At the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, Upland, California blends small-town charm with a surprisingly vibrant nightlife. Historic Euclid Avenue, tree-lined neighborhoods, and a walkable downtown give way to pubs with character, lively sports bars, and craft taprooms that draw locals and newcomers alike. Whether you’re relocating to the area or a longtime resident ready to explore, this guide spotlights the city’s favorite hangouts, late-night options, and elevated lounges—curated with the local insight I use to help clients find the right neighborhood and lifestyle fit.
As a longtime Inland Empire mortgage professional, I (Richard Centeno at RayBon Mortgage) know that finding the right home is about more than bedrooms and bathrooms—it’s also about the community you’ll enjoy when you head out for date night, game day, or a celebratory drink with friends. Use this guide to plan your next night out, and if you’re exploring a move, I’m happy to connect you with trusted agents who can show you homes near these great spots. For city services, community events, and updates, the City of Upland’s official website is a helpful resource: https://www.uplandca.gov/
Local Favorites
-
The Black Watch Pub
A longtime local institution, The Black Watch Pub delivers a classic, cozy pub atmosphere with rich wood accents, dart boards, and a rotating selection of beers and whiskies. It’s the kind of no-frills, friendly spot where regulars greet each other by name, and newcomers quickly feel at home. Expect a solid tap list that leans into popular lagers and ales, plus occasional rare finds—perfect for unwinding after work or catching up with friends. The pub often hosts casual darts nights and convivial gatherings that make it a community staple.
-
Charlie’s Stars & Stripes
A patriotic-themed neighborhood bar and grill, Charlie’s Stars & Stripes is a go-to for comfort food, cold beer, and a festive crowd. You’ll find multiple TVs tuned to all kinds of games, pool tables, and a lively schedule that frequently includes karaoke and themed nights. The menu hits all the bar-food notes—from wings and burgers to shareable appetizers—and there’s typically a happy hour on weekdays. Charlie’s has that classic “everybody’s welcome” vibe and tends to stay active well into the evening.
-
Nuno’s Bistro & Bar
When you want a more refined night out without leaving Upland, Nuno’s Bistro & Bar delivers with an elevated food menu, a thoughtful wine list, and craft cocktails. The music calendar often features live bands that range from jazz and blues to acoustic sets, creating an intimate, supper-club feel on busier nights. It’s a reliable pick for date nights, birthday dinners, and lingering over a glass of wine while the band plays. Keep an eye out for occasional prix-fixe dinners or wine-forward pairings—Nuno’s leans into the experience as much as the meal.
These favorites capture Upland’s personality: welcoming, unpretentious, and proudly local. For broader business directories and community happenings that can affect night-out plans (parades, festivals, and street closures), the Upland Chamber of Commerce maintains helpful local information: https://www.uplandchamber.org/
Sports Bars and Entertainment Hubs
-
Game-day energy at Charlie’s Stars & Stripes
On big game days, Charlie’s is often the loudest room in town. Expect jerseys, high-fives with strangers, and a lineup of game-time specials that pair well with wings and loaded fries. If you prefer to sit at the bar, arrive early to snag a spot with a clear view of multiple screens; for larger groups, the high-top tables work well. The crowd skews friendly and inclusive—ideal if you’re new to Upland and want to plug into the local sports scene.
-
Pub vibes with activities
Several Upland bars lean into casual entertainment: darts, pool, and frequent karaoke nights are common in neighborhood spots around Foothill Boulevard and downtown. These places tend to feel like your “third place” after home and work—easy to drop into for a quick beer, or to hang out for the evening. Many post weekly calendars on social media; it’s smart to check for trivia or theme nights if you’re planning a friends’ outing.
-
Nearby live music options
Upland’s location puts you minutes from neighboring Claremont’s music and arts scene, which can be a great add-on to your evening. The Claremont Village often hosts live music and community events, and its bars and lounges provide a nice change of pace while staying close to home. For official visitor info and event highlights in the adjacent area, see Discover Claremont: https://discoverclaremont.com/
Craft Breweries and Distilleries
Upland has grown into a bona fide craft-beer stop in the Inland Empire, offering both local originals and regional favorites just a short drive away.
-
Last Name Brewing (formerly Dale Bros.)
A pioneer of the local craft scene, Last Name Brewing helped put Upland on the beer map. The spacious tasting room near Cable Airport is known for easy-drinking core beers like amber ales and pilsners, plus seasonal releases and small-batch experiments. Expect a relaxed setting with board games, long communal tables, and frequent food-truck pop-ups. Last Name periodically hosts special events, from themed releases to casual trivia nights. Check their calendar before you go: https://lastnamebrewing.com/
-
Rescue Brewing Company
In the heart of downtown, Rescue Brewing Company pours small-batch beers with a community-first mindset. You’ll see approachable styles (pale ales, blondes) alongside bolder IPAs and occasional dark-beer standouts. The taproom often serves as a local gathering spot with trivia, live music, or charity nights. It’s also a convenient stop if you’re bar-hopping downtown—walkable to restaurants and dessert spots for a full evening out.
-
Nearby sips: Claremont Craft Ales
Just over the border, Claremont Craft Ales is an easy add if you’re building a brewery crawl with friends. Known for well-executed IPAs and creative seasonals, its large, family-friendly tasting room keeps a community energy similar to Upland’s own breweries. For Upland homebuyers who love craft beer, living near downtown or along Foothill Boulevard provides quick access to multiple tasting rooms within minutes.
