Los Angeles’ best clubs and dance clubs come with a haze and legend all their own: They’re where stars party and pass out, and where the rest of us can simply enjoy ourselves, soaking up the atmosphere with drinks, food, and music. From the Viper Room to the Dresden Room and a strip club that needs little introduction, we give you five of the best clubs and dance clubs in Los Angeles to visit when the mood for entertainment strikes.
Located right on the Strip, the Viper Club was partly owned by Johnny Depp, and it will remain infamous as the site where River Phoenix breathed his last when it first opened. Beyond that it has remained a place of Hollywood excess and legend for all of its near 25-year history. Many punk and hard-rocking acts have played (and continue to play) in the club, and it’s not uncommon to catch sight of some serious Hollywood royalty (of the hippest kind) there. There’s a whiskey bar on the bottom floor as well, stocking some of the finest brown liquors available to humanity, for the rest of us mere mortals.
This all-ages, legendary spot gave a boost to too many acts to name, but it was especially instrumental in the rise of heavy metal greats of yore. Guns N’ Roses got their start in this venue with their first live gig (and they made their return here, too, for that matter). Mötley Crüe as well as a host of glam metal greats also rocked hardest first here. Now hosting performers who run the gamut in terms of musical taste from Kelly Clarkson to Neil Diamond, this is a must-visit spot to catch a gig.
Things swing in this architectural jewel from Hollywood’s heyday. The building dates from 1927, and has seen a lot during its storied time, but it remains just a great venue to have a drink and enjoy a fantastic meal. Nowadays, it’s also something of a hookup spot, as well as a place to relax and just kick back. People do come here to meet and be met, though, so don’t be surprised if the little beauty at the end of the bar actually buys you a drink.
Made popular by the you’re-so-money-baby ‘90s flick “Swingers,” this cork-walled and white-leatherette joint continues to swing because of the musical stylings of Marty and Elaine. You’ll feel like a member of the Rat Pack (or Brat Pack) in this throwback gem: While the vibe is pretty casual, the interiors sport beautiful vintage touches, and the clientele will make you smile. However, no amount of strong drink (which they pour generously) can prepare you for Marty and Elaine’s version of “Muskrat Love.”
If you’re looking for one of the best strip clubs in Los Angeles, 4play Gentleman’s Club is the place. This famous locale for adult entertainment has been voted one of the best strip clubs in the country, and has been on the must-see map for 15 years, boasting consistently hot, fully nude vixens in classy and comfortable environs. It’s perfect for the upscale voyeur (check their website for the roster/lineup for the day if you want to get really technical). Plus, the circular stage gives you a decent view of the lap dance around the corner. Sexy for both sexes, you’ll find valet parking, leather chairs and couches here… and the food isn’t half bad, either.
David Podgurski has written about travel, books, fashion + entertainment for digital and print media. He’s hunted down vintage finds in crumbling attics, published poetry, worked for the New York MTA, and likes to haunt museums, cafés and shops. When he isn’t traveling or writing, he’s thinking about his next trip — and what to enjoy when he gets there.
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