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The Best Chiang Mai Nightlife 2023 Guide (Updated)

people sitting around the table in chiang mai at the famous Zoe in yellow spot

Looking to enjoy Chiang Mai nightlife? Here you will find any and every type of nightlife in Chiang Mai! My name is Abbey Rae, and I currently live in Chiang Mai, so you will see me out enjoying the nightlife. Please come and say Hi if you see me out and about!

Learn the best time to visit Chiang Mai to make the most out of your trip to this beautiful northern Thai city! Now let’s get to why you are here, the Best Chiang Mai Nightlife Guide!

Does Chiang Mai Have Good Nightlife?

a beautiful city of Chiang Mai with a cityscape view

Yes! Chiang Mai does have good nightlife. The city has popping night markets, trendy bars, clubs with live music, and more traditional nightlife spots if you are looking for Thai performances. Whether you’re looking for a quiet evening out or a night of dancing, Chiang Mai nightlife has something for everyone.

Which city in Thailand has the Best Nightlife?

abbey in bangkok with the fun lights behind her and people all around the market

The city in Thailand with the best nightlife is Pattaya and Bangkok. The capital city of Thailand is known for having the best nightlife. It offers a mix of night markets, rooftop bars, high-end clubs, and famous red-light districts.

However, Pattaya is also known for the party scene, particularly along its walking street. Lastly, Chiang Mai, the biggest city in Northern Thailand, is frequently favored by regular visitors for its unique blend of traditional and modern nightlife experiences.

What time do bars shut in Chiang Mai?

a bunch of cocktails in a row in chiang mai nightlife

The bars shut down in Chiang Mai around midnight. However, there are always exceptions with some closing earlier or later. For late-night lovers, the Spicy Club is known to stay open until 3 a.m.

How Much Does it Cost to Go Clubbing in Thailand?

two girls clubbing in chiang Mai nightlife they are dancing the night away and look fantastic and very happy

It costs close to nothing to go clubbing in Thailand can vary depending on the city and venue. In Bangkok, for example, some clubs offer free entry while others may charge an entrance fee of around 300 baht, which can be your first drink on the house.

After that, the cost of drinks can range from 250 baht for a big Chiang beer to 300 baht for liquor. Besides, some clubs have promotions like free beer with your cover or half-price drinks during certain hours. Most spots for Chiang Mai nightlife do not have a cover charge.

Chiang Mai Night Market

The Chiang Mai night market is one of the things to do in Chiang Mai to start your night out. It is located in the heart of the city and this Night Bazaar is a giant market that comes at dusk.

As you walk through the night bazaar, you are greeted by small stalls selling everything from clothing and hair accessories to wood handicrafts and souvenirs. Each stall is a treasure trove of unique finds, making it an ideal place for souvenir shopping or simply indulging in some retail therapy.

But the Night Bazaar isn’t just about shopping. It also has plenty of food. You will find a multitude of food stalls offering delectable local dishes. From grilled meats to curry soups and spicy salads, the food in Chiang Mai at the Night Bazaar is sure to make your stomach happy.

For entertainment, the Night Bazaar also has live music performances, people performing traditional Thai dances, and there is even a place to watch Muay Thai boxing matches.

the view of the chiang mai nightlife market at susnet with vendors and people all around the place.

Nimman Road Chiang Mai Nightlife

Nimman Road, or Nimmanhaemin Road to give it its full name, is Chiang Mai’s trendiest and most vibrant area, especially when the sun goes down. Nimman Road Chiang Mai nightlife is located in the western part of the city and gives you a new vibe compared to the traditional areas of Chaing Mai.

This area is known for its modern and chic ambiance, filled with stylish boutiques, art galleries, quirky cafes, and upscale restaurants. When night falls, these establishments transform into lively spots.

The Warm Up Cafe is one of the most popular places among locals, known for its live music and energetic crowd. Another notable place on Nimman Road is the Beer Lab for craft beers.

