Quito Nightlife
Nighttime activities in Quito can vary between a classy theater outing and the performing arts to staggering along rows of rowdy drinking holes, many of which are bunched together in the partying hub of La Mariscal. Most clubs and bars close around 2 a.m., and it is a good idea to check for a hidden cover charge or minimum spending obligation before entering.
For a relaxed evening of drinks in an upbeat atmosphere, La Boca del Lobo is a cozy spot with an artistic flair, where young free-spirited locals meander in and out for a beer and a natter. One of the best places for live music is Varadero, renowned for its live Cuban bands. These Cubano beats can be accompanied nicely with some regional food and a mojito from the restaurant next door. For those on the hot step of the gringo trail, a popular westerner hangout is No Bar, loaded with a busy bar, chaotic dance floor and dirt-cheap beer that keeps the place full all weekend long. A little less westernized but still retaining a good international friendly atmosphere is the Swiss-owned Ghoz Bar, which is a great place for a beer and a game of pool.
For a more refined night of entertainment, exploring the local art scene can be a wonderful way to spend an evening out. Most theaters can be found in the old town, as well as dance shows, opera performances and ballet. The national symphony performs weekly shows in various venues around the city, including some set in stunning colonial churches. The Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana has been around since the 1940s and offers a dynamic repertoire of events, from rock concerts to art exhibitions. The Teatro De CC1 is the best place to find more modern theater if your Spanish is up to scratch. Otherwise, the Estadio Olimpico Atahualpa is the best place to watch international artists perform.
If in town during the first week of December, you will be lucky enough to witness the Fiesta de Quito, whereupon the city becomes alive with music, dance and festivities in celebration of the founding of the capital. Street parades, flamenco shows and alcohol-infused chiva riding (open-air buses with traditional bands and liquors onboard) all promise a week of wild party antics. August is another good time for nightlife, when Quito hosts a popular arts festival, bestowing upon the city a great variety of art exhibitions, theater and dance shows in various cultural centers around the city.
For a relaxed evening of drinks in an upbeat atmosphere, La Boca del Lobo is a cozy spot with an artistic flair, where young free-spirited locals meander in and out for a beer and a natter. One of the best places for live music is Varadero, renowned for its live Cuban bands. These Cubano beats can be accompanied nicely with some regional food and a mojito from the restaurant next door. For those on the hot step of the gringo trail, a popular westerner hangout is No Bar, loaded with a busy bar, chaotic dance floor and dirt-cheap beer that keeps the place full all weekend long. A little less westernized but still retaining a good international friendly atmosphere is the Swiss-owned Ghoz Bar, which is a great place for a beer and a game of pool.
For a more refined night of entertainment, exploring the local art scene can be a wonderful way to spend an evening out. Most theaters can be found in the old town, as well as dance shows, opera performances and ballet. The national symphony performs weekly shows in various venues around the city, including some set in stunning colonial churches. The Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana has been around since the 1940s and offers a dynamic repertoire of events, from rock concerts to art exhibitions. The Teatro De CC1 is the best place to find more modern theater if your Spanish is up to scratch. Otherwise, the Estadio Olimpico Atahualpa is the best place to watch international artists perform.
If in town during the first week of December, you will be lucky enough to witness the Fiesta de Quito, whereupon the city becomes alive with music, dance and festivities in celebration of the founding of the capital. Street parades, flamenco shows and alcohol-infused chiva riding (open-air buses with traditional bands and liquors onboard) all promise a week of wild party antics. August is another good time for nightlife, when Quito hosts a popular arts festival, bestowing upon the city a great variety of art exhibitions, theater and dance shows in various cultural centers around the city.
More Top Lists
Popular Places
