Mexico City nightlife is incredible. Locals tell us that some of CDMX's coolest activities take place once the sun goes down. So, with some local input, here are seven reasons why Mexico City nightlife will be the highlight of your trip. 

#1: The salsa scene is fantastic

Locals tell us that Mexico City is definitely a dancing city—and salsa is king! Here are some great starting points:

• Mama Rumba: Mama Rumba, in Mexico City’s Roma neighborhood, has long been a local favorite for salsa dancing. Head there early and stay late!
• Salon Los Angeles: The classic Salon Los Angeles (which is one of the oldest clubs in the city—established in 1937!) is another great choice. At Salon Los Angeles the saying goes: Those who don’t know Salon Los Angeles do not know Mexico.
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#2: The craft beer selection is excellent

If you're a beer drinker, then locals tell us that one of the greatest things to do in Mexico City is exploring the craft brewing scene. Great local ales can be found throughout Mexico City’s neighborhoods (especially in Roma and Condesa).

If you're into local beer and looking for some international options, we suggest visiting El Deposito in Condesa. If you're looking for a brewery that also has food options, locals suggest drinking at Escollo in Roma.

#3: Shhh....try the speakeasies

Shhh—locals say some of the coolest things you can do in Mexico City are also the most secret. Mexico City has a fantastic network of speakeasies and hidden bars...if you know where to look… Here's some excellent spots:

• Hanky Panky: Visitors will have to ask for directions to find this secret bar, but the fuss will be mightily rewarded. The craft cocktails are excellent—opt for the featured drink of the night, or scan the menu for something made with mezcal.
• Xaman Bar: Although not as hidden as some other speakeasies (no password required here) it will take sharp eyes to find the basement-based Xaman bar. Once inside, be sure to try specialty cocktails made with local herbs and fruits.
• Maison Artemisia: Nestled in the hip Roma neighborhood, Maison Artemisia is on the second floor of an upscale French restaurant. Ask about the bar, and you’ll be ushered upstairs. Absinthe is the favorite spirt at Artemisia, so you know you’re going to have an amazing time here.

#4: You can taste traditional spirits

Mexico City offers a great selection of beer, cocktails, and wine. But locals tell us that if you want to explore the city in a different way, look out for some of the country's traditional spirits. Our trip planners say that these include:

• Mezcal: Mezcal is traditionally cooked in pits lined with lava rocks, wood, and charcoal, which gives the spirit its smoky flavor. The legend of mezcal, which states that a bolt of lightning struck an agave plant to create the drink, isn’t so far from the truth.
• Pulque: Visitors to Mexico City should definitely seek out one of the region’s most ancient and unique spirits—pulque! A fermented drink made of maguey sap, pulque has been popular since before the Spaniards arrived. It’s a bit like alcoholic kombucha—drink it straight or mixed into a delightful fruity cocktail.
• Charanda: Perhaps the most elusive of Mexico City spirits, charanda is a rum-like liquor that is only made in Michoacan, just west of Mexico City. 

Want to combine tacos + mezcal, we may have a solution here!

#5: You'll find tons of excellent live music

Let’s do it live! Locals tell us that Mexico City has some great choices for live music.

• Traditional Mexican music: If it’s hot outside and you’re looking for music to match, locals say that one of the best things to do in Mexico City is to spend an evening enjoying traditional mariachi music (ideally outdoors). They suggest going to Plaza Garibaldi, just north of El Zocalo. You can pay a mariachi band for a song, or simply listen to the music. Plaza Garibaldi can get rowdy, however.
• Hot hoppin’ jazz: Locals say that Mexico City has an incredible jazz scene. Our trip planners tell us that if you're looking for a traditional jazz show, Zinco Jazz Club is the place to go. For jazz with a twist, they suggest check out Jules Basement. 
• Latin American & international superstars: For some of the city’s hottest live music, check out the grand Auditorio Nacional. Centrally located on Paseo de la Reforma, the Auditorio showcases superstars from around the world. Plus, it houses the largest pipe organ in Latin America.
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#6: Two words: Zona Rosa

If your itinerary starts around 10 PM, then locals tell us that Zona Rosa is the ideal neighborhood to stay in Mexico City. 

Zona Rosa is one of Mexico City’s top attractions because—in addition to offering fantastic nightlife options—the area is considered Mexico City's LGBT core, as well as the home of the city's Koreatown. 

Locals say to be prepared to spend some pesos if you choose the club route—if you’re a man, that is. Women often get to skip the cover at Mexico City clubs. 

#7: CDMX abounds with classy options

If the thought of shouting over loud music in a club makes you nauseous, fear not! Locals tell us there are plenty of other options for exciting nightlife in Mexico City.

Palacio Bellas Artes (the Palace of Fine Arts) is not only one of the most iconic buildings in Mexico City—it’s the cultural soul of the city, and the best place in town to catch a classy performance. Any Mexico City itinerary is enhanced by the Ballet Folklorico, which frequently performs at Palacio Bellas Artes.

And the Palacio Bellas Artes’ calendar is packed with other cultural events almost every night of the week, which include orchestral performances, piano concerts, and more.