endless shopping options, gorgeous southern California weather, nearby amusement parks such as Knott’s Berry Farm and their Soak City Waterpark, and of course, you aren’t far away from sun-drenched beaches like Huntington and Newport.
Getting back to the nightlife, you’ll find Anaheim is diverse and energetic. Neighboring Fullerton is home to Fullerton State University, which adds a young vibe, and there are people from all walks of life here. So unsurprisingly you’ll find the bars in Anaheim full of many interesting characters too.
Whether you are looking for a club to dance the night away, a place to listen to live music, or a swanky spot for cocktails and conversations, Anaheim has you covered. (Related: Fun Things To Do In Anaheim For Free!).
So here’s what we think are the 12 hottest bars in Anaheim, California. From bars with great city and firework views, to dive bars and awesome music venues.
CONTENTS:
- The Three Best Rooftop Bars In Anaheim
- The Three Coolest Cocktail Bars In Anaheim
- The Three Best Bars For Music & Dancing
- The Three Best Dive Bars In Anaheim
- Tips For Enjoying Anaheim’s Bar Scene
The Three Best Rooftop Bars In Anaheim: Fireworks & Views
There’s a lot to love about a rooftop bar in Anaheim. First off, the beautiful SoCal weather. You’ve got palm trees and sunshine and cloudless blue skies. There are gorgeous sunsets, too.
As if that wasn’t enough to tempt you, our three rooftop bar choices below also have something special up their sleeve. From each of these rooftop bars you will have a lovely view of the Disneyland California theme park, and with that comes the nighttime fireworks display!
The best time to show up is before sunset. Then grab a comfortable spot and settle in. Perhaps order some appetizers and let your cares melt away while you watch the sun sink into the horizon.
Once dusk hits, you’ll watch the lights of the city come alive and the fire pits cast that cozy glow. There’s just something about rooftop bars that feels indulgent, like it’s a special occasion even if it’s just a happy hour on a Monday night.
Rooftop bars typically have a more upscale feel to them and often have dress codes that must be observed. Reservations may be required – so make sure you check in advance.
With that in mind, here are three amazing rooftop bars in Anaheim that have beautiful locations, and their own special flare.
1. Parkestry Rooftop Bar
Located in the JW Marriott Hotel, Parkestry is a lovely rooftop bar and lounge scattered with comfortable couches, tables with umbrellas, and a creative menu full of craft cocktails, wine, and beer.
Parkestry is a perfect location for small gatherings such as birthdays, and it’s a great date night option too.
You can’t go wrong with the beautiful view, either. You’ll see the fireworks if you come at the right time, and of course you’ll also enjoy a spectacular sunset.
Reservations are also required here. But luckily you don’t need to be a guest of the hotel to enjoy this fantastic rooftop lounge!
Address: 1775 S Clementine St Fl 11, Anaheim, CA 92802
2. The Fifth Rooftop Restaurant & Bar
Perfect for any kind of occasion – The Fifth Rooftop Restaurant & Bar offers delicious food, craft cocktails, and amazing views. There is a DJ spinning tunes and you will have a magnificent view of Disney’s California theme park and the Mickey Wheel.
You’ll find comfortable chairs, couches and firepits there, as well as efficient and courteous service. There are covered seating areas too, but be aware it gets pretty toasty out there during the summer months.
Reservations are required, especially if you want to time your visit for sunset or the Disneyland fireworks show, making it a truly magical place to eat a good meal and enjoy cocktails.
Please note: Advance planning and reservations are absolutely necessary, and there is a two-hour limit for guests as the bar is quite popular. You can order dinner, appetizers, cocktails, and other beverages.
Valet parking is available too. However, if it is full, you’ll have to park in a nearby lot and walk a short distance.
Address: 1650 S Harbor Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92802
3. Rise Rooftop Lounge
Located at The Westin Anaheim Resort, Rise Rooftop offers a beautiful spot to gather with friends, dates, family, or whomever you choose to share the beautiful view with. Delicious, refreshing cocktails and a varied and tasty menu await. There’s plenty of comfortable seating and the service is impeccable.
Reservations are required. So if you have your heart set on the Disney fireworks display you should plan in advance. But do keep in mind that the fireworks are sometimes canceled for various reasons and the hotel won’t have any way to know that ahead of time. And if you want to make your afternoon or evening extra special, you can order VIP bottle service.
Rise Rooftop Lounge is open from 5:30 PM to 11:00 PM and is open Tuesday through Sunday. Please see their website for additional information or schedule changes.
Address: 1030 W Katella Ave, Anaheim, CA 92802
The Three Coolest Cocktail Bars In Anaheim
Not a dive bar, not a club. Are you searching for a bar experience that’s a cut above? Perhaps with artfully crafted cocktails, delicious and creative food, and a unique atmosphere?
If so, try one of these amazing Anaheim cocktail bars for yourself.
1. Strong Water Anaheim
This is yet another bar where the atmosphere alone sells the place. Add in a great vibe, amazing cocktails, great service, and impressively good food, and you have a holy grail cocktail bar, or more accurately, a tiki bar.
Because that’s what Strong Water is. It’s a shipwreck themed tiki bar that takes its umbrella drinks seriously. The decor is amazing and you’ll feel transported to another time and place, a place where mermaids are probably real and you might not make it back to shore. Sorry boss, not coming in tomorrow.
Please Note: Mondays are the only day here that doesn’t require a reservation. Please see the website for up-to-date hours and reservation information.
Also, be aware that reservations require a $10 deposit per person. We think it’s worth it though, as this is easily one of the best bars in Anaheim.