For those who prefer a more chilled-out vibe, there are plenty of wine bars such as The Wine Bar. Here, you will enjoy a relaxing evening sipping on a diverse selection of vino from around the world.

Apart from bars and pubs, Nimman Chiang Mai nightlife also offers a range of nightclubs for those looking to dance the night away. Tawandang German Brewery is a popular choice for live music performances, delicious food, and great beer.

One of the highlights of Nimman Road’s nightlife is the regular “Nimman Hill” event. This rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city, making it an ideal spot for a romantic evening or a fun night out with friends.

a bunch of fun cocktails in a row at one of the chiang mai bars with fancy toppings and lots of flavor

Chiang Mai Nightlife Old City

The Chiang Mai City nightlife is a delightful blend of traditional charm and modern energy. The Old City offers a wide range of bars, pubs, clubs, and live music venues that cater to a variety of tastes. Some of the best hotels in Chiang Mai are here too!

But the Old City’s nightlife isn’t just about bars and clubs. There are also many cool pubs that contribute to the nightlife scene within the city walls. These venues offer a more subdued vibe compared to Chiang Mai’s more bustling areas, making them ideal for those seeking a quieter night out.

On the other hand, if you’re interested in a more vibrant scene, the area immediately east of the Chiang Mai Old Town is filled with bars that cater to a lively crowd.

the view of Chiang mai old town from one of the roofs at night time with lots of lights

Best Bars in Chiang Mai | Loi Kroh Chiang Mai Nightlife Area

Loi Kroh is the Chiang Mai nightlife street. Here you will find Chiang Mai Go Go Bars, if that is what you are after. I also have put together a list of the best bars in Chiang Mai, but here are a few favorites.

Blacklight CNX

Blacklight CNX is one of the top bars in Chiang Mai Thailand. It is right next to Zoe in Yellow but the prices are a bit cheaper. You can’t miss it, they have fun black light decorations and beer pong tables.

Blacklight CNX address They are one of the best Chiang mai bars for nightlife.

A bunch of young adults playing beer bar at one of the best bars in Chiang Mai thailand

6ixcret Show

Head to 6ixcret Show to enjoy one of the best Drag queen performances in the world. These beautiful ladies danced and performed their hearts out. The costumes are Vegas-worthy and so is the production value of the show and how much energy the performers gave. There are amazing effects like fire and they do interact with the crowd too. Catch the 9:30 show, you will not regret it!

It’s a free show, so you have to order at least 2 drinks and please tip the performers. It’s how they make a living.

Address to 6ixcret Show. They are right behind the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.

a drag queen all dressed up and ready to perform for the night in chiang mai. she is wearing a sparkly dress with big jerlwery

My Bar Chiang Mai

My Bar is a cool two-story, hip-rock bar that attracts all kinds of people! Most nights they have live music and a very easygoing vibe. My Bar is just steps from the Chiang Mai Gate food court. They sell drinks only but they don’t mind if you bring food.

Address to My bar in Chiang Mai

Off the Wall CNX Bars Chiang Mai

Up next is one of my favorite spots for Chiang Mai party nightlife. At Off the Wall, you will find friendly owners and bar staff, and some type of event going on every night. Thursday is karaoke night, they have trivia on Tuesday, and the weekends are always full of DJs or a specialty type of event. Newly added is the Smash Daddy Burger bar, serving up American-style smash burgers and milkshakes.

Do yourself a favorite and check out Off the Wall in the Old Town of Chiang Mai!

Off-the-Wall Address

a group of people outside of off the wall in chiang mai with water guns and such

O’Malley’s Irish Pub and Sports Bar

Sometimes all you need on your travels is the safety of a good old Irish Pub, and that is just what O’Malleys in Chiang Mai is. Here you can enjoy fish and chips, western food, and a pool table, and it is inside one of the night markets in Chiang Mai, the Anusarn Market. There are plenty of seats inside and out, so if you fancy a pint head to O’Malleys!

