Whether you’re a weekend regular or a casual happy hour attendee, there’s no shortage of apps designed to make your bar experience smoother, smarter, and even more affordable. From tracking local drink deals to splitting the tab and earning rewards, these tools belong on every social drinker’s home screen.
Here are the best apps to download before your next night out:
- Happy Hour Finder
This app specializes in showing nearby happy hour deals. With location-based filtering and user-submitted updates, Happy Hour Finder helps you discover bar specials across major U.S. cities. It’s especially useful when exploring unfamiliar neighborhoods or cities while traveling. - Untappd
Craft beer fans will appreciate Untappd, a social network for beer lovers that also helps you find bars based on the brews they offer. You can check in beers, track your favorites, and see what’s trending at local establishments. - Fluz
Fluz helps you earn instant cashback when you pay with digital gift cards at bars, restaurants, and lounges. Instead of using a credit card, you buy a gift card through the app (for the exact amount due) and pay with that—earning rewards in the process. You can earn cashback with a Chili’s gift card or get rewards with a Buffalo Wild Wings gift card, even during happy hour. To start earning instantly, download the app from the Fluz homepage. - Venmo
Venmo makes splitting tabs effortless. Whether you’re covering the next round or managing a group bill, you can quickly send or request money with a few taps. It’s widely accepted among friends and even some businesses. - Lyft or Uber
Getting to and from the bar safely is non-negotiable. Both Lyft and Uber offer real-time rideshare services that eliminate the risk of driving under the influence. Schedule your ride in advance or call one when you’re ready to head home. - Ibotta
Ibotta is best known for grocery rewards, but it also features restaurant cashback deals and bar-friendly brands. You can link your loyalty accounts or upload receipts to redeem savings from places you already visit. - Tab
Tab is a restaurant bill-splitting app that uses your phone’s camera to scan the receipt. Each person selects their items, and Tab calculates individual totals, tax, and tip—removing guesswork from group bar tabs. - OpenTable
While OpenTable is primarily a reservation app, many cocktail lounges and restaurants with bars are listed. Booking ahead ensures you’re not waiting in line during busy hours, especially for weekend brunches or after-work drinks. - Tavour
For beer lovers who want to expand their palate, Tavour lets you discover and order craft beers from around the country. While it focuses on delivery rather than bar visits, it’s a great tool for learning what to look for when ordering drinks at specialty beer bars. - My Chili’s Rewards
If you frequent Chili’s, the My Chili’s Rewards app gives you access to exclusive offers and free chips and salsa every visit. Combine it with a Chili’s gift card on Fluz for double rewards.
Make your nights out smarter
A good night out doesn’t end with an overpriced drink or a confused group check. With the right apps on your phone, you’ll be able to save money, stay safe, and have a smoother, more rewarding bar experience—every time.
