Groningen Nightlife is a very interesting experience. While other business establishments close fairly early by the standards of other countries like the U.S., bars in Groningen often stay open until morning. There is a strong vibrancy in the night life here, probably because of its student population. In fact, the Groningen party life is so well known that it was voted in 2006 to be the best City Center in the Netherlands. With over a 150 places to choose from when going out, you are spoilt for choice. In addition, the behavior that is permissible and legal in Groningen rivals that of Las Vegas.  All in all, Groningen is a place to have a lot of fun at night.

Various Options

You name it, and you can find it in Groningen. Here you have everything from simple discotheques to grand casinos.  You have nightclubs that cater only to gay people. You actually have night clubs that allow people under 18, as well as under- 21 clubs. If you are more adventurous, there are "red light" areas well within walking distance from the city center. And yes, this is completely legal in the Netherlands.

Places to Go

You must visit the Hotel Casino, which has gaming tables and slot machines. The slot machines available are of the regular coin jackpots kind as well as the big prize kind. The place to go in the Hotel Casino is the Jackpot Club. Apart from the Casino, there is a good restaurant and bar there as well. Another place to go is Vera. This is an alternative club featuring underground music. What is underground music? It is just something you just have to go and see. You have to buy tickets to go there, and usually the tickets are available two weeks before the concert. In the City Center, there is the 3 Gezusters, which also happens to be the largest café in the Netherlands, with 12 cafes and dancing areas. This café is a maze, with some areas that are crowded and noisy and others that are quieter. You are sure to find an area that you will like. If you are a dance person, you need to visit The Palace, which is the largest discotheque in Groningen. It is like entering an arena. It has a huge dance floor and multiple stages on various floors. This club plays a wide variety of music for your enjoyment.

Alternatives

Another nightlife activity is to give the "red Light" areas a try. There is one at Nieuwstad and another at A-Kwartier, which is within walking distance from the City Center. Prudence is important, however. Appropriate precautions, as well as common sense, must be taken.

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The best street to head for at night is the Peperstraat. Many places where you can listen to life music.