Address to O’Malleys for Chiang Mai Nightlife.

an Irish pub in Chiang mai with a green front door and the words Irish pub written on top

Zoe in Yellow

One of the best bars in Chiang Mai is Zoe in Yellow. They have everything here from a fun dance floor, if it’s not a bit small, to picnic tables out in the open where you can enjoy the open air, or watch a game on the big TVs. There are DJs playing electronic, and hip-hop music and they sell those big alcohol buckets.

Address to Zoe in Yellow

the bar yellow in yellow in Chiang Mai thailand. there are picnic tables out front and a big dance floor in the middle of the bar. this is one of the best places for nightlife in chiang mai

Things to Do in Chiang Mai at Night

Maybe bars aren’t your thing or you need a break from drinking, but there are many things to do in Chiang Mai at night. Below are a few of my favorites.

  • Take a Food Night Tour: Chiang Mai is famous for its cuisine. Taking a nighttime food tour allows you to sample a variety of local dishes.
  • Visit a Muay Thai Fight: For sports enthusiasts, watching a Muay Thai fight can be an electrifying experience. There are several stadiums in the city where matches are held regularly.
  • Chiang Mai Nightlife Massage: Chiang Mai is known for its affordable and high-quality massages. Many massage parlors in the city are open late into the night.
  • Wat Tour:
  • Kayak Night Tour: Ping River
a view of chaing mai from the sky with nightlife going on all around and plenty of light son

Chiang Mai Night Club

the best nightlife in Chiang Mai

Renegade Sport’s Bar

Renegade is the spot for all the sports fans, or if you are looking to stay out late. They have hundreds of different beers to try, and I even found some yummy ciders here. This is a straight-up bar in the back of the shopping center. I watched the 2022 World Cup here along with a hundred other fans.

Spicy Nightclub

Spicy is one of the only clubs in Chiang Mai that stay open late. After the regular bars close head to spicy to keep dancing, most nights you can dance until 3 a.m. The crowd here is young, happy, and energetic. Most nights you will have to pay a cover that comes with one drink. It gets very crowded as most party people will leave Zoes and walk down here.

Find Spicy in Chaing Mai Here.

two girls dancing the night away at one of the dance clubs in Chiang mai

Warm Up Club

If you are looking for Chiang Mai nightlife with amazing food, drinks, and a band, then you will love Warm Up Cafe. You can enjoy a quiet vibe until the club really starts going at 11 a.m. There are two zones inside the Warm Up Club. The front section is for live music, and the back is for EDM vibes.

Find the Warm up Club Here.

Infinity Club

At Infinify Club I really liked the light effects and the stunning ceiling in this Chiang Mai club! The scene here is more like a big pub with a dance floor. The crowd tends to be younger local Thais. If you are looking to dance and enjoy a night out for Chiang Mai Thailand nightlife, Infinity Club is always a great place to check out.

Infinity Club in Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai Nightlife Safety Tips

Chiang Mai nightlife area

  1. Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Always stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like night markets or clubs.
  2. Keep Valuables Safe: Keep your valuables stashed safely. If you carry a daypack or shoulder bag, make sure it’s secure and keep an eye on it.
  3. Avoid Traveling Alone at Night in Quiet Areas: While Chiang Mai is generally safe, it’s advisable to avoid traveling alone at night in quiet and poorly lit areas, especially if they are unfamiliar.
  4. Beware of Scams: Be aware of common scams such as the gem scam and always exercise caution when dealing with street vendors or tuk-tuk drivers.
  5. Take Precautious Measures Against Petty Crimes: Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, particularly in crowded areas. But, it is rare. Keep your belongings close to you and be aware of your surroundings.
  6. Exercise Caution and Common Sense: Like anywhere, use your common sense when it comes to personal safety. Don’t take unnecessary risks and always follow local advice.

