Medicine Hat After Hours: The Best Nightlife Spots in the Gas City

by Elizabeth McNally

Medicine Hat might be known for its beautiful scenery and sunny skies, but when the sun sets, the city’s nightlife scene comes alive. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a quiet drink with friends, dance the night away, or catch some live music, Medicine Hat offers a fantastic variety of spots to explore. From casual pubs to energetic concert venues, the nightlife here has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best nightlife spots in the Sunniest City!

1. Bayside VLT Lounge

The Silver Buckle Sports Bar, located in Medicine Hat, Alberta, has a rich history as a local gathering spot since its opening. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, friendly service, and vibrant sports culture, the bar has become a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Whether you're there to catch a game on the big screen, enjoy a cold drink with friends, play a game of pool, or try their delicious pub fare (they just got a new menu!) the Silver Buckle offers a welcoming environment for all. Its long-standing reputation and community ties make it a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience the best of Medicine Hat's nightlife. This spot is also known for its karaoke nights and live music, so if you’re in the mood to sing your heart out or just enjoy some entertainment, Silver Buckle is a fun and energetic venue that keeps the good times rolling.

Address: 687 S Railway St, Medicine Hat, AB

Hours: Sunday to Thursday 11a.m. - 11p.m. Friday and Saturday 11a.m. - 2a.m.

Website: https://www.thebuckle.ca/

2. Silver Buckle Sports Bar

3. Ralph’s Texas Bar

If you're in the mood for country music and a fun, welcoming crowd, Ralph’s Texas Bar offers a one-of-a-kind experience. This beloved local spot combines the charm of a western-themed bar with a lively atmosphere, perfect for a night of dancing, live country music, and great drinks. Ralph’s is famous for its karaoke nights and themed events, making it a place where you can kick back, enjoy a cold beer, and dance the night away with friends. They’re also the only bar in town with a “Beercade”, and what’s a better combo than arcade games and beer?

Address: 1249 Trans Canada Way SE, Medicine Hat, AB

Hours: 11a.m. - late

Website: https://www.ralphsbar.com/

Located in the Medicine Hat Lodge, the Element’s Restaurant and Bar offers a refined atmosphere where you can enjoy great food and expertly crafted cocktails. Located in a stylish setting, Element’s offers both a sophisticated dining experience and a lively bar scene. The bar area serves a variety of creative cocktails and wines, and the food menu is equally impressive, with a mix of modern and classic dishes. They have a large, theatre style screen where you can watch all of the big games and UFC fights. They are also directly connected to the Copper Coulee Casino, where you can try your luck on a table game or one of their many VLTs!

Address: 1051 Ross Glen Dr SE, Medicine Hat, AB

Hours: Sunday to Thursday 10a.m. - 12a.m.. Friday and Saturday 10a.m. - 2a.m.

Website: https://www.medhatlodge.com/elements-restaurant-bar/

4. Element’s Restaurant and Bar

For a classic, no-frills bar experience, the Mainliner is a go-to. Renowned for their karaoke nights Friday and Saturday and diverse range of live music performances, The Mainliner is the perfect spot to grab a drink and unwind after a long day. Whether you’re sitting at the bar joking around with the regulars or letting out steam in the mosh pit of a local band, the Mainliner is the perfect hole-in-the-wall spot to let your guard down and have some highball-fuelled fun!

Address: 505 N Railway St SE, Medicine Hat, AB

Hours: Monday 9:30a.m. - 9p.m. Tuesday to Thursday 9:30a.m. - 10p.m. Friday 9:30a.m. - 2a.m. Saturday 11a.m. - 2a.m. Sunday 11a.m. - 8p.m.

Website: http://mainlinerpub.ca/

5. The Mainliner

The Corona Tavern is one of Medicine Hat’s iconic nightlife spots, known for its lively crowd and great atmosphere. Whether you’re there to enjoy a drink, listen to live music, or just soak in the vibrant energy, The Corona Tavern delivers. This spot features live music events on Saturdays and DJ performances on Fridays, and the atmosphere is always buzzing with excitement. If you're in the mood for a night of dancing or just want to enjoy a fun evening with friends, The Corona Tavern is a must-visit.

Address: 721 5 St SE, Medicine Hat, AB

Hours: Monday to Thursday 10a.m. - 8p.m. Friday and Saturday 10a.m. - 2 a.m.

Website: https://www.facebook.com/corbeer20

6. The Corona Tavern

Travois Ale Works in Medicine Hat offers a unique experience for those looking to enjoy a craft beer-centric nightlife. The brewery serves a wide range of hand-crafted beers, each brewed on-site, making it a great spot for beer enthusiasts. The relaxed, welcoming atmosphere features a cozy taproom where guests can sample seasonal and signature brews while chatting with the knowledgeable staff.

Address: 612 3rd St SE, Medicine Hat, AB

Hours: Tuesday to Thursday 3p.m. - 10p.m. Friday 3p.m. - midnight. Saturday 12p.m. - midnight.

Website: https://www.travoisbeer.com/

7. Travois Ale Works

With its lively atmosphere, vibrant music, and expertly crafted margaritas, it offers the ideal setting for a night out. Whether you’re enjoying a night with friends or dancing at one of their live music events, Casa Amigos provides a festive ambiance that’s hard to beat. Be sure to check their website for upcoming events and promotions, ensuring you don't miss any of the fun and energy that makes Casa Amigos a must-visit nightlife spot in Medicine Hat.

Address: 480 3rd St SE #1, Medicine Hat, AB

Hours: Tuesday to Thursday 4p.m. - 9p.m. Friday and Saturday 11a.m. - 2a.m.

Website: https://www.casaamigos.ca/

8. Casa Amigos

The Yard Patio & Eatery is Medicine Hat's very own family-friendly seasonal patio, nestled right in the heart of downtown. It is locally owned and operated and features local foods and Alberta's finest craft beers on their menu. The Yard often hosts live music events that can be heard from down the street.

Address: 619 3rd St SE, Medicine Hat, AB

Hours: Seasonal Hours in effect. Opening date is weather dependent.

Website: http://theyard-downtown.com/

9. The Yard

Grit City stands out as a central hub for anyone looking to enjoy a fun night in Alberta’s sunniest city. They host Trivia Nights, Murder Mysteries, and Craft Nights for those hunting for some mental stimulation on their night out. Not to mention their in-house liquor menu made in their craft distillery!

Address: 690 S Railway St, Medicine Hat, AB

Hours: Wednesday 4p.m. - 8p.m. Thursday to Saturday 11a.m. - 10p.m.

Website: https://www.gritcity.ca/

10. Grit City

In conclusion, Medicine Hat’s nightlife scene offers something for everyone, whether you're in the mood for a laid-back evening or an energetic night out. With a variety of spots catering to different tastes—ranging from casual pubs and lively sports bars to places offering live music and unique entertainment options—there’s no shortage of fun to be had. Whether you're looking to relax with friends, dance the night away, or try your luck at a game, Medicine Hat has a place for you!