More Than Just Dinner: Nightlife Activities To Do in Mérida

More than just dinner: Nightlife Activities To Do in Mérida, Partying: The Best Nightlife Activities in Mérida, Yucatan.

If you think Mérida night outings are limited to going to a movie or grabbing dinner, we've got great news for you: you're wrong! There are countless places offering various activities for fun, socializing, and having a different kind of evening...plus, plenty of tasty food to keep your energy up.

La Blanca Tropical

If you love dancing, you’ve got to check out this place where salsa and bachata music will have you on your feet in no time. You might even spot some dance schools from Mérida practicing and showing off their best moves.

Besides being a great place to dance with your friends or partner, you can also enjoy a delicious dinner with their specialty pizzas, made fresh in their stone oven, and fresh pasta, along with a wide variety of drinks and cocktails.

La Bianca Tropical also hosts tribute nights dedicated to current artists, themed nights, shows, and live music.

They are located at Calle 55 x 60 y 58 in Mérida’s Centro, just one block from Santa Lucía Park; they are open from Tuesday to Sunday from 6 pm to 3 am. Especially on weekends, it’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance at 999 750 3458, as it’s usually crowded with people wanting to enjoy a good night of salsa.— Sharon C.

La Bianca Tropical
IG: la_bianca_tropical
FB: La Bianca Tropical

La Casa de la Gata Negra

La Casa de la Gata Negra (the house of the black cat) is a much needed underground cultural center; let me tell you why. Just blocks away from the city’s main boulevard, Paseo de Montejo, it’s the perfect place for live music, screenings, poetry slams, performances, and much more, while enjoying a cold beer, a nice cocktail, or one of their delicious snacks. Here you can explore national and international concepts, but it’s also a forum for local projects, because Mérida is home to many more art initiatives than you can imagine. 

It would definitely be one of my favorite Mérida hideouts, if it weren’t because at La Casa de la Gata Negra no hiding is necessary: the passion, freedom, and longing for art and life exude from each element in this space, the members of the staff, and, hopefully, you, whenever you share in the joy of taking part in it.

Always with open arms, hearts, and minds, make sure to reach them on Instagram or WhatsApp to make a pitch of your own! — Pamela F.

La Casa de la Gata Negra
Calle 45 #471-A x52 y 54, Centro, Mérida
Tel. 999 233 0934
IG: lacasadelagatanegra

Like Bar (Terranorte y Dorada)

To have a good time to the rhythm of live music, many Yucatecos (and newcomers) choose Like Bar. This place has earned a reputation for the great musical offerings it provides every day. Bands like Charanga Latina, Los Tudors, and El Fresa y la Sentencia regularly perform at both Like Bar locations (Terranorte and Dorada), creating an amazing atmosphere with their incredible voices and live music.

The Terranorte location has a large outdoor terrace and a rooftop with a direct view of the stage, while the Zona Dorada location has two floors with air conditioning. At both spots, you can enjoy the shows from tables perfectly positioned around the stages.

They are open every day from 7 pm to 3 am, and in addition to the music, they offer an extensive menu of snacks and drinks. Find their weekly schedule on social media and make your reservations at 999 899 3151.— Sharon C.

Like Bar
IG: likebar_oficial
FB: Like Bar

Shotimilco

Electronic and urban music to dance to, a wide variety of drinks, and a very Mexican atmosphere are two elements you are guaranteed to find at Shotimilco. The name says it all: it is inspired by the iconic Trajineras of Xochimilco in México City, so be prepared to receive your shots on a lovely Trajinera.

As a personal recommendation, try the 'Shotipomos,' bottles with special mixes of sweet or spicy flavors and with very creative names ranging from figures of the Mexican lottery like 'El Diablito' to iconic characters from Mexican pop culture like 'La Carmelita Salinas.'

But the atmosphere is not just set by the drinks; it's also the music, courtesy of the DJ who gets everyone dancing. Shotimilco opens its doors from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 pm to 3 am and is located in Plaza Mangus on Av. García Lavín, one of the most well-known nightclub and bar areas in the north of the city.

Shotimilco offers daily promotions, which are posted every day on Instagram; check them out on their socials.— Sharon C.

Shotimilco
Dentro de Plaza Mangus
IG: shotimilco
FB: Shotimilco

Trópico 56 (Remate)

If you can't decide between a night of karaoke or dancing, then Trópico 56, located at Remate of Paseo de Montejo, is perfect for you. The party starts around 9 pm with karaoke. The friendly waiters will hand you a slip of paper to write down your name and the song you want to sing. Trust me, the lively atmosphere will make you want to give your best performance on stage.

Around midnight, the karaoke wraps up and the dance floor opens up with salsa, bachata, cumbia, and of course, reggaeton.

Whether you want to toast to the chorus of your favorite songs or refresh yourself while dancing, they have an extensive menu of drinks and cocktails with excellent 2x1 promotions on mojitos and Aperol Spritz, among others.

