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Where The Nerds Hang Out In LA

busbys LA header 610x250
(credit: Busby's)

If you think bars and nightlife are only for the cool crowd, think again. Embrace your inner nerd, because there are plenty of great Los Angeles hangouts to completely geek out. Whether arcade games, ping pong, museums, or libraries are your fancy, there are more venues than you may think where you can proudly sport your taped-up glasses. Check out one of these great places for your next nerdy night out.

Picturehouse Presents A Screening Of The King Of Kong A Fistful Of Quarters
(credit: Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images)

Blipsy Barcade
369 N. Western Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90004
(323) 461-7067
www.facebook.com

As you may have guessed from the name, Blipsy's is both a bar and an arcade – and a whole lot of nerd heaven. Pac Man, Donkey Kong, and Paperboy are just a few of the classic arcade games featured at Blipsy's. Anyone old enough to actually remember the 80's will appreciate the ambiance of this joint. Cheap drinks and a jukebox add to the feel. Forget your parent's basement – head out to Blipsy Barcade to enjoy your favorite games and some adult beverages.

Related: Best Power Lunch Restaurants In Los Angeles

busbys LA
(credit: Busby's)

Busby's East
5364 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
(323) 525-2615
www.busbysla.com

Now if you're looking for arcade games and a little bit more, Busy's is your best bet. In addition to arcade games, this well-known sports bar also features some of your favorite nerdy sports, like ping pong and shuffleboard. Still not enough? How about Busby's collection of 100 board games? The wide range of activities unite nerds with jocks, as Busby's features televisions with literally every sports package available on broadcast. Picture this place as a meeting of the two sides of your high school lunch room.

Related: The Biggest Nerds In Pop Culture

LACMA
(credit: LACMA)

Los Angeles County Museum Of Art
5905 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
(323) 857-6000
www.lacma.org

If you're a bit more of a sophisticated nerd, consider a visit to the LACMA. The LACMA hosts some of the most sought-after art and exhibits in the city, as well as the region. Give your brain a boost with a visit to the museum, followed some relaxing cocktails. LACMA's Ray's offers patrons a great menu in addition to local wines and artisan beers. Nerds are always prepared, so be sure to make a table reservation on their website. If you're looking for small plates, Stark Bar is also part of LACMA and features creative cocktails that change with the seasons.

the redwood bar
(credit: The Redwood Bar)

The Redwood Bar & Grill
316 W. 2nd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90012
(213) 680-2600
www.theredwoodbar.com

Ahoy, mate! Okay, so maybe even your closest friends don't understand (or know about) your slightly nerdy obsession with pirates. Whether you have both hands on deck with a pirate fetish or just think they're kind of sexy, Redwood is the perfect excuse to fantasize about being the captain of your very own ship, sip on pirate's punch and listen to live music that will play as the soundtrack as you sail over tumultuous waters. A dive bar with cool decor, this pirate-themed bar is just the place for nerdy explorers of the seas.

library bar featured
Library Bar
630 W. 6th St.
Los Angeles, CA 90017
(213) 614-0053
www.librarybarla.com

Have you ever found yourself out for drinks when you would rather be home with a good book? Meet Library Bar, where you can have the best of both worlds. Cuddle up in this cozy bar, which feels much more like your at-home study. An added perk to this unique environment is that the food and drinks are actually raved about by regulars. There are some great micro brews on tap (why not try Arrogant Bastard Ale?) and the food ranks high in quality and flavor. No need to struggle about a night out or a night in – at Library Bar, it's a little of both.

Related: Where To Drink The Most Unique Cocktails In Los Angeles

Nicole DiCicco enjoys dancing, movies and live music. She writes about all the nightlife Los Angeles has to offer. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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