Nightlife in Chiang Mai - 15 Night Clubs, Bars & Party Places

Chiang Mai, the cultural capital of Northern Thailand, isn't just renowned for its ancient temples and lush landscapes. As the sun sets, this vibrant city transforms into a playground for night owls, offering a diverse array of entertainment options to suit every taste. Whether you're a foodie, a music lover, or simply seeking to immerse yourself in the local culture, Chiang Mai's nightlife has something for everyone.

Nightlife Areas in Chiang Mai

Nimmanhaemin Road (Nimman)

Nimmanhaemin Road, often referred to simply as Nimman, is a trendy neighborhood popular among both locals and expats. During the day, it is lined with boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries, but after dark, It transforms into a vibrant nightlife destination. The area boasts an array of bars, pubs, and lounges, making it perfect for bar-hopping or enjoying live music performances.

Old City

Chiang Mai's Old City is not only home to historic temples and cultural landmarks but also offers a charming nightlife scene. Within the ancient city walls, you'll find numerous bars, restaurants, and cafes, many of which exude a laid-back ambiance. Whether you're craving craft cocktails or traditional Thai delicacies, the Old City has something for everyone.

Tha Phae Gate Area

Tha Phae Gate, one of the main entrances to Chiang Mai's Old City, is surrounded by bustling streets teeming with activity. This area is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists, especially in the evenings. Here, you'll find street performers, food vendors, and live music acts, creating a lively atmosphere that draws crowds well into the night.

Riverside

The Ping River, which flows through the heart of Chiang Mai, is lined with restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues along its banks. The Riverside area offers a picturesque setting for dining and nightlife, with many establishments offering outdoor seating where you can enjoy views of the river and the city beyond. It's a great place to unwind with a drink or sample delicious Thai cuisine while taking in the scenic surroundings.

Chang Klan Road

Chang Klan Road is home to the famous Night Bazaar, a bustling market that comes alive in the evenings. While the Night Bazaar itself is a major attraction, the surrounding area also boasts a vibrant nightlife scene. Here, you'll find a mix of bars, restaurants, and live music venues catering to tourists and locals alike.

Nightclubs, Bars and Pubs in Chiang Mai

1. Warm Up Cafe

Warm Up Cafe is less of a club, and more of a party institution. It has been around for almost 15 years now, and is considered the best spots for nightlife in Chiang Mai. Regulars swear by its electric vibe and rocking ambience. It is a perfect blend of Thai and western clubbing styles, with DJs belting out an eclectic range of songs. Tables packed together are usually stacked sky-high with whiskey bottles, surrounded by partygoers swaying to the music and having a crazy time. It is best to visit during weekends after 10:00 PM to let your hair down for a wild night of drinks and dance.

Location: 40 Nimmanhaemin Road, Chiang Mai
Timings: 6:00 PM - 2:00 AM
Recommendations: Pre-book tables in advance since the club is crowded on most days.

2. Zoe In Yellow

Among the many clubs in the Old City, Zoe In Yellow is the most prominent since it is known for being extremely hot and happening. It is packed with young crowds, especially foreign backpackers and travelers partying on a budget, making it an exciting party destination in Chiang Mai. Drinks are free-flowing since prices are pretty low, with beers starting at THB 60 and cocktails starting at THB 100 only. All sorts of music, reggae, electro-funk, hip-hop, and pop, can be heard reverberating in the streets, spreading good vibes. 

Location: Rajvithi road, Old city, Chiang Mai
Timings: 5:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Recommendations: This club tends to get very crowded, so look out for your valuable belongings. 

3. The Good View Bar and Restaurant

Undoubtedly one of the city's most popular and beloved restaurants, The Good View is known for its magnificent aesthetic and wide menu. It overlooks the Ping River, which provides an exquisite panoramic view, lending the restaurant its name. It specializes in Thai meats, seafood, and Western fast food, all priced reasonably, beginning from THB 140. Cocktails are delicious and are considerably cheap at THB 150. It is best to visit after sundown, with the glittering skyline and a plate full of gastronomic delight creating a surreal experience you will never forget.

Location: 13 Charoen Raj Road, Chiang Mai
Timings: 10:00 AM - 1:30 AM
Recommendations: The yellow crab curry, stir-fried squid, fried shrimps and red snapper fish are must-try dishes.