Karaoke nights are every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Visit their social media to find out about live music days, themed nights, or guest DJs.— Sharon C. 

Tropico 56
IG: tropico56mid
FB: Trópico 56 

Free Club

Feel the freedom of the night at Mérida's new LGBTQ+ space, Free Club. This fabulous place, in Barrio de Santiago, is characterized by its excellent light shows, colorful decorations, comfortable spaces, great selection of pop music, and above all, the amazing drag queens onstage.

Their menu has something for everyone, with cocktails that have charming names like “Lo Que Sea (Whatever)”, “Relax”, or “Lujuria (Lust)”, along with classics like Tinto de Verano, Bloody Marys, or Carajillos. They also offer beers, spirits, and delicious mocktails for those who don't drink alcohol. Plus, you'll find a variety of snacks like pizzas, wings, boneless bites, and even pasta.

The experiences at Free vary by the night, as different events are held, such as stand-up or karaoke nights, broadcasts of drag shows like Drag Race México or themed drag shows.

At Free Club, everyone is welcome and free to be who they are.— Charlie G.

Free Club
Calle 59 #524 x 66 y 64, Barrio de Santiago, Centro
Tel. 999 368 6899
IG: freeclubmid
FB: Free Club Merida
Wed. - Sat. 7 pm - 2:30 am

Cinema Colectivo

Let me ask you this: are you a fan of movies? How about outdoor events? Imagine combining the two and enjoying a magical night watching your favorite movie under the stars. This is exactly what you can experience at Cinema Colectivo.

Located within Casa 489, near Paseo de Montejo, it’s a charming movie garden—an outdoor cinema. It boasts a large screen, wooden benches with cushions, warm lights, and plenty of greenery.

The selection of movies changes weekly and covers various eras and genres of cinema; they even have themed cycles that revolve around a saga or a production company. And of course, like at any theater, you can grab popcorn, snacks, and drinks.

The best part of Cinema Colectivo is its affordable prices, as most of the time, tickets are never over 30 pesos! They regularly offer two screenings a day, from Wednesday to Sunday.

Feel the magic of cinema at Cinema Colectivo! — Charlie G.

Cinema Colectivo
Calle 41 #489 Zona Paseo de Montejo, Centro
Tickets on www.cinemacolectivo.mx
IG: cinemacolectivo 
FB: Cinema Colectivo

La Pulquerida - Cantina Latina

This venue's decor combines urban style and Latin culture, decorated with eclectic paintings, funny signs, and neon lights. Its musical catalog features a mix of electronic, urban, and pop anthems.

Inside, you'll find two air-conditioned halls where the DJ keeps everyone dancing all night long, plus a terrace for those who prefer to be outside. The menu offers a wide variety of alcoholic drinks, available in glasses, bottles, mugs, or buckets, as well as delicious cocktails

The busiest days (with the best atmosphere) are weekends, especially Fridays and Saturdays. To ensure the best possible experience, make sure to reserve a table in advance.

Visit La Pulquerida and party until dawn!— Charlie G.

La Pulquerida
Calle 70 #478 x 57 y 59, Barrio de Santiago, Centro
IG: lapulquerida
FB: La Pulquerida - Cantina Latina
Wed. - Sun. 7 pm - 3 am 

El Palacio del Billar

If you enjoy making chill plans with friends or family and a good beer, you should stop by Palacio del Billar. As its name indicates, this is an excellent place to rack ‘em up, but not only that: it also offers karaoke and screens to enjoy sports events such as soccer matches, boxing fights, and others you want to experience with your friends in a great atmosphere.

There are two locations in Mérida; the first is on Prolongación de Montejo, while the other is in the Altabrisa area. If you visit the one on Prolongación, you'll find two sections: one part with tables and a terrace and another where the pool tables are located, which you can rent. -Charlie.G

El Palacio del Billar
Sucursal Prolongación Paseo de Montejo:
Calle 34, Prol. Paseo de Montejo, Emiliano Zapata Norte
999 948 4825
Every day, 6 pm - 3 am

Sucursal Altabrisa:
Calle 7 (lateral Av. República de Corea) x 24-A y 24-B Col. Maya

Biciruta Nocturna

Looking for a nighttime outdoor activity to enjoy with friends and family of all ages? Biciruta Nocturna (the Nightly Bike Route) takes place on the first Saturday of each month, and it's perfect for riding along Paseo de Montejo without cars and without suffering from high temperatures.

You don't even have to worry about having a bike, as you can rent one at various points along Paseo de Montejo. Heads up: if you're going to rent a bike, we suggest arriving early because this is a very popular event.