While Upland isn’t heavy on distilleries, regional tasting rooms and cocktail-forward restaurants keep spirits lovers covered. If you’re a whiskey enthusiast, classic pubs like Black Watch offer a surprisingly deep selection without leaving town.
Wine Lounges and Upscale Bars
-
Nuno’s Bistro & Bar
Nuno’s straddles the line between upscale dinner spot and lounge, with an ambiance that encourages you to linger. Expect a curated wine list with familiar California labels and Old World picks, plus craft cocktails that lean classic (think well-balanced martinis and old fashioneds) alongside seasonal specials. Weeknight happy hour typically features discounted sips and small plates, making it a nice midweek treat.
-
Nearby tasting rooms and wine bars
If you’re looking to expand your palate, neighboring Claremont features wine-forward spots known for tasting flights, by-the-glass variety, and occasional winemaker events. Packing House Wine Merchants in Claremont, for example, is well-regarded for its selection and tasting program—ideal for a more educational night out or a relaxed date. The proximity makes Upland a smart home base if you enjoy both craft beer and refined wine experiences in a single weekend.
For residents who value walkability to dinner-and-drinks options, homes near Downtown Upland provide easy access to restaurants, bars, and community events, all while keeping you close to parks, schools, and the Metrolink station.
Late-Night Hotspots
California’s last call is 2 a.m., and several Upland bars keep the lights on late so you can make the most of an evening out.
-
After-hours energy
Charlie’s Stars & Stripes often stays lively late, especially on weekends and during karaoke nights. Black Watch tends to hum with post-dinner crowds and friends catching up over a nightcap. On weekends, Nuno’s may stretch later when there’s a strong live music lineup—always check the night’s schedule if you’re planning a longer evening.
-
Downtown Upland convenience
Downtown Upland’s compact footprint makes it easy to hop between a brewery, a bar, and a dessert shop without moving your car. Street parking and public lots are typically available, and on busier weekends you can arrive earlier to avoid circling. If you’re commuting or hosting friends from around the region, the Upland Metrolink Station is just a few blocks from downtown; schedules and service alerts are posted here: https://metrolinktrains.com/stations/upland/
-
Nightlife events and seasonal festivals
Upland’s calendar includes community events that can add a fun twist to your night out—from holiday celebrations to the annual Lemon Festival that energizes the whole downtown district. Keep an eye on official announcements, street closures, and family-friendly pre- or post-festival hangouts on the City’s website: https://www.uplandca.gov/
Because hours and entertainment lineups can change, it’s always smart to check the venue’s social media or call ahead—especially for live music, trivia, or limited-capacity events.
Why This Matters If You’re Buying or Selling in Upland
Lifestyle fit is a major part of a smart home decision. If you love being minutes from a tasting room, a cozy pub, or a dependable late-night burger, certain pockets of Upland will serve you better than others. Here’s how I help clients align their lifestyle with their mortgage and neighborhood:
-
Pre-approval with purpose: I start by helping you understand your budget and monthly comfort zone. With a clear pre-approval, you can target areas close to the nightlife options you’ll actually use—Downtown Upland for walkability, or quieter streets near San Antonio Heights if you want space and mountain views with quick access to evening fun.
-
Program matching: From conventional and jumbo loans to VA and FHA options, RayBon Mortgage helps you compare the long-term costs of each program—including how your payment and cash-to-close change as you dial in a preferred location and property type (condo, townhome, or single-family).
-
Local insight: I’ll flag commute considerations (including proximity to the Metrolink station), weekend parking realities, and HOAs or zoning details that might matter if you prefer backyard gatherings over bar nights.
-
Smooth closings: Our team is built for on-time closings and clear communication—because the fun part of moving is getting out to experience your new neighborhood, not chasing paperwork.
If you’re selling, knowing your home’s proximity to Upland’s dining and nightlife can be a differentiator in your marketing. Buyers love specifics like “five minutes to Downtown Upland,” “two breweries within a mile,” or “walk to live music and restaurants.”
The Bottom Line
From heritage pubs and sports bars to craft breweries and wine-forward lounges, Upland’s bar scene covers a lot of ground for a city with a relaxed, suburban feel. Whether you’re toasting a new job at Last Name Brewing, singing along at Charlie’s karaoke, or catching a jazz set at Nuno’s, there’s a spot that fits your mood and budget—on a Tuesday or a Saturday.
Thinking about making Upland your home base for all of this? Let’s talk. I’m Richard Centeno at RayBon Mortgage, and I can help you get pre-approved, compare loan options, and connect you with a trusted local real estate agent who knows the neighborhoods behind these great venues. Reach out at http://rayboninc.com to get started, ask questions, or request an introduction to an agent who can help you explore homes near your favorite night-out spots.
External resources mentioned:
- City of Upland: https://www.uplandca.gov/
- Upland Chamber of Commerce: https://www.uplandchamber.org/
- Last Name Brewing: https://lastnamebrewing.com/
- Upland Metrolink Station: https://metrolinktrains.com/stations/upland/
Here’s to discovering your next favorite Upland night—and a home that puts it all within easy reach.