4. Myst MAYA

If you're looking for a swanky rooftop bar with an amazing view of Chiang Mai, then Myst Maya is the perfect place to go. You'll feel like royalty here with its sophisticated atmosphere, exquisite cocktails, and delectable fusion dishes. You can even try their signature drink, the "Super Lamborghini," a tower of Flaming Lamborghini's that will leave your taste buds buzzing. Plus, with its open-air outside area and inside space where DJs play electronic dance music, you're in for an unforgettable night out. Just dress appropriately and prepare to splurge a little, as Myst Maya is on the pricier side.

Location: MAYA Lifestyle Shopping Center
Address: 55 Huay Kaew Rd, Tambon Chang Phueak, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand
Timings: Opens daily, 5:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Cuisines: Thai, Fusion, Bar, Pub

5. Tha Chang Cafe

Tha Chang Cafe is a local outdoor bar popular in Old City Chiang Mai. It is set up along the roadside, in a never-before-seen pub aesthetic, and decorated with lanterns decked on trees. You can expect to find most of the local crowd hanging out here since it is an excellent spot for a night of casual drinking. Alcohol is served cheap, with beers, whiskey, and cocktails beginning from THB 60. The food menu consists of several snacks to pair with drinks. 

Location: 45, JJ Market Project, Assadathon Road
Timings: 5:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Recommendations: Do try the bucket cocktail, especially if you are with a large group.

Riverside Restaurants in Chiang Mai

6. The Riverside Bar & Restaurant

 Sitting next to the idyllic Ping River is the Riverside Bar, an absolute tourist magnet, especially for a relaxing nightcap. From food to music to service, everything at Riverside is top-notch. If you are lucky enough to get a table close to the river, it will be a night to remember. It is perfect for a date night as well. The retro interior, the wooden house standing relentlessly, unaffected by the countless floods, and the rock/indie band performing English cover songs live. The menu has every Thai dish you have ever heard of: fusion dishes, western dishes, seafood, desserts as well as a wide range of drinks.

Location: 9-11 Charoenrat Road, Riverside
Timings: 12:00 PM - 1:30 AM
Recommendations: Thai-Chinese dishes, Spirits and alcohols, Thai Whisky

7. The Duke's Ping River

Nestled on the banks of the serene Ping River, The Duke's Ping River is a charming restaurant in Thailand that offers a delightful dining experience. The restaurant's location offers guests stunning views of the river, creating a relaxing ambiance perfect for a romantic dinner or a family gathering. The menu boasts a selection of mouth-watering dishes, including classic Thai cuisine and international favorites, prepared by experienced chefs using the freshest ingredients. The restaurant's friendly staff and warm atmosphere make it an ideal spot for an evening out or a special occasion. If you're looking for a memorable dining experience in Thailand, The Duke's Ping River is definitely worth a visit.

Address: 49, 4-5 Chiang Mai-Lam Phun Rd, Tambon Chang Moi, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
Timings: Opens daily, 10:30 AM - 10:00 PM

Live Music in Chiang Mai

8. Boy Blues Bar

If you're looking for a local favorite in Chiang Mai, look no further than Boy Blues Bar. Tucked away above the bustling Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, this atmospheric dive bar is a must-visit for anyone searching for great live music. The legendary Boy leads the charge, belting out soulful blues and jazz tunes alongside his talented house band. Don't expect a glitzy interior here, but the rough-and-ready decor only adds to the charm of this beloved spot. Grab a cold drink, settle in, and let the smooth, bluesy rhythms wash over you. And if you're in the mood for some shopping, the Night Bazaar is just a stone's throw away. Come for the music, stay for the atmosphere - you won't regret it.

Address: Chang Moi Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
Timings: Monday - Saturday, 7:00 PM - 12:00 AM (Closed on Sundays)

9. The North Gate Jazz Co-Op

If you're a jazz fan and a laid-back atmosphere, The North Gate Jazz Co-Op is the perfect spot for you. This casual venue features a regular lineup of live jazz artists, attracting local and visiting instrumentalists looking to stretch their musical abilities in jam sessions. The venue's bohemian spirit is a testament to the city of Chiang Mai, which locals say beats Bangkok regarding artistic freedom.The cozy shophouse interior is packed with musicians and patrons alike, while the outdoor tables set on the sidewalk provide the perfect place to enjoy a drink and soak up the lively atmosphere. While the music isn't always everyone's cup of tea, the variety of genres on display perfectly encapsulates the loose, fun ethos of The North Gate Jazz Co-Op. Don't miss out on the chance to experience this unique venue!

Address: 91 1-2 SriPoom Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Timings: Opens daily, 7:30 PM - 12:00 AM

Night Markets in Chiang Mai

10. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

Night Bazaar is the ultimate night market experience in Chiang Mai. It is a large shopping quarter spread over blocks and blocks. Tireless rows of shops sell everything under the sun, from apparel, jewelry, antiques, domestic goods, kitchenware, furniture, games, CDs, cloth, and much much more. Everything is available cheaply, yet a little bargaining is the accepted norm, if done amicably. Options of restaurants and bars are also available in the market, as are various entertainment programs, keeping the area buzzing with activity all night long. 