Like its morning counterpart (every Sunday), Biciruta Nocturna is a great opportunity to calmly tour the city center. Especially if you’re renting a bike, consider that you might want to make stops along the way: rather than just doing a non-stop circuit, savor the moment and take your time to explore. You’ll find enticing reasons to get off the bike, from ice cream, Marquesitas, and elote stands to the outstanding restaurants in the area, such as Gran Lumière (on Calle 60) or some of the options on the Culinary Corridor on Calle 47.— Brenda A.

Bolos o Boliche

Bowling alleys are excellent places to enjoy a different night out with family or friends, and Mérida has some fantastic options. Two of the most popular ones are Sport Bowl Mérida and Altabrisa Bowling.

At Sport Bowl Mérida, located on Periférico, you can unleash your competitive side and enjoy a variety of promotions, especially on Mondays. You can take advantage of their 3-for-2 offer on bowling lines or enjoy Ladies' Night, where lines are only $77 pesos each. This place is perfect for those looking for a lively atmosphere with great deals. Plus, if you're not a great bowler, don't worry, they have special lanes for beginners. And of course, the excellent music selection will keep you entertained, win or lose.

On the other hand, Altabrisa Bowling is equally impressive. In addition to its spectacular lanes with neon lights in its 'Antrobowl,' it offers table hockey, billiards, and more. It's a perfect place for the whole family, with ramps for kids and an atmosphere that ensures everyone has fun.

Both places also offer delicious dishes like wings, boneless, and of course, well-deserved beers for the participants, regardless of whether they win or lose. Whether you're looking for a classic bowling night or a vibrant experience with lights and music, bowling in Mérida is something that should be on your bucket list. But remember: a game of bowling shouldn't break any friendships, just make them more fun!— Sara A.

Sport Bowl Mérida
Periférico Norte Km, 25.8, Santa Rita Cholul
999 196 2268
www.sportbowl.com.mx
IG: sportbowlmid
FB: Sport Bowl Mérida
Mon. - Sat. 3:30 pm - 12:30 am
Sundays, 11:30 am - 9:30 pm

Altabrisa Bowling
Dentro de Plaza Altabrisa
999 136 7908
IG: altabrisabowling
FB: Altabrisa Bowling 
Mon. - Sat. 1 pm - 12 am
Sundays, 12 pm - 10 pm

Bernardette Show Bar

If you love live musical shows and are looking for a night full of entertainment in Mérida, Bernardette Show Bar is the ideal place for you. From Thursday to Saturday, you can enjoy performances covering hits from the 70s to the 2000s, performed by an amazing cast of dancers and singers who promise not only to dazzle you but to invite you to sing, dance, and applaud along with them.

And if these activities make you hungry or thirsty, don't worry: they also have a menu of food and drinks with exceptional options that will complement your night and make it truly unique.— Sara A.

Bernardette Show Bar
Paseo de Montejo #312, Centro
Tel. 999 279 6634
IG: bernardette.showbar
Thu. - Sat. 9 pm - 2:30 am (show starts at 10 pm)

Bazares

Bazaars in Mérida are charming places where you can discover small treasures and unique items that you didn't even know you needed. On the weekends, you'll likely stumble upon one of these vibrant markets. Espacio Bazr, Mercada Latina, Proyecto Bazar, and HandMade Festival are just a few of the bazaars that set up their stands every month.

The variety of products depends on the bazaar's theme, but you can generally find everything from internet meme-inspired stickers to beautiful jewelry, tote bags, keychains, clothing, homemade desserts, and even piercing or tattoo parties in collaboration with local studios at special prices (I got a tattoo at a bazaar just for the story, and it turned out great). Plus, you'll enjoy good music and a very relaxed atmosphere.

In recent months, they have embraced social media trends, hosting events with unique themes such as those focused on collectible products like the popular Calico Critters and Sonny Angels.

Since the venues for some of these bazaars may change, it's a good idea to follow their social media to stay updated on their locations and dates.— Sara A.

Espacio Bazr
IG: espaciobazr
FB: Espacio Bazr

Mercada Latina
Calle 60 #447 x 49 y 51 Centro (dentro de Crush)
IG: mercada.latina
FB: Mercada Latina

Proyecto Bazar
IG: proyect.bazar

FB: Proyecto Bazar

HandMade 
IG: handmade_festyuc
FB: HandMade Festival Yucatán

As you can see, there are so many fun things to do and enjoy in Mérida at night. Whether you're showing off your dance moves on the dance floor, perfecting your aim in billiards or bowling, or picking up a souvenir from a magical night at a bazaar, there's always something for every taste and mood. Mérida is a city that loves to stay up late, so go out and enjoy a night experience that will leave lasting memories and plenty of photos for your camera roll.

An article written in colaboration by Sharon Cetina, Charlie Guzmán, Brenda Acametitla and Sara Alba.

Photography by Carlos Guzmán, Sharon Cetina, Brenda Acametitla, Lito Méndez, Alejandro Betancourt and @Kauchki, for its use in Yucatán Today.

First published in Yucatán Today print and digital magazine no. 440, in August 2024.