The Ritz ★ 4.1
$$SoFA District{'tuesday': '20:00-02:00', 'wednesday': '20:00-02:00', 'thursday': '20:00-02:00', 'friday': '20:00-02:00', 'saturday': '20:00-02:00'}
The Ritz is San Jose's premier nightclub in the SoFA District, hosting live bands, DJ nights, and themed dance parties for crowds up to 500.
Tip: Themed nights like emo ragers and throwback parties sell out fast; check the calendar before arriving.
Splash Video Dance Bar ★ 3.9
$$Downtown{'monday': '17:00-01:30', 'tuesday': '17:00-01:30', 'wednesday': '17:00-01:30', 'thursday': '17:00-01:30', 'friday': '16:00-01:45', 'saturday': '16:00-01:45', 'sunday': '16:00-01:30'}
Splash is San Jose's top LGBTQ dance club with two levels of dancing, 20-plus video screens, rooftop patio, and electrifying drag shows every week.
Tip: Monday Power Hour has $1 drinks; Drag Bingo on Monday nights draws a lively mixed crowd.
NOVA ★ 3.7
$$$Downtown{'thursday': '19:00-01:30', 'friday': '19:00-01:30', 'saturday': '19:00-01:30'}
NOVA is a polished upscale nightclub in downtown San Jose blending modern cuisine and specialty cocktails with DJ sets of R&B, rap, and pop.
Tip: Bottle service and VIP sections available; reserve a table in advance for weekend nights.
Selva ★ 4.0
$$$Downtown{'thursday': '17:00-02:00', 'friday': '17:00-02:00', 'saturday': '19:00-02:00'}
Selva is an immersive jungle-themed tequila lounge in downtown San Jose that transitions from tranquil cocktail bar to full dance night with live DJs.
Tip: Complimentary chicharrones arrive with your drinks; the jungle decor and disco ball ceiling make it one of DTSJ's most photogenic spots.
The Caravan Lounge ★ 3.8
$Downtown{'monday': '14:00-01:30', 'tuesday': '14:00-01:30', 'wednesday': '14:00-01:30', 'thursday': '14:00-01:30', 'friday': '14:00-01:30', 'saturday': '14:00-01:30', 'sunday': '14:00-01:30'}
The Caravan Lounge is one of San Jose's oldest dive bars with free live music on Friday and Saturday nights, open 365 days a year with no cover.
Tip: Free live music Fri-Sat draws punk and indie acts; Sunday open mic is a local institution. Pool table in back.
SJZ Break Room ★ 4.3
$SoFA District{'friday': '18:00-23:00', 'saturday': '18:00-23:00', 'sunday': '18:00-23:00'}
SJZ Break Room is San Jose Jazz's intimate 100-seat all-ages venue in the SoFA District with every seat within 30 feet of live jazz performers.
Tip: First 90 minutes are free; $10 max after 6pm. Performances often stream live on the massive window projection behind the stage.