Location: Intersection of Tha Pae and Chang Klang Roads
Timings: 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Recommendations: Anusarn Market and Kalare Market are the two most popular markets within the Bazaar. 

11. Walking Streets

The walking streets are among the most popular experiences tourists look forward to having in Chiang Mai. They consist of shops flanking both sides of a street, where vendors sell everything from cheap apparel, shoes, bags, jewelry, souvenirs, and delicious Thai street food. Both markets are made lively by live music, bright lights, massage parlors, entertainment performances, and chattering voices. Go for the market on Sunday if you enjoy large, friendly crowds and on Saturday if you are looking for a quieter stroll down the shopping street.  

Location: Saturday Walking Street: Wualai Road, near the South moat of the old town,Sunday Walking Street: Tha Pae to Ratchadamneon Road, Chiang Mai Old City
Timings: 4:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Recommendations: There is a lot of walking involved, so wear comfortable shoes and don't carry heavy bags.

12. Chiang Mai North Gate Market 

The Chiang Mai North Gate Market is known locally as Chang Puak, and is located close to the North Gate in Old Chiang Mai city, which gives the place its name. During the day, the area is a local fruit-vegetable market. Come night, the roadside starts lining up with street food stalls that serve freshly prepared Thai dishes. There are tons of options, and their insanely cheap prices will pop your eyes out. Dishes begin from as low as THB 10, making it a well-known haunt. If you want to feel like a local, visit this market when those late-night hunger pangs hit you.

Location: Manee Nopparat Road, Si Phum
Timings: 5:00 PM - 12:00 PM
Recommendations: These vendors specialise in skewered meat, pork and seafood dishes. 

Programs and Performances

13. Muay Thai Matches in Chiang Mai

An alley lined with around 30 raucous bars and the infamous Muay Thai boxing ring hosting kickboxing bouts, the CM Entertainment Complex is one of those places you can enjoy with your buddies in Thailand. The narrow arcaded lanes have identical beer bars, frequented by loud and rowdy crowds. A fee may be applicable on weekends, though one can negotiate for a discount. The noteworthy thing about the complex is the free boxing and wrestling nights, with a passionate and cheering audience. The cheap menus, loud music, and dazzling lights make the complex the epicenter of nightlife in Chiang Mai. The beer bars offer live sports screening, dartboards, and pools. The pricing is pretty uniform throughout the complex. You must remain cautious as the place may have some safety issues, but don't let that stop you from having fun.

Location: Loi Kroh Road, on the way to Night Bazaar
Timings: 7:00 PM - 1:30 AM
Recommendations: It is advisable to go in a large group of friends for safety purposes. Not suitable for families.

14. Ladyboy Cabaret Shows

The Ladyboy Cabaret Show is one of the most dazzling sights you will ever witness. Ladyboys dress up in extravagant outfits to perform a stellar dance and song performance with the audience swaying with them. They also enjoy interacting with the audience, which makes the merrymaking even more infectious. Its prime location in the Night Bazaar makes it easy to catch after a night of shopping. Mirinn Cabaret, Calypso Cabaret, and Golden Dome Cabaret Show are popular Ladyboy Cabaret shows. 

Location: Anusarn Night Market, Night Bazaar, Chan Klan Road
Timings: 9:30 PM and 11:00 PM
Recommendations: Tickets are priced at THB 290 (one drink and snack included), and it is advisable to pre-book them.

15. Mae Ping River Cruise

Chiang Mai's prime water source, the Ping River, is the epicenter of activity in the city. Whether it is daily commutation, cruises, or adventure activities like rafting, kayaking and boating, the Ping River has everything. Various companies, most notably the Mae Ping River Cruise, offer tickets and tours that allow you to introduce yourself to the Thai way of life. During the day, visitors prefer a laid-back boat ride that explores local lifestyles on the riverbank, while at nighttime, cruise liners are full of couples looking to spend quality time with each other in a posh dinner cruise.

Location: Chareonprathet Lane 8 Alley, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai
Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Recommendations: Combine the river activities with hiking, biking and zip lining tours to explore the city wholly.

Nights in Chiang Mai never seem to end. As the sky gets darker, more and more streets light up with the city's nightly culture. So whether you want to party with no holds barred or enjoy a peaceful stroll along the night markets, Chiang Mai has got it all.