While cities like New York City and San Francisco are world-famous for their nightlife, there are also many other cities across the United States that offer up a great time. The American Nightlife Association reports that nighttime industries contribute almost $783 billion to the U.S. economy and that 17 percent of workers in major metropolitan areas work at night.
1. Tilted Barn Brewery
In the tiny town of Exeter, RI, Tilted Barn is the state’s first farm brewery. The idyllic property is home to a century-old barn where all beer production takes place, while hops and other produce are grown on site.
Matt Richardson is the co-founder of Tilted Barn with his wife, Kara. He wore work boots and a Tilted Barn hat when we met at the namesake brewery, which is perched on a 30 acre farm he and Kara operate with their four children, Violet, Libby, Milo and Tate.
The Richardsons brew a variety of beers, including their popular Double IPA, which is known for its bold hop aroma and flavor. It’s a style that can be quite bitter, with an alcohol content between 60-120 ibu’s and a dry finish.
2. Back 40
Small towns and their nightlife can be a great way to unwind after a long day or week of work and chores. If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation, try one of these small towns that are often overlooked by tourists.
Back 40 is a cosy restaurant in North Kingstown serving retro American comfort food and family dinners. Owned by former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo and her family, this quaint Rhode Island eatery opened in 2017 with much fanfare.
Located behind Hotel Windrow off 5th Avenue, this no-frills eatery is perfect for a quiet meal with friends or family. Pale walls hung with antique farm equipment and a bar backed in bourbon bottles make this a place you’ll want to visit.
3. The Blue Door
The Blue Door is a little known watering hole that’s been quietly serving locals and visitors since 2007. It’s a small bar with a big reputation.
When you enter, you’re immediately struck by the dilapidated blue door. It looks like it’s been repurposed from an old garage, but there’s something a bit off about the slightly bent beams that jut up from one side of the room.
It might look a little dingy, but the acoustics in this place are excellent. With barely more than a hundred seats, you can sit back and hear everything that’s going on in the room.
4. The Old Post Office
The Old Post Office, a storied landmark that served as a federal courthouse and an office building, is home to Biscayne Bay Brewing’s second location. A bar and brewery, the new tenant will occupy the 6,270-square-foot third floor.
In addition, a 4,400-square-foot lounge and DJ booth will be leased to Cabron Mexican Restaurant. The fourth floor will house La Real, a 6,966-square-foot eatery that will also offer high-end cocktails and food.
The Old Post Office also features 10 change-ringing bells, cast in England and donated to Congress as a Bicentennial gift. A park ranger explains that they were rung to announce the arrival of mail at the post office on Pennsylvania Avenue and a volunteer group rings them on federal holidays and at Congressional sessions.
5. The Red Door
Whether they’re at the local apres-ski bar, the boardwalk or some other party destination, small towns love to have fun. And the best part is, their party spots never go out of style.
This little secluded place has been around for years and is often packed with locals. The bartenders are great and the prices are reasonable, so you know you’re getting something good when you head here.
It’s not just the drinks that make this place so popular though, it’s also the atmosphere. The dark red booths and silent movies playing on the wall help keep the vibe subdued enough to feel like a real bar without being too rowdy.