8 Best Nightlife in Washington Cascade Mountains and Valleys, Washington

You can't claim to have a sophisticated nightlife scene until someone in a vest is mixing artisanal cocktails, and 1022 South is Tacoma's top spot for fine drinks made with unusual infusions (nettles, yerba maté), house-made liqueurs and colas, and premium liquors with hipster cachet (Portland's Aviation gin, for example). Daily happy hour is 4 to 7 pm, and the kitchen produces nosh-worthy nibbles, from cheese plates to burgers.

This beloved craft brewery and its spacious taproom occupy the Historic Heidelberg Brewery building in downtown Tacoma, a short walk up the hill from the museum district and next to the city's University of Washington campus. It's an appealing place to sample such popular ales as the crisp Axis Brut IPA and the slightly tart, tangerine-infused Life Jacket Citrus IPA. On-site Canteen restaurant serves tasty gastropub fare. A second location is in Gig Harbor, where the brewery originated.

Sexy and contemporary, this cocktail bar in the Alma arts space is a snazzy spot for mingling and people-watching, whether at the buzzy bar or in a plush upholstered armchair. In addition to skillfully mixed, creative drinks, there are tempting food options, from duck liver–mousse toast to steamed mussels with garlic, bacon, and lemon herb butter. The venue frequently hosts live music performances and other events.

One of the most esteemed of Bellingham's many highly regarded craft breweries, Aslan occupies a sleek downtown building with soaring glass walls, an open floor plan, and plenty of sidewalk seating. The brewmasters here specialize in flavorful, small-batch beers, like faintly ginger-accented Irie Eyes Red Ale and a rich, chocolaty dark lager called Cascadian. Part of the fun here is the bar food, including a rather decadent waffle-fry poutine, Korean barbecued tofu, and spicy banh mi bowls.

Known for producing acclaimed, organic Bluewater Vodka, Halcyon Gin, Wintersun Aquavit, and several flavored liqueurs, this industrial-chic operation on the Port Gardner waterfront also houses a trendy bar and bistro with well-prepared Pacific Northwestern fare. Stop by for a tasting or a cocktail (try one of the house infusions).

Known for its setting inside a fabulous 1920s roadside building shaped like a coffee pot, Bob's is one of the city's most enduring landmarks—and it's a pretty fun dive bar for karaoke and cheap drinks. Fun facts: Indie singer Neko Case used to be a bartender here, and parts of the screwball comedy movie I Love You to Death were filmed inside.

With picnic tables and firepits outside and a gas fireplace surrounded by wooden chairs and benches in the rustic-industrial interior, this upbeat craft brewer is a comfy place to sip rich Butter Peak Porter or hoppy Tree Line IPA any time of year. The taproom occupies a smartly restored 1930s mercantile store, and the kitchen serves tasty guacamole, poblano-chicken tacos, and a few other Mexican-influenced snacks.

This old-school downtown pub with a modern vibe and first-rate beer and food was opened by a trio of Western Washington University graduates who also happen to be talented beer makers (they own Menace Brewing). As you might guess, this laid-back spot with a conversation-friendly decibel level has a great list of rotating taps, featuring craft beers from throughout the Northwest. The locally driven food is tasty, too, from fried chicken and waffles during the popular weekend brunches to late-night pork-belly tacos and fish-and-chips.