Culver City, located in the Los Angeles area, is a perfect spot for exciting nightlife activities. There are plenty of options for an unforgettable evening for tourists and locals alike. Gripping escape rooms, stunning views, and famous film production studios are all at your fingertips.
No matter your age or preference, Culver City is a great place for anyone to make memories that last a lifetime. Here is a list of the top 10 fun things to do in Culver City at night.
1. Quest Room Culver City
Visit Quest Room Culver City for a riveting and thrilling escape challenge. Quest Room’s detailed story-driven escape scenarios and Hollywood-quality sets will carry you to a world filled with intrigue, excitement, and mystery.
Escape rooms at Quest Room’s Culver City location include an interactive comedy thriller (Amnesia) and an action-packed adventure (Pirates: Wanted!). Beat the clock and solve the puzzles before it’s too late!
2. Hike Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook
The Baldwin Hills scenic overlook is a special gem for breathtaking nighttime views of Los Angeles. This feature, known as the “Culver City Stairs,” has a steep, yet rewarding, trail leading up to a stunning view 500 ft. above Los Angeles. From this night vantage point, the city lights create a magical, glittering panorama.
Baldwin Hills boasts native wildflowers, bird watching, local wildlife, picnicking, and cultural exhibits for families and friends to enjoy. Whether you are looking for fresh air, a romantic stroll, a fitness challenge, or moments of meditation, Baldwin Hills scenic overlook is sure to bring some peace to your soul.
3. Take a Sony Pictures Studios Tour
Sony Pictures Studios is located in Culver City, California. During the day, these famous studios are filled with film production, but evenings have twilight tours as well as other special events.
Once inside the gates of Sony Pictures Studios, you will view iconic sets, sound stages, and even props from your favorite movies, like The Wizard of Oz, Men in Black, and Spider-Man.
Gaze at historic stages that now are home to modern and exciting TV and motion picture productions like Jeopardy or Wheel of Fortune. Special evening events include Q&A sessions with filmmakers, private screenings, and even interactive exhibits. This Sony Pictures Studio tour is a must for any film enthusiast.
4. Enjoy Kirk Douglas Theatre
The Kirk Douglas Theatre, located in downtown Culver City, is a sophisticated venue for new and adventurous performances. It is also a cultural center that celebrates the arts and brings the community together for new world premiers and more. Named after the famed Kirk Douglas, this theatre is a light for both creativity and innovation that you won’t want to miss.
This theater boasts an original, classy, 1940s exterior architecture. It is listed on the Los Angeles Conservancy Historic Theatre List. For those interested in an intimate, memorable night of entertainment, this theatre has just 317 seats, ensuring each guest has a wonderful stage view. If you are a fan of contemporary drama, musicals, or out-of-the-box shows, this evening stop should be on your list.
5. Sip Some Cognoscenti Coffee
Whether you are new to Culver City or are a long-time local, make sure to stop over at Cognoscenti Coffee in the early evening for an excellent brewed cup of joe. Cognoscenti Coffee is known as LA’s first pop-up coffee bar. The Culver City Arts District hosts this famous coffee experience.
This coffee pop-up bar offers a wide range of coffee delights from single-origin coffees to espresso-based drinks and pour-over choices. Drinks can be enjoyed with delicious locally sourced pastries.
This cozy, delightful atmosphere is the perfect spot to catch up with friends or fill up on caffeine before an evening out on the town. Coffee connoisseurs and newbies alike will enjoy this comfy, trendy coffee house.
6. Unwind at Culver Hotel
Unwind at the historic Culver Hotel after a memorable night out. This National Historic Landmark combines beautiful old-world charm and modern luxury you don’t want to miss. This chic hotel has many options for nighttime relaxation.
In the lounge, live jazz, handcrafted cocktails, and a bit of glamour are waiting. Or, relax in a vintage-inspired Classic Queen guest room complete with 180° views of historic downtown Culver City.
The ambiance is inviting with luxe, plush seating, elegant decor, and even welcome drinks upon arrival. After a long evening out, Culver Hotel is the perfect place to unwind.
7. Drink Up at Culver City Bars
Culver City has no shortage of bars. Whatever drink you’re craving, there is a bar for you to explore. Here are some notable nightlife party options.
The Cinema Bar
The Cinema Bar has been located in west Culver City for almost 75 years. With a small-town feel, this bar offers live music most nights, no cover charge, and an outdoor patio. Prepare to rock the night away with great music, tasty drinks, and friendly faces.
The Blind Barber
The Blind Barber is, in fact, both a barber shop AND a bar. But, because of this bar’s popularity, be sure to call ahead for availability if you want your hair cut!
If you are not getting your hair trimmed, walk through a common door leading to the “secret” large dimly lit speakeasy lounge. Try the “Batman,” a specialty cocktail that combines Ford’s Gin, Italicus Rosalio, Velvet Falernum, Lemon, Grapefruit, Soda, Peychauds Bitters, and Mint.
Ugo Wine Bar
Downtown Culver City is also home to Ugo Wine Bar which offers a wide range of wines from around the world. If you are in the mood for a bold red, white, something bubbly, or a specialty Italian cocktail, this sophisticated wine bar will have a drink for you.
Ugo is also famously known for its fresh, authentic Italian food. In fact, it is the only Italian restaurant on the west side of LA that has earned the prestigious VPN seal certifying authentic Neapolitan pizza.
If you are hungry and ready for a cozy evening, sip on something special at Ugo in Culver City.
8. Washington Blvd Arts District
Washington Blvd is an energetic district in Culver City lined with unique shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues all within walking distance. You will find amazing shopping at Platform, a 12,000 market of eclectic shops and chefs from around the globe.
For an Australian-California-flavored dinner, check out Bondi Harvest. Explore art galleries and studios throughout the Art District. Be sure to check the dates and times of events to make the most of your time on Washington Blvd.
9. Helms Bakery District
Helms Bakery District is a historical destination with award-winning restaurants, shops, and home furnishing stores. A perfect spot to meet up with friends, The Gourmandise School in the Helms Bakery District is a cooking school with evening classes taught by expert chefs.
Learn to bake gourmet dishes, homemade breads, or from-scratch pastas. Whatever skill level you are, this spot will be able to accommodate you and your friends for a memorable and tasty night out. Be sure to take time to explore this warm and welcoming Culver City destination.
10. Discover History at a Museum
Downtown Culver City has several museums to explore. People ready to learn should be sure to check out the Cold War or Jurassic Technology Museums.
- The Wende Museum is dedicated to the history of the Cold War. This museum alone houses over 100,000 artifacts, archives, and personal history records. The Wende Museum is located on Culver Blvd and is free to guests.
- The Museum of Jurassic Technology located on Venice Blvd is a unique museum featuring science, art, and technology teaching exhibits and demonstrates how these disciplines combine. Visitors pay $15 each and must book appointments in advance.
Enjoy All the Fun Activities Culver City Has to Offer
Culver City offers an extensive menu of nightlife fun that includes (and extends beyond) the exciting downtown Arts District on Culver Blvd, the adventurous escape rooms at Quest Room, delectable cuisine, and the views from Baldwin Hills.
If you are a foodie, art lover, or adventurer, Culver City is a dynamic destination that illuminates the night. Grab your loved ones and get ready for a night to remember!