Watch CBS News

Beyond The Bar: Late Night Options In OC

15th Asian Games Doha 2006 - Bowling
(credit: Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Orange County might be a city where a lot of things are happening, but everything does seem to shut down early here, except the bars of course. But, if you're not into the bar scene, what are your options? Here are a few suggestions that don't involve shots, platform heels or cheesy one-liners.

Nightlife & Music Hipsters, Bowling
(credit: Thinkstock.com)

Fountain Bowl
17110 Brookhurst St.
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 963-7888
www.fountainbowl.com

The Fountain Bowl offers a strikingly impressive late-night experience. Bowling here brings all kinds of great life in the fast lane, with activities that are up everyone's alley - you can enjoy food, parties, special events and more. There is even a highly popular "Cosmic Shake" dance video on YouTube, which was filmed at the alley. Deals are often available and the website is even known to often offer coupons for bowling a free game. So, if you want a late-night fun activity that doesn't pin the choices to a bar, then this is the perfect score.
Fountain Bowl is open late most nights too. Hours include: Monday from 10am - 12am; Tuesday-Wednesday-Thursday from 9am to 1am; Friday from 10am to 2am; Saturday from 8:30am to 2am and Sundays from 8:am to 12am.

Atomic Ballroom
(credit: Atomic Ballroom)

Atomic Ballroom
17961 Sky Park Circle, Suite C
Irvine, CA 92614
(949) 250-3332
www.atomicballroom.com

The Atomic Ballroom bounces to the rhythm of a variety of late-night beats. Featuring an assortment of sounds including swing, salsa, tango, blues and more, this venue receives atomically awesome accolades for its wide range of styles. If you're looking to have a ball, jazzing up your late nights as the music comes sweeping in, this venue is the place for you because it sways so many delighted dancers of varying levels to the music of joyous celebration. And it does so in a scene that is praised for a sense of community within the mix of movement, noise and merriment.

Related: Best Places To Discover New Music In OC

grand californian
(credit: disney.go.com)

Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
1600 S. Disneyland Drive
Anaheim, CA 92802
(714) 635-2300
www.disneyland.disney.go.com

The popular special evening activities here include dining in a variety of environments with the opportunity to enjoy enticing pizzas at the Storytellers Cafe with its distinctive murals or also the award-winning California-inspired cuisine of the delightful Napa Rose. Disneyland Park is often open until midnight, and there is frequently featured entertainment as well as nighttime firework celebrations.

Irvine Spectrum
(credit: Irvine Spectrum)

Edwards Irvine Spectrum 21 and IMAX
65 Fortune Drive
Irvine, CA 92618
(949) 450-4920
www.regmovies.com

Orange County values its film culture and the Edwards Irvine Spectrum shows movies that start late. In addition, the theatre includes the magic of IMAX and large theaters, which add to your expansive experience. Whether it's some time to get away from it all or perhaps a spot for a great date night, good fortune can be found watching films at this popular destination.

Related: Get The Movie Star Treatment In OC

Rock Climbing
(credit: Thinkstock)

The Factory Bouldering
1547 W Struck Ave
Orange, CA 92867
(714) 639-7625
www.thefactorybouldering.com

While it's only open till 11pm, The Factory Bouldering offers a great chance to take part in a late night activity as one of Southern California's best and newest rock climbing gyms. In fact, it's the largest bouldering facility in the area with 13,000 square feet of space and over 10,000 square feet of climbing terrain. Here, you will take part in some fitness fun as you navigate around over 325 boulder problems, and angels from 85 degree slabs. Whether you're just a bgeginner or a seasoned veteran, there is something for all levels of athletes here though. They even have a fitness area including a treadmill, rower, stationary bike, and free weights. In addition, have fun with a lounge area, a pool table and a selection of drinks and snacks.

Will Engel is a musician and music journalist with eight years of experience. A graduate of Wesleyan University, Will is a singer, keyboardist/pianist, and songwriter who released a well-received album and frequently performs around Southern California. He lives in the Los Angeles area. His work can be found at Examiner.com.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.