LateNight Restaurants in Chiang Mai

If you are looking for what to do in Chiang Mai at night, these late-night restaurants are perfect for you! Check out my Chiang Mai Restaurant Guide!

Brit Bar for Chiang Mai Nightlife Thailand

Brit Bar is the spot for cocktails. It’s wonderful for sitting outside and having a good conversation. If you are visiting Chiang Mai during the rainy season, you may want to sit inside. But, if you are visiting Thailand in the winter, you will want to sit outside.

Find the address to the Brit Bar, they are inside the Anantara Hotel.

Guu Fusion Roti & Tea

The best roti in Chiang Mai at a reasonable price. I ordered a foi thong roti with whipped cream and the iced sweet milk! It was so good, but I love sweets. They also have plenty of sugar-free options if you are health-conscious.

The Gudd Fusion Roti & Tea is open until 1 a.m.!

Freerolls Restaurant And Sports Bar

The special about Freerolls Restaurant and Sports Bar is that they have a tap beer at the table. Very a unique idea that keeps you entertained. And you get the chance to roll the roulette for fun prizes. I won a pizza, chicken nuggets, and french fries!

There is also a pool table and a mini golf pit. So if you are looking for a late-night restaurant in Chiang Mai with a Huge Thai and Western food menu and plenty to keep you happy, you will love Freerolls.

Find Freerolls Restaurant and Sports Bar here.

Chef’s Together by Aod & Dan

Chefs Together by Aod & Dan has a breathtaking view of Ping River. With pretty with lights and seating outside, or grab a seat inside the air-conditioned restaurant. Most nights you can enjoy live music outside too! I ordered the brick oven pizza and it was outstanding! It was very family friendly and I saw babies in high chairs and young kids having fun.

Find Chef’s Together by Aod & Dan here for a great time enjoying the best Chiang Mai nightlife.

Live Music in Chiang Mai

There is live music around every corner of Chiang Mai. But if you want a sure bet, then you can check out these amazing spots for live music in Chiang Mai Thailand.

Tha Phae North Gate Jazz Club

One of the most famous places for nightlife in Chiang Mai Thailand, is the Tha Phae North Gate Jazz Club. Every night of the week they have amazing artists playing Jazz music. It gets so crowded that people spill out onto the sidewalk. Pro tip: Head all the way up to the third floor. You can enjoy the music, a wonderful view, and not be crowded!

Find the Tha Phae North Gate Jazz Club here! You can’t miss it.

a group of jazz players in chiang mai at the north gate jazz club they are playing saxophones and brass instruments

Boy Blues Bar in Chiang Mai

If you can find Boys Blue Bar in Chiang Mai you are in for a treat. I was exploring the Kalare night market and followed the music up to the second-floor rooftop and was in heaven. They played a mix of classic rock from Pink Floyd, and Lynyrd Skynyrd, and had a few blues songs mixed in. The band plays from 8 to midnight.

Find the Boy Blues Bar Rooftop Here.

Thapae East

Thapea East is another popular Chiang Mai nightlife for live music. It is off the busy road with reasonably priced cocktails, and of course, they have beer. I also like their grilled cheese sandwiches, and it was really food late-night food.

I have listened to the Foxy band play, and they were amazing. The locals love enjoying the Chiang Mai Thai Nightlife here too! Do yourself a favor and check out Thapea East, you are in for a treat.

Find Thapea East here.

Nophaburi Bar

Nophaburi Bar is the best place to go if you are looking to enjoy Thai whiskey and rum. And the drinks are so good. They were all Thai based so it was interesting to have cocktails with local ingredients like passion fruit.

It has an old-school-retro vibe, and I really enjoyed the playlist too. Make sure you go to the bathroom and check out the decor.

Find Nopharburi Bar here.

the local thai whiskey for sale in chiang mai and rice drinks on the top . these are the most popular drinks to try in chiang mai

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Abbey Rae

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