The best bars & nightlife in Columbus

“Family-friendly chain serving classic Tex-Mex & American fare in a Southwestern-style setting.”

“When your backyard bash or big day needs a pro behind the bar, The Mobile Bartender brings licensed, insured service, custom cocktails, and smooth timeline wrangling. Michelle’s 25+ years show in the details, plus there’s a crowd-pleasing wine slushie machine and help with permits so you can relax.”

From the Seymour newsletter, September 16, 2026

“If you like your evenings with a little euchre, chili, and neighborly chatter, White River Fish & Game is the clubby hangout that keeps Seymour grounded. Think seasonal parties, bingo nights, kid-friendly hayrides, and a rentable hall for your crew, all tied to a keep-our-rivers-clean spirit.”

From the Seymour newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Just up the road in Franklin, Haberdasher Artisan Distillery has been crafting uncompromising whiskeys and gins since 2017, including a pot distilled bourbon that made them Johnson County's first active distillery since the Civil War era.”

“Family-friendly chain serving classic Tex-Mex & American fare in a Southwestern-style setting.”

“If your fridge selection feels stale, Shallo's Antique Restaurant & Brewhaus revives the fun with a 500-strong beer lineup, a quirky beer museum and antique gallery, plus over 300 bottles and 40 drafts importing tastes from 21 countries. Make it your midweek treat, explore something rare.”

From the Greenwood newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Mel's at Commission Row is a cozy speakeasy where the cocktail is the main event. R. milk punch and snack on truffle parmesan fries, oysters, or Dirty Martini Deviled Eggs, then call it the most civilized weeknight you’ve had in a while.”

From the Greenwood newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Next time you find yourself in downtown Indy, Plat 99 at The Alexander is a sleek, art-soaked lounge where mornings mean locally roasted coffee and grab-and-go bites, and evenings switch to craft cocktails, wine, and shareable small plates beneath Jorge Pardo’s glowing glass pendants and a breezy terrace.”

From the Muncie newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Indy’s original craft cocktail bar, Ball & Biscuit mixes classics and inventive sips with always fresh, homemade touches, then pairs them with shareable small plates built from locally sourced ingredients. When you want a stylish, low-key night that still feels special, this Mass Ave standby quietly nails it.”

From the Indianapolis newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Start your morning with a perfectly brewed espresso and circle back after work for elevated, award-winning cocktails at The Alchemist, the sleek spot near Mass Ave that flips from specialty coffee bar to vibey lounge with ambient lighting and smooth music. Perfect for catching up, unwinding, or low key celebrating.”

From the Lawrence newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Aberdeen Social House mixes a curated, globe-spanning wine list with a bourbon-loving bar and a menu where American comfort gets a smart, modern twist. It’s the spot when you want refined without fussy, thoughtful pairings, and flavors bold enough to make you linger.”

From the West Lafayette newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Indy’s Original Retro Bar where you can actually hear yourself, Nicky Blaine's Cocktail Lounge nails classic cocktails, a cigar list, and small plates in a vintage, low-light lounge beneath the city lights. Great for date nights or a grown-up hang when you want conversation to outshine the bass.”

From the Kokomo newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Books & Brews mixes a legit indie bookstore vibe with a rotating lineup of seasonal craft beers, so you can sip while you browse and feel cultured about it. Grab friends for board games, live trivia, or open mic, then leave with a new read and the satisfied glow of a weeknight well spent.”

From the Kokomo newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Indianapolis-based Centerpoint Brewing Company leans into its engineering roots to turn out balanced, approachable beers that win over both craft diehards and macro loyalists. If you like precision in your pint and easygoing taproom hangs like trivia, flag it for your next quick hop from Muncie.”

From the Muncie newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Trendy spot for American eats (including vegan fare), coffee, cocktails and live acts.”

“Pronto by Iozzo's does the classy-but-comfortable thing right, with Italian deli-style light bites, espresso when you need a lift, and crafted cocktails and wine when the day needs a victory lap. It’s a relaxed hang for catching up, nibbling something real, and lingering longer than planned.”

From the Columbus newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Family-owned Brandywine Creek Vineyards & Winery pours Indiana-grown, farm-to-table wines in a cozy tasting room, with flights, live music, and nearly-weekly events.”

From the Lawrence newsletter, August 28, 2026

“8th Day Distillery - Bottle Shop & Cocktail Bar leans into locally sourced, handcrafted spirits with seasonal cocktails and mocktails for the designated heroes. Pop-up collabs, quarterly artist features, and a hip living room vibe keep it interesting, so book a tour and tasting, then snag bottles or cans to go.”