Address: 270 S Clementine St, Anaheim, CA 92805
2. The Blind Rabbit
Billed as a “Cozy, dark speakeasy featuring a secret door, imaginative cocktails & elevated American bar food,” The Blind Rabbit is full of eclectic, warm character and awesome vibes. It’s the perfect place to go when you want something different and have a craving for brilliant cocktails and food.
This is a very cozy bar with limited seating, and it’s quite popular. For this reason, reservations are required and can be made through their website. Please note their hours and guidelines.
Address: 440 S Anaheim Blvd #104, Anaheim, CA 92805
3. Hammer Workshop Bar
Looking for a trendy, casual spot to enjoy a premium cocktail experience? Head down to the Hammer Workshop Bar at the Anaheim Packing District. Among the other watering holes and eateries, you’ll find this gem.
This is the place to go when you aren’t in the mood for “basic” and you want mixologists who know their stuff. Friendly staff, great drinks, good vibes, and plenty of food options, too. What’s not to love?
Address: 440 S Anaheim Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92805
The Three Best Bars For Music & Dancing
If music and dancing is more your speed, there are plenty of venues and bars in Anaheim that will have you moving and grooving the night away.
From Latin beats to live rock all the way to country line dancing, you’ll be sure to find a place or two that suits you:
1. Bobby V’s
Part dive bar, part music venue, Bobby V’s is a lively spot with pool tables, reasonably priced drinks, and a small stage that hosts bands. If you are up for some music and drinks, grab some friends or a date and head on down.
Bobby V’s offers special early happy hours on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and weekday hours are from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Yes, that’s correct – 8 AM!
Bobby V’s is definitely a daytime drinker’s hotspot.
Address: 10624 Katella Ave, Anaheim, CA 92804
2. Totally 80s Bar & Grill
Whether you are feeling nostalgic for times gone by and want to relive some 80s good times, or if you’re a young pup who appreciates just how “rad” the Gen X era was, you can head over to the fabulous and kitschy world of Totally 80s Bar & Grill.
Have some drinks, eat some food, and enjoy the beats and vibes. Dance like everyone’s watching while listening to some of the best hits of the 80s era.
You’ll find DJ’s spinning 80s, Latin, and more, as well as live 80s cover bands. Check their website for cover charge information and updated hours.
Address: 2512 W Orangethorpe Ave, Fullerton, CA 92833
3. The Ranch Saloon
Is there a bar in Anaheim where you can dance to your favorite country tunes or listen to live country music? Maybe a place where you can also get a steak and sip some well-crafted cocktails? Or where you can bring your friends and line dance? A nice, roomy venue with an amazing atmosphere?
Yes there is!
The Ranch Saloon is exactly that and “gives country a home in Orange County.” Styled after legendary venues like The Crazy Horse, you’ll find a big, beautiful space here that is upscale yet down home.
The owners have created a live music experience that feels intimate and fun, and they offer plenty of menu items and cocktails to keep you going till the place shuts down for the night.
Address: 1025 E Ball Rd #101b, Anaheim, CA 92805
The Three Best Dive Bars In Anaheim
We’ve covered dance and live music clubs, fancy and eclectic cocktail spots, and sleek rooftop bars with gorgeous views.
Sometimes, though, you just want a casual spot to unwind, enjoy drinks and conversation, and maybe watch the big game.
You want a neighborhood dive bar that makes you feel welcome, doesn’t have cover charges, and serves reasonably priced yet potent cocktails. Well luckily we’ve rounded up three winners right here!
1. Keno’s Sports Bar
A fixture for decades now, Keno’s is part cozy diner, part sports bar, and all friendly neighborhood watering hole with a full bar and plenty of menu choices.
Keno’s has been in Anaheim for decades, and patrons often comment that they have been coming there since they were kids.
While not technically a dive bar, the vintage atmosphere, lack of frills, and old-school vibe puts it on the list.
Cozy up at a booth or belly up to the bar, the choice is yours. Drinks are stiff and the service is great. And if you’re sitting at the bar, you will have a full view of multiple screens to keep track of all your favorite games.
Keno’s Sports Bar is open daily till 11:00 PM. They open at 7:00 AM.
Address: 2661 W La Palma Ave, Anaheim, CA 92801
2. The Juke Joint
Dimly lit? Yes. Pool tables? Yes. Arcade games and a small stage? Yes. Plenty of seating, a full bar, flat screen television and good parking? Yes.
The Juke Joint has it all, it seems. An old-fashioned local bar where you can belly up and order a stiff drink or a brew, or maybe play some pool or pinball while listening to some music or watching the game.
You’ll find an outdoor patio here, and customers rave about the bartenders and welcoming atmosphere.
Address: 735 N Anaheim Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92805
3. Bottoms Up Tavern
Bottoms Up is an unassuming strip mall dive bar with pool tables and a jukebox.
If you’re looking for a casual neighborhood bar where you can kick back and relax while you knock back a few beverages, this is your spot.
You’ll enjoy reasonably priced drinks, a casual environment, and a great place to hang out with friends and enjoy tunes and conversation.
Address: 2162 W Lincoln Ave, Anaheim, CA 92801
Tips For Enjoying Anaheim’s Bar Scene
Anaheim and the surrounding area is a fun place to hang out and a good jumping off point for exploring even more of what Southern California offers. You could easily spend a couple of weeks exploring theme parks, beaches, museums, sights, and shopping.
The nightlife will keep you busy, too. Whether you want an upscale club or a down home dive, or something somewhere in between, Anaheim offers it all.
But if you do choose to visit one of our favorite bars in Anaheim, do check websites for hours, cover charge, dress codes, and reservations. Call your favorite rideshare or taxi service, and enjoy a night in balmy, beautiful, Anaheim.