From the Kokomo newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Whether your fridge wants a trusty year-round staple or you're itching for a short-run experiment, Quaff On! Brewing Company keeps the taps and bottles interesting with seasonal releases, the Woods Abide Series, and small-batch surprises. Peek at their brew calendar, then make this week taste a little better.”

From the Columbus newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Set on a Mellencamp family farm, Lydia Grove Winery - Brewery - Wedding/Event Center is already pouring specialty cocktails, well drinks and domestic beers while the kitchen turns out rotating bites. Swing by this week to unwind, then keep an eye out for estate wines, beers, and Indiana’s largest corn maze coming soon.”

From the Columbus newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Need a quick Brown County reset this week? Moontown Brewing Company Nashville Pub is pouring award-winning Moonlite cream ale, crisp lagers like King of Troy, and juicy IPAs alongside tacos, nachos, and a seriously solid beer-battered fish number. Easy, tasty, very repeatable.”

From the Columbus newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Ralston's Drafthouse is winning brunch this week with a scratch-made lineup that swings from Angel Biscuits and Gravy to decadent Elvis French Toast, and if you’re plotting a get-together soon, their room rental setup makes hosting friends or coworkers a whole lot easier.”

From the Indianapolis newsletter, August 7, 2026

“Gather 22 hits that sweet spot between kid-friendly and treat-yourself, pouring legit espresso in the morning and shaking crafty cocktails at night. Slide in for chef-driven brunch with breakfast pizza, then come back for grilled pizzas at lunch and dinner, because weeknight cravings are real.”

From the Indianapolis newsletter, August 7, 2026

“Solely Wine champions small producers with a curated lineup of low-intervention bottles and by-the-glass pours that actually taste like where they’re from. Drop in for tastings, casual classes, and weekly happenings, then snag a bottle for the couch later...”

From the Indianapolis newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Mass Ave Wine nails the sweet spot of curated, affordable bottles you can sip by the glass or share by the bottle, alongside charcuterie, artisan pizzas, and small plates. Friendly guidance, local art, and non-alcoholic options make it an easy weeknight hang on Mass Ave.”

From the Indianapolis newsletter, August 5, 2026

“When you need a quick reset, Story Inn delivers pub fare in the Dining Room, pours at the Story Still Tavern, and weekend live music that makes a Saturday fly. Historic since 1851, it’s a delightfully tucked-away spot for karaoke, clinking glasses, and maybe even staying the night.”

From the Columbus newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Bear Wallow Distillery in Gnaw Bone, one of the first in Indiana, turns locally grown grains into spirits on an old-fashioned copper pot still, and their Farm-to-Fifth Tour, Whiskey Lovers sample flight, and cheeky Moonshine Shake-ups with Wilks & Wilson fruit elixirs make a low-key perfect weekend treat.”

From the Columbus newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Whether you need a midweek mood lift or a Friday unwind, Corncrib Lounge at The Brown County Inn brings live music four nights a week with a full bar pouring crowd-pleasing classics and crafty sips. Settle in, catch a set, and remember why low-key nights out still hit best.”

From the Columbus newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Need a low-stress hang this week? 19th Hole Sports Bar at Salt Creek Golf Retreat delivers pizza, burgers, wings, and cocktails, a great spot to catch the game with golf course views, plus a fresh menu and Friday-Saturday live bands that make a quick Brown County escape feel like a mini victory.”

From the Columbus newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Mike's Music & Dance Barn keeps the honky-tonk heartbeat going with a big solid-oak dance floor, live country bands, DJ nights, and real-deal dance lessons, plus tasty pub grub and cold beverages, making it an easy weeknight or weekend escape for Columbus folks who want to two-step, laugh, and unwind.”

From the Bloomington newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Casual eatery offering comfort food, wine, and beer in an old-timey setting with a porch.”

“Whether you want Zeppelin-sized nostalgia, Americana harmonies, or a singalong you didn't see coming, Brown County Music Center has a run of crowd-pleasers. This week brings Get The Led Out on Thursday Aug 13 and Twitty & Lynn on Saturday Aug 15, with The Wood Brothers landing Aug 20.”

From the Columbus newsletter, August 13, 2026

“Quick hop from town, Brown County Winery - Nashville Tasting Room pours everything from crisp dry to juicy fruit wines and fortified favorites, all crafted to be approachable and affordable. Swing by this week to taste through the lineup and find your new porch staple.”

From the Columbus newsletter, August 10, 2026

“Whether you're cruising the back roads or heading for the trails, Brown County Inn makes an easy stop for a drink at the Corncrib Lounge, dinner in the Harvest Dining Room, and on-site EV charging while you relax. Low-key vibes, live music, and that classic Brown County charm.”

From the Columbus newsletter, September 1, 2026

“ZwanzigZ Production Brewery brews its lineup on site and pairs it with the pies Columbus has loved since 2002. Expect 20+ taps of house beer and sodas, growlers and packaged beer to go, and that familiar ZwanzigZ vibe that’s equal parts family tradition and Friday night reward.”

From the Columbus newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Heads up, 450 North Brewing Company keeps the good stuff flowing with fresh beer releases in draft and cans, plus a restaurant when you want something tasty with your pint. Make it your midweek treat or a weekend hang, then keep an eye out for their Corn Maze Beer Fest 2026.”

From the Columbus newsletter, September 16, 2026

“With a big tap list that spans traditional styles to fruited experiments, plus an in-house kitchen turning out easy eats, Hog Molly Brewing Co. is the low-stress hang you need this week. Expect weekly live music, trivia, and fresh releases, then snag a flight or 4-pack for home.”

From the Columbus newsletter, September 22, 2026

“The Seymour Brewing Co. pours fresh craft beer alongside Brooklyn Pizza’s award-winning specialty pies, then tops it off with live music at Harmony Park, including wildcards like the Nashville Hot Chicken Spicoli and Pickle Pesto... a low-stress midweek play for Columbus folks.”

From the Columbus newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Famous TV comics draw laughs at this stand-up comedy club with a variety of American eats.”

“Ash & Elm Cider Co. Indianapolis Taproom pours Indiana’s largest selection of ciders on tap, all-natural and never from concentrate, crafted with Midwest apples. Grab a flight, match it with their elevated classics, then debate your favorite seasonal like it’s a Pacers trade rumor.”

“Teams of improvisers compete during this show for all ages, which also offers classes.”

“When you want a laid-back hang with actually good bar food, The District Tap nails it with hearty burgers, saucy wings, and shareable pies, plus live music and an easygoing patio. Two Indy spots, Northside and Downtown, make it a reliable meet-up when your group chat can’t decide.”

“Country Heritage Winery - Nashville pours Indiana-made wines with daily flights, refreshing wine slushies, canned ciders, and proper wine cocktails, plus nibble-worthy picnic platters and Debrand's chocolate. Weekend live music keeps it lively, so grab a friend and give your Columbus week a quick Brown County reset.”

From the Columbus newsletter, August 29, 2026

“If you like your cocktails with a little mystery, The Vault Indy hides behind a code in Bates-Hendricks and rewards you with classic, carefully mixed drinks, a fun Prohibition Surprise pick-your-spirit gamble, weekday live music, and shareable bites like charcuterie.”

From the Indianapolis newsletter, September 16, 2026

“If you're craving a night where the weirdly elegant thrive, White Rabbit Cabaret keeps Fountain Square lively with an ever-changing mix of national music acts, stand-up and improv, cabaret and burlesque, plus culty movie nights. Watch for The Burlesque Bingo Bango Show, Let’s Make A Date, and Frankie’s Flicks.”

From the Muncie newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Upscale chain serving New American fare paired with house-label wines in a contemporary setting.”

“Great Legs Wine + Spirits is the resident wine + cocktail bar at The Garage Food Hall, pouring a curated lineup that swings from familiar favorites to unexpected surprises. Post up between bites, pick a glass that pairs with whatever you're craving, and call it a weeknight win.”

From the Greenwood newsletter, August 11, 2026

“Come for guided tastings with thoughtful food pairings, stay for game nights, book swaps, and the occasional Sunshine Sangria cocktail of the month. The Rejoicing Vine also runs winery tours, a chill tasting room that stays open during most events, plus picnic packages and a friendly wine club.”

From the Indianapolis newsletter, September 19, 2026

“In the mood to keep it low-key but tasty this week? Easley Winery lines up self-guided tasting flights from crisp dry picks to sweet Reggae favorites, plus wine slushies and even a mocktail flight. Bonus points for their award-winning 2023 Chardonnay that’s worth a dedicated pour.”

From the Greenwood newsletter, August 20, 2026

“Whether you want wings that mean business, burgers that actually sizzle, or a heated patio where pool, darts, and cornhole get weirdly competitive, Empire Street Bar and Grill Downtown INDY delivers. Add bingo, trivia, karaoke, DJs, live bands, and game-day action, and you’ve got your new sports-night headquarters.”

From the Kokomo newsletter, September 6, 2026

“New American outpost with a patio serving wines, brews & seasonal fare in a warm, upbeat setting.”

“When you want a low-key night with serious cocktails, Wiseguy Lounge - Mass Ave delivers seasonal pours, a deep bourbon list, and that tucked-away vibe behind Goodfellas. Pair a New York-style slice with a well-made old fashioned, call it self-care.”

From the Kokomo newsletter, August 23